First Tank (10G)..New To Hobby!

[Fishing For Answers]

As the title says, I’m new to the hobby, but eager to learn. I recently received an Aqueon 10 gallon kit as a gift with not much knowledge on the hobby but highly interested. Maybe getting a little ahead of myself before doing enough research I went to my LFS and with the help of an associate I got everything i need to start cycling my tank (live rock, sand and saltwater). After 2.5 weeks the tank was cycled. I once again got a bit excited and after getting the okay that I was set to go from my LFS I purchased 2 clowns as well as 2 mushrooms.

As you can tell from the pictures my aquascape is pretty….basic. And to be honest I wish I took more time to do it. ROOKIE MOVE, But that’s the past now and I will be adding some more rock to the tank. With that being said, the rock currently in my tank cannot be taken out when i add/redo my aquascape, correct? I've read it may throw things off in the tank but i hate how bulky it currently is with the limited space in the tank so I'm not sure what to do about that yet.

Upon purchasing the 2 mushrooms I ditched the hood and LED light the tank came with and purchased a coralife clip on light (as shown in pictures) recommended by the store so the mushrooms would thrive. I don’t believe this is a good long-term option after doing research so I have purchased an AI blade 12” and will be returning the coralife once i get the blade setup.

So here I am today, new to to the hobby and learning things daily. If I knew last month what I’ve been learning this past week I’d probably have done things slightly different to start. Starting with the filter. I’ve had the filter going for 3+ weeks building the beneficial bacteria but I am looking into better filter options (seachem tidal 35) that have adjustable flow and I can pick the media to use as opposed to aqueons disposable cartridges (had no knowledge about these filters up until this past week). So how do I safely switch filters without harming my fish or recycling my tank?

I’m open to any and all feedback. Thanks everybody, Cheers!


Equipment:

• Aqueon 10 Gallon Tank
• Aqueon 10 filter
• Aqueon 50W Heater + thermometer strip
• Coralife Clip-On Light (Replacing with AI Blade)

 

[PPBlimpy]

For your first trip down saltwater way you are doing fine.

How did you cycle the tank?
what are your parameters testing at?
how often do you plan to do water changes?

you will find upgrades are a way of life here.
Filter is not the best setup but works at first, more of a freshwater filter. There are many options regarding this also. research different types, see what you can handle and understand. Anything you don't understand - ask questions.

Rock appears to be standard dry white rock. not technically live. it will over time.
Two small clowns will be fine, same with the mushrooms. I have no experience with that light. but upgrading to a blade in the future is not a bad idea, you can also look at a noopsyche k7 mini, popbloom rl60 and many others.

You can ad more rock over time. Preferably from a running system, not more dry rock.
I want to set up a tank so i have an excuse to order live rock/sand direct from the ocean.

good luck with the tank. its adictive and a slippery slope. i had a 13.5 nov 2023. now have a 380G, 45g, 13.5g.

 

[Fishing For Answers]

For your first trip down saltwater way you are doing fine.

How did you cycle the tank?
what are your parameters testing at?
how often do you plan to do water changes?

you will find upgrades are a way of life here.
Filter is not the best setup but works at first, more of a freshwater filter. There are many options regarding this also. research different types, see what you can handle and understand. Anything you don't understand - ask questions.

Rock appears to be standard dry white rock. not technically live. it will over time.
Two small clowns will be fine, same with the mushrooms. I have no experience with that light. but upgrading to a blade in the future is not a bad idea, you can also look at a noopsyche k7 mini, popbloom rl60 and many others.

You can ad more rock over time. Preferably from a running system, not more dry rock.
I want to set up a tank so i have an excuse to order live rock/sand direct from the ocean.

good luck with the tank. its adictive and a slippery slope. i had a 13.5 nov 2023. now have a 380G, 45g, 13.5g.

I cycled the tank following my LFS advice which was with just using the rock. I could’ve sworn they said it was live rock but nonetheless they said that alone would cycle the tank.

This past Friday, 07/11, was 2.5 weeks and I had them test my water and they said it was ready to go. What those parameters were? I’m not quite sure. Yes, another rookie move. But since then I’ve purchased a master kit test and a refractometer. Both will be here arriving in 2 days so I will test again and have exact numbers for things.

As far as water changes, I’m doing daily top offs and plan to do 10% weekly water changes.

I’ve been looking at replacing the aqueon 10 filter I currently have with a seachem tidal 35. So if I decide to try and swap out filters is it safe for the tank? Is there anything I need to do to make sure I don’t ruin the beneficial bacteria already established?

Thanks!

