Reef Hacks Nano Reef Tank Guide – Our Recipe for Success.

What’s stopping you from diving into the mysterious waters of reefing?

For most aspiring aquarists, it’s not the time or money required by this hobby. Sure, it’s not the cheapest or most passive hobby. But these qualities aren’t too different from any other hobby. I mean, have you seen the cost of model airplane paint? It’s crazy!

In my experience, I’ve heard countless aspiring reefers detail a myriad of reasons why they haven’t taken the leap into our watery world. While there’s a variety of explanations, the most common has little to do with time commitment or potential cost. Unsurprisingly, the top response to this question is one word: difficulty.

Sure, reefing is complex. But it doesn’t have to be.

If the only obstacle standing between you and the fulfillment only reefing can provide is the perceived difficulty of this hobby, then get ready to have your assumptions shattered.

When I began my underwater adventure, the marketplace was basic. Everything required manual labor, and I do mean everything. But the landscape of our beloved hobby is quite different.

The digital revolution has transformed reefing into an exciting, and attainable, hobby. With a slew of equipment, products and innovative solutions readily available, diving into reef keeping has literally never been easier.

Complex systems are now refined into streamlined self-contained ecosystems. In many ways, there’s never been a better time to dive into reefing.

But there’s a problem.

One of the most exciting developments in reefing is the advent of nano reef tanks. These compact environments equate size with complexity. While this isn’t completely false, if you aren’t careful, these tiny water worlds can crash faster than a bicycle on gravel.

Let’s get one thing clear: nano tanks are amazing.

Coming from a background filled with oversized aquariums, there’s something uniquely attractive about a smaller tank. Not only does it take up less space, but in many ways they really are easier to maintain.

Notice that I said easier and not easy.

Nano reef aquariums have an expectation of ease, and understandably. When compared to a sprawling aquarium, its compact design and straightforward maintenance feels like a walk in the park. However, if you’re a complete novice, the only thing easy about a nano tank is how easy it is to accidentally kill your favorite fish and corals.

Don’t make it harder than necessary.

If you’re interested in learning the essential hacks for running a nano reef, then get your notepad ready. 

With years of experience in both large and small saltwater aquariums, I’ve aggregated my tips and guidance. So, enough with the small talk. Let’s dive into miniature world of nano reef tank care.

Reef Hacks Presents: Official Nano Reef Tank Guide.

I love nano tanks.

There’s something unique about a compact version of what’s traditionally large. Maybe this is because I’ve always found mini-versions of items fun. Remember when cell phones first shrunk to the size of a credit card? That blew my mind!

As a reefer, my world changed with the advent of nano aquariums. Not only did this tiny tank make it possible to enjoy reef keeping in smaller spaces, like a studio apartment, but it also transformed how reefers interact with their tanks.

To start, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of each system component. Beginning with the back chamber and skimmer setup:

Tiny Tanks in a Massive Market - Choosing a Nano Tank.

There’s no shortage in nano tank options. Like many aquarium components, the best nano tank is more a personal choice than an overarching statement.

Of course, there’s some options that rise above the rest. For me, and many other reefers, the clear choice is Innovative Marine Fusion Aquariums.

If you aren’t familiar with Innovative Marine, then get ready to explore your new favorite tank supplier. This brand combines the latest equipment design standards and technological advancements without minimizing aesthetic value. I’m consistently impressed by both quality and design of their tanks, specifically their nano tank product line: NUVO Fusion.

As I mentioned earlier, I’m currently running the NUVO Fusion 20, and it’s awesome! Although I’ve never used their larger aquariums, if it’s anything like their NUVO Fusion tank, then it’s a stable, sturdy and beautiful tank.

Exploring the Depths of Nano Tank Equipment - The Skimmer.

Protein skimmers are essential for reef tanks, regardless of size. As part of the filtration team, skimmers actively control waste levels. And when you’re dealing with nano tanks, waste control is paramount.

My system uses the SkimMate Ghost Skimmer by Innovative Marine. Obviously, since both the skimmer and tank are made by IM, their operation is seamless. But don’t think that you have to follow this exact example. I'm also thinking to upgrade to Innovative Marine Nuvoskim DC Protein Skimmer.

