The Best Nano Reef Tanks

Published September 4, 2023 | By Matt

This aquarium is a compact and versatile aquarium that fits easily on a desktop or countertop. With its compact size and small footprint, this aquarium is perfect for people with limited space or those who are new to the aquarium hobby.

MagTool Premium All-in-One Desktop Mini Acrylic

Ideal for fresh water applications and can be used to create a small, self-contained ecosystem. It can accommodate a variety of plants, decorations, and fish that are appropriate for its size. Some popular choices for this type of aquarium include Betta fish, Guppies, and Shrimp. The aquarium is equipped with a filtration system to maintain water quality, and a light source to support plant growth and provide a suitable environment for the fish.

In addition to fresh water applications, this aquarium can also be used as a nano reef tank. To set up a nano tank, you will need to purchase live rock, sand, and various types of coral. You will also need to choose appropriate saltwater fish and invertebrates, such as Clownfish, Damselfish, and Hermit Crabs. It is important to ensure that the aquarium is equipped with a protein skimmer, a strong lighting system, and a proper filtration system to maintain water quality and support the growth of the coral and other marine life.

The PNW Custom Small-In-One 1 Gallon Desktop Aquarium is a convenient and easy-to-use aquarium that is sure to provide hours of enjoyment and relaxation. Whether you choose to create a fresh water or saltwater ecosystem, this aquarium is a great way to bring a little bit of nature into your home or office.

PNW Micro Reef Ready Tank 0.3 Gallon

Available in Black and White

PNW Customs Micro Reef Ready Tank is a compact and versatile saltwater aquarium designed for the hobbyist looking to create a mini reef environment. As the name suggests, this tank is “micro” in size and holds 0.3 gallons of water. It is specifically designed to be used as a nano reef tank or as a small desktop aquarium.

The tank is equipped with everything needed to create a thriving and self-sustaining reef environment. It has a built in overflow and plumbing as found in standard sized tanks. It comes with a built in sump and comes with a 50GPH adjustable return pump. The lighting is a 10 watt switchable LED that is height adjustable. There’s even a water height level indicator! This thing is loaded with features and measures:

Display tank 5.5in x 3.5in x 3.5

Sump tank 5in x 3in x 3in

Tank & Stand 5.7in x 3.7in x 8in

Water volume: 40 oz total. Display tank holds 28 oz, sump holds 12 oz.

What Is a Nano Reef Tank?

A nano reef tank is a small-scale saltwater aquarium that is designed to mimic the natural reef environment. These tanks are typically less than 3 gallons in size and can be used to keep a variety of coral and other invertebrates. Nano fish tanks are excellent for interesting placement such as a kitchen counter, a desk, or somewhere where space is limited. Despite their small size, nano reef tanks can be home to a variety of coral and other invertebrates, such as anemones, shrimp, and snails.

Nano tanks typically don’t require specialized equipment if proper choices are made. For instance the tank pictured above has a built in light and filtration system that is typically sufficient for basic reef live such as live rock, or small clown fish. However the tank’s water chemistry and temperature need to be monitored carefully to ensure the health of the inhabitants. One of the main challenges in maintaining a small reef tank is managing the bio-load, or the amount of waste produced by the inhabitants. In a small tank, waste can quickly build up and affect water quality. It is important to be selective with the types and number of inhabitants to avoid overcrowding and maintain water quality.

Due to the smaller size of nano reef tanks, it is important to be selective with the types and number of inhabitants to avoid overcrowding and maintain water quality. Hobbyists with experience in marine aquaria are the best suited to maintain a nano reef tank.

How Do Nano Reef Tanks Compare With “Normal” Sized Aquariums?

There are a few key differences between nano saltwater aquariums and large aquariums:

Size: Nano saltwater aquariums typically range from 1 to 2 gallons, while large aquariums tend to be much larger, such as 20-50 gallons or more.
Equipment: The equipment required for a nano saltwater aquarium is different from that needed for a large aquarium. For example, nano aquariums typically use smaller filters and protein skimmers, and may not require a sump or refugium.
Maintenance: Because of their smaller size, nano saltwater aquariums are generally easier to maintain than large aquariums. They require less water, less equipment, and less space, which makes them more suitable for those who have limited space or time.
Cost: A nano saltwater aquarium is less expensive than a large aquarium in terms of purchase and running costs. A larger aquarium requires more equipment, more space, and more energy to maintain the temperature and water quality.
Stocking: The number and type of fish and invertebrates that can be kept in a nano saltwater aquarium is limited, compared to large aquariums. Therefore, the selection of species will be more restricted and careful planning is required to ensure that the tank is not overstocked.
Water Quality: Due to their small size and limited water volume, nano saltwater aquariums are more sensitive to changes in water chemistry and water quality. Therefore, it’s important to keep a close eye on water parameters and to make adjustments as necessary.

