Standard 360 gallon setup needs: filter sized for at least 4x tank turnover per hour, heater rated 3-5 watts per gallon, lighting matched to livestock (basic LED for fish-only, high-PAR for planted/reef), substrate 1-2 inches deep, and a tight-fitting lid for jumpers.
Stocking guide
A 360 gallon aquarium can comfortably house: large predators or reef. Stock slowly over 8-12 weeks; never add more than 25% of final population at once.
Cycling and water parameters
Cycle the tank for 4-6 weeks before adding livestock. Test ammonia + nitrite weekly during cycling; both must read 0 ppm with active nitrate production before stocking. After stocking, perform 25-30% water changes every 2 weeks.
Cost expectations
Realistic 360 gallon setup cost: tank + stand + filter + heater + lighting + dechlorinator + test kit = $150-$1,200 depending on size and goals. Add 20-40% for livestock + plants/coral.
Common 360 gallon mistakes
(1) Buying the cheapest "starter kit" - underpowered filtration leads to algae blooms and crashed cycles. (2) Skipping the cycle - kills fish within days. (3) Overstocking on day one. (4) Ignoring lid security - jumpers leave the tank.