3 Things I Wish I Did Differently (6 Month Reef Tank Update) - Newbie Tank Build 2.0

12-20-2025 In this episode of the Newbie Tank Series 2.0, we’re diving into the holiday spirit with some essential reef tank stocking stuffer ideas, ranging from smartphone lenses for perfect coral shots to modular magnetic probe holders and feeding clips. I also walk you through my latest maintenance routine, including a 20-gallon water change, sand vacuuming, and roller mat replacement to combat those early-stage algae blooms. Beyond the gear, I’m getting honest about the "3 things I wish I’d done differently," covering the importance of eel-proof lids, the need for more rock caves to reduce fish stress, and the importance of doing your own research before impulse buys. Stick around until the end to hear about my plans for a 2025 freshwater tank overhaul and how I’m turning this hobby into a long-term success! ______________________________________________ ⚠️ Products In This Video ► AvidAqua MPO Quattro Magnetic 4 Probe Organizer (Apex, Hydros, PH, etc) - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/mpo... ► AvidAqua MPO Duo Magnetic 2 Probe Organizer (Apex, Hydros, PH, etc) - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/mpo... ► Maxspect Truereef Aquarium Coral Magsafe Photo Lens (Sunset Boulevard) 500 Orange - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/tru... ► Maxspect Truereef Aquarium Coral Magsafe Photo Lens (Gouda Cheese) 450 Yellow - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/tru... ► AvidAqua ModMag Giga Aquarium Magnet - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/mod... ► Hygger Transparency Digital Aquarium Thermometer - HG073-L - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/hyg... ► Flipper Bucket Buddy Hose Retention Clip - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/buc... ► Two Little Fishies Mega Veggie Mag - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/meg... ► Two Little Fishies CorAffix Coral Glue (2 oz) - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/cor... ► Hanna Instruments HI782-25 Nitrate High Range Reagents (25 tests) - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/hi7... ______________________________________________ Website - https://www.saltwateraquarium.com Follow us on Facebook -   / swaqdotcom   Follow us on Instagram -   / saltwateraquariumdotcom   Follow us on TikTok -   / saltwateraquarium.com   ______________________________________________ 📩 If you have a request related to equipment in this video, or this video in general, email - [email protected] #saltwateraquarium #swaq