 

[Euphyllia97]

hi! In a saltwater tank, most of the biological filtration is actually done by bacteria living on your rocks/sand. So go ahead and swap out your filter :) And yes you can take out your rock to redo the scape. Just make sure it is not out of the water for too long (should remain wet), that way your bacteria will not die off too much. As for the parameters your LFS was probably referring to ammonia (which MUST be 0), nitrite (Should be 0, but acceptable in new tank) and nitrates (measurable, to confirm your ammonia goes theough the whole cycle)

Good luck and enjoy reefing :)

EDIT: if your current filter is using some type of sponge, just leave that sponge in your tank for a week or 2 after you change the filter, this way the bacteria that did build up in the media can help your tank to maintain stability during the transition

 

[Fishing For Answers]

hi! In a saltwater tank, most of the biological filtration is actually done by bacteria living on your rocks/sand. So go ahead and swap out your filter :) And yes you can take out your rock to redo the scape. Just make sure it is not out of the water for too long (should remain wet), that way your bacteria will not die off too much. As for the parameters your LFS was probably referring to ammonia (which MUST be 0), nitrite (Should be 0, but acceptable in new tank) and nitrates (measurable, to confirm your ammonia goes theough the whole cycle)

Good luck and enjoy reefing :)

EDIT: if your current filter is using some type of sponge, just leave that sponge in your tank for a week or 2 after you change the filter, this way the bacteria that did build up in the media can help your tank to maintain stability during the transition

Yes, my filter has an aqueon disposable cartridge. Would I leave that in the actual tank itself or do I put it inside of the new filter? I plan on getting the Seachem Tidal 35 and using the filter media that is provided with it. Also open to any recommendations you may have on filter media to use for the new filter.

Thanks!

 

[JumboShrimp]

You are off to a good start, and I think you realized already to slow things down a touch and exhibit a bit more patience. Enjoy the experience during what might seem like 'down time', but actually your tank is doing its thing and maturing. I don't think your rocks look to "bulky" (as you said); maybe just a couple more smaller ones set to the right to balance out the look. Also, the 12" Blade will be a great light-- but with all your planned equipment, don't throw silly money at what will always be a 10-gallon tank.

Keep up the good work, and keep asking a lot of questions.

 

[THE REEF WHISPER]

As the title says, I’m new to the hobby, but eager to learn. I recently received an Aqueon 10 gallon kit as a gift with not much knowledge on the hobby but highly interested. Maybe getting a little ahead of myself before doing enough research I went to my LFS and with the help of an associate I got everything i need to start cycling my tank (live rock, sand and saltwater). After 2.5 weeks the tank was cycled. I once again got a bit excited and after getting the okay that I was set to go from my LFS I purchased 2 clowns as well as 2 mushrooms.

As you can tell from the pictures my aquascape is pretty….basic. And to be honest I wish I took more time to do it. ROOKIE MOVE, But that’s the past now and I will be adding some more rock to the tank. With that being said, the rock currently in my tank cannot be taken out when i add/redo my aquascape, correct? I've read it may throw things off in the tank but i hate how bulky it currently is with the limited space in the tank so I'm not sure what to do about that yet.

Upon purchasing the 2 mushrooms I ditched the hood and LED light the tank came with and purchased a coralife clip on light (as shown in pictures) recommended by the store so the mushrooms would thrive. I don’t believe this is a good long-term option after doing research so I have purchased an AI blade 12” and will be returning the coralife once i get the blade setup.

So here I am today, new to to the hobby and learning things daily. If I knew last month what I’ve been learning this past week I’d probably have done things slightly different to start. Starting with the filter. I’ve had the filter going for 3+ weeks building the beneficial bacteria but I am looking into better filter options (seachem tidal 35) that have adjustable flow and I can pick the media to use as opposed to aqueons disposable cartridges (had no knowledge about these filters up until this past week). So how do I safely switch filters without harming my fish or recycling my tank?

I’m open to any and all feedback. Thanks everybody, Cheers!


Equipment:

• Aqueon 10 Gallon Tank
• Aqueon 10 filter
• Aqueon 50W Heater + thermometer strip
• Coralife Clip-On Light (Replacing with AI Blade)

