Guides Articles

$Reef aquarist calibrating refractometer before testing salinity$

Feb 23, 2026 • 1 min read

Refractometer Calibration Mistakes That Cause Salinity Swings

Avoid hidden salinity instability with a simple calibration routine for reef hobbyists.

Digital reef aquarium controller dashboard with probes and dosing modules

Feb 20, 2026 • 1 min read

Best Reef Tank Controllers in 2026: Apex vs HYDROS vs Budget Options

Compare top reef controllers, key automation features, and how to choose the right controller for your tank and budget.

Feb 19, 2026 • 1 min read

Best Reef-Safe Crabs for Algae Control in 2026

Top reef-safe crab choices for controlling nuisance algae without risking your corals.

Feb 17, 2026 • 5 min read

Reef Tank Aquascaping: 7 Styles and Tips for Stunning Saltwater Displays

Explore popular reef tank aquascaping styles from minimalist islands to complex cave systems. Learn techniques for creating visually stunning and coral-friendly hardscapes.

Porous live rock covered with purple coralline algae in a reef aquarium

Feb 16, 2026 • 5 min read

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Live Rock for Your Reef Tank

Everything you need to know about live rock: types, curing, how much to buy, and where to source quality rock for your reef aquarium.

Powder Blue Tang swimming in a reef aquarium, showcasing its vibrant blue body and yellow dorsal fin

Feb 15, 2026 • 4 min read

Best Tangs for Reef Tanks: A Guide to Choosing the Right Surgeonfish

Discover the best tang species for your reef aquarium. From the iconic Yellow Tang to the stunning Powder Blue, learn which surgeonfish are easiest to keep and what they need to thrive.

Colorful reef aquarium with clownfish and compatible tank mates

Feb 14, 2026 • 3 min read

Best Tank Mates for Clownfish: 15 Compatible Fish for Your Reef

Discover the best tank mates for clownfish including gobies, wrasses, dartfish, and more. Learn which fish are compatible with your clownfish pair.

Modern LED light fixture illuminating a reef aquarium with colorful corals under blue lighting

Feb 13, 2026 • 4 min read

Best LED Lights for Reef Tanks in 2026: From Budget to Premium Options

A comprehensive guide to choosing the best LED lighting for your reef aquarium. From budget-friendly options under $100 to high-end fixtures, find the perfect light for growing healthy corals.

#lighting

Beautiful reef aquarium with colorful corals and fish showing an example of a thriving saltwater setup

Feb 12, 2026 • 4 min read

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Reef Tank? Complete Budget Breakdown

Discover the true cost of starting a reef tank from beginner-friendly nano setups to advanced SPS systems. Our detailed budget breakdown helps you plan your reef aquarium investment.

Reef aquarium cycling with live rock and sand establishing beneficial bacteria for the nitrogen cycle

Feb 11, 2026 • 5 min read

Understanding the Nitrogen Cycle in Your Reef Tank: A Beginner's Guide

Learn how the nitrogen cycle works in saltwater aquariums, why it's critical for coral and fish health, and how to properly cycle a new reef tank. A complete guide for beginners.

Colorful SPS coral reef tank with Acropora and Montipora corals thriving in strong water flow

Feb 10, 2026 • 3 min read

Best Corals for High Flow Reef Tanks: SPS Species That Thrive in Strong Currents

Discover which SPS and LPS corals thrive in high-flow reef tanks. From Acropora to Montipora, learn which species love strong currents and how to set up a flow-loving coral collection.

Colorful reef tank with variety of tropical fish including clownfish and chromis swimming together

Feb 9, 2026 • 4 min read

The Complete Guide to Stocking Order for New Reef Tanks

Wondering what order to add fish to your new reef tank? This guide covers the ideal stocking sequence, timing between additions, and which fish to add first for a peaceful, thriving reef.