(Part 3) Top products from r/ReefTank

I use an old marineland reef capable led for my chaeto light, which iirc is 10,000k white and 460nm blue leds. Grows like a weed. Plants need red and/or blue light. Blue for Veg and red for flowering. Since white leds peak mostly in blue, my chaeto gets almost nothing but blue and grows great so far. Ymmv. Keep in mind kelvin is like a representation of what our eyes see. NM or nanometers is how light is measured. K rating is very deceptive since it includes many different spectrums. A good grow light needs only red and blue leds of the correct spectrum. Like 420/460nm blue and some 660 reds. Again, I am no expert, ymmv.

Edit-- chaeto in a tank that small is not going to make a difference in parameters to any useful amount. Your weekly water changes will reduce nitrate and phosphate way more than the chaeto ever will. That middle chamber is best used for an intank media basket. I had a bc14 for quite a while and that was one of the best things I did for that tank. You can even put the chaeto in it if you felt so inclined. http://shop.mediabaskets.com/BioCube-14-Media-Basket-BC14MR.htm

Looks like it's also on amazon prime if you prefer amazon. Biocube 14 Media Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AMOGDUA/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_gKn6wbNAFGGC6

OK. My suggestion? Get a 40G Breeder from Petco/Petsmart. One of them frequently has a $1/1g sale, so you can get one cheap.
 
Next, you'll most likely want a protein skimmer. They keep excess waste and proteins out of the water and prevent nutrients from staying in your tank (and thereby allowing algae to grow). This one is internal and has good reviews: https://www.amazon.com/Protein-Skimmer-Counter-Current-Medium/dp/B0002APZ8U/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1468385411&sr=1-1&keywords=protein+skimmer
 
You will need an air pump and air stone for that one, but they're like $10-$20.
 
Now, a heater. I'd suggest going with Eheim, they're rock solid. I have two of these in my larger tank for redundancy, both will be controlled by an aquarium controller eventually. https://www.amazon.com/EHEIM-Jager-Aquarium-Thermostat-Heater/dp/B003SNMMQQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1468385694&sr=1-1&keywords=eheim+heater+125w
 
Lastly, you will need a way to move water. Get two of these at $35 a piece. https://www.amazon.com/Hydor-Koralia-Evolution-Aquarium-Circulation/dp/B0036RXO3O/ref=sr_1_2?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1468385948&sr=1-2&keywords=powerhead&refinements=p_89%3AHydor

So far, we're at the following with just equipment:
Tank: $40
Protein Skimmer: $34
Air Pump: $20
Heater: $25
Powerhead: $35 (x2) = $70
Total: $189.
 
Now you'll need to factor in other things, like consumables!
Salt: Red Sea salt is my personal favorite. https://www.amazon.com/Red-Sea-ARE11220-Aquarium-55-Gallon/dp/B000YIYTIC/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1468386197&sr=1-1&keywords=red+sea+salt
This jug will do 55g of water. $32.
RO/DI Water: My LFS sells it for $0.50 a gallon. Not sure what you can get it for, but I assume its similar. You should absolutely NOT use tap water with a conditioner. The conditioners remove chlorine, but they do not remove phosphates and other heavy metals in your water. Let's assume you get 45 gallons (tank + 5 gallons to replace 1 week of evaporated water.) $22.50.
Assuming you do a 10% water change every two weeks, your monthly water usage will be 54+10=30 gallons of water a month @$0.50/g, $0.576 per H20 gallon of salt 30 gallons = 15+17.28 = $32.28 a month in water after initial setup.
 

Consumables:
Water: $22.50
Salt: $32
Water Maintenance / month: $32.28
 
You will lastly need some testing equipment. Get a hydrometer to measure your salinity (I keep mine @ 1.026), a thermometer (mine is 79F), and a test kit to measure your parameters. Don't bother with API's test kit, they're not to accurate. Red Sea makes a good starter kit: https://www.amazon.com/Red-Sea-ARE21525-Marine-Aquarium/dp/B00BAVVD6I/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1468386757&sr=1-1&keywords=red+sea+test+kit @ $39.76
 
Now you just need rock and sand. Good luck!

I count 21 corals and 2 nems, in a nano tank that's what, less than 2 months old? You're starting way too fast. You should really be adding 1-2 new corals per week while checking parameters so you can adjust calc/alk dosage based on consumption. Hopefully you have some kind of dosing setup or calcium reactor already, but if not you really need to be looking into that right now. And hopefully you're testing parameters daily so you can get an idea of what the daily/weekly consumption is.

Anyway, I wish you luck. It's a tough hobby even when you take it slow, and going hard like this really just complicates things. I'd stop adding frags for a few months and really focus on getting your parameters rock solid. Despite what everyone is telling you in this thread, it's probably possible to keep everything alive. Just stay laser-focused on stability, and if you don't have one get a Red Sea Reef Foundation Pro test kit like yesterday.

I had one of these and it was very good, but I don't think they make them any more.

I had one of these but it lights unevenly (though I've seen it on a 20 tall and sort of worked.

I gave both lights to a friend when I upgraded and he uses them together on an 8gal cube.

