Setting up a coral propagation tank

[Jazzie]

I'm thinking about setting up a propagation tank for my Zoanthids and Acros. What's the bare minimum equipment I'd need to get started? I've got a 20-gallon tank lying around, but I'm not sure about lighting or flow.

[mornia]

For a 20-gallon, you'll want at least a decent LED light like an AI Prime or Kessil. Flow-wise, a couple of small wavemakers should do the trick. Keep your salinity stable around 1.025, and don't skimp on the heater. What's your current setup like?

[Aidsy]

Yo, I'd say skip the fancy stuff and just grab a cheap black box LED. My frags are thriving under one, and it's way easier on the wallet. Just keep an eye on your alk, and you're golden.

[florapine]

Yo, I'd say skip the fancy stuff and just grab a cheap black box LED. My frags are thriving under one, and it's way easier on the wallet. Just keep an eye on your alk, and you're golden.

I get where you're coming from, but I've had mixed results with those. Sometimes they're fine, other times they're a total gamble. What's your alk sitting at, Aidsy?

[juicebox]

I've been running a propagation tank for about a year now. Started with a 10-gallon and upgraded to a 40. The biggest lesson? Stability is key. Keep your params consistent, and don't rush the process.

[Lumin]

If you're serious about propagation, invest in a good test kit. I've seen too many people lose frags because they didn't know their magnesium was tanking. Also, how often are you planning to do water changes?

[Jazzie]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll start with the 20-gallon and see how it goes. Gonna grab a test kit and keep an eye on alk and mag like you all suggested.

[mornia]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll start with the 20-gallon and see how it goes. Gonna grab a test kit and keep an eye on alk and mag like you all suggested.

That's the spirit! Let us know how it turns out. And don't hesitate to ask if you hit any snags.