That’s my EDGE is a new series profiling beautiful and unique Fluval EDGE aquariums from featured hobbyists around the world.  Many are created by advanced hobbyists and do not necessarily represent standard or recommended stocking or alterations for the beginner or average aquarist.

Since it’s retail launch in Summer 2009, the Fluval EDGE has exploded onto the aquatics scene, generating excitement among new and advanced aquarists alike.  After seeing all the incredible things people were doing with the Fluval EDGE, we decided to feature their work here on the Fluval Blog.

So to kick things off, we’ve started with an application that has been constantly asked discussed: a marine, nano-reef Fluval EDGE!  We’ve interviewed the owner of this masterpiece below.

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1. So tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Minh Tran. I currently live in Fresno California. I had my first reef tank about eight years ago. Over the years I’ve had gone through several tanks with various sizes. Currently I have a 135G SPS domiinated mixed reef and a 6G Fluval Edge nano tank. Yes I know that I suffer from Multiple Tanks Syndrome.

2. What is your background in nano-reef keeping?

When JBJ first came out with the first “all-in-one” NanoCube, I quickly grabbed a 24G NC. I knew I would not have been happy with the stock lighting and filtration. I purchased a set of 70W MH, some underwater lighting, fans, extra pumps and turned the 24G into an SPS and clams nano. Over the last several years, I’ve only kept low demand corals. My favorite nano had to be a 15G that was plumbed with a closed loop and a sump, with proper filtration, flow, a decent skimmer and excellent lighting. Corals were thriving and I had the most compliments for that tank.

3. What are some of the special or unique things you did with your Fluval EDGE?

I decided to attach a small T5 fixture for proper lighting. I’ve also replaced the stock halogen with LED replacement, but those simply didn’t have the spread necessary, so they are more or less serving as moonlight. I found that the power filter was dumping too much micro bubbles, so I added a piece of sponge so that the output could be more gentle. I added a very small powerhead for a gyre effect. I used high grade carbon and most importantly I performed 90-95% water change 2 to 4 times a month. The new water is simply taken out from the big tank during its water changes.

4. What species of fish, invertebrates, or corals can be found in your EDGE? Have you had any trouble keeping any of them alive and healthy in the tank?

I mostly have very hardy corals in there at the moment: zoanthids, palythoas, hammer, cloves, ricordeas and a candy cane. There’s a Rose Bubble Tip anemone that’s been doing fairly well for almost 3 months now. I don’t have any fish. I have an assortment of crabs and shrimps: hermit crabs, Porcelain crab, Boxer crab, Sexy Shrimp, Harlequin Shrimp,…I found that crabs are generally more hardy since I lost a couple of Glass Anemone Shrimp in this tank. I fed the Harlequin with asternia stars from my other tank.

5. What is your overall opinion of the Fluval EDGE as a nano-reef aquarium?

Aesthetically, it’s one of the best nano tanks. Its functions are limited as a reef tank, but certainly workable.

6. Do you have any tips or recommendations for someone looking to do a tank similar to yours?

Keep a low rock work and leave some room at the back; better water flow and more room for your hands without knocking over corals. Have patience and perform regular water changes to keep water quality high.

Have you converted your EDGE to saltwater? Tell us about it in the comments!

Since debuting the Fluval Edge we’ve received an incredible amount of positive feedback on this progressive, stylish aquarium. We’d like to answer some Frequently Asked Questions on the Fluval Edge, many that are asked to do the unique size and design of the aquarium.

Do you have a question about the Fluval Edge?  Ask it in the comments below and we’ll answer it!

Q: Does the opening in the top allow for adequate gas exchange and appropriate oxygen levels in the aquarium?

A: While the opening is relatively small, the Fluval Edge filter creates a significant amount of surface agitation and movement to allow for proper gas exchange. The filter moves up to 100 gph (378 lph) and can be adjusted using the full flow control down to 33 gph (124 lph).

Q: Will tank cleaning and maintenance be difficult due to the size of the top opening?

A: Cleaning a Fluval Edge is made easier thanks to specially designed Fluval Edge maintenance tools including an Edge Gravel Vac, Edge Algae Magnet, and Edge Fish Net. Each of these are specifically designed to allow for easier angled access through the top opening.  We’d also like to point out that a specially designed shatterproof 25 w Edge heater is also available.

Q: Can fish and other inhabitants be safely and humanely kept in this small of an environment?

A: Yes, commonly referred to as “nano” tanks, aquarists around the world have kept small aquariums for many years. While water parameters may be especially sensitive due to the tank’s small size, a close and careful eye can manage these at appropriate levels. Practical Fishkeeping Magazine has some excellent resources and information on keeping a freshwater nano aquarium.

Q: Can marine fish be safely kept in a Fluval Edge aquarium?

A: Generally, we only recommend the Edge as a freshwater setup primarily due to its small size. Already considered a small freshwater aquarium, as a marine setup, the Edge would likely pose a significant challenge to even the most advanced hobbyist.

In case you missed it, the Fluval Edge aquarium made its international debut at the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida back in February of this year. Since then, the Edge has started showing up at retailers, first in the UK, then in the US and now in the rest of the world.

The Fluval Edge is a 6 gallon/23 Liter glass aquarium that brings cutting edge style and design to the “nano” tank category. Considering its size, this aquarium was designed with the advanced hobbyist in mind; however, through proper education, the Fluval Edge is not beyond the grasp of a relatively novice fish-keeper. Understanding the basic limitations of small aquariums is important for success with a Fluval Edge aquarium. More on this later…

Most people are excited and intrigued by one of the most unique aspects of the Edge’s design: the glass top. The raised opening of the glass top sits hidden under the canopy and allows for the water level to hide above the viewing area of the tank. This creates a clean and modern floating “water cube” effect devoid of traditional rims.

But while the visuals speak for themselves, how about a look under the hood?

Filtration: The Fluval Edge aquarium comes equipped with the Fluval Edge filter. The Edge features full 3-stage mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. Thanks to the attached base/backing/canopy, the filter is completely hidden from view but is easily accessible and easy to maintain by removing the top canopy.

Lighting: The Edge sports a unique halogen light fixture built into the canopy of the aquarium. Powering two 10 watt halogen light bulbs, the hinged fixture can be lifted out of the way while the user does maintenance on the aquarium. Also of note, the top of the canopy contains many small holes to allow warm air to escape that is generated while the lights are turned on.

Recommended Stocking and Use: It is extremely important to consider proper use and animal husbandry when considering any small “nano” aquarium.
There are two keys to properly stocking a Fluval Edge aquarium:

1) Choose appropriate species of fish that will both stay small and be comfortable in a relatively small environment.

2) Don’t overstock! While the Edge filter contains enough biological and chemical filtration to filter an aquarium twice or three times its size, resist the temptation to put too many fish in the tank. Five or six small species should be able to coexist happily in most cases.

For more information, visit your local aquatics store or ask questions in the comments below!