A comprehensive guide for first-time coral keepers covering tank selection, equipment, water quality, lighting, and costs.
Water quality stability is crucial for coral keeping. Larger tanks offer more stable conditions, so choose the biggest tank your budget allows.
Standard for coral. Equipment fits in the sump, and extra water volume helps stabilize quality. Start from a 30cm cube.
Integrated filtration in the back chamber. Red Sea MAX series is popular. Easy setup, beginner-friendly.
30-60cm recommended for beginners. 30cm cube for soft corals in small spaces. 60cm can handle SPS later.
Avoid direct sunlight and direct AC airflow. Check floor weight capacity (60cm tank weighs ~100kg).
Maintain 1.024-1.026. Measure weekly with a refractometer. Top off with RO water as salinity rises from evaporation. Auto top-off (ATO) is recommended.
Target 7-10 dKH. Essential for coral skeleton formation. Dose KH supplements based on consumption.
Maintain 400-450ppm. Essential for hard coral skeleton growth. Manage in conjunction with KH.
Maintain 1250-1350ppm. Helps balance calcium and KH levels.
Aim for nitrate below 5ppm and phosphate below 0.03ppm. High levels cause algae and color loss in SPS corals.
Maintain 24-26C. Watch for summer overheating. An aquarium chiller is essential equipment.
Start with hardy soft corals, then progress to LPS and SPS as you gain experience with water quality management.
Colorful and hardy. Moderate light and flow requirements make them the most recommended coral for beginners.
Spreads like a vibrant green carpet. Extremely hardy and fast-growing, very forgiving for beginners.
Unique disc shape with many color varieties. Thrives in low light and multiplies easily.
Beautiful swaying soft corals. Kenya trees and toadstools are easy to keep.
Relatively easy LPS. Attractive flowing tentacles. Needs moderate light and flow.
Unique puffy appearance. Grows in low to moderate light. Popular LPS entry species.
Monthly coral keeping costs typically run 7,000-25,000 yen. Electricity is a major component, so consider energy-efficient equipment.
Verify how the seller maintains their coral. Sellers who share water parameters and lighting conditions are more trustworthy.
Temperature control is critical for coral shipping. Choose sellers who use insulated packaging, cold packs in summer, and heat packs in winter.
Choose sellers who offer post-purchase care advice. Confirm their policy for handling issues with coral condition on arrival.
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