The Ultimate HelloReef 15-Gallon Aquarium Build
How far can you take a HelloReef 15-gallon aquarium when the upgrade budget is nearly unlimited? This build starts with the complete HelloReef kit and transforms it into a highly equipped nano aquarium designed specifically for clownfish and bubble tip anemones.
Along the way, Will assembles the stand, creates an anemone-friendly aquascape, and upgrades the lighting, filtration, water flow, top-off system, and aquarium controls. The result is a compact reef system that combines the simplicity of an all-in-one aquarium with some seriously capable equipment.
About Will
Will is a reef aquarium hobbyist and familiar face from BRStv who enjoys experimenting with equipment, aquascaping ideas, and creative ways to build better reef tanks. His practical approach focuses on making aquarium projects easier to understand while sharing useful tips that can help reef keepers avoid common mistakes.
In this series, Will takes a HelloReef 15-gallon aquarium kit and pushes it well beyond the standard setup. He explains the purpose behind each upgrade and shows how thoughtful equipment choices can turn a simple nano aquarium into a specialized system for clownfish and bubble tip anemones.
Episode Guide
Episode 1: Setting Up the HelloReef Kit
The HelloReef 15-gallon aquarium kit already includes the essential equipment needed to start a small saltwater aquarium, but this build takes things several steps further. The goal is to create an upgraded nano aquarium designed around clownfish and bubble tip anemones.
The process begins with assembling the aquarium stand and planning the aquascape. From there, the system receives upgrades to the lighting, mechanical filtration, protein skimming, and water flow, along with the addition of an automatic top off system (ATO) and an Apex aquarium controller.
In This Episode
- How to assemble the HelloReef aquarium stand and avoid common installation mistakes.
- How to design a removable aquascape with caves, crevices, and open areas for bubble tip anemones.
- Why the AI Blade Glow is paired with the included AI Blade Grow for a broader spectrum and stronger color.
- How a roller mat and nano protein skimmer improve filtration in a heavily fed anemone aquarium.
- Why the included powerhead is removed and replaced with an upgraded return pump and random flow nozzles.
- How an automatic top-off system helps maintain a stable water level and salinity.
- How an Apex controller and MXM module bring monitoring and equipment control into one system.
Related to This Episode
Episode 2: Coming Soon
Once the aquarium is filled with saltwater and fully cycled, it will be ready for livestock. The next step is selecting animals that fit the original plan for the system and introducing them safely to their new home.
Coming Up
- Cycling the aquarium so it's safe for the new inhabitants.
- Choosing livestock for a clownfish and bubble tip anemone aquarium.
- Ordering livestock and preparing the aquarium before it arrives.
- Acclimating and introducing the new animals to the tank.
Adam has been reef keeping since 2010 and got his start on the Bulk Reef Supply Customer Service team. He believes the best tanks are built around what you enjoy, not what’s trending. Adam is especially interested in simplifying the hobby, exploring the latest gear, and helping others focus on long-term success over chasing perfection.
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