Hoping to get into the hobby

[leith.l]

Hello everyone! I have been a longtime lurker of the forum and finally created my own account. Having a saltwater tank has always been a dream of mine and I am finally in a spot where it is possible. I currently am just having trouble deciding on a build. I was originally planning on going with the Hello Reef kit. I like how it has a video series to walk you through the process and it seems like a very good kit. However, recently I've been looking into a IM 15 NUVO fusion AIO aquarium as well, where I would purchase the tanks components separately. I was wondering if you all had any opinions or advice regarding the two? I do not have any experience with saltwater tanks but have been researching for quite sometime and feel prepared to go through the ups and downs of the hobby. Thanks in advance!

 

[Roddo]

I started with two and I shut the second one down after 2 months it was just too much work with two sumps etc . Goodluck

 

[JTP424]

Depends on what you are wanting to do!
If you feel more comfortable piece mealing and getting things as you go, buy the IM 15, if you are wanting to have it all ready... the Hello Reef would be a good direction. The hello reef videos will probably still tie into doing it on your own.
Both give you the option to upgrade as you go. The piece meal way you may be able to find some good deals on used equipment.

 

[Tahoe61]

There's a lot to be said for picking out your own equipment. You learn a lot researching and shopping.
I am a big fan of the IM tanks. Most nano equipment fits IM AIO tanks. I like upgrading the return pump. Adding a specific wave maker, skimmer, ATO.
The way the AI Blade sits on the HelloReef is not appealing to me.

For the money and convenience Hello Reef kit is appealing. The price of an IM 15 gallon is around 115.00 right now. Because I can design my own system I would choose the IM.

I would add the Bubble Magus Nano skimmer for 69.00. The Mighty Jet desktop for 100.00. The Hygger nano wavemaker for 69.00. Gravity feed ATO adapter off Amazon 11.00. Probably Nicrew or Smart, I love my Popbloom rl90 lighting. Just some ideas.

 

[Fish Fan]

Hello everyone! I have been a longtime lurker of the forum and finally created my own account. Having a saltwater tank has always been a dream of mine and I am finally in a spot where it is possible. I currently am just having trouble deciding on a build. I was originally planning on going with the Hello Reef kit. I like how it has a video series to walk you through the process and it seems like a very good kit. However, recently I've been looking into a IM 15 NUVO fusion AIO aquarium as well, where I would purchase the tanks components separately. I was wondering if you all had any opinions or advice regarding the two? I do not have any experience with saltwater tanks but have been researching for quite sometime and feel prepared to go through the ups and downs of the hobby. Thanks in advance!

Welcome to Reef2Reef! I have several of the IM Nuvo Fusion AIO tanks, and these would make a great first tank. I have two of the 15 gallons, and I thought that was the actual tank included in the Hello Reef kit, but maybe not?

Either way, IM would be great. The 15 gallon is fine, but get the largest your space and budget allows, like their 20 or 25 gallon lagoon AIO’s.

They have their own upgrades you can purchase, such as the MightJet DC return pumps, skimmers, UV sterilizers, media baskets and more, just check the IM site (NOT to say you NEED those things, I’m just saying they have all accessories). Innovative Marine makes great stuff, but if you’re on a budget I could suggest some other options like the Jabao/Jecod return pumps, etc.

There’s a lot of options for great tanks, I’m sure others will offer suggestions, so check them all out, but definitely consider IM :)

Good luck!

 

[leith.l]

Thank you all for the replies. I think both are good options. I do agree that building my own tank will probably help me learn more. I guess the reason I like the idea of the hello reef is because it takes the stress out of me picking each item. I definitely want an AIO, however, I just get very confused in terms of what I need and what is extras in terms of equipment in the back of the tank. My goal is to have a clown with an anemone and a clean up crew. What equipment would be simplest in order for me to accomplish this? Thanks again.

