How to Care for a Saltwater Nano-Reef Aquarium

Nano-Tank Setup

• Once you select the tank that you will use for your nano-reef, setup and maintenance are fairly simple. The primary reason is that when done correctly, you will not need any extra filtration for your tank. Live rock and sand, which is made of coral from the ocean with microscopic marine organisms, is the key to a successful nano-aquarium setup. Begin by filling approximately one-quarter of your tank with aquarium saltwater, then add the live sand to the bottom of the aquarium. Arrange the live rock on top of the fine sand to create a tank foundation that will make regular cleanings and water changes easy to accomplish. By allowing the sediment and water temperature in the tank to settle for at least two days prior to adding marine life, you will provide a safe, clean environment for your fish and other marine creatures. Though the ideal water temperature for your nano-reef tank may vary depending on the type of aquatic life you choose, it should read at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) before adding creatures to the tank.

Water Salinity

• Because saltwater marine life requires the correct level of salt in the water to survive, measure the salinity, also called gravity, of the water in your tank prior to adding fish and other creatures. Most coral and reef dwellers do well with salinity between 1.025 to 1.028. A refractometer is an ideal tool for accurately measuring the salinity of the water in your nano-reef tank.

Proper Lighting

• Because a consistent water temperature in your saltwater nano-reef aquarium is essential, be cautious about the lighting you use. An aquarium light source with too much wattage that is left on for too long may cause the water temperature to rise, harming or even killing the tank inhabitants. By using a bulb that is 32 watts or lower in an aquarium-approved light source and running it for four to 10 hours daily, you'll reduce the likelihood that the water in your tank will overheat.

Tank Cleaning

• Keep your nano-reef tank as clean as possible, as this is vital for a tank that lacks an alternative filtration source. To reduce the need for tank cleaning, feed the inhabitants only the necessary amount of appropriate food. By not overfeeding the fish and other aquatic life in your aquarium, you'll help prevent extra debris and bacteria from forming. In addition, removing excess algae will keep the water in your tank clear and optimize natural filtration. You can use a razor blade to scrape algae from the sides of the aquarium glass.

Water Changes

• In addition to the live sand, rock and aquatic life in a saltwater nano-tank, the water is also crucial for optimal natural filtration. Therefore, changing a portion of the water in your aquarium regularly is vital to maintaining it. Depending on how much marine life you have in your tank, you may need to do partial water changes weekly or bi-weekly. Removing 10 to 20 percent of the water in your tank and replacing it with the same amount of freshly mixed saltwater will keep your nano-reef clean and healthy. When adding replacement water, mix aquarium salt with water that is distilled or has been treated with reverse osmosis in a container. If you use water from your tap, use several drops of dechlorinator to remove chlorine that is harmful to your tank inhabitants. Place the container with the mixture in your tank for several hours to allow the water temperature to regulate. Prior to pouring it into your nano-reef aquarium, check the temperature, salinity and the pH level. The ideal pH for most saltwater nano-reef tanks is 8.3. If necessary, use a pH buffer to create the proper balance in the replacement water, and add it to the tank.

Water Evaporation

• The water in your aquarium will naturally evaporate a little each day. Topping off your nano-reef tank with treated water every few days is necessary to maintain the ideal pH balance and salinity for your saltwater creature. Simply follow the same procedure you use for water changes when adding water to your tank to balance the effects of evaporation. Be sure to check the pH balance, salinity and temperature of the water in your tank when you perform this task.