This skimmer, however, is pretty cool. As an all-in-one skimmer, the SkimMate Ghost Skimmer is housed in a compact casing, which matches the modern tank design. Operation is a breeze. Simply drop it in the back chamber and it’s ready to go. While its modern look and efficient performance is great, it’s fairly standard for skimmers of this caliber.

Essentially, most nano tank skimmers work exactly the same way and most will work in this type of tank setup. Go with what works for you.

Nano Reef Lighting Essentials - Fixture.

Even if you’re just starting out, you likely understand the importance of quality lighting. If you don’t or want to learn more about reef tank lighting, check out our in-depth lighting guide.

Without good lighting fixtures and refined lighting schedules, your reef tank is destined to fail. Don’t let this happen.

I personally recommend the EcoTech Marine RADION XR15W G4 PRO lighting system. My nano tank is thriving, and one of main reasons why is because of the invigorating light it’s bathed in each day.

As an LED lighting system, the RADION G4 PRO is one of the best. Here’s why:

• HEI Optics - Basically, this is a fancy term to describe its lens design.

• Cooling - Small tanks mean even the smallest disturbance can have huge implications. Reef tank lighting fixtures are notoriously hot, which can disrupt water temperature. This lighting system has a powerful airflow cooling system that manages heat via dispersion.

• Full Spectrum - RADION G4 PRO is engineered specifically for nano tanks, which means less lighting intensity without sacrificing spectrum release. Its comprehensive full spectrum light ensures corals are bathed in light energy needed for optimum growth and coloration.

• Easy and Attractive - With such small tanks, every inch matters. What I really love about the G4 PRO is its design. Not only is it easy to install and operate, but it adds a seductive quality to the overall tank setup.

When the Lights Go Down - Lighting Schedule Hacks.

Nano tanks are sensitive. While overall easier to operate, they require precision to a greater degree than their bigger counterparts.

This is why I highly recommend leveraging tools and templates. When it comes to lighting, I turn to CoralLab pre-made lighting schedules. This really takes the guesswork out of this task.

For my nano tank, I use the SPS AB+ lighting template. The only adjustment to this robust template I made was reduce lighting intensity to 80%, which has done wonders for my coral growth and coloration.

Lighting schedules are fairly complicated.

To make this necessary element a little easier, EcoTech Marine and World Wide Corals (WWC) partnered together and created something beautiful:

• Reef Tank Lighting - Spectrum and PAR

Definitely check out this information-rich document. It’s been a lifesaver for many reefers looking to refine their lighting scheme.

Nano Reef Aquarium Media Reactor - My Recommendation.

Media reactors are just as important for nano tanks as they are for behemoth aquariums.

In this setup, I’m using the Innovative Marine MiniMax Media Reactor. This is, in my opinion, an excellent reactor for nano aquariums. And they have just released a new improved version Minimax Pro Series. I didn't have a chance to try yet, but I will.

Its design not only works with the compact shape of these small aquariums, but its operation is top-notch. What I specifically appreciate about the MiniMax Media Reactor is:

• Flow Control Efficiency - Its dual chamber construction helps manage water flow with high precision.

• Compact Design - Obviously, its design is compact since it’s made for nano tanks. But what’s really impressive is its minimized components. You won’t find or need a plethora of items, like thumb screws or inlet/outlet PVC pipes. It’s design is crisp and powerful.

• Automatic Maintenance - Okay, not all maintenance is automated, but its internal chamber slides out and drains water without needing any help from you. This is an awesome feature I wish more media reactors had.

While I rarely say something is the best, my experience with the MiniMax Media Reactor makes this one of the most efficient and reliable nano tank reactors.

Nano Reef Tank Media Types for Sustained Stability.

Inside the MiniMax Media Reactor, I prefer to use GFO media to control phosphate levels. And for this job, there’s nothing I recommend more than ROWAPhos GFO. In fact, I’m going to go ahead and proclaim this as the absolute best GFO product on the market.

