When Does a Reef Stop Being “New”?

[Daniel@R2R Verified Admin]

People use “new tank” and “established tank” as if there’s a universally agreed-upon dividing line.

For some reefers, it’s a matter of age. For others, the tank becomes established when the chemistry stabilizes, the corals begin growing consistently, and the livestock settles into a predictable rhythm.

What milestone makes you consider a reef truly established?

BONUS POINTS: How old is your current reef, and what made you realize it had moved beyond the “new tank” stage?

 

[Saltyreef]

People use “new tank” and “established tank” as if there’s a universally agreed-upon dividing line.

For some reefers, it’s a matter of age. For others, the tank becomes established when the chemistry stabilizes, the corals begin growing consistently, and the livestock settles into a predictable rhythm.

What milestone makes you consider a reef truly established?

BONUS POINTS: How old is your current reef, and what made you realize it had moved beyond the “new tank” stage?

Current dry rock started reef is nearing 2 years old. I finally just got past the ugly stage of persistant hair algae and no coraline growth. I believe that finally adding some TSB rubble rock, purple helix algae, pods and phyto dosing helped me immensely. I also just added $150 worth of micro fauna like 2 breeds of micro brittle stars, stomatella snails, chitons & limpets.
My first tank in 2012 was started with live ocean rock and natural sea water when those things were easily available at the LFS I frequented (neptune aquatics).
Having an instant reef helped me fall in love with this hobby but this new tank was my first time trying dry rock. I would likely have given up already if I was a new reefer.

 

[Gumbies R Us]

I think once your tank gets past the "new tank syndrome/ugglies," it isn't necessarily a new tank anymore.

 

[CHSUB]

Coraline Algae appears and grows…I my case around 5-6 months!