New Here! New Tank: Post Your Plan + Get a Setup Check (2 minutes)

[Josh]

Welcome. If you’re starting your first saltwater or reef tank, this thread is the fastest way to go from “I’m overwhelmed” to a clear, safe plan.

How this works

1. Copy/paste the template below and fill it out (don’t overthink it).
2. Post it as a reply.
3. A moderator or experienced member will give you a step-by-step setup check (and help you avoid expensive mistakes).

Our promise: If you include the requested info, you’ll get actionable guidance—not vague opinions.

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Step 1 — Your Goal (pick one)​

• Fish-only (FOWLR)
• Soft corals
• Mixed reef
• SPS-focused (advanced)
• Nano reef (≤ 20 gallons)

Step 2 — Copy/Paste This Template and Fill It In​

A) Tank basics

• Display tank size (gallons):
• Tank dimensions (optional):
• New setup or already running? If running, how old is it?
• Sump? (yes/no) If yes, size:

B) Your goal + constraints

• What do you want to keep in 6 months? (fish/corals list if you have it)
• Budget range (rough is fine):
• Time available for maintenance each week:

C) Equipment you have (or plan to buy)

• Tank brand/model (if known):
• Return pump:
• Powerheads/wavemakers:
• Heater + controller (if any):
• Lights (brand/model + length):
• ATO (auto top off):
• Protein skimmer (if sump):
• Filtration (socks/roller, media, etc.):
• RODI source (own unit or store water):
• Salt brand:

D) Your planned timeline

• When do you want water in the tank?
• When do you hope to add first fish?
• Any upcoming travel in the first 60 days?

E) Cycling + testing plan

• Cycling method (choose one):
  • Fishless cycle w/ ammonia
  • Live rock + patience
  • Bottled bacteria
  • Not sure
• Test kits you have (brand):
  • Ammonia:
  • Nitrite:
  • Nitrate:
  • Phosphate:
  • Alkalinity:
  • Calcium:
  • Magnesium:
• Refractometer or hydrometer?

F) If your tank is already running (fill in current numbers)

• Salinity (SG):
• Temperature:
• Ammonia:
• Nitrite:
• Nitrate:
• Phosphate:
• Alkalinity (dKH):

G) Photos (highly recommended)

• Post a full tank shot + sump/equipment shot if possible.

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What you’ll get back (what we’ll check)​

• Stocking plan sanity check (what’s realistic for your tank)
• Equipment gaps (what to buy now vs later)
• A safe cycling and first-month plan
• Common early mistakes to avoid (based on your setup)

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Quick Guidelines (keeps replies fast and accurate)​

• Don’t add fish “to cycle” a tank.
• Don’t chase perfect numbers—stability beats perfection.
• If you post test results, include the test kit brand and whether it’s new/old.

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Graduation (optional but fun)​

If you post weekly updates for the first month, we’ll help you get to a “30 Days Stable” milestone:

• stable salinity + temperature
• ammonia/nitrite at 0
• clear plan for nitrate/phosphate control

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Reply with your filled-out template to get started.