Reef aquarium

“About a year and two months ago I made the decision to try a simple saltwater set up. Being an experienced freshwater keeper of many years and breeding certain species as well, I thought what the heck....let's give marine a go. After having excellent success with my first brackish tank with two Leopard Puffers, which I have had for almost two years and "0" issues, I figured maybe I was ready. (Insert laugh track here) Started with a 40g breeder tank that a neighbor gave to me. Did plenty of research and started a simple set up. I had plenty of experience cycling an aquarium so that was easy....well, relatively speaking. Built and added a 20g refugium. Still have most of my original CUC. Only lost a few Margarita snails. Never had an issue with my shrimp or crabs. They're all thriving. Even added a couple starfish that are doing well. Fish were a different story. Even having a quarantine tank I had more than my share of losses.”

“When these people say take your time, take it slow, be patient, etc etc boy they weren't kidding. I've had my tank up for a month and I STILL don't have a clue what I'm doing. I still don't have fish and my water still isn't right. I still don't see diatoms and I still am learning new things. So... lol good luck is all I can say. It can be pretty discouraging at times believe me. I've thought about taking mine down because I seem to be at a stand still. So when they tell you to be patient, they know what they're talking about! You'll get tired of looking at rocks all the time and you'll want some fish sooooo bad. Then you'll start wondering if you're doing something wrong, but all in all I guess it really does take time.”