Setting Up a 55 gal Predator Reef Tank

[Bleakborn]

Hello, I am new to the saltwater/reef hobby and I am wanting to get my feet wet. I have been doing some research and I have decide to reach out to the community for ideas.

I have a 55gal hex-front aquarium that I want to turn into a predator reef tank. I have always wanted an eel and a lionfish, but I also want a vibrant coral reef. I have room for about a 10gal-20gal DIY sump in the stand of the tank.

What is the best way to set up something like this? I want to start on this tank over the winter so I can stock in the spring, What are some of the other things I should consider?

Also I would like to keep it on the cheaper side but I know how hobbies are (I have freshwater nano tanks and dart frogs)... But I am only $10 in so far for the tank so that is a plus.

 

[five.five-six]

IMO, ifyou want to keep coral with your lion and eel, you would want more in the range of 550 gallons than 55 for a myriad of reasons.

 

[RobZilla04]

Also I would like to keep it on the cheaper side

Not this hobby.

 

[OldReefGuy]

maybe if you keep Dwarfs and softies that might work in that small tank

 

[Bleakborn]

Would a dwarf lion and a snowflake eel work in a tank this size? Could they have any other tank mates or just coral?