My favorite lights are Kessils, but I can't afford them.

I got a $109 GalaxyHydro on amazon. I am very happy with it, but it's not a top-tier light.

Lovey little tank!

I have a hydro pico evolution in my fluval evo 13 gal nano reef, which works pretty well in terms of flow. Hydor also makes a little device which attaches and rotates the flow across the tank like a mini wave maker. I love both except for the clogs that happen if I let any algae grow in the tank.

Hydor Pico Evo-Mag 180 Circulation Pump with Magnet Mount, 180 GPH https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003UK5CTG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_C3zPBb34ATQYP

Hydor Flo Rotating Water Deflector Attachment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006JLPF4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_l4zPBbK4AQAH8

If you're excluding live/dry rock 500$ is enough to get you an okay start into the hobby. Lighting will probably be your most expensive piece of hardware and there are some really good deals on Ebay right now for cheap LED's Like the D120's and Aquamana on Amazon is also a good LED for a cheap price.

If you want to go HoB filter with maybe a fuge mod this is a popular build and is only 41$

I don't know much about skimmers but they can be pricey, but if you don't overstock the tank I'm not sure if a skimmer will be absolutely necessary.

There are also things to take into account like thermometer and power heads, though you can find good ones online for reasonable prices there are a large amount options and it kinda depends on doing your own research and going with something, those things could run for a total of around 100$.

• The D120 is the way to go for lighting. You'll probably run it at 30-50% depending on what corals you put in.
  
  
• The 200g box of Reef Crystals is certainly the most economic way to prepare water. It's about a year and a half's supply for a 10g in four separate bags. If you're making your own water, you'll want a RODI filter too, BRS or Spectrapure sells the 4 stage which is plenty. I should note--for a 10g, it's probably cheaper to just buy prepared water from a LFS.
  
  
• A refractometer costs only a little bit more than a hydrometer but is significantly more reliable since it can compensate for temperature.
  
  
• You can typically save money if you buy your live/dry rock at a LFS instead of online--mixing the two will save you more money! You'll also get to pick the pieces.
  
  
• Buy this heater.

No, but I would consider something for circulation - I like the aquatop because it has a dial to control the flow - maybe you could build a rectangular tower out of plexiglass for the back, with the pump, a heater, and some chaeto (the left side of mine is a filtration tower with chaeto and live rock rubble that the water moves past - I would envision the pump taking in water at the bottom and moving it upwards out the top, past a similar setup). You could even build a tower and put it in the center maybe. It's definitely possible though. This is the pump I used, btw ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00798FYR0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1418696980&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX200_QL40).

I started cheap, need to upgrade soon for this bigger tank. Link to the one I have:
http://www.amazon.com/Protein-Skimmer-Counter-Current-Medium/dp/B0002APZ8U/ref=sr_1_6?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1453951053&sr=1-6&keywords=protein+skimmer
It has worked well, the comments about it being finnicky getting set correctly are correct, but once the airflow is right it does a great job.

I have a filter that came with my tank kit. After further research I decided to switch out to the TrueLumens 453NM blue LED strip so that I could pair it with the stock overhead white led lamp.

As far as the filter... I'll prob keep the stock for the time being.. This tank was a test to see if I could manage a saltwater tank and I like how I've managed.. The second tank will be the true challenge.
Thank you for the response..

OK, I'll increase the water changes. Just have been going to my LFS instead of snagging an RO/DI system. Plus 5 gallons of saltwater runs me $3 total.


Think this will be suitable for a biocube? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C2DBFX4/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_AF2WBb63MWA0X


Is there a specific filter pad or sponge that you would recommend?

Marineland portrait: 52$ https://www.walmart.com/ip/Marineland-5-Gallon-Portrait-Glass-LED-Aquarium-Kit/40231748

5lbs Marco Rock from a LFS: 15$

Filter floss: 13.99 https://www.amazon.com/inTank-Aquarium-Pond-Value-600-square-inches/dp/B00B50UPE0

Live Sand: 12.54 https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Ocean-Bio-Activ-Aragonite-Aquarium/dp/B0018CLX9Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=live+sand+for+saltwater+aquarium&qid=1564404014&s=gateway&sprefix=Live+sand&sr=8-3

5 gallons RO water from LFS: 7$

Aaaand there you go. Just a little under a hundred. It won't be optimal, but it's something. However, like everyone said, you're better off waiting and saving up money so you can start up proper.

I have One of these LED lights over my fuge and I get green hair algae growing like crazy along with my chaeto, I throw some in my display for my tang and fox face every time I clean it out, they think it's a treat.

http://www.amazon.com/TLP76MSG-Switched-Outlet-Conserve-Protector/dp/B0068LACFI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1416590629&sr=8-5&keywords=tripp+lite

I have 2 of these mounted on the inside of my stand. AWESOME time saver.

products i love:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007Z4ITWU/ref=sxr_rr_xsim1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

https://www.amazon.com/Hanna-Instruments-HI-755-Colorimeter/dp/B005FH2O6G/ref=pd_sim_328_91?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=8MKR3X0JC3JK0MJA969X

https://www.amazon.com/Red-Sea-Reef-Foundation-Test/dp/B004FUJ5NE/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1482730008&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=red+sea+test+kit

I picked up this one:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C2DBFX4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Hard to say how well it works, but I do pull out a container of skim muck about once a day, and it's pretty dark/grimy, so it's clearly working to some degree.

