Beginner & Setup Guides
Budget Reef Build: A Beautiful Reef on $1000 Total
A complete equipment list and livestock plan for a $1000 reef build that does not compromise on coral health.
You don't need $5000 to build a beautiful reef. With smart equipment choices and patient stocking, $1000 produces a thriving 40-gallon mixed reef.
Budget breakdown
- Tank + stand: $200 (used)
- Lighting: $150
- Flow + heater: $150
- Salt + RO/DI access: $100
- Live rock + sand: $200
- First livestock: $200
Plan with the Reef Budget Calculator.
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