Starting a tank

reeflover48393 · Mar 8, 2026

Hey everyone! I’ve never had a tank before, but I’m planning to start a 50–70 g saltwater tank. My goal is a beginner-friendly setup with:
• A mated pair of clownfish
• Cleaner shrimp
• Fighting conch
• Blue leg hermit crab

Planned Setup & Gear:
• Substrate: Live sand / aragonite (~1–2 inches)
• Rocks: Live rock for hiding spots & biological filtration
• Filtration: Hang-on-back or sump with optional protein skimmer
• Flow: Powerheads
• Heater: 76–80°F
• Lighting: Standard reef lighting

My Plan:
1. Set up tank & equipment
2. Cycle tank for 4–6 weeks (fishless cycling)
3. Add livestock slowly: conch & hermit crab → clownfish pair → cleaner shrimp
4. Maintain weekly: water tests, 10–20% water change monthly, top off with RO/DI water

Since this is my first tank, I’d love any tips on equipment, setup, or getting the cycle started smoothly. Any beginner-friendly advice is welcome!

JumboShrimp · Mar 8, 2026

Fighting Conchs are awesome-- but it might be (and hopefully will be) some months before your sandbed will have enough detritus to keep it sufficiently fed. Best wishes on your endeavor!

Mr. Mojo Rising · Mar 8, 2026

Congrats. I would strongly suggest an auto top off (ATO), it will be one of the best $100 you can spend on your tank.

I would also suggest an inkbird for your heater, this will protect against the heater malfunctioning and cooking or freezing your fish.

I would also suggest to get your own rodi unit and mix your own water.

If you've never owned a tank before, there will be lots of small things to buy. Buckets, extra towels, extra heater and powerhead to mix water, toothbrushes, turkey basters...... there's more I'm sure.

Good luck