Why a Strong Cleanup Crew is so Important in a Reef Tank

The Ladies of Reef Builders got together to discuss the ins and outs of a strong cleanup crew. Evie Hale, Sara Stevens, and Chelsie Hansen share their favorite invertebrates based on quirkiness, behavior, and efficacy in a reef tank.   Maybe…

Stomatella Snails are The Unsung Heroes of Clean Up Crew

One of the most unique and underappreciated members of the Trochidae family is the Stomatella Snail. With a thin, fingernail-shaped shell and a sea slug-like appearance, these snails are adept at getting into all the nooks and crannies of your…

Clean-up Crew, and Their Role in the Reef Aquarium

As mentioned in last week’s article algae and how to manage it is still the biggest problem/concern of many hobbyists both new and old. I would love to say that if everything is kept in balance and nutrients are kept…

The Need for Sustainably Aquacultured Cleanup Crew

Cleanup crew, whether they be gastropods, crustaceans, fish, echinoderms, or polychaete worms, are an integral part of the contemporary reef aquarium. Just like in wild ecosystems, various species of snails or sea urchins provide keystone ecological services by regulating the…

Frequently asked questions on Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are often the first critters we place into new tanks, but are they reef safe, what type should we add, and how many? We answer all your questions on hermit crabs for reef aquariums here. Are hermit crabs…

30 Day Reef Tank – Testing and Waiting

Setting up a reef tank for someone who’s not in the hobby. Ever since we set our eyes on the Lifegard Aquatics Crystal peninsula nano tank we knew it would be the perfect addition to our family home. But convincing…

Saltwater Aquarium Clean Up Crew For Beginners

Meet The Clean Up Crew When keeping a saltwater aquarium you have to think about all parts of the mini-ecosystem you are trying to create. Of course, this means planning out your tank size, what equipment you will need, and then…