10g; too small for saltwater?

[Skiploder]

This is an interesting thread. I too would like to have a smaller saltwater setup. I have always wanted a saltwater setup. However I see the very large setups at pet stores and get a bit discouraged at the sizes of the filter systems. I would like to start out with something small, more of a beginners setup. Does anyone of any links that may be of use, perhaps a link to a 'package-deal' at mentioned above?

http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php

Shows how people set up their nanos including the best filters, fish compatibility lists, lighting reviews, etc. Has excellent step-by-step how-tos. Even shows how to modify the cookie-cutter systems to optimize them.

Saltwater tanks in general are a lot of work. Nanos, believe it or not, are even more. Because the water volume is so low, changes in water parameters can happen very quickly with deadly consequences.

People go well past the 10 gallon limit to much smaller set-ups, but even a ten gallon tank is difficult to maintain. It takes vigilance with regards to maintaining water quality, stabilizing temperatures and making sure stocking lists are compatible.

Even with a ten gallon, you would want to go to an external sump to increase the volume of water in the system. Depending on what type of corals you choose will determine lighting. The lighting type will determine if you need a chiller, and so on and so on.

I used to keep saltwater fish and had two nano set ups. Currently I have over 30 reptiles and can tell you that maintaining those two nanos was more work than caring for all of my herps.

[Ginevive]

I remember seeing this little thing and thinking it would be cool...
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...m?pcatid=15493
Can't imagine you can do very much with something that small but it just shows that 10g can be used.

I've got tons of Convict cichlids here if maybe you would want a few for a fresh tank?

I would if I were not moving.

[alexOATH]

Yes its possible, but all you're going to probably be able to have in there are inverts of sorts, and maybe one fish, something really small too, like a Clownfish, or maybe a chromi. But lots of corals =D

[Ginevive]

Uh oh..I went to a local fish store, and was completely WOWwed by their saltwater tanks! I definately want a lager setup in the future. I think that I might somehow try to fit my 55g tank in with our packed luggage.. I don't want to give it up!

[TankMasterOG]

[QUOTE=aaramire;1107252] but when you first cycle the tank, which needs to be done for a month with NO fish or inverts in it, just your substrate and reef skeleton,Not good info...

[TankMasterOG]

But lots of corals =D

not good info ether..

[TankMasterOG]

i would not do i ten gal swt your first time...it will only put a bad taste in your mouth...I run a service compeny called TANKS A LOT and i have seen it all...

[Laterr]

Uh oh..I went to a local fish store, and was completely WOWwed by their saltwater tanks! I definately want a lager setup in the future. I think that I might somehow try to fit my 55g tank in with our packed luggage.. I don't want to give it up!

lol. i just went through this whole thought process myself. I thought of doing a 6-12 gallong little saltwater set up. Have a clownfish. Some anemones. Maybe just some harlequin shrimp. But then i just decided i'd much rather wait for the time/money/space for a larger tank to put a cute dog faced puffer in they're possibly my favorite.

Bigger is better but if you can handle the maintenance then a small set up works.

[seclark]

I have a 55 gallon cichild tank in my dorm room! If you can find a way to get it there I bet you can find room for it in your apartment if you want it bad enough!

[seclark]

Oh and a 10 gallon hospital tank and a 40 gallon breeder for my ball. Me like animals who said that? lol