Sam Seiders’ 5 Gallon Slice of the Ocean
- PNW Custom
- Dec 26, 2025
- 3 min read
PNW Custom Community Spotlight 🔦
At PNW Custom, we love seeing how our aquariums become part of everyday life. This Community Spotlight features Sam Seiders, a reef keeper whose passion for the ocean and appreciation for growth, movement, and balance is reflected beautifully in his 5 Gallon Small-In-One XL.
From Freshwater Roots to Reef Keeping
Sam’s aquarium journey began about eight years ago in freshwater. After several years of learning the basics, he felt drawn to saltwater for a deeper reason: the idea of recreating a small slice of the ocean at home. The challenge of growing coral and maintaining a living reef ecosystem was exciting, especially for someone who has always been fascinated by ocean life beneath the surface.
That transition marked the beginning of a more immersive hobby, one that blends patience and creativity.
The Joy of Life and Movement
What Sam enjoys most about reef keeping is watching life unfold over time. From coral growth to subtle interactions between fish and their environment, his tank is constantly changing. He’s especially drawn to the motion of corals in the current, like torches gently swaying in the flow, and the vibrant colors that emerge as the system matures.
“I find joy in seeing life and growth. Watching torches swaying in the flow, the vibrant colors of coral, seeing the different life that comes with saltwater diversity.”
One Sam's favorite experiences has been watching his clownfish interact with the coral in ways that feel natural and unexpected, including choosing a Duncan coral as their home. These small, living moments are what make reef keeping so rewarding and endlessly fascinating.
Simple Setup, Thoughtful Planning
Sam describes the setup process as straightforward, especially once key decisions like rockscape and sand choice are made. The plug-and-play nature of the system made it approachable, while still allowing room for personal creativity and planning.
Like many successful reef keepers, Sam emphasizes the importance of having a vision before getting started. Thinking through the layout and long-term goals of the tank helped set him up for a smoother experience from day one.
Maintenance, Consistency, and Patience
Maintenance has been manageable and rewarding, particularly after learning what the tank needs to stay healthy and stable. Sam points out that every aquarium is different, and factors like livestock selection and feeding habits play a big role in shaping a maintenance routine.
“If you keep after things daily/weekly, it prevents any feelings of things being overwhelming.”
Staying consistent with daily and weekly tasks has helped prevent maintenance from feeling overwhelming. He also highlights the importance of a strong cleanup crew, especially during the early stages of a new tank. Like many reef keepers, Sam experienced a period of nuisance algae, but patience, frequent water changes, and the right mix of snails helped him work through it successfully.
Advice for New Reef Keepers
For anyone just starting out, Sam encourages research, patience, and intention. Reef keeping is a rewarding hobby when approached thoughtfully, and learning along the way is part of the process. He stresses that aquariums require ongoing care, much like any other pet, and shouldn’t be treated as something to set up and forget.
“Remember that your aquatic animals are just like any other pet. They need care, attention, and your love. An aquarium isn’t just something you can setup and forget it.”
Having a clear vision of what you want your aquarium to become can help guide decisions and keep the experience enjoyable over the long term. With time, consistency, and care, a reef tank can become a thriving, living centerpiece in your home.
Want to Be Featured Next?
We’re grateful to Sam for sharing his story and for being part of the PNW Custom community. If you’d like to be featured in a future Community Spotlight, we’d love to hear about your tank, your journey, and what reef keeping means to you.
