nano/small coral tank

So I've been kinda wanting to start up a mini tank. (20 gals or less) with just corals, possibly a pair of clowns but for the most part just a coral nano.
First of all should i just get a regular tank and set it up or would a biocube/nanocube/redsea max work better?
Which is more economical?
I really would prefer not to have a sump/refuge.
Any suggestions on where to get lighting for something that small? (links would be awesome, i need a visual)
Is customizing a stock all in one tank (biocube etc) worth it? or is making the tank from scratch better?

Thanks

Btw i dont plan on keeping any expert corals, just zoas,candycanes,galaxia, hammer, frogspawn, that kinda thing, dont have a clear vision yet.

Thanks again.

 

on such a small tank i would deff recommend some type of sump, just for extra water in the system. 20 gals or less is not that much water to deal with when it comes to params and topin off everyday.

 

Hey Cnidaria, I too am starting a small reef tank. I just started it monday. Its going great so far. I hope to hear more about your project soon!

 

I haven't started mine yet, i'm still on the fence if i do then it'll be this summer. I'd def. start a tank thread tho, but like i said still kinda iffy on it all.

 

if your not 100% i wouldnt, tanks need to be cared for on a very reg basis. plus they cost lots of cash so if your not all in even on a little tank i wouldnt do it.

 

lol i know, i have had many fish tanks, i'm just concerned about the strictly coral tank. thanks for the concern tho.

 

I would go with a aga... Open top with a clip on..

 

If it were me, I would just go for something like a 20g, a T5 lighting system, an AquaC Remora Pro a titanium heater, 2x Koralia-1s, a two inch sand base and 30 lbs of base rock to start. You don't have to have a fuge or sump. However, I would not go for something like a 15g tall. Not very much surface area for gas exchange. A 20g long is perfect IMO.

 

thank you for the detailed info, i agree, low and long is usually best with reefs.

 

You are right ! low and long will be best with reefs. Anyways thanks for the information. Hope u continue this doing...