 

[JTP424]

I think you could use the list of equipment from the hello reef kit as a base :)
- Tank
- Filtration
-Mechanical/biological
- return pump/ wave maker if pump isn't strong enough alone
- heater
- thermometer
- Reef light powerful enough for livestock
- rock -dry or live
- sand (unless you want to go barebottom)
- testing supplies (salt/nitrates/phosphates etc)
- RO water (make your own or buy)
- Salt (can be used to make your own saltwater from RO above or buy premade)

 

[Fish Fan]

Thank you all for the replies. I think both are good options. I do agree that building my own tank will probably help me learn more. I guess the reason I like the idea of the hello reef is because it takes the stress out of me picking each item. I definitely want an AIO, however, I just get very confused in terms of what I need and what is extras in terms of equipment in the back of the tank. My goal is to have a clown with an anemone and a clean up crew. What equipment would be simplest in order for me to accomplish this? Thanks again.

We all get where you’re coming from, I promise :-) There’s something to be said for the kit, but even with the kit there’s a lot of learning to do. I would get the tank itself, not the kit, and then spend some time here on R2R and dare I say YouTube, and learn more about how these tanks work and what each piece of equipment does. You honestly don’t need much to get going. You’ll need the tank, which will come with a basic pump you can get started with. You’ll need a heater. I’d strongly advise that you consider a heater controller sooner than later (they can be found for $35). This right here would be enough to get your tank going and “cycling”.

You likely want a light, but options there depend on if you want corals or just fish, or what you’re hoping to keep. Again, there’s some solid budget options up to the most cutting edge and expensive options.

Certainly, many members here will be happy to help you solidify your tank plans, and choose appropriate gear for your budget and with your goal in mind.

Check out this thread here at R2R:
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.84/
And I personally suggest this video series:
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/cont...brs-tv/beginners-guide-to-saltwater-aquariums
Post back here with any questions and I’m sure someone will help you out.

 

[Fish Fan]

If we are talking about this kit or similar:
https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/1...MIt7WrhK72iwMVnTMIBR0QiRAdEAQYByABEgIiPPD_BwE
Then I can tell from this picture that nothing include in the kit is specific to Hello Reef, that’s all typical items you can purchase a lot of places if you decide to use them. For example, that’s an Eheim heater, AquaForrest salt mix, CaribbSea sand and likely rock that you can get at PetCo. There’s nothing in the kit that you simply have to have to be successful. In fact, if you give us a chance, we’ll do our best to talk you out of using CaribbSea “live” sands and rocks, and using “real” live rock from your quality Local Fish Store (LFS) or even maricultured live rock ;-)

 

[BryanM]

I'm going to say that the initial entry in to the hobby, researching all the gear is a bit daunting.

I'm still a newbie, but I also have yet to see an all inclusive build that had all best in breed items.

But its a lot easier to pick all your equipment out on your 2nd tank :)

 

[Science/G]

Go the IM route IMHO. Then pick everyone's brain on here for equipment. AI makes great little pumps now. I'd probably recommend an AI Prime over a blade in this application. Carib sea life Rock is nice, but it's an extremely poor substitute for live rock that you can purchase online or probably get from a local aquarium store. As mentioned above, a nice Bubble Magnus protein skimmer would be a great addition. With good quality live rock you won't need any ceramic media in the sump. Researching is part of the fun in this hobby, and the people on this app are extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

 

[leith.l]

Thank you so much for all of the responses! They were very helpful. I believe I am going to go with the IM and purchase all of the equipment seperately. I think I will learn more this way and it will be better off for me in the long run. I plan on using the return pump that comes with the tank. I will add the following for now:
-JAGER TruTemp Aquarium Heater
-Hygger wave maker pump
-Bubble magus mini Q protein skimmer
Would it be acceptable to cycle my tank with this equipment alone? I do not need lights initially so that is something that can wait. Thanks again!

 

[Subsea]

Thank you so much for all of the responses! They were very helpful. I believe I am going to go with the IM and purchase all of the equipment seperately. I think I will learn more this way and it will be better off for me in the long run. I plan on using the return pump that comes with the tank. I will add the following for now:
-JAGER TruTemp Aquarium Heater
-Hygger wave maker pump
-Bubble magus mini Q protein skimmer
Would it be acceptable to cycle my tank with this equipment alone? I do not need lights initially so that is something that can wait. Thanks again!

