Nouveau 20
 

Bought myself a fish tank for Christmas and would like to track my progress.

The tank will live in my home office and will be as low tech, simple and inexpensive as possible. I'll be using an RKL and a Neo-Therm 75. The lights are Aqua Knights. Unsure whether I'll use a skimmer (I have a Tunze and two pumps) and undecided on fish (which one(s) or whether there will be any at all). The stand is Ikea's finest 4 cube aquarium stand, secured to the wall. Will add a Waterhog mat beneath. Not planning on running anything in the rear beyond the heater. Will leave the stock baskets/socks. Rock will be minimal and there will be an inch or so of sand. I'm hoping this will provide an adequate environment for a ricordea/mushroom reef.

Hope to fill it tomorrow, then open invitation to all willing bacteria. I won't be tracking my cycle. Will just enjoy the empty tank through the uglies.

Nice! What lights are those?

The lights are Aqua Knight, Sanrise, or Hipargero - all seem to be the same light. They sell for less than the stock IM lights and include 50% more LEDs. I won't be asking much of them.

White sand and white rocks, as seen under white light.

Waiting for a sign...

Diatoms have arrived
 

Second day with diatoms on rock and sand.

Added a piece of rock from another tank with a green Yuma attached. Also added a hermit and a snail.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/7c9KV6svI5lb1RT63

Ugh - big picture...

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aK...w3306-h1900-no

Canary in a reef tank
 

Is the tank fully cycled? I don't think those inverts are going to make it if not.

Getting funky
 

Diatoms are gone and the green stuff is coming on.