Starting Out

[Kieran]

Hi,

I have been an avid Tropical Aquarium keeper for some years now and am ready to venture out to the keeping of a saltwater aquarium perhaps with a small reef. I have been doing my research and feel that I am almost ready to make the purchase but I would like some tips and advise before I do, even though I know the staff at the aquarium store will be more than helpful. I do not want to go over board with spending but also want good quality products. Can you help me? I would appreciate more than one opinion.

I would like to know the following:
• What do you think is the perfect size tank? Acrylic or glass?
• What type of lighting?
• What type of filter works the best?
• What type of protein skimmer?
• Do I need power heads for the reef?
• UV sterilizer?
• I would really appreciate some feed back and advice on any other required components.

Thank you,
Kieran

[Chuck S]

I will try and keep this to the point that is alot of questions.

1. Acrylic or glass is a personal opinion. Each has good and bad points. I prefer glass. As far as a starter tank for a beginner just starting out I do not recommend less than a 55 gallon tank.

2. That is a subjective subject. That depends on what creatures you want to keep. However for most setups 4 VHO bulbs over a 55 gives a nice look and flexibility.

3. Live rock is your filter there is no external filter.

4. For a 55 gallon I would recommend an Aqua-C Remora Pro.

5. Most people use them. It all depends on your setup type. Flow for a reef tank is usually suggested 15-20 times the tank size or more. One or two strategically placed powerheads can help flow.

6. Absolutely Not. Can damage good larval development as well as taking care of pests.

7. The basic components are a tank lights overflow or built in overflow. A sump and a pump to pump the water back up. A Skimmer and a powerhead or so. If you have some basic questions about other things just ask.

[Katspaw]

What he said. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Tracey