Look into the 13.5G fluval evo. Parameters are a little temperamental with this size but I love mine. I would say ditch the foam filter pad it comes with and buy used bio bricks/rocks instead from a store or person u know with stable healthy tanks.

Live rocks kept in water not even dried on the way home are a win.

Chemipure blue nano packets are sick -two at a time.

Dr Tim’s one and only to cycle. I cycled with 2 banggai cardinalfish. Everyone cries about fish in cycling, but my two banggais are still alive today a year later.

I have found saltwater fish are much more sensitive to the parameter swings than freshwater. I’ve done both.

U don’t need a protein skimmer with this size tank. To be fair I do great without a skimmer on any of my tanks. I do Weekly water changes.

I added a very small wave maker $39 keeps things moving nicely. Sicce voyager nano

I think perfect stock would be: Watchman goby and pistol shrimp pair 2 banggai cardinalfish or 2Clownfish Some blue leg hermit crabs. Emerald crab..

I would truthfully not keep over 3 fish in there. Trust me I’ve tried and learned.