Setting up first reef tank

[matt 1]

I am new to saltwater tanks and I plan to set up a reef tank in an empty 36 gallon bow front I have. I went to a local fish store and asked the employee to walk me to through what I need to get started. The employee told me that 36 gallon is too small and will likely lead to problems with water parameters. He also told me salt water fish produce many times more waste than freshwater fish so a big tank is needed. Will 36 gallons lead to problems for a new reefer? I plan to get a few fish and try I grow some easier corals.

 

[Mschmidt]

Hey Matt, welcome.

If you stick with the 36, you will be among hundreds on here with that tank. I have a 15g and 40b. I have schemes for a half-gallon all in one with rock flower anemones and sexy shrimp. Check out some of the build threads. There are some amazing reefs there.

 

[ISpeakForTheSeas]

Welcome!

My understanding is that bigger tanks are usually more stable (i.e. more water means it takes longer for the water quality to change/deteriorate), and smaller tanks are less stable, but that does not mean a smaller tank is impossible or a bad choice. As mentioned above, plenty of people keep smaller tanks (including a lot of people who have never kept fish before) without issue. Is it harder than a big tank? In some ways, yes, and in some ways no. In my opinion the only real reason to go with a bigger tank is so you have room for more/bigger fish and other livestock.

So, in short, if you want the 36, do the 36, if you want bigger or smaller, do that. As long as you do your homework to know what you’re getting into, you’ll be fine.

 

[ABQ_CHRIS]

My largest tank ever is my current 20 gallon tank. 36 is fine. Just make sure that you don't set your heart on anything that cannot thrive in that environment and you will be fine.