Page 1 of 2
Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 11:29 am
by ironix
What's the smallest saltwater tank you've successfully kept? I'm thinking of setting up a nano reef but worried about stability. Any tips for a beginner?
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 12:25 pm
by eaglebay
I've run a 5-gallon nano reef for years. Key is consistency, water changes, and a good light. You'll need a heater, small powerhead, and live rock. Avoid fish, stick to inverts like snails or a shrimp.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 1:18 pm
by kalixi
A 10-gallon is more forgiving than a 5. Parameters swing less, and you can maybe add a small clownfish. Just gotta stay on top of testing, especially salinity and nitrates.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 2:06 pm
by slateo
My buddy tried a 3-gallon pico reef. Crashed in a month. Not worth the headache unless you're glued to it 24/7. Go bigger if you can.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 2:16 pm
by rivulet
eaglebay wrote: ↑Fri Jul 11, 2025 12:25 pm
I've run a 5-gallon nano reef for years. Key is consistency, water changes, and a good light. You'll need a heater, small powerhead, and live rock. Avoid fish, stick to inverts like snails or a shrimp.
Agree with this. I'd add that auto-top off helps a ton with evaporation in tiny tanks. Salinity swings are brutal.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 3:51 pm
by burblefox
I've seen 2.5-gallon tanks with just a hermit crab and some macroalgae. It's doable but not ideal. You'll need to test water every other day.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 4:29 pm
by Aurion
Why not start with a 20-gallon? More room for error, and you can actually keep a fish or two. Nano tanks are cool but kinda sketchy for beginners.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 4:53 pm
by foggy_mind
If you're set on small, get a quality all-in-one like the Fluval Evo. Comes with everything you need, just add rock and water. Less guesswork.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 5:28 pm
by fungielle
Smallest I'd recommend is 10 gallons. You can keep a pair of clownfish or a goby. Just be prepared for frequent maintenance and testing.
Re: Smallest saltwater tank setup
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2025 5:36 pm
by haywire
Aurion wrote: ↑Fri Jul 11, 2025 4:29 pm
Why not start with a 20-gallon? More room for error, and you can actually keep a fish or two. Nano tanks are cool but kinda sketchy for beginners.
Yep, 20's the sweet spot. Nano's gonna test your patience unless you're really committed.