Without going into too much detail, ROWAPhos GFO is a unique composition of hydroxide material, which has been tailored to effectively eliminate phosphates from your tank. There’s really no other option capable of achieving these results.

Of course, phosphate control isn’t the only topic when it comes to maintaining water parameters. Because nano tanks are delicate microcosms, they require efficient and refined media to maintain balance.

Along with the MiniMax Media Reactor, there’s the media basket that houses the other media elements.

Here’s what’s in my basket:

Seachem Matrix - As a potent biofiltration media, this product is a powerful tool for controlling ammonia, nitrite and nitrate within the compact walls of your nano aquarium. As an inorganic solid, it offers extreme surface area and supports the growth of both anaerobic and aerobic bacteria colonies. For the MiniMax Media Reactor, I recommend filling any remaining space with Matrix or similar bio media. Personally I’m using two products in this category, Seachem Matrix and Brightwell Aquatics Xport BIO Cubes or Brick for my larger tanks. Both are very good, quality products.

ChemiPure Blue - Formulated to maintain healthy pH stability, my tank responded as anticipated. Not only does it maintain crystal clear water, but it’s an excellent way to minimize stress due to water changes, increase DOC removal and remove toxic waste, such as metals.

Here’s my ChemiPure Blue hack for optimized success:

• I use three bags at one time (they’re sold in packs of 5, so you’ll have leftovers).

• 1st Month - Don’t replace the bags. This is very important.

• 2nd Month & Beyond - Start replacing one bag each week, beginning with the oldest bag first. Because all three bags were originally placed at the same time, pick a random bag to replace the first week. The following week, begin replacing the oldest bag and continue with this replacement cycle. NOTE: Don’t replace any bags during the last week of each month.

Filter Floss - For longer than I can remember, filter floss has been a staple in reef tanks. In my NUVO Fusion 20, I place this filtration on top of each media basket. Recently, I made a switch from regular white/blue filter floss to SERA Crystal Clear Filter Media. And let me tell you, it’s been the best decision I’ve made in a long time. Here’s why:

• Traditional white/blue filter floss requires weekly replacement (no, thank you!).

• SERA Crystal Clear Filter Media doesn’t need to be replaced. Simply rinse with tap water and then place it back. This saves both time and money (yes, please!).

• I recommend rinsing this filter in the extra water that’s leftover from a standard water change. Because of my current water change schedule, which we’ll discuss shortly, I rinse the filter floss every three days. So far, it’s not only satisfied the filtration needs of my tank, but it’s saved me tons of time and money.

Water Flow Essentials for Nano Reef Tanks.

The heart of any reef tank is its flow pump. Without proper flow rates, coral and fish are quick to succumb to health issues and even death. This is why it’s so important to choose the right aquarium pump.

With the NUVO Fusion 20 aquarium, I chose to use its default return pump, which has worked out just fine. But you have an option to get the new just released Mighty Jet Desktop DC Return Pump. While the return pump is the same, I’ve added the AQAMAI Powerhead. This powerhead pump is, in my opinion, one of the greatest budget, compact wave maker systems available. It offers a host of features and customization options, and its size is perfect for establishing a nano reef.

While this is a popular choice, other reefers find the EcoTech MP10QD to be the preferred pump. Both devices deliver ample power for these small tanks, so the decision is up to your personal preferences and budget.

It’s worth noting, however, that a smaller AQAMAI pump is great when initially starting a tank. But as your corals grow and take up more space, you may need to upgrade to a more powerful flow pump like EcoTech MP10QD.

For now, though, the AQAMAI Powerhead is doing just fine. Curious about what setting I use? I prefer to run it in RANDOM MODE at 100% intensity.

Water Changing Hacks You Need to Know.

Love it or hate it, water changes are part of life as a reef keeper. While you may cringe at the thought of changing tank water, one of the perks of a nano tank is this necessary maintenance task doesn’t have to be complex. In fact, I’ve concocted a hack that makes it downright easy.

Here’s a brief breakdown of my nano tank water changing hack:

• Daily water changes work best. Performing a water change each day means less water needs to be replaced, which is less work for you and less trauma for inhabitants = Stability.