Kudos to your desire to learn. As an old school reefer, I accumulated a closet full of equipment as I journey into the marvelous world of Jacque Cousteau. I am fortunate to have worked on & in the “Deep Blue” for 30 years as a Subsea Engineer in deepwater drilling.

Us pioneers into the hobby did not have the internet nor hobby savvy websites. You will find many conflicting answers to “how best”. For me, John Tullock’s book, Natural Reef Aquariums laid it out with Less Technology / More Biology and his focus was theme tanks.

Natural Reef Aquariums: Simplified Approaches to Creating Living Saltwater Microcosms Paperback – January 1, 1997​

“Debunking the myth that reef aquariums need to be wildly expensive and technologically complex, John Tullock offers a new, radically simple approach to producing beautiful, captive microcosms.
Using live rock and live sand as part of a natural filtration system, the home aquarist can now create vibrant reef tanks that are biologically stable and simple to maintain.
With Tullocks suggestions, the reefkeeper can now mimic natural habitats such as a Florida Keys Lagoon, a Caribbean Turtle Grass Flat, an Indo-Pacific Deep Cave, or a Red Sea Patch Reef. With more than 200 color photographs and illustrations, Natural Reef Aquariums provides inspiration for both beginning and expert marine reef hobbyists.“


@leith.l
You have picked the perfect theme tank: clownfish anemone symbiotic relationship.

Let’s talk, cycling your tank. Bring in some diver collected live sand & diver collected live rock to cycle your tank with lights on. During the initial cycle of uncured, diver collected live rock, provide extra gas exchange. With the low bioload that you discribe I see no requirement for skimmer. If extra gas exchange is required an inexpensive air pump will deliver that economical in both money, energy consumption and in real-estate used.

 

[leith.l]

Kudos to your desire to learn. As an old school reefer, I accumulated a closet full of equipment as I journey into the marvelous world of Jacque Cousteau. I am fortunate to have worked on & in the “Deep Blue” for 30 years as a Subsea Engineer in deepwater drilling.

Us pioneers into the hobby did not have the internet nor hobby savvy websites. You will find many conflicting answers to “how best”. For me, John Tullock’s book, Natural Reef Aquariums laid it out with Less Technology / More Biology and his focus was theme tanks.

Natural Reef Aquariums: Simplified Approaches to Creating Living Saltwater Microcosms Paperback – January 1, 1997​

“Debunking the myth that reef aquariums need to be wildly expensive and technologically complex, John Tullock offers a new, radically simple approach to producing beautiful, captive microcosms.
Using live rock and live sand as part of a natural filtration system, the home aquarist can now create vibrant reef tanks that are biologically stable and simple to maintain.
With Tullocks suggestions, the reefkeeper can now mimic natural habitats such as a Florida Keys Lagoon, a Caribbean Turtle Grass Flat, an Indo-Pacific Deep Cave, or a Red Sea Patch Reef. With more than 200 color photographs and illustrations, Natural Reef Aquariums provides inspiration for both beginning and expert marine reef hobbyists.“


@leith.l
You have picked the perfect theme tank: clownfish anemone symbiotic relationship.

Let’s talk, cycling your tank. Bring in some diver collected live sand & diver collected live rock to cycle your tank with lights on. During the initial cycle of uncured, diver collected live rock, provide extra gas exchange. With the low bioload that you discribe I see no requirement for skimmer. If extra gas exchange is required an inexpensive air pump will deliver that economical in both money, energy consumption and in real-estate used.

Thanks for the response! Could you please clarify on the need for live rock and sand compared to dry rock and sand? It is my understanding that the live components will come with beneficial bacteria to start the tanks cycle. If I go this route, is there not a need to utilize bacteria such as Fritz turbo start? Also, I was under the impression that leaving the lights on during the cycling process would result in unwanted algae growth. Thanks again for the insight.

