My new build Pico

wetware

New Member
View Badges
Joined
Sep 10, 2025
Messages
11
Reaction score
29
Location
NSW
What state or country do you live in
Australia
Rating - 0%
0   0   0
I have just joined R2R.
A few weeks ago I decided that I would consider building a new tank. I have very limited space to work in so I figured a nano was a good idea. Because I haven't had a tank for over 15 years I started researching. Things sure have changed in that time, as is obvious to anyone who has been around a while. I discover that what I used to call a nano is now classified as a pico. My tank is about 21litres or 5.6 gallons.
The last tank I had died a grizzly death when a nudibranch managed to grind himself in my filter and killed everything in the tank. One minute things were good and then they weren't.
This time, I only intend to have corals and a cuc.
I am building as simply as I can and making a few challenges for myself and my potential critters.
1. I am using ocean water. I live very near to the beach and have an easy source of what I hope is close to pristine water. Some may argue the point, but we'll see
2. Shell grit and sand from said beach.
3. I have purchased a few kg's of live rock from the LFS.
My plan is to let it cycle for at least 8 weeks with timed lighting, a simple filter and heating.
I will do periodic checks for levels.
I'm not in a rush to get this together as I will be travelling overseas for a couple of weeks towards the end of the cycling.
I first got involved with marine tanks way back in the late 70's, early 80's and have always been fascinated by the hypnotic power a beautiful tank has. One of the best ways to calm down and waste (really have quality) time with yourself and others. SO much better than modern TV, even in these early stages.
IMG_8093.jpg


I am finding it incredibly interesting to be able to research the various possibilities on YouTube Uni as well as discovering this remarkable resource. I haven't been on a bulletin board for many years.
Anyway, here is a photo of the current state of play.
Comments and thoughts always welcome.
 
Any updates on your tank?
 

TOP 10 Trending Threads

IF ONE SYSTEM FAILED WHILE YOU WERE AWAY, WHICH WOULD WORRY YOU MOST?

  • Power or backup power

    Votes: 11 29.7%
  • Heating or cooling

    Votes: 1 2.7%
  • Auto top-off

    Votes: 3 8.1%
  • Return pump or water circulation

    Votes: 3 8.1%
  • Dosing or automated testing

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Plumbing, overflow, or leaks

    Votes: 5 13.5%
  • Tank sitter or remote monitoring

    Votes: 1 2.7%
  • Electrical failure of some sort

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Seam or structure failure

    Votes: 10 27.0%
  • Something else (tell us in the comments)

    Votes: 3 8.1%
Back
Top
Home
Post thread…
Market
What's new