setting up a 15-gallon reef tank for beginners

[oceanlover]

Hey guys, if you think I'm posting too many threads then let me know, I just want to make sure I'm not overwhelming anyone. I just got my new 15 gallon tank and I'm super excited to set it up with live corals.

I've got a few questions to get some advice from you all. Can I put 2 clownfish, 1 yellow clown goby, and 2 hermit crabs in a live coral 15 gallon tank? Should I go for baby clownfish or fully grown ones? Do I need to cycle a brand new tank that's never been used before? What's the best substrate for a coral tank?

Also, if I decide not to go with the hermit crabs and goby, what other tank mates would you recommend for a 15 gallon tank?

[Tidal4]

I'm no expert on saltwater tanks, but I've done some reading up and clownfish seem to need a decent amount of space - 20 gallons is the general consensus. If you're determined to keep them all in one tank, I'd say it's doable if it's properly set up and well maintained, but you're definitely pushing your luck. I'd advise against overdoing it with tankmates and increasing the bioload. One thing I'm certain about, though, is that you'll need to cycle the tank - the only exception I can think of is in an emergency situation.

[whetu]

Don't wanna be repetitive, but we've covered these topics in other threads, folks.

[whetu]

Instead of relying on others, you should've done your own research before posting all these questions. We've already discussed this stuff in other threads, so it's not like the info's hard to find.

[sSjey]

I've locked this thread, check the other one with the same question.

New fish keeper seeking advice.

Just set up my new 15 gallon aquarium and I'm looking for some guidance. Got a few questions: Can I keep 2 clownfish, 1 yellow clown goby, and 2 hermit crabs in a real live coflake 15 gallon? Should I go for baby or fully grown clownfish? Any other tankmate suggestions would be great, thanks.