Ok, I'm really liking these SW tanks

[Lady G]

I need to know what would be the very first begining thing to look into for a 55g SW tank? I will in no way be ready to even think about starting the tank for at least 2 more months really. Now I know 55 isn't all impressive but that is what I would be able to work with.

Remember I know absolutely NOTHING about SW, and yes I will be reading the stickies about cycling and everything, just want some thoughts on where to begin.

BTW, yeah..Thanks for this CLOWN your darn blog made me want one now more than ever and I'm not going to be happy until I can set one up, I now have a new obsession thanks to you!!!! Just no I hold you personally responsible for this!!

[archer772]

Before you buy anything figure out what you are going to want in the tank like a year from now, FO, FOWLR, Reef and would you want it to be a Softie, LPS, SPS or mixed reef and do you want Anemones and clams after you try to figure that out then you can start looking into lighting, skimmers, flow and filtration. That way you wont be buying things twice.

[Lady G]

OMG, I haven't even started and I'm confused! I think it's reef. You really have to take it slow with me, I truly know nothing at all. I know I like the mushrooms, and corals, have no idea what Softie, LPS, SPS are?

Right now I was just looking at rock *sigh* boring I know, but I'm trying to figure out this live sand, live rock, cured, uncured, coral rubble meanings and how much of what and such. I think I am looking at about 110lbs of rock/sand for the tank if I have a 55 right?

Do I need to know the softie, LPS, SPS stuff for that?

I'm sure this all sounds dumb to you but as I said, I've been looking at Clowns tanks in his blog, nikos, and a couple others and I just fell in love and know I want one, have no idea the terms meanings, I mean when Clown wrote in his blog that his fish ate the tail of his feather duster, I was trying to figure out how in the **** a fish got to a feather duster (that u dust w), so see I really am serious when I say I know nothing!

[nycsicktank]

this helped me alot. read every section in there.. good luck

[Lady G]

Oh, I'm trying. I started in the saltwater cycle sticky. That is where I heard the cured, uncured, coral rubble and such. I've heard of the live sand and rock, I personally like a sand bottom tank (but that is FW). It is looking like a sand/rock mix is what I'll need here...I think.

Now a new question has arose though with the post from archer, I guess I need to look into and find out what FO, & FOWLR means before I go further on my quest to figure out this new SW world.

Good thing I got a couple months before I can start it huh!

[K-Gannon]

I don't know if this is what you mean... but FO is fish only and FOWLR is Fish only with live rock... if that's what you meant of course! Just so that you know what kind of lighting and other stuff that you need otherwise the things you buy that aren't good enough will all have to be replaced and it will get even more expensive! Do if you're looking to get corals and whatnot just go with the best lights you can now instead of upgrading again a year from now!
You're on the right track though just keep reading!

[Lady G]

Well, I've made my first "choice" for the tank...I don't want a FO (HA learned what that meant and I don't want it), Reef sounds a little tricky for me to start with so I guess it will be a FOWLR, someday to be a reef maybe. First official decision though is not FO.

Now on to the Softie, LPS, SPS or mixed reef part and finding out what it is.

[Lady G]

Ah, but I do want coral, mushrooms and a featherduster...now that I know what it is. So maybe not a FOWLR?? Or would that still count? Hmmm just thinking outloud here.

[Lady G]

I don't know if this is what you mean... but FO is fish only and FOWLR is Fish only with live rock... if that's what you meant of course! Just so that you know what kind of lighting and other stuff that you need otherwise the things you buy that aren't good enough will all have to be replaced and it will get even more expensive! Do if you're looking to get corals and whatnot just go with the best lights you can now instead of upgrading again a year from now!
You're on the right track though just keep reading!

Thank you, yes that is what I was meaning:)

[Lady G]

Wow, can I have all the corals?? First I thought I liked the softies, then I looked at the LPS and the SPS I don't know I like them all!!!

