Basic Set-up and Cost

[freybizzy]

I've had an empty 5.5 gallon aquarium sitting around my house for a while, and since my only experience so far has been with freshwater, I was curious how difficult it would be to establish a small coral reef and possibly a crustacean cove in that tank (since I realize this is too small for most saltwater fish). Could somebody give me a basic run-down of what exactly I would need to successfully establish a saltwater environment in this tank? How often will I need to change the water in such a small aquarium? Are there any mechanisms I need besides a skimmer, heater, liverock and lights? And what is the minimum cost by which establishing this aquarium could be accomplished? Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[Frankie_Garcia]

Well for one you would not need a skimmer for that size tank. Partial water changes every week should be enough to keep your water good. For a tank that size tank you would need of course lights. A clip on LED would be fine, a heater, small powerhead, like 5lbs of live sand and same with live rock. It shouldn't take to long too cycle. Get a water filter, put in there like chemipure elite with filter media pad. You're probably looking around $75-$100 to start up

 

[dctpevrythng]

I agree with Frankie_garcia. I run a 4w LED made by Skkylite (look em up) on my 4gal tank. Either a 25w or a 50w heater will work perfect. A simple weekly water changes of about 20oz of water will be fine. Anywhere with 4lb or 5lb of live rock will suit it and place about 1 3/4" layer of live sand at the bottom. You will love the outcome on a small tank.

 

[Frankie_Garcia]

Amazon has a LED light i just bought, has moonlights, and blue/white mode, and white mode. Really nice and gives off shimmer!!!