• Use only high quality sea salt mixes. I'm used the RedSea Sea Salt Blue Bucket only! Read More Here.

• Use an automatic water changing system, such as my personal favorite, SMART AWC by AutoAqua. Automation is everything, and this system is perfectly designed to do one of the least-enjoyable tasks for you. My tank, for example, is set to replace 5 gallons of water a week, so everyday it’s automatically replacing around 0.7 gallons of water. I came up with this exact amount by using the following formula:

• Net Water Volume = 16 Gallons (my tank water volume - rocks, etc.)
• Daily Water Change = 4% of Net Volume
• Weekly Water Change = 30% of Net Volume
• Total Gallons for Water Changes = 5 Gallons/Week

The Ultimate Dosing Guide for Nano Reef Tanks.

Unless you’re a whiz at chemistry, the topic of dosing likely strikes fear in your heart. Dosing is notoriously difficult for both new and experienced aquarists, but it doesn’t have to be.

Thanks to innovative solutions, like the Reef Hacks Aquarium Calculator, understanding the chemistry of reef tanks is as straightforward as inputting your desired metrics. However, maintaining water parameters is a whole different story, especially for nano tanks.

So what are the ideal water parameters for a nano tank? Same as for any other reef tanks...

• Alk. = 7 - 7.3
• Ca. = 430 - 450
• Mg. = 1280 - 1350
• NO3 = 0.5 - 1
• PO4 = 0.03

In larger aquariums, shifting parameters aren’t ideal, but as long as they aren’t major, your tank should be fine. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for nano aquariums. These miniature tanks are highly susceptible to fluctuating parameters.

Because of this, it’s imperative you use a standardized dosing routine. More importantly, the compounds you use must be of the highest caliber. Not sure where to begin? Follow my personal dosing guide and stop putting the life and health of your tank on the line:

Prodibio BioKit Reef (nano version)

• Turn OFF the skimmer prior to dosing and leave it OFF for three days (if you don’t, you’ll be sorry)
• Dose 1 of each vial every 15 days, again be sure you get the NANO version of this product.

Coral Food & Additive Dosing Outline

• Cycle your tank with RedSea Reef Mature.
• For the first 6 months, only use the Prodibio NANO Program.
• Manually adjust/dose Alk. Ca. Mg. levels when needed.
• Regularly perform water tests to monitor parameter fluctuations/adjustments.
• As the tank becomes established, you’ll notice a larger demand for the aforementioned three elements (alkalinity, calcium, magnesium).
• Install the GHL Doser 2.1 or other model that you like.

My Current Dosing Plan:

• Alkalinity = 9 ml. Per day (9 doses by 1 ml. through the day).
• Calcium = 9 ml. Per day. (9 doses by 1 ml. through the day).
• Magnesium = Adjusting Monthly Based on Water Test Results.

I’m currently using the EVS brand for alkalinity and calcium, but most quality brands will work. For example, Red Sea Foundation is an excellent option.

ZEOVIT Dosing:

Started dosing with this program after the entire system was stable with relatively balanced water parameters, only after 6 months mark. Don't start too early and be sure you've good discipline to avoid overdosing. More about Zeovit in our guide here.

Current Dosing Amounts:

• Coral Vitalizer = 1 drop per week.
• Sponge Power = 1 drop per week.
• Stylo-Poci-Glow = 1 drop per week.
• Potassium Iodide Fluoride Concentrate (PIF) = 1 drop per week.
• Coral Snow 2 ml. twice a week.

Supplement Dosing Outline:

• Red Sea Trace Colors: A, B, C, D - 1 ml. of each once a week.

Used in all systems, not just the nano tank. Is an essential component of any coral dosing program. I'm in love with this product and I won't hide it.

• ReefRoids: Feed entire tank 1x per week.

I don’t target feed. Scoop a small amount of tank water into a container and then stir in ReefRoids. Pour back into the tank directly in-front of the powerhead.

There you have it! My complete dosing routine that’s led to a brilliant and healthy nano tank. Feel free to use this as an outline for your own tank!