Also another site I looked at said I would need around 85lbs of sand/rock. What sounds more correct 110 or 85?

You know I just want it all:grinyes:

So as of right now I no I do not want a FO, learned what that meant, learned what FOWLR is, and reef...I've learned what a softie is, and the LPS and SPS. Hmm, pretty good for me.

I think what I will be going for is a mixed reef, don't think I'm ready for a all out reef, and I like the fishies so a mixed reef I believe is my goal.

[archer772]

Well depending on how dense the rock is you will need about 1-1 1/2 pounds per gallon, I think DSB's (deep sand beds) are the way to go so on a 55 you should have between 70-90 lbs and I would just get dry argonite sand as it is much cheaper and your LR (live rock) will seed the sand and make it live. I think refugiums are the way to go for filtration and a 29 gallon would be good for a 55, here is a link for sumps, refugiums http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html . You are going to need PH's (power heads) and I would recomend 2 Koralia 3's and I suggest a good skimmer, I like the ASM's Euro Reef's and the Octopus skimmers and you ashould get one that is rated twice the total water volume of you system as they are usually over rated some. With lighting if you plan to keep clams or anemones you will need intense lighting as in upper end T-5's or MH's, the T-5's dont produce as much heat and are usually cheaper to run and bulb replacement but you wont get the shimmer lines, the MH's do produce a nice shimmer line and alot of people like that. I would suggest looking at as many tanks with different lighting in person as you can to get an idea what looks good to you. I am not trying to confuse you but this hobby can be confusing and it is better to know the different posabilties before you buy any htimg so it will be cheaper when you are finished with all the purchases. Have fun setting it up and watching it grow and keep asking questions :grinyes:.

[Grins]

Look into the 40g breeder for your mixed reef instead of the 55g. The others are right, it is difficult to get the rocks you way you want them in a 55. Take at look at the Advice to Newbie posts in my signature below, especially the shopping list it includes.

[clown-lover]

Lady.. :D Well I'll take the blame if you decide to get into the salty side.. But I won't take the blame for any of your spending practices.. LOL

What I personally suggest is that you start with Robert Fenners book "The Conscientious Marine Aquarist: A Commonsense Handbook for Successful Saltwater" I have even seen this book at PetCo recently in some of their book racks..

Once you decide on some possible stock then you go back and decide what you want to do for your tank size. Just remember the salty hobby is not cheap in any way shape or form. There are ways to get around some of the costs by DIY, good ebayers, a local reef club, craigslist.com to name a few. But realistically if you want to do corals you'll need good lights. The tank will probably be the cheapest thing you buy.

I'm not wanting to scare you off but I'm a realist and do this so if you truly do want to get into the salty side that you can come armed with a list of questions in which people can point you in a direction to make your choice.

Hope that helps.
Mark

[Reefscape]

I need to know what would be the very first begining thing to look into for a 55g SW tank? I will in no way be ready to even think about starting the tank for at least 2 more months really. Now I know 55 isn't all impressive but that is what I would be able to work with.

Remember I know absolutely NOTHING about SW, and yes I will be reading the stickies about cycling and everything, just want some thoughts on where to begin.

BTW, yeah..Thanks for this CLOWN your darn blog made me want one now more than ever and I'm not going to be happy until I can set one up, I now have a new obsession thanks to you!!!! Just no I hold you personally responsible for this!!


I knew we'd get you here eventually.... :)

[Grins]

I'd agree with that. Although I've been slow to add things, bought used where possible, and done DIY when I could manage...I've still spent way more than I'd ever have imagined I'd be willing to.

