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setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2025 8:40 pm
by MackyD
Thinking about setting up a frag tank, but I'm not sure where to start. Got a 20-gallon tank lying around, wanna keep it simple with some Zoas and maybe a few LPS. What's the bare minimum gear I'd need?
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2025 10:30 pm
by onyxer
For a 20-gallon frag tank, you'll need decent lighting, a small powerhead for flow, and a heater. I'd skip the skimmer if you're keeping it simple, just do weekly water changes. What kind of lighting you got?
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2025 10:44 pm
by Banger
onyxer wrote: ↑Mon Apr 28, 2025 10:30 pm
For a 20-gallon frag tank, you'll need decent lighting, a small powerhead for flow, and a heater. I'd skip the skimmer if you're keeping it simple, just do weekly water changes. What kind of lighting you got?
Yep, agree with skipping the skimmer. I run a similar setup with a Kessil A80, works great for Zoas and LPS. Just keep an eye on your alk, it can swing in small tanks.
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 12:01 am
by dawnfly9
I'd add a small refugium if you can. Helps with nutrient control and gives you a place to grow pods. I use a HOB fuge on my 20-gallon, keeps things stable.
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 1:37 am
by medix4u
Don't forget about the salt mix. Some brands are sketchy with trace elements. I've had good luck with Red Sea Coral Pro, but it's pricy. What's your budget like?
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 1:51 am
by digger
If you're gonna go cheap, at least get a decent powerhead. The cheap ones burn out fast. I learned that the hard way.
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 3:27 am
by daisym
How often do you plan to feed the corals? I've heard mixed things about target feeding LPS in small tanks.
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 5:15 am
by dervin
I'd start with just Zoas. They're chill and don't need much. LPS can be fussy if your params aren't solid.
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 5:28 am
by MackyD
Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna start with the basics and maybe add a refugium later. Appreciate the help!
Re: setting up a coral frag tank
Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 6:51 am
by onyxer
MackyD wrote: ↑Tue Apr 29, 2025 5:28 am
Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna start with the basics and maybe add a refugium later. Appreciate the help!
No problem. Post some pics when you get it set up, would love to see how it turns out.