20 gallon?

[AwCrimety]

Hi,

I have a 20 gallon tank set up as a freshwater right now, but I'm growing a bit bored of it, and was thinking of changing it to saltwater. I've read though, not to bother setting up a saltwater tank unless it's at least 30 gallons. Any comments?

thanks

[OrionGirl]

As a first SW tank, 20 gallons is going to cause you some serious headaches. Small tanks are not as stable as larger setups, and small changes cause serious problems--evaporation jumps the salinity, ammonia and nitrites can jump quickly, ect. The other problem with a small tank is the selection. Not may fish will thrive in a small tank--either their territory needs won't be met, or their adult size will far exceed the tank. Invertebrates and a few smaller fish will be the most you can keep.

While there are many people who have nano tanks and love them, they require daily maintenance to keep them stable and healthy. Just not a great thing for a first timer--especially when you have to FORGET just about 80% of the knowledge you've gained from FW tanks.

[AwCrimety]

Thanks!

Okay, I'll just wait till i get a new tank. ;)