Very new and VERY scared.

GreenBoi · Mar 14, 2026

Hey y’all! Young guy here in Los Angeles that’s been itching to start a saltwater tank for years now. I’m more interested in starting a macro algae tank (with no corals or very few), mostly because I absolutely hate the idea of killing animals just because I’m new to the hobby. I also am a plant nerd and love the idea of having a macro tank! There’s so many questions I want answered before jumping in and buying a tank because I really want to do this right. Anyways, I’m happy to be here and look forward to receiving all the wisdom you guys will impart (I definitely need it). Thanks!

revhtree · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome to your new home for saltwater reef aquarium resources and fun! Welcome to the family! :D

fishface NJ · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome to R2R!

BeanAnimal · Mar 14, 2026

Maybe do both? A Tank with fish, and ease into coral and macro in a refugium.

Nothing to be scared of at all. Yes, coral are animals, but closer to plants than mice. They don’t have brains or central nervous systems, feel pain or have feelings.

Mike. · Mar 14, 2026

all I can say is have a lot patience

steveschuerger · Mar 14, 2026

Mebbid · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome!

Some places to start that id suggest: Take a look at the BRS 80/20 quarantine and research up on the nitrogen cycle.

vetteguy53081 · Mar 14, 2026

vetteguy53081 · Mar 14, 2026

GreenBoi said:
Hey y’all! Young guy here in Los Angeles that’s been itching to start a saltwater tank for years now. I’m more interested in starting a macro algae tank (with no corals or very few), mostly because I absolutely hate the idea of killing animals just because I’m new to the hobby. I also am a plant nerd and love the idea of having a macro tank! There’s so many questions I want answered before jumping in and buying a tank because I really want to do this right. Anyways, I’m happy to be here and look forward to receiving all the wisdom you guys will impart (I definitely need it). Thanks!

https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.84/

kevgib67 · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome, glad you are here!

Kiwi reefer · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome to Reef2Reef, Looking foward to seeing your reef!

Peace River · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome to Reef2Reef!!!

Nano_Man · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome to r2r

vlangel · Mar 14, 2026

Welcome to R2R!

@Tigahboy is very good with macroalgae. He is on YouTube as well. Also check out everyday aquarist on YouTube as he does a lot with macroalgae. @Subsea also keeps macroalgae along with sponges and other filter feeders.
I too keep ornamental macroalgae in my display. Instead of using a protein skimmer I use the macros to take up excess nutrients and it has worked well for me.