Fish & Fish Food Hacks.

The most important rule you must always remember when it comes to fish and their food is to never overstock or overfeed your tank. Too many fish, or too much food, can be disastrous for tank stability.

Remember, everything you put in your tank impacts its delicate chemistry balance. That’s why I only feed my five fishy friends an appropriately measured meal once a day.

So who are my fish buddies? Let me introduce you to the fabulous five:

• Lyretail Anthias (definitely not a good choice for beginners with nano tanks, but experienced reefers will love this little critter).

• Diamond Goby (my personal favorite fish, it’s excellent at sifting through sand and keeping it clean, which is why I’ve never had to siphon my nano tank sand).

• Blue Chromis.

• Yellow Wrasse.

• Lightning Maroon Clownfish.

Of course, this doesn’t include my clean up crew members. These little fellas are essential for any tank as they really reduce your effort in maintaining a clean tank. I recommend ReefCleaners.com. They are my favorite suppliers and have an awesome selection.

Actually, I just ordered their Package Crew with hermits and snails (I love hermit crabs!). What’s really nice is their packages are organized by tank volume, so nano tank packages are pretty affordable.

In most cases, you should never exceed 1 fish for every 4 gallons of water, but if your system is very stable and you know what you’re doing, you can add one extra fish with no issues. These fish aren’t just beautiful, but they live in relative harmony. They all live happily together and seem to be enjoying their stay in my little slice of the ocean.

When it comes to dry fish food, I recommend:

• Reef Nutrition - TDO Chroma BOOST (I’m using the C1 size)
• Sustainable Aquatics - Dry Hatchery Diet
• New Life Spectrum Thera-A

I love frozen food, but I feed this system only dry.

All of these brands providing fantastic food quality. But four times a week I like to infuse the pellets with one drop of Brightwell Aquatics AminOmega 3/6 HUFA. When I’m doing it, I’m waiting for five mins before feeding, so the drop is very well absorbed by the pellets. If you want to do the same, be sure to read the instruction on this product it's very easy to overdose.

Nano Reef Tank Maintenance Tasks (the best part).

Ask any reefer who’s enjoyed the compact world of their nano tank what the best part is, and most would say how easy it is to maintain.

Yes, nano tanks require extra focus on maintaining water parameters, but the actual maintenance tasks are straightforward and simple. Here’s my standard to-do list:

• Clean waste water bucket when needed (very important! Or it can overflow).
• Refill new salt water bucket when necessary.
• Clean filter floss (once every three days).
• Replace ChemiPure and GFO when necessary.
• Clean tank glass with the FLIPPER NANO whenever I get a spare moment.

Ultimately, nano reef tanks are absolutely beautiful and absolutely a breeze to maintain. When compared to a standard aquarium, the amount of work it takes to keep the tank clean and in good working order is minuscule.

Before closing out, I want to briefly highlight two underserved topics: rocks and sand.

While you may think these are no-brainer topics, I’ve seen far too many nano tanks succumb to instability due to these components.

When it comes to rocks, I always recommend dry over live rocks. Marco’s Rocks, for example, are an awesome option, Two Little Fishies STAX Rock and Caribsea Life Rock. I love all of them, fantastic products.

When it comes to sand type (you can read in details by clicking this link), I stick with my dry recommendation. My preferred sand choice is Caribsea Seafloor Flamingo Reef, which I use in all of my systems regardless of size.

Nano Reef Aquariums - Final Thoughts.

Phew, there it is! We’ve come to the end of the official Reef Hacks nano tank guide.

Overall, every reefer can appreciate the size and beauty of a nano tank. From its design to its easy maintenance, nano tanks offer the enjoyment of reefing without the massive space and time commitment.

Of course, it’s not without its own unique set of challenges.

What you may think is best for a standard reef aquarium may not be ideal for a nano system. Yet, the learning curve is worth every second.

If you’re interested in starting your journey into reef keeping, or simply looking to expand your current system, I definitely recommend checking out the possibilities of nano reefs.

by Yuliya Ivanova for ReefHacks.