It's great that you're eager to learn and improve your saltwater tank! Many hobbyists start exactly like you, learning as they go. Let's break down your questions and give you some knowledgeable information to help your tank thrive.
Aquascaping and Live Rock
You're right to be concerned about moving live rock. When you add or rearrange rock, you absolutely can remove the existing rock. Here's why and how to do it safely:
* Why it's okay to remove existing rock: The primary concern with moving live rock is disturbing the beneficial bacteria that reside on it. However, your tank is still relatively new, and a good portion of your beneficial bacteria will also be in your sand bed. When you add more rock, you're increasing the surface area for bacterial colonization.
* How to safely remove/rearrange:
* Preparation: Have your new rock ready and cured (if not already). You can soak new dry rock in saltwater for a few days to a week to leach out any impurities, or if it's live rock, make sure it's clean and free of pests.
* Water Change: Consider doing a small water change right before you start, as disturbing the sand and rock can stir up detritus.
* Temporary Holding: Have a clean bucket with some tank water ready. When you remove your existing rock, place it in this bucket. This keeps the beneficial bacteria submerged and healthy.
* Rescape: Carefully arrange your new and existing rock in the tank. Take your time to create a stable and aesthetically pleasing scape with plenty of hiding spots and swimming room for your clowns.
* Observe: After rescoping, monitor your fish for stress and keep an eye on your water parameters (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate) for a few days. You might see a slight bump in ammonia if a lot of detritus was disturbed, but it should resolve quickly.
Tip for aquascaping: Before adding the rock to the tank, try dry-fitting your aquascape outside the tank on a flat surface. This allows you to experiment with different arrangements without stressing your inhabitants.
Lighting Upgrade (Coralife to AI Blade)
Your decision to upgrade from the Coralife clip-on to the AI Blade 12" is an excellent one for your mushrooms and future coral growth.
* Smooth Transition: When you get your AI Blade, follow the manufacturer's instructions for setup. Most modern LED lights allow you to program a schedule and intensity. Start with a lower intensity and gradually increase it over a week or two. This acclimates your mushrooms to the new, more powerful light and prevents shocking them.
* Coral Health: The AI Blade will provide a much more suitable spectrum and intensity for your mushrooms, promoting better growth and coloration.
Filter Upgrade (Aqueon to Seachem Tidal 35)
Switching filters is a common and beneficial upgrade in reefkeeping. The Seachem Tidal 35 is a great choice with its adjustable flow and customizable media. Here's how to safely switch without harming your fish or recycling your tank:
The key is to transfer as much beneficial bacteria as possible from your old filter to your new one.
* Run Both Filters Simultaneously: This is the safest method.
* Set up your new Seachem Tidal 35 on your tank, right alongside your Aqueon 10 filter.
* Crucially, take the existing filter media (the sponge or cartridge) from your Aqueon 10 filter and place it inside the media basket of your new Seachem Tidal 35. This immediately inoculates the new filter with a large population of beneficial bacteria.
* Let both filters run together for at least 2-3 weeks. This allows the beneficial bacteria to colonize the new filter media and establish a healthy colony within the Tidal 35.
* Monitor Water Parameters: During this transition period, continue to regularly test your ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. You want to ensure that the new filter is adequately processing waste.
* Remove Old Filter: After 2-3 weeks of running both filters concurrently and stable water parameters, you can safely remove the Aqueon 10 filter.
* Maintenance: Once the Tidal 35 is your primary filter, remember to perform regular maintenance, cleaning the sponge and rinsing filter floss in old tank water during your water changes.
Why this method works: By running both filters and transferring media, you prevent a "crash" of your bacterial population, which would lead to an ammonia spike and harm your fish. The old filter acts as a "starter culture" for the new one.
General Tips for a New Saltwater Hobbyist
* Research is Key: You've already realized this, and that's fantastic! The more you learn, the more successful you'll be. Reputable sources include forums (reef2reef.com is a popular one), established hobbyist websites, and books.
* Patience is a Virtue: Saltwater tanks thrive on stability. Avoid making too many drastic changes at once.
* Water Parameters: Invest in a good quality test kit for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, alkalinity, and salinity. Regular testing is crucial for understanding what's happening in your tank.
* Regular Water Changes: Small, frequent water changes (e.g., 10% weekly) are generally better than large, infrequent ones. This replenishes essential elements and removes accumulated nitrates.
* Quarantine (QT) Tank: As you consider adding more inhabitants, strongly consider setting up a small quarantine tank. This allows you to observe new fish for diseases and treat them before introducing them to your main display tank, protecting your existing healthy fish.
* Drip Acclimation: When adding new fish or invertebrates, always drip acclimate them to your tank's water to minimize stress from changes in salinity, temperature, and pH.
* Cured Live Rock: If you add more live rock, ensure it's fully cured before adding it to your tank. Uncured live rock can release ammonia and phosphates, causing major issues.
* Don't Overstock: A 10-gallon tank is quite small for saltwater. Two clownfish are pushing the limits for long-term health in a tank this size. Avoid adding any more fish. If you plan on expanding your fish collection in the future, a larger tank would be necessary.
* Join the Community: Online forums and local fish clubs are invaluable resources for advice, troubleshooting, and even trading corals or equipment.
It sounds like you're on a great path, and your eagerness to learn will serve you well in this rewarding hobby. Keep up the good work, and happy reefing!

 

[Euphyllia97]

Yes, my filter has an aqueon disposable cartridge. Would I leave that in the actual tank itself or do I put it inside of the new filter? I plan on getting the Seachem Tidal 35 and using the filter media that is provided with it. Also open to any recommendations you may have on filter media to use for the new filter.

Thanks!

You can do either :) Both will work. As said before I wouldn’t really care about filter media that much. The bacteria you need to end up with nitrate will be in your rock and not in your filter. So I would take something you can easily take out and clean focussing on removing detritus :) (a sponge or filter wool,…)

Wouldn’t spend too much money on it as I’m pretty sure if you like the hobby that your 10 gallon will be upgraded very soon. Or you should consider buying equipment that can be used on your next tank size

 

[Gumbies R Us]

I'm going to recommend this thread to you!


https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.138750/