FAQ's and Updates

It’s generally recommended to start with a tank of at least 20 gallons. Larger tanks are more stable and forgiving of mistakes, making them easier for beginners to manage.

Essential equipment includes a tank, stand, lighting, filtration system, heater, protein skimmer, and powerheads for water circulation. You’ll also need a hydrometer or refractometer to measure salinity. Tanks can have bulit in filtration (All in One or AIO tanks) or be drilled for external filtration usually in the form of a sump under the tank.

Cycling your tank involves establishing beneficial bacteria that break down waste. This process can take several weeks and involves adding a source of ammonia to the tank and monitoring water parameters until they stabilize.

Key parameters to monitor include salinity, temperature, nitrate, calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium are the most critical. Ammonia and nitrite are useful during tank cycling, and nitrate and phosphate can be useful to diagnose problems. Maintaining stable water conditions is crucial for the health of your reef tank inhabitants.

The type of lighting depends on the corals you plan to keep. Most reef tanks require high-intensity lighting from energy efficient LED lights with spectrums that support coral growth. Older lighting systems utilized metal halide, VHO and T5 fluorescent tubes, and Power compact bulbs. Replacement bulbs for these fixtures are difficult to find.

Research the compatibility and care requirements of different species. Start with hardy, beginner-friendly fish and corals. Avoid adding too many inhabitants at once to prevent overloading the system.

Regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality. A common recommendation is to change 10-20% of the water every 1-2 weeks.

Algae growth is common in new tanks. To manage it, reduce feeding, increase water flow, and ensure your lighting schedule is appropriate. Adding algae-eating fish or invertebrates can also help. We love urchins! Do not rely on herbivores to do YOUR job in maintaining. Start off by locating the source of the excess nutrients so you are not fighting an uphill battle. Protocols using hydrogen peroxide are helpful though we prefer using this approach out of the tank as a short soak for corals/plugs or rocks.

Regular maintenance includes monitoring water parameters, performing water changes, cleaning equipment, and inspecting the health of your tank inhabitants. Consistency is key to a thriving reef tank. Or you can hire us and we can automate your system. Contact us to find out more.

Forums are helpful but can send you down a rabbit hole. There are lots of scientific articles, books, and Youtube videos available to help you. You are welcome to reach out and we will do our best to get you to correct information as we are a team of scientists, biologists, engineers and educators dedicated to education and conservation. We try our best, however, response times can vary.