[salty420]

when i started out (april of this year) i thought i'd have a FO tank. well here i am 8 months later with 2 reef tanks :) if you would have told me 8 months ago how much $$ i'd be spending on this hobby i'd have told you you're insane but here i am broke staring at a couple beautiful tanks :)

[Lady G]

Well depending on how dense the rock is you will need about 1-1 1/2 pounds per gallon, I think DSB's (deep sand beds) are the way to go so on a 55 you should have between 70-90 lbs and I would just get dry argonite sand as it is much cheaper and your LR (live rock) will seed the sand and make it live. I think refugiums are the way to go for filtration and a 29 gallon would be good for a 55, here is a link for sumps, refugiums http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html . You are going to need PH's (power heads) and I would recomend 2 Koralia 3's and I suggest a good skimmer, I like the ASM's Euro Reef's and the Octopus skimmers and you ashould get one that is rated twice the total water volume of you system as they are usually over rated some. With lighting if you plan to keep clams or anemones you will need intense lighting as in upper end T-5's or MH's, the T-5's dont produce as much heat and are usually cheaper to run and bulb replacement but you wont get the shimmer lines, the MH's do produce a nice shimmer line and alot of people like that. I would suggest looking at as many tanks with different lighting in person as you can to get an idea what looks good to you. I am not trying to confuse you but this hobby can be confusing and it is better to know the different posabilties before you buy any htimg so it will be cheaper when you are finished with all the purchases. Have fun setting it up and watching it grow and keep asking questions :grinyes:.
WOW, thanks!!!!!!!!!!! This is great:grinyes:


Look into the 40g breeder for your mixed reef instead of the 55g. The others are right, it is difficult to get the rocks you way you want them in a 55. Take at look at the Advice to Newbie posts in my signature below, especially the shopping list it includes.
I have a 55g already, that is why I was going to go w/ the 55. Thank you though for the advice. I will look through your link. I do dislike the footprint of a 55 and agree, if I didn't already have one I would like to go another way most likely. Although in the end I may end up looking into something else and using the 55 for something else (may have to move to a bigger house:) for all this!)


Lady.. :D Well I'll take the blame if you decide to get into the salty side.. But I won't take the blame for any of your spending practices.. LOL

What I personally suggest is that you start with Robert Fenners book "The Conscientious Marine Aquarist: A Commonsense Handbook for Successful Saltwater" I have even seen this book at PetCo recently in some of their book racks..

Once you decide on some possible stock then you go back and decide what you want to do for your tank size. Just remember the salty hobby is not cheap in any way shape or form. There are ways to get around some of the costs by DIY, good ebayers, a local reef club, craigslist.com to name a few. But realistically if you want to do corals you'll need good lights. The tank will probably be the cheapest thing you buy.

I'm not wanting to scare you off but I'm a realist and do this so if you truly do want to get into the salty side that you can come armed with a list of questions in which people can point you in a direction to make your choice.

Hope that helps.
Mark
Well, Mark...I will be expecting monthly "fish support" checks from you once I get going:grinno:!!!!

I will have to start out slowly though, getting the most important things to start, along with a few corals and fish that I want most.

Yes, I LOVE Ebay and aquabid and will be frequenting those sites!

[Lady G]

I knew we'd get you here eventually.... :)

:headbang2:

[Lady G]

So I've been looking at livestock. Here is what I think I'm interested in so far.

Fish
Pair of Clowns (common)
Pair of Banggai Cardinals
Royal Gramma
Lawn Mower Blenny

Shrimp
Scarlet skunk
Banded Coral

Snails
Bumble bee
Jumbo Cerith
mexican turbo

Corals and stuff
Leather corals
Feather duster
Pin cushion
Green Bullseye mushroom
Green Sea Matt
Gold sea matt

Please feel free to add, take away, suggest away!!! I am just looking right now and will end up changing my mind 100 times I'm sure but this is what I have looked at so far that comes up as beginner friendly.

[Lady G]

Are either of these good lighting? I will need a "hood". I don't know that I'd be ordering threw this site, just getting a general "feel" for what I'm looking into.


http://www.marineandreef.com/products/CorHQIretro48.jpg
http://www.marineandreef.com/shoppro/HQIProaqualight_retro.htm
or
http://www.marineandreef.com/products/Hamilