Reef Tank Method Guides

The journey begins today. The next few episodes cover what every newer reefer should know, and even some more experienced reefers who are not getting the results they want. We are going back to the basics. Below are the six core principles I would share with every new reefer on day one.

It’s never been done like this before. What happens when you intentionally take the highest success path at every single turn? Can it also be the easiest path? Today, we release the 90/10 Method. You be the judge.

Time for the next five elements of the 90/10 method. We get the paths that work for nearly everyone as well as share success rates of common audibles.

These are the final building blocks of the 90/10 system design. Once you understand them, you’re ready to assemble a complete reef tank that 90 percent of reefers can succeed with using only 10 percent of the effort. The real barrier has always been knowledge and now you have it.

In short, it’s about setting your tank up for near effortless, high-percentage success. The deeper answer is that biome cycling establishes a balanced community of bacteria, microcrustaceans, invertebrates, and fish that works together from day one. When done correctly, it allows you to bypass the Ugly Stage entirely and experience immediate, stable success with your new reef tank.

We’re getting close to water. Before that happens, it’s time to dry-fit everything and make sure the plan is solid. Let’s see how this softy tank comes together.

#1 Question on any method is “Can I change this?” The quick answer is, don't change anything in reefing unless you want a different result. The long answer is that your desires, skill level, or tank budget may demand building something different. If that's the case, this video shows how we can make intelligent audibles that create a tailored plan specific to our own needs.

Stacking rock is the definition of 10% effort. It’s quick and easy. But we still want it to look good. So the question is this: can we build an aquascape that looks as good as 90% of what’s out there, while also considering habitat, flow, color, and mobility, using no hammer, no chisel, and almost no time.

We’re getting close to water. Before that happens, it’s time to dry-fit everything and make sure the plan is solid. Let’s see how this softy tank comes together.

Time to get the softy tank wet! By the end this video the tank will be live and cycling

Spoiler alert: This was the best and easiest cycle I’ve ever done. I’ve never started a new tank without even a hint of slime until now. If that’s what you want for your next build, check out the results and how we did it.

If you’re setting up your first saltwater or reef tank, this episode shows you what you actually need and why it matters. We go beyond gear lists to explain the purpose behind each choice, helping you get it right the first time and avoid wasted money and frustration. Whether your goal is a simple saltwater tank or a thriving reef, this is where success starts.

Join us this week as we explore why reefing and maintaining saltwater aquariums aren't as daunting as they seem. While anyone can do it, these hobbies are complex, with optimal paths that yield better, more consistent results. We dive into what really goes into reef keeping, empowering you to make informed decisions about starting your own reef tank.

If you're hoping for a video that sugarcoats reefing costs and claims it's cheap, this isn't it. We're taking an honest look at what goes into it and why it’s so expensive. The key factor? Whether you treat your reef tank as a pet or a gear-centric hobby. Understanding this can help you cut those costs in half.