Hardware questions...

[ACJl]

Hi reef2reef

Do you guys think the stock equipment on the innovative marine nuvo fusion nano 20 gallon tank is adequate?

They have (2) removable 3 stage filter baskets.
TBA GPH return pumps.
Includes flexible hose and return elbows with Dual Directional Flow Nozzles.

If anyone replies, thanks in advance

P.S. I DO NOT have any tank or aquarium. Im starting this thread to plan on a future marine tank setup...

 

[Frop]

Potential first tank?

 

[esolo16]

I have a fusion 20 and it really depends on what kind of tank you want. If you are a beginner and just want a softie tank, I don't think you would need to upgrade anything. If you want to go full sps, I would definitely recommend some upgrades.

 

[ACJl]

Thanks for the replies. Yes its potentially going to be a first tank but not in the near future. BTW what are softies?

 

[esolo16]

Sorry, softies are soft corals (mushrooms, zoas, leather, etc). They are easy to care for and usually grow quick. SPS are small polyp stony corals and require more attention to water quality.

Since this might be your first tank, I should ask if you are even planning on corals. If you just want a couple of clownfish with no coral, than this tank would be great and require no upgrading. Welcome to the hobby, you will be addicted in no time.

 

[ACJl]

Understood. Thank you for your time.

 

[Frop]

Also look at buying a protein skimmer and lights before you start your build. I don't have a skimmer on my nano but I will on my new tank. Imo the lights usually are the most expensive part of the tank and skimmers are pricy but I am really looking forward to having one.

Also some times you can find really good deals on used aquarium gear on certain website (i.e. Craigslist). I got a 58 gallon with a 20 gallon sump with lights and all the rest for $150. All that was missing was sand, rock, heaters. I got free rock on another website. Now for sand and heaters. Some people like all new items new but Also there is a lot of money you can save if you hunt for trades.

Saltwater tanks aren't cheap... that tank will probably end up costing you $2000 with coral and livestock plus the light, test kits, water supliments, extra money spent on any fish disease (i.e. Starting a QT tank) and whatever else. When I started this I figured it would be between $300-$600 but I was off by 3-5x that and my tank isnt fully finished yet.

 

[ACJl]

Wow... your reply rly did let me realise how much effort, resources and time are needed to set up a marine tank. I think i should till i get enough money to set up one... one more question: Are those filter baskets like canisters and are nitrate factories? Are they different or the same?

P.S. I live in sg so not petsco or petsmart or any overseas websites for me

Thx again.