I have a 29 gallon tank and I want to make it a reef tank but not sure on the filter?

Question

The tank is 29 gallons and I want to have corral and anemones. I know what pump im getting just not what size as in how many gallons per hour it cycles?

Answer 1

THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF HAVING A STABLE REEF AQUARIUM!

As far as filters go for a reef aquarium, natural filtration is the best way to filter a tank. You have to get live rock. The micro porous surface contains bacteria that filter all the bad stuff out of the water. After a couple months of the live rock being in the tank you will have established a pretty good cycle. Pounds of live rock 2 times the gallons of your tank is best for a stable tank. So you would need roughly 60 lbs of live rock.

Use a Protein Skimmer too, but do some research to make sure you get a good one.

Lastly just for added info, you would need a really powerful light for maintain the health of an anemone. I have had some Bubble Tip Anemone under about 130watt Power Compact Bulbs. This would be minimum lighting for any anemone. Expect to spend about $100-200 on a good light.

Answer 2

Look for one that cycles about 10 times the tank volume per hour (for a 29 gallon, something in the range of 300gph). You may also want to invest in a powerhead or two so you get good water circulation around and through any live rock you use to display your coral and anemones.

Anemones have a way of moving around in your tank to find a place *they* think is best (not where you want them, usually!), and they can often get caught in the intakes. Use a sponge prefilter attachment or some fine mesh netting (from craft stores, or cut a piece from panty hose) to cover the intakes so your anemones are kept out.

Answer 3

10 times the tank size is the general rule of time. Just remember that current is GOOD for most coral and you'll need a strong light for the anemone, or else he will wonder a lot.