I would say thats a pretty good evaluation!

In around 20mths, approx maybe £5000 or £6000, perhaps more, I would say has been spend on this one. That includes everything. Its going to get even more when the switch to hard corals takes place eventually. But still 'could' spent a hell of a lot more on it.

Intially, a lot of work is needed when setting it up and trying to get the water right. Can take months to cycle properly and thats a lot of water changes...and money for salt! But after you've sorted that its fairly easy to maintain. This just has the levels tested weekly and appropriate action taken if things need to be done, around a 25gallon water change every month or so and the polywool in the sump changing when needed..

This guy on Ultimatereef.com made me laugh. He just come on and said, 'Right I've got a budget of £13,000 for a marine tank. What do I need to get???'