new tank help,

[i like fish]

Hi all, im new to the forum and i am looking for some help. i want to create a reef setup, i had a fish only salt tank so im familiar with cycling and all that... i have a 30 gal tank, and i was wondering how i choose lighting and filtration, watts per gal, and gph, and what are some products that i would use for lighting a reef tank, i currently have a 50/50 blue actinic bulb, for lighting, no filter yet, any help would be appreciated

[deadfish]

Hi there, I, like you, am just setting-up a 30 gal reef, Iight wise I'm running a twin 24watt 60/40 T5 tubes as well as a 17 watt actinic( all have reflectors). I've been told by my LFS that this is O.K. A good friend of mine has had a reef tank for over 10 years he also has a similar set-up to mine and his corals look great!! I think at the end of the day it all boils down to how much your willing to fork out!! The set-up I have cost me about £150, My pal had a bit of a clear out in his tank and gave me some mushroom and pulse corals which I've had in the tank for just under a fortnight, both of which closed up when I put them in, now they've settled in they look great!!

GOOD LUCK>>>>>>deadfish

[KillBill75]

For lighting people use 5-7 watts per gallon ,try out www.hellolights.com (http://www.hellolights.com) is a good start.you could have a really nice VHO set up for cheap scratch.
As far as filtration goes your live rock and a good sand bed is all,then you'll need a good skimmer.Purchase the best you can afford!!Hang-on or in sump is all up to you.
Also add proper water movement,2-3 powerheads is good.