what is the best method to operate a 20 or 15 gallon reef?

[psariandras]

I don't understand what method to use for operating a small tank.

I remember hearing somewhere that a DSB will not be effective.

Can I use lots of LR and several power filters with activated carbon or something else in the chamber?

I am wondering if I can get by without having to purchase all new equip especiallly a PS, and I don't want to buy a canister filter. I'm not going to have a sump or refugium set up for a while, a long while.

In one thread, I read that it is possible to run a small tank successfully wihotut a PS but with more frequent water changes.

I appreciate any advice.

[BeelzeBob]

yes it is very possible to only rely on many WC's opposed to a skimmer.

youd just need a DSB, 1.5-2lbs per gallon LR and id suggest powerheads opposed to HOB filters, unless its a mini fuge.

if you have a 10 gal id say a aquaclear hob with only LR ruble and marco algae, and a korilla nano.

for a fifteen maybe add another korilla.

but, i would suggest a skimmer.

im gonna drop 150bucks on a aqua c ramora nano on friday. cant wait. i have a lil tank too

[Reefscape]

For my small tank, 7 UK Gallons ( about 8.3 US gallons ) i am just using live rock as the filter, no skimmer or filters and good water flow from powerheads..all is great..

Niko

[TomToro]

For my small tank, 7 UK Gallons ( about 8.3 US gallons ) i am just using live rock as the filter, no skimmer or filters and good water flow from powerheads..all is great..

Niko

I like your style, my friend! I too have LR, 1 powerhead, no skimmer or filter or substrate on my nano, but I do cheat a little with some cheato in the back and a pack of Chemipure:rolleyes:

[psariandras]

atnixion, how often do you do water changes? :)

[psariandras]

oh, I have 2 questions about the DSB.

1) what is a good depth of sand for 15 gallon and 20 gallon tank?

2) could I use all pulverised limestone? that is sooo much cheaper than buying reef sand.

[Pufferpunk]

I have a 15g nano for my Mantis shrimp. I have a Backpac skimmer & an Aquaclear 150 with cheato in it. I do 80% WC on it every week or 2. I have a very delicate pink/yellow cucumber that tells me when it's time for WC, when it starts to droop.

[Reefscape]

atnixion, how often do you do water changes? :)

I just change 10% per week.... :)

Niko

[Reefscape]

I like your style, my friend! I too have LR, 1 powerhead, no skimmer or filter or substrate on my nano, but I do cheat a little with some cheato in the back and a pack of Chemipure:rolleyes:


OMG....YOU CHEAT????? ...lol

Hey Tom..Ya cant beat the natural approach...it just goes to show that it can be done, and done with ease aswell...

Niko

[Reefscape]

oh, I have 2 questions about the DSB.

1) what is a good depth of sand for 15 gallon and 20 gallon tank?

2) could I use all pulverised limestone? that is sooo much cheaper than buying reef sand.


I would not use the lime stone for the substrate, stick to aragonite reef sand, be better for you in the long run...and a sandbed of about 2 inches should be just great...

Niko