Nano Reef Tank

[rifkipa]

Hello,
A few days ago, I spotted an empty tank at my friends house. He said He doesnt need it anymore. So I thought about what i could do with it. I always wanted a reef tank, so thats my First choice. I already own a aquarium, its a 29 Gallon freshwater tank, so i know the Basics of water chemistry etc.
The tank is a 7 gallon tank (16 x 10 x 10) and doesnt have any studf except of the tank.
Ive already looked in the Internet, but im not Sure about what i really need. Do i need a Protein skimmer?
Because im a student, Ill try to do this on a Budget. I dont have the Money and the space in the tank to buy and Place Tons of technical things Inside. I do not want a filtration tank where i put all the technical stufe. The water has to stay inside of the tank.
Of course, i also want to keep Animals in the Tank. A nice selection of corals would be nice. Im also in love with the inverbrates like Shrimps, urchins, Crabs and sea stars. But because im not familiar with the saltwater Hobby, i dont exactly know what is responsible and whats not.
Im thankfull for every piece of advuce
Greetings from Germany

 

[rhance]

I currently have a 5 gallon tank that I've had for a year now with no protein skimmer. I have a heater, filter, pump, 3 live rocks, green star polyp, and gorgonian coral. They have done well. I would just make sure your tank is fully cycled before adding anything and make sure you don't add anything that is too large.

 

[rifkipa]

Thank you for your Reply. I dont Think about putting anything like fish or something big in There. I will get a big reef tank when im older, but for now i just want to get into this Part of the Hobby.
Animals i like are:
-Hermit Crabs
-Fire Shrimp
-Emerald Crab
-Tuxedo Urchin
-small sea stars
-snails
-small clam (if Theres anything like that)
What would you Think would work well together and what is an appropiate amount of species and animals in such a small tank? Is There something like a must-have?
So many questions... :-D

 

[Auquanut]

Welcome to R2R! You can absolutely keep a reef that size with just a Hang On Back (HOB) filter. There are quite a few differences between fresh and salt water aquariums, so do your research before you start. R2R is definitely your best resource. Glad to have you with us!