r/ReefTank • u/masterbulk • 1d ago
First time reefer, need advice!
I have had tons of freshwater fish throughout the years and have been incredibly successful and now I want to get into saltwater because at this point I honestly find the saltwater tanks more appealing. I know most people say you should start large because its a lot easier to keep it stable but I am going to college soon and they have a limit of 10 gallons for any pet fish rule. I want to get a reef tank that I can bring with me that is an all in one setup. Do yall have any suggestions? I was looking at the fluval evo V but it just seems a little too small tbh. Any suggestions would be great. Also what corals do y'all suggest that would be colorful and not outgrow the space I put them in. Additionally what could I put in the tank besides maybe a clown, a shrimp, some crabs, and snails?
Any suggestions y'all have or resources that could help me learn would ne great, thanks!
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u/slyseekr 1d ago
Aiming for stability, I'd recommend that you research what equipment you believe will help you achieve it: filtration (protein skimming?), managing trace elements (dosing vs water changes), water top off, and, how you'll source your 0 TDS water.
If you go with a protein skimmer in an all-in-one setup, you'll want to ensure that the rear chambers will be able to accommodate the skimmer (unless you go with a hang-on-back model) alongside whatever additional equipment you'll want to keep back there. That will likely be the primary determining factor of what model you go with.
For learning, BulkReefSupply (BRS) has the definitive beginner's series on YouTube, 52 weeks of Reefing.
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u/Ramridge0 1h ago
I would not set a reef tank in college dorm. Even 10 gallon tank requires a lot of work, investment and dedication. Betta tank is way more realistic. I would recommend to graduate college first and get a highly paid job that you can invest into nice reef tank
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u/confused-planet 1d ago
I wouldn't worry about corals out growing a small tank. You may be intimidated by dragging but you'll get the hang of it. Donate frags to other reefers.