Just.A.Bit.Salty
Aquarium Advice Freak
Your AC 110 is plenty enough filtration for a 20 gallon tank that is the only filtration you need
Edit they beat me to it, but you get the point
Edit they beat me to it, but you get the point
I have a 20 gallon tall reef tank. I started it out coincidentally using an aquaclear 110, and later built myself a sump(8 gallons).
The aquaclear will do fine in a either tall or long 20 gal.
I used chemipure elite, purigen(seachem) and some floss media , and my water used to be sparkling. I dont think any filter makes the water as clear as the aquaclear... However, as saltwater buds know, there is a need for a sump, sooner or later, so I built myself one inside my cabinet. I stopped using the aquaclear because I got a clamp on 150w metal halide(clamps on the tank's back glass) so I could not use it with filter because they bouth use the same glass as support. I have around 20 pieces of corals, amongst sps, lps, anemones. I can say that duoc 9119 said it right in regards to the light. If you want the perfect light for the high tank, the metal halide is the choice. It might be a couple of buck more, but on the long run, you will spend less on your corals, which will not die because of light insufficiency...If you are going to start a reef, start the right way...The tall tanks, especially reefs are the nicest ones in my opinion....good luck!
I think you would be much happier in the long run with a refractometer than the hydrometer. I would say get a few powerheads or an MP10 for extra flow. For light a metal halide would work great, possibly a 150watt. I have moved on to LEDs and I would say they are great. The same capabilities of a metal halide without the heat, energy, and replacement bulbs. I would highly recommend Boostled Par30s. For a 20 gallon tall I would say you will need 3-4 bulbs with 40 degree optics. If you want to but a top I would get cut glass (especially if you are going with metal halide), plastic will warp on you.