 

[Dom]

Hello everyone! I have been a longtime lurker of the forum and finally created my own account. Having a saltwater tank has always been a dream of mine and I am finally in a spot where it is possible. I currently am just having trouble deciding on a build. I was originally planning on going with the Hello Reef kit. I like how it has a video series to walk you through the process and it seems like a very good kit. However, recently I've been looking into a IM 15 NUVO fusion AIO aquarium as well, where I would purchase the tanks components separately. I was wondering if you all had any opinions or advice regarding the two? I do not have any experience with saltwater tanks but have been researching for quite sometime and feel prepared to go through the ups and downs of the hobby. Thanks in advance!

Decide which fish you want to keep, then design your system around those fish.

 

[rhitee93]

Thanks for the response! Could you please clarify on the need for live rock and sand compared to dry rock and sand? It is my understanding that the live components will come with beneficial bacteria to start the tanks cycle. If I go this route, is there not a need to utilize bacteria such as Fritz turbo start? Also, I was under the impression that leaving the lights on during the cycling process would result in unwanted algae growth. Thanks again for the insight.

You'll see some debate about both.

There is a strong contingent on here that make the case the best (often stated "only") way to start a tank is with live rock that has been aquacultured in the ocean. I don't doubt that way has it's advantages, but I've started 3 dry rock tanks now, and all of them went fine with no extended ugly phase. Pick what will work in your situation. If your near one of the aquacultured rock dealers, that would be a great way to go. If you're in the corn fields on Indiana, it is a little harder to justify.

You're not going to avoid pests by going with live rock. Plenty have found their way into my reef tank.

If you go the way of rock out of the ocean, you do not need to use bottled bacteria to cycle your tank.

I've been leaving my lights off for a few weeks when I start my tanks and it has been fine, but I've never tried the opposite, so I can't say that I'm not missing out on something good.

 

[leith.l]

You'll see some debate about both.

There is a strong contingent on here that make the case the best (often stated "only") way to start a tank is with live rock that has been aquacultured in the ocean. I don't doubt that way has it's advantages, but I've started 3 dry rock tanks now, and all of them went fine with no extended ugly phase. Pick what will work in your situation. If your near one of the aquacultured rock dealers, that would be a great way to go. If you're in the corn fields on Indiana, it is a little harder to justify.

You're not going to avoid pests by going with live rock. Plenty have found their way into my reef tank.

If you go the way of rock out of the ocean, you do not need to use bottled bacteria to cycle your tank.

I've been leaving my lights off for a few weeks when I start my tanks and it has been fine, but I've never tried the opposite, so I can't say that I'm not missing out on something good.

I have a LFS that does carry live wet rock. So both routes are an option. Is there one that would be best for a beginner? If using live wet rock, do you still have to go through the process of testing for ammonia and nitrites?

 

[rhitee93]

The rock at the LFS is quite a bit different than what the ocean rock crowd likes. However, it will almost do the same thing. You just don't get as much biodiversity with it.

If you want to use the LFS rock, I would build your system with 90% dry rock, and then add the last 10% in with the wet rock from the LFS. You probably won't need bottled bacteria in that case, but I would add some anyway. This will still take some time for the tank to "Cycle" as the bacteria will need time and a food source to multiply.

If you built your tank with all wet rock from the LFS, you might be able to skip the cycle, but I would still put in some ammonia and monitor how fast it is processed before I put fish in. With a smaller tank, this may be your best bet since the rock really isn't going to cost that much.

 

[Tahoe61]

You can absolutely cycle the tank prior to making a lighting decision.

 

[leith.l]

The rock at the LFS is quite a bit different than what the ocean rock crowd likes. However, it will almost do the same thing. You just don't get as much biodiversity with it.

If you want to use the LFS rock, I would build your system with 90% dry rock, and then add the last 10% in with the wet rock from the LFS. You probably won't need bottled bacteria in that case, but I would add some anyway. This will still take some time for the tank to "Cycle" as the bacteria will need time and a food source to multiply.

If you built your tank with all wet rock from the LFS, you might be able to skip the cycle, but I would still put in some ammonia and monitor how fast it is processed before I put fish in. With a smaller tank, this may be your best bet since the rock really isn't going to cost that much.

Great! thanks for the response. What about TB saltwater? They offer live sand and rock directly from the ocean which seems fascinating.