College Nano Tips or Tricks?

[The new fish on the block]

Hi all ,

In a few months I will be going off to college, and I will be taking my 10 gal nano along with me.

Does anyone have any advice or tips that will make keeping a tank easier?
Thanks And Happy Reefing!!!
-Matt

 

[James M]

IMO take things slow and don’t chase numbers.

 

[Sarah24!]

Hello,

Congrats on college and I’d check and see where your living first. When I went to my undergrad, I wanted to take my tank with me. I was required to live in the dorms because of my age, and it was an absolute no on any fish tank. (Kinda why I moved off campus). But everyone will be different, but I would be worried if you have roommates as well. People tend to (hey let’s tap the glass or pour something in the water).

If allowed I would allow the full 8 weeks for it to cycle before you do anything. I would also plan all the fish first then have them qt for the entire time your tank cycles. To avoid fish diseases once you add fish I don’t suggest adding anything after. Also keep in mind that anything wet from any other tank can contaminate your tank. You may not have a ton of options at school if your living on campus. If your living off or with parents etc then you have better options. Good luck in school and happy reefing.

 

[Tamberav]

If your tank isn't an AIO. I would suggest one like the IM 10g AIO. There are many things made to fit these tanks and maintenance is very easy. They run quieter than HOB filters and are not prone to leaking.

Otherwise I would employ a small ATO and buy two 5g buckets for water changes. Run some disposable floss and a little bag of carbon in the back on the media rack. A heater controller such as pinpoint is also a life saver.

Keep fish stocking simple and appropriate so you don't have to haul too much water for large changes.

People tend to go back to visit their parents over break which means leaving the tank alone for a week or so or bringing it with over summer.

If left alone you need a reliable auto feeder. I found Fish Mate to only feed exact amounts but it can only last up to 14 days at one dose a day. You will need a chimney or feeding ring too to make sure the food doesn't get swept into the overflow.

Soft corals and easier LPS will be more forgiving when moving. I personally did softies only when in college so I wouldn't have to dose or worry about stuff dying during moves.

Fish will have to move too. Something like a firefish or wrasse will stress out easily....fish like clowns or damsels or brave gobies like green bandeds or captive yellow watchmen will handle the move easier.

Again you would also need to buy fish that eat pellets if you plan to leave them alone for more than a few days. Something like a bangaii cardinal would be a poor choice as they often want frozen.