Setting up a reef

Setting up a reef aquarium at home is an exciting project, but it requires planning, investment, and regular maintenance. Here are the essential elements you need:

1. Tank (Aquarium)

  • Recommended size: At least 100 liters (the larger, the more stable the ecosystem).
  • Material: Glass or acrylic
2. Filtration and Circulation System

  • Live rock or dry rock (acts as biological filtration).
  • Protein skimmer (removes organic waste and improves water quality).
  • Circulation pump (simulates natural reef water movement).
  • Sump (optional) for enhanced filtration and to hide equipment.
3. Proper Lighting

  • Reef-specific LED lights (provide the right spectrum for coral growth).
  • Timer to regulate light/day cycles.
4. Water Parameters

  • High-quality marine salt and a refractometer to measure salinity (ideal: 1.023-1.026 SG).
  • Reverse osmosis (RO/DI) system for pure, contaminant-free water.
  • Water test kits: pH, KH, calcium, magnesium, nitrates, phosphates, ammonia.
  • Heater and thermometer (keep between 24-26°C / 75-79°F).
5. Reef Inhabitants

  • Soft corals or LPS/SPS corals (depending on experience).
  • Compatible fish: clownfish, gobies, damselfish, etc.
  • Useful invertebrates: shrimp, snails, hermit crabs.
6. Regular Maintenance

  • Weekly water changes (10-20%) using RO/DI water and marine salt.
  • Cleaning the skimmer and glass panels to prevent algae buildup.
  • Monitoring water parameters and correcting imbalances.

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