A coral reef tank can be made of glass, which is clear and scratch-resistant, or acrylic, which is lighter but more prone to scratches.

The size of a coral reef tank affects stability—medium tanks (30–55 gallons) are ideal for beginners because they balance water volume with manageable maintenance.

A coral reef tank is a saltwater aquarium designed to replicate the ecosystem of natural coral reefs, housing corals, invertebrates, and reef-safe fish.