Can I use my freshwater filter in a reef aquarium?

Question

I'm converting my 10 gallon freshwater aquarium into a reef aquarium, and I was wondering if it would be ok to use the same filter I had in the freshwater as a the reef

Answer 1

There's no reason to get another filter as long as the one you have is the proper size for the tank (filters 5-10 times the volume per hours, so for a 10 gallon, has a rating of at least 50-100 gallons per hour). You will have to cycle the tank again, as the bacteria from freshwater won't survive the change to salt. Since you'll be using live rock (since you specify reef tank), you'll get the bacteria you need from that.

Be aware that 10 gallons is small for a saltwater tank, and you may have problems keeping the temperature and water chemistry consistant since the small volume will allow the temperature to change more quickly, and any evaporation will have a much larger effect than in a tank with more volume.

Answer 2

Hi Well I will recommend you to think on a 55 gallon tank or bigger the bigger the best For filter you can use a canister filter if you don't want drill your tank but remember use at least a a filter 2 times bigger than what it says or you can use two for a 55 gallon capacity , about the salt you need a refractometer to measure it marine fish are a lot more picky with food than fresh water but some can eat flakes too, most fish will eat brine shrimp also if you are thinking on a reef tank you have to think on lights it use a lot more light than just a fish aquarium and if you are going to leave your tank for a long period better you have some one who can help you other wise when you come back you will have nothing because the water evaporate and salinity raises up too much and that can kill every thing on your tank

Answer 3

Sure.