Bring Your Own Aquarium Saltwater Starter Kit - 20/29 Gallon

A Starter Kit Ideal for Standard 20 or 29 Gallon Aquariums

• Just add Your 20/29 Gallon Aquarium (not included)
• Includes Reliable Equipment Chosen by Experienced Aquarists
• Perfect for First-Time Saltwater Hobbyists
• Easy to Set Up and Maintain

The Bring Your Own Aquarium Saltwater Starter Kit is the perfect launchpad for reefers ready to dive into saltwater aquariums using a standard 20-gallon or 29-gallon glass tank from a local pet store. We handpicked reliable, beginner-friendly components that make it easy to establish and maintain a stable saltwater environment without the headaches of researching and selecting individual components.

What's Included?

Tidal 55 Filter: Versatile hang-on-back filter with mechanical, chemical, and biological stages. Includes adjustable flow and built-in surface skimmer.

Why we picked it: Reliable and easy to maintain, it offers great filtration performance for tanks this size without needing a sump.

AquaReady Preset 100W Heater: Pre-calibrated to 77°F, ideal for maintaining stable temperatures with no setup required.

Why we picked it: It’s beginner-friendly, powerful enough for larger tanks, and removes the guesswork of setting your own temp.

Dry Rock Reef Saver (20 lbs): Clean, eco-friendly foundation rock with excellent surface area for beneficial bacteria.

Why we picked it: It’s pest-free, easy to aquascape with, and supports strong biological filtration from the start.

Ocean Direct Sand (20 lbs): Natural reef sand containing live bacteria for faster cycling and improved filtration.

Why we picked it: Helps establish the nitrogen cycle more quickly while creating a natural reef look.

MicroBacter7 (125 ml): Biological additive that introduces a diverse blend of beneficial bacteria.

Why we picked it: Speeds up tank cycling and promotes long-term stability by supporting a healthy biofilter.

Sicce Voyager Nano 1000 Pump: 270 GPH powerhead that provides consistent flow to eliminate dead spots and improve gas exchange.

Why we picked it: Proper water movement is key to oxygen levels and overall tank health. This compact, reliable pump is perfect for creating gentle, reef-safe flow in smaller tanks.

Stick-On Thermometer: Simple, battery-free temperature monitoring.

Why we picked it: Quick to read, no setup needed. Perfect for first-time hobbyists.

Pellet Fish Food: Balanced daily diet for common marine fish species.

Why we picked it: A reliable, easy-to-feed option to help you get started with your first livestock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn't lighting included?

Lighting is one of the most personal and impactful choices in any saltwater aquarium setup. That’s why we’ve left it up to you. Whether you’re planning a fish-only tank or aiming to grow corals, your lighting needs will vary significantly. From basic LED fixtures to advanced reef lighting systems with full-spectrum control, the best choice depends on your livestock plans and aesthetic preferences. By leaving the light out of this starter kit, you have the flexibility to choose the fixture that fits your goals without paying for something you might not use.

Confused about lighting? Check out: Tips to Simplify Aquarium Lighting

Where do I get saltwater?

You’ve got a couple of easy options:

1. Buy pre-mixed saltwater from a local fish store. It’s convenient and ready to use right away.
2. Mix your own saltwater at home using a reef salt mix and purified RO/DI water. This option gives you more control over water quality and can save money over time.

If you’re mixing at home, you’ll need a container (a 5-gallon bucket or Brute trash can works great), a small pump to keep the water moving, and a refractometer to check salinity. It also helps to use an extra heater to warm the new saltwater so it matches your aquarium’s temperature.

Can I keep coral with this kit?

Yes, but you’ll need to choose the right lighting. This kit gives you the flexibility to pick a light based on your livestock plans. Some soft corals and beginner-friendly LPS corals can thrive with affordable LED options.

Do I need a sump for this setup?

No sump needed. This kit is designed around a hang-on-back filter, so you can get started without any plumbing or custom tank modifications.