Trying to get a good idea about the saltwater side?

Hi,I have been keeping freshwater aquariums for quite some time now and would just like to get an idea of what saltwater is like and its requirements

I am not planning on getting one just YET...I have read a lot about saltwater lately and I'm interested in the idea of a FOWLR and maybe when more experienced converting to a Reef tank

So the goal of this post is to get an idea of what equipment is needed and how to maintain a slatwater tank

So heres the questions

•What would the minimum size tank be that would be relatively easy to maintain aswell as keep a pair of O.Clownfish and maybe some tank mates

•Is a protein skimmer necessary for smaller tanks?

•Would a regular HOB filter be ideal?

•Water changes-How do saltwater water changes happen? What water should be used and how should it be treated?

Sorry for the noob questions,would just like to get an idea,not planning on starting one soon though ,Saltwater seems so expensive

Thanks
Wian

 

Hi,I have been keeping freshwater aquariums for quite some time now and would just like to get an idea of what saltwater is like and its requirements

I am not planning on getting one just YET...I have read a lot about saltwater lately and I'm interested in the idea of a FOWLR and maybe when more experienced converting to a Reef tank

So the goal of this post is to get an idea of what equipment is needed and how to maintain a slatwater tank

So heres the questions

•What would the minimum size tank be that would be relatively easy to maintain aswell as keep a pair of O.Clownfish and maybe some tank mates

•Is a protein skimmer necessary for smaller tanks?

•Would a regular HOB filter be ideal?

•Water changes-How do saltwater water changes happen? What water should be used and how should it be treated?

Sorry for the noob questions,would just like to get an idea,not planning on starting one soon though ,Saltwater seems so expensive

Thanks
Wian

(Beginner to beginner advice) to be able to keep a single or paired ocellaris clownfish, you SHOULD have 20 gallons. However, advanced people can do 10 gallons. I'd reccomend 30-50 gallons for a fellow beginner. 30 gallons in saltwater is the equivalent to 10 gallons in freshwater. 30 gallons is usually the comfortable starting point for a saltwater community. You could get a few other peaceful to semi-aggresive fish for your marine tank in a 30. Are you leaning more towards a live rock only, reef, or bare bottom setup?

A HOB filter would be fine, but definitely over-filter. Hardy beginner fish such as clowns don't need a protein skimmer, as long as there's weekly water changes.

Water changes should be done once a week in a smaller tank. Take 20% of the "dirty" water, and replace it with a new salt mix. Remember to "top off" your aquarium by replacing evaporated water with freshwater.

Side note: if your P.H is lower than 7, or your water is just generally not great, you may want to consider buying an RODI system.

 

I've never owned a saltwater tank. But I know 20+ is the best option. I agree with the post above 10 gallon Is considered nano like how we consider 5 gallon nano.Think of saltwater fish like keeping monster freshwater fish. They require large clean tanks to thrive. I'd suggest starting with pure saltwater first if you do a reef right away your going to experience die off. Lots of die off unless you 100% knowledge and experience to back you up. I'd reccomend a 30G with perculas. Inverts, gobies and a small damselfish like a humbug. I'd say a protein skimme rid nesscary. As it's a better alternative to a sump.

 

I've never owned a saltwater tank. But I know 20+ is the best option. I agree with the post above 10 gallon Is considered nano like how we consider 5 gallon nano.Think of saltwater fish like keeping monster freshwater fish. They require large clean tanks to thrive. I'd suggest starting with pure saltwater first if you do a reef right away your going to experience die off. Lots of die off unless you 100% knowledge and experience to back you up. I'd reccomend a 30G with perculas. Inverts, gobies and a small damselfish like a humbug. I'd say a protein skimme rid nesscary. As it's a better alternative to a sump.

I'm starting with live sand & live rock. I may eventually move to corals, but the fish need to be the center of attention at first. Basically, do a ton of research and plan 2 months before you start.

 

CrazedHoosier RODI does not help with pH. It could go either way depending on your source. Typically it's around the 7 range, and after salt mix, depending on the salt, it's near the 8.4 range.

Nano tanks in general do not need skimmers. Though this only holds true if you are understocking the tank.
If you are overstocked and/or feed heavily, you will need to monitor your nitrates closely to see how quickly they climb and do water changes as necessary.
Though not needed, it definitely helps. Also look into growing chaetomorpha algae in your tank. Either inside or in your HOB. I am a huge believer in chaeto as it has helped me achieve near 0 Nitrates and Phosphates.

Typically, 50G and under is still considered nano.

 

CrazedHoosier RODI does not help with pH. It could go either way depending on your source. Typically it's around the 7 range, and after salt mix, depending on the salt, it's near the 8.4 range.

Nano tanks in general do not need skimmers. Though this only holds true if you are understocking the tank.
If you are overstocked and/or feed heavily, you will need to monitor your nitrates closely to see how quickly they climb and do water changes as necessary.
Though not needed, it definitely helps. Also look into growing chaetomorpha algae in your tank. Either inside or in your HOB. I am a huge believer in chaeto as it has helped me achieve near 0 Nitrates and Phosphates.

Typically, 50G and under is still considered nano.

I know it doesn't change P.H. I was just trying to say if your water isn't the greatest in many factors, it's probably best to get an RODI system.

 

I know it doesn't change P.H. I was just trying to say if your water isn't the greatest in many factors, it's probably best to get an RODI system.

Ah. I misread.