15g Reef Tank

Im new to the hobby and have been looking online to start a 15g reef tank. What is everything I will need?

Ive got a corallife 65 protein skimmer and an aqueon 30 power head filter.

 

Just curious but are you looking at a 15gal because it's smaller and cheaper or just want a nano? Asking because with a smaller tank volume it's harder to keep your levels in check.

 

with a smaller tank volume it's harder to keep your levels in check.[/QUOTE]

I would suggest getting something larger for your first tank.imo

 

15g is the only tank I have available. Money is kind of tight right now. I read that small tanks levels are harder to maintain but will having a low bio load make it easier?

 

Hey, i'm not trying to deter you away by saying you shouldn't get a small tank or anything. Tons of people on here have small nanos and they are doing great. Heck, I started out with a 10 gal. I had my fair share of mishaps and have since moved up to a 29 gal. If you want to go with the 15 gal route, then something like a Koralia nano powerhead would be good, a large (rated more than 15gal) hang on back filter (like the one you have), heater, lights (t5 would be best), and possibly an air stone for oxygenation. Depending on what you want to keep, you probably wouldn't need the skimmer.

 

Yes, having a low bio load will make it a lot easier. What were you thinking about keeping?

 

A couple of clowns and some invertabrates. I haven't really decided what yet. Im gonna visit a couple local pet stores today and see what kind of selection they have. Any suggestions as to what would go well with clowns?

 

A low bio load will make it easier. The biggest thing I think you will need to worry about is staying on top of top offs very well. In a system that small salinity can change very fast. IMO this is the best light to use on a small nano:

Azoo Neo Light LED

LEDs will make heat a non issue for you. I have used one of these over a 20g tall and can grow some soft corals on the bottom of the tank with it so over a 15g it should be plenty of light.

 

Clowns are always a great choice. They are what I started with, hardy and personable. Cleaner shrimps are always great, peppermint shrimps if you get any aptasia. In that small of a tank, I don't think any other fish would be a good idea. The clowns get pretty territorial. Don't forget to get a good clean up crew. Snails, blue legged hermits, etc...

 

One more thing, don't forget to let your tank cycle before you try and put anything in there. So if your going to the LFS today, don't get the urge to buy anything just yet.