How many?

[FrankB1]

In general, how many SPS can be placed in a small tank like a 20 gal long that will allow for proper growth resulting in a full looking reef without overcrowding?

My aquascaping plan is for a small rock island on each side with maybe a small arching piece between.

 

[ChrisRD]

It really depends on how large you want to grow them out. If you're shooting for colonies that are about 5" - 6" across you'll only have room for maybe 3 or 4 in a small tank like that.

Something else to keep in mind is growth rates. Some SPS corals grow quick enough that a single frag could grow into a colony that would fill most of that tank in just a few years.

It's nice to see you're planning for this in advance. Many people cram too much stuff in their tank too early and end-up having to get rid of things to make room for other stuff to grow. Personally I much prefer the look of a tank with a few mature, large corals vs. one that is crammed with tiny colonies and frags.

Not sure if that helps but that's JMO...

 

[Anonymous]

Ditto to what Chris said.

 

[FrankB1]

Thanks, that answers my question. Now the hard part is which 3-5 should I get? I know I should probably start with a Monti Dig or two, then maybe at least one acro after I see success with the easier montis. Maybe a yellow porite.

 

[Anonymous]

Porites can be difficult to keep IMO.

I would get three different corals.

Monti digitata, Pocillopora, and a monti capricornis.