[Mikaeel]

I've been called crazy and other names not worthy of a family orentated forum....
My name is Mika'eel and as I live in an upstairs apartment that is in a building built in the 1800's I cant "go big" with my tank. My idea is to start with a 5 gallon mixed reef and progress to a couple of 20's. I'm piecing my equipment together slowly from craigslist and thrift stores, I just picked up a 5 gallon tank with a SK-11 Sand Shark filter ($20-$30 online) for $5 I'm open to all input and suggestions. I'm into the look and functionality of cleaner shrimp and the nice multicolor corals. Let the ideas rip guys!
Mika'eel

[ACE]

First off WELCOME Mikaeel

You should look at getting the best light system you can.

The better the light the better the corals.

[Mikaeel]

I'm a bit of a electro-junkey, I was thinking of making a custom halide system. It's just a mater of calculating the uv and visible light requirements. Do you know of a species specific calculator or chart?
Mika'eel

[CyberJester]

Welcome to RB, Mika'eel!

This is not a exact science, but for the most part 5 - 8 watts/Gal can grow most any coral at a depth of less 25 inches.

[glampka]

Welcome to RB!
I would stay away from mh for a 5 gal. You're going to have a considerable heat problem. Go with a T-5 system.

[CyberJester]

Originally Posted by glampka

Welcome to RB!
I would stay away from mh for a 5 gal. You're going to have a considerable heat problem. Go with a T-5 system.

For something as small as a five gal. you might be able to get away with the florecent coiled houselights if you can get them in the a6500K to 10000K range.