HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hey everyone,

So I just wanted to share that I've decided to start a nano reef tank for MHCs and probably a couple gobys.

Anyone have any experience with a small tank like this? I decided to go with the Oceanic Nanocube 8 gal. size. I wanted something small that would fit on my desk, wouldn't need to get a stand for, etc. And it has everything all set up and ready to go with the exception of the heater and thermometer, test kits etc.

I went to my local aquarium shop that is very reputable and specializes in fish. So my nanocube is currently cycling, I used live aragonite sand, got some base rock in there, the live rock is in to help it cycle, and used a live pre-mixed salt water for a quick easy start.

Anyone else have similar experience?

I used to have the oceanic bio-cube 8 gallon (now I have the 14 - I know - so it's another 6 gallons so what!). Like all of the AIO tanks they need upgrades if you want anything but mushroom corals. There is a group called nano-reef.com and they have all sorts of information available.

Be aware though that the group is somewhat different that this one.

Keith

Thanks!

I wasn't really thinking about or planning on going crazy with corals. Mushroom corals is exactly what I had in mind, I read that they're easier to keep and good for beginners. Mostly I'm just interested in having a few crabs and maybe a couple gobys to watch and have for entertainment.

Then you picked a nice little tank.

Keith

i used to have a 14 gallon biocube solely with marine hermits, and must caution you that you must be very very careful with your care of a small tank. any little disturbance which changes nitrates/nitrites/ammonia/pH will impact your tank greatly, unlike in a larger tank where things would be more spread out. so constant vigilance! but they are very rewarding pets...good luck...seen what species you'll have yet?

Caroline

Very true - one of the best investments you will ever make is an auto top off system. Not very expensive but it will keep your salinity rock solid.

Keith

TIP!
Let the Tank Run (Cycle) for at least 2weeks before adding Corals.
Do get some Live rock and some Live Sand.
This will help your Tank cycle.
I really enjoyed my Nano.

Thanks for the advice everyone! I let my tank cycle with live rock and live aragonite sand for a little over a month to be on the super safe side, and it is now a well established tank stocked with a couple astrea snails and some marine hermit crabs.

Next step is to add some shrooms and maybe some zoas, and I have decided on a citron goby and maybe a royal gramma for fish!