Before You Dive Into a Nano Reef Tank

There are several considerations to take into account before buying a nano saltwater aquarium:

Location: The location of the aquarium is important as it will affect the amount of light, heat, and humidity that the tank receives. It’s best to keep the aquarium in a room that is not too hot or too cold, and away from direct sunlight or drafts. A good location might be a kitchen counter, a desk, or a small table.
Cycling: Before adding any livestock to the tank, it’s important to cycle the tank to establish a healthy bacterial colony. This process can take several weeks and it’s important to keep an eye on water parameters and make any necessary adjustments.
Stocking: It’s important to research the specific needs and requirements of the species you plan to keep in the nano aquarium. Some species are not suitable for nano aquariums because they grow too large, require specific water conditions, or are too aggressive. It’s also important to not overstock the tank, which can hurt water quality and bring out health issues for the fish and invertebrates.
Livestock: Some popular species that can be kept in a nano aquarium include small coral and fish species, such as clownfish, damselfish, and shrimp. It’s also important to choose species that are compatible with each other and that can thrive in a small tank environment.
Water Quality: Water quality is crucial in a nano aquarium. It’s important to test the water regularly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the water parameters are within the proper range for the species you plan to keep.
Equipment: The equipment required for a nano aquarium is different from that needed for a large aquarium. It’s important to choose equipment that is designed for small tanks, such as a small protein skimmer, small filter, and a small heater.
Cost: Nano aquariums tend to be less expensive than larger aquariums, given the less stuff needed to run it. It’s important to budget accordingly and consider the costs of equipment, livestock, and ongoing maintenance.

Nano Tank Maintenance Notes

Maintaining stability in a 1 gallon reef tank can be more challenging than in a larger tank because small fluctuations in water parameters can have a greater impact on the health of the inhabitants. This is why it’s important to pay close attention to the tank’s water parameters and make any necessary adjustments slowly to avoid sudden changes that could harm the inhabitants.

Water Changes: In a small tank, it’s important to make small, regular water changes instead of large, infrequent water changes. This will help keep the water parameters more stable and prevent sudden changes that could harm the inhabitants.
Equipment Changes: When making changes to the tank’s equipment, it’s important to do so slowly and in a controlled manner. For example, if you’re adding a new piece of equipment, it’s important to monitor the tank’s water parameters for any changes and make any necessary adjustments.
Lighting Changes: Lighting is important for the health of the inhabitants of a reef tank. It’s important to make changes to the lighting gradually and monitor the tank’s inhabitants for any negative reactions.

It’s also important to be patient when it comes to setting up a 1-gallon reef tank as it’s a delicate ecosystem that can take time to establish. It’s important to keep an eye on the inhabitants for any signs of stress or illness and to make adjustments as necessary. A small investment in a test kit can help ensure the stability of the tank, and help you make the necessary adjustments to maintain a healthy and thriving reef tank. It is crucial to monitor the water parameters like pH, temperature, salinity, nitrates and phosphates. Maintaining a nano reef tank can be a rewarding hobby, and with proper care, a small reef tank can be a beautiful and diverse ecosystem.

All in one reef tank components:

Tank: The tank itself is typically less than 30 gallons in size and made of acrylic or glass.
Lighting: High-intensity LED lights or metal halide lights are included to provide the proper spectrum and intensity for coral growth.
Filtration: A protein skimmer and other filtration equipment are included to remove waste and maintain water quality.
Water flow: A powerhead or wavemaker is included to provide water flow and circulation throughout the tank.
Substrate: Live rock or artificial rock structures are included to provide a natural-looking base for coral growth and a place for beneficial bacteria to thrive.
Heating and cooling: A heater and cooling fan are included to maintain the proper water temperature for the inhabitants.

Nano Reef Cleaner Invertebrates

Cleaner shrimp, anemone shrimp, hermit crabs, and snails are all popular choices for nano saltwater aquariums because they are small in size and have specific requirements that can be met in a nano tank.

Cleaner shrimp: Cleaner shrimp are small in size and are known for their ability to clean other fish and invertebrates in the tank. They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other species.
Anemone shrimp: Anemone shrimp are small in size and are known for their ability to clean other fish and invertebrates in the tank. They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other species.
Hermit crabs: Hermit crabs are small in size and can be kept in a nano tank as long as they have a proper hiding spot and a suitable diet. They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other species.
Snails: Snails are small in size and can be kept in a nano tank as long as they have a proper diet and the right water conditions. They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other species.

1 Gallon Tank Equipment Needed

While there are a ton of products out there, for a 1 gallon fish tank you’ll need a few essentials. Here is what you really want to be familiar when keeping fish in a 1 gallon fish tank.

Fish Tank With Lit Top: Having a top for your tank will lessen the rate of evaporation and will assist with keeping your small fish tank free from dust. It can also house lighting, which is good for your fish and plants.

Nano Filter: It’s always good to have filtration running on your fish tank. A filter that is designated to have low flow is ideal for weak swimmers like Pea Puffers and shrimp.

Air Pump: An air pump can be really important depending on the type of fish you have in your tank. For fish that don’t have labyrinth organs (breathing oxygen from the surface of the water), an air pump is going to keep the water oxygenated and healthy.

Sand Substrate: Depending on the fish in your tank you may need sand or gravel. Plants like Java Moss are also excellent to add since they are super low maintenance and it gives your fish a place to hide.

Small Submersible Water Heater: A small water heater will help maintain proper temperatures for your fish.

Freshwater Fish Tank Plant Ideas

It’s good to decorate your fish tank with something for the fish to hide in, eat, and to keep things interesting for them. Things like plants can also assist in keeping the water clean and make the tank feel more lived in.

We recommend plants like Java Moss, Carpet Seeds, or pickup a seed pack of 3 plants like Long hair grass, dwarf hair grass, and tiny leaf.

You can also look into

Here are the ten best fish for your one-gallon tank.

How Often To Change Fish Tank Water?

It depends on how the water looks. Generally for a 1 gallon tank, you’ll want to change about 10% of the water per week. If you’ve got a decent nano filter running and a snail or two they will help with the general cleanup of fish waste and algae. This is also a good time to clean decorations, the filter, heater, and anything that has accumulated scum that is not being eaten by something in the tank.

This is also a good time to test the water.