Hi, I’m William, a hobbyist from Columbus, Ohio returning to the aquarium hobby after a two-year break. My 65-gallon freshwater tank ran for seven years before springing a leak in spring 2024.
I’m back now with a 6-gallon Fluval betta setup and currently building out a 29-gallon betta community aquarium. But my real focus is on what comes next: a saltwater reef.
I’m a methodical researcher by nature. I’m currently on episode 42 of BRStv’s 52 Weeks of Reefing series, taking detailed notes as I go and using Claude AI to compile a comprehensive build document that will guide me through setting up a 40-gallon AIO reef… hopefully beginning sometime in 2028.
What draws me to reefing is the combination of challenge and visual spectacle. I love the idea of creating a living ecosystem that rewards patience, discipline, and attention to detail. Long term, my dream is to buy a home with a basement and build a wall-spanning aquarium into the living room… glass-fronted, wood-framed, with all equipment and plumbing hidden in a dedicated basement sump room.
For now I’m learning everything I can before spending a dollar on saltwater equipment. Looking forward to connecting with experienced reefers and soaking up the vast store of knowledge this community has to offer.
I’m back now with a 6-gallon Fluval betta setup and currently building out a 29-gallon betta community aquarium. But my real focus is on what comes next: a saltwater reef.
I’m a methodical researcher by nature. I’m currently on episode 42 of BRStv’s 52 Weeks of Reefing series, taking detailed notes as I go and using Claude AI to compile a comprehensive build document that will guide me through setting up a 40-gallon AIO reef… hopefully beginning sometime in 2028.
What draws me to reefing is the combination of challenge and visual spectacle. I love the idea of creating a living ecosystem that rewards patience, discipline, and attention to detail. Long term, my dream is to buy a home with a basement and build a wall-spanning aquarium into the living room… glass-fronted, wood-framed, with all equipment and plumbing hidden in a dedicated basement sump room.
For now I’m learning everything I can before spending a dollar on saltwater equipment. Looking forward to connecting with experienced reefers and soaking up the vast store of knowledge this community has to offer.