I'm also not using it on a biocube, just a standard 30 gallon.

It works fine. Trust me. I also proof my outdoor plants with this light before I move them outside.

I looked up my order on amazon, this is what I picked up. Not sure if it is the same one.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GNWK2XO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I believe it, I've seen some huge ones before. It's actually spelled aiptasia. This should help you out. www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007TUZH7U/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/179-3669093-3118621

This is the one I have and it's way better than the old high school microscope I used. If i could do it over I would get this one

Sure! The prices are a bit different as I was timing what I bought when the prices were low or refurbs.

Tank

Media basket(absolute must have)

Auto top off

Powerhead

Heater

Temp Controller, Fan, and Gooseneck

Light, and Mount

Upgraded return pump

Buy this Phosphate Reactor and get some Phosphate Remover and this little pump Give it a couple weeks and all your algae problems will be gone.


-This is the only solution that worked for me. I was using red slime, algae fix, chemipure elite, and chemi clean to get rid of all of it and nothing worked. Two weeks of using the phosphate reactor and it was all gone.
And weekly water changes, I was doing 30-40% every week. I think the combination of the reactor and the water changes is what did it.

Edit: Astrea Snails also helped A LOT!

Yeah, i bought them on amazon. Aquarium Choice Coral Lens Filter Kits for Phone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L26R3RT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_OFevDbJX4CSTA

Thiel is great, but for some reason I prefer Sprung. Julian Sprung does not necessarily target the newer Nano movement, but the core principles are always going to be the same.

http://www.amazon.com/Reef-Aquarium-Comprehensive-Identification-Invertebrates/dp/1883693128/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373246876&sr=1-1&keywords=the+reef+aquarium

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GNWK2XO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485639834&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=taotronics+led+grow+light&dpPl=1&dpID=41RnUHYwATL&ref=plSrch

Is this the one you're talking about? Seems a little low wattage wise.

With a razor blade, a toothbrush, and a magnet cleaner. I just can't stand algae growth on anything including the back glass, so I like to keep it clean.

Flipper Aquarium Algae Magnet Cleaner with Two Blades https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008ELIQ4Y/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_y16yzbFXXNT59

http://www.amazon.com/Reef-Aquarium-Comprehensive-Identification-Invertebrates/dp/1883693128

Get yourself one of these

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07L26R3RT/ref=sspa_mw_detail_0?ie=UTF8&psc=1

depending on the size of your tank you may be able to get away with the Tunze Osmolator nano. i think its rated up to 55 gallons.

left side

right side

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00881FXKA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1473962953&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=taotronics+reef+led

I have one of these.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0068LACFI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZTSLDbP6DGN88

They apparently have some that can be controlled via wifi

Tripp Lite 7 Outlet (6 Individually Controlled) Surge Protector Power Strip, 6ft Cord, & $25K INSURANCE (TLP76MSG) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0068LACFI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ltG5yb56VFWDP

The blue one:
TrueLumen 10" Blue

The white one:
TrueLumen 10" White

One of each is mounted to the stock light. Another of the white ones is mounted to the far side pointing in to the area filled with chaeto.
They are all powered from a single power supply with a three way splitter.

I personally have this one in my 5 gallon tank https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003UK5CTG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm checking the LFS water right now. Water changes are 25% weekly.

Tank:
https://imgur.com/kEdgMX1

Sand: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0018CLX9Q/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Check out the Aquaclear 70 (AC70). In terms of media, I personally use chemipure elite and purigen. I've also seen alot of people mod the AC70 to be refugium.

https://www.amazon.com/AquaClear-70-Power-Filter-Listed/dp/B000260FUW

I know BRS has live rock but I’m worried with how I’d set up my aquascape if I can’t pick out the pieces. Do I need a 20 pound or 10 pound bag of sand because I’m looking at the live sand for my 10 gallon.

Get this! https://www.amazon.com/Red-Sea-Aiptasia-X-Eliminator-2-02-Ounce/dp/B007TUZH7U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499649659&sr=8-1&keywords=aptasia+killer

It comes in a little metal syringe that you hold under the water and poke it with it and inject some killing liquid! It's actually a good time.

I bought this one! I kind of regret not springing for the one with the 3.0 MP camera, would have made for some sharper shots.

Are you using bioballs or live rock in the second chamber?

Most of the reading I've done is very anit-bio balls as they are a poor media for filtration.

Now, this might not apply to you because I'm trying to rehab a tank that had 2 yrs of neglect. But I "upgraded" the filtration and here's my setup:

1st chamber:
Biocube Skimmer

2nd Chamber:
Media Cartridge

Cartridge from bottom to top slots:


Purigen


Matrix in a bag


sponge


filter floss

3rd chamber:

empty


I'm considering upgrading the powerhead to increase the gph hitting the filtration and adding a splitter to the nozzle so I can have two directions of outflow in order to reduce dead zones in the tank.