The reef aquarium fascinates with its beauty and the diversity of life it harbors. But embarking on this adventure can seem intimidating. Don't panic! With the right foundations and a little patience, you can create a magnificent marine ecosystem.
What is a reef aquarium?
A reef aquarium reproduces the ecosystem of a tropical coral reef. It contains:
- Corals: soft or hard (LPS, SPS)
- Fish: adapted to reef life
- Invertebrates: shrimp, snails, starfish
- Live rock: essential biological support
Basic equipment
The aquarium
For beginners, a volume of 40 to 80 gallons is ideal. The larger the volume, the more stable the water.
The sump
A technical tank that houses:
- The skimmer
- The heater
- Return pumps
- Reactors (optional)
Lighting
LED lighting is today's standard:
- Adapted spectrum: dominant blue with touches of white
- Sufficient power: approximately 50-100 PAR for soft corals
Filtration
- Skimmer: essential (see our dedicated article)
- Live rock: 1-1.5 lbs per gallon
- Flow: 20 to 40 times the volume per hour
Cycling: the crucial step
Before introducing anything, your tank must cycle for 4 to 6 weeks:
- Install equipment and saltwater
- Add live rock
- Let bacteria colonize
- Test water regularly (ammonia, nitrites, nitrates)
- When NH3 and NO2 are at 0, the cycle is complete
First inhabitants
Week 1-2 after cycling
- Clean-up crew: snails, hermit crabs
Week 3-4
- First soft corals: Zoanthids, Discosoma
Week 6+
- First fish: start with just one!
Parameters to monitor
| Parameter | Ideal value |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 77-79°F |
| Salinity | 1.024-1.026 |
| pH | 8.0-8.4 |
| KH | 7-10 dKH |
| Calcium | 400-450 ppm |
| Magnesium | 1250-1350 ppm |
| Nitrates | < 10 ppm |
| Phosphates | < 0.05 ppm |
Common mistakes to avoid
- ❌ Going too fast: Patience is key in reefing
- ❌ Overstocking: Less is more, especially at the beginning
- ❌ Neglecting tests: Test at least once a week
- ❌ Ignoring water changes: 10% per week minimum
- ❌ Impulse buying: Research before buying
Your best ally: Blue
The Blue app accompanies you on your reef adventure:
- 📊 Parameter tracking: History and graphs
- 📅 Task management: Maintenance reminders
- 📚 Collection: Detailed species sheets
- 👥 Community: Advice from enthusiasts
Conclusion
The reef aquarium is a fascinating hobby that rewards patience and learning. Don't get discouraged by initial challenges – every aquarist has been there. With Blue by your side, you have all the tools to succeed.
Ready to get started? Download Blue and join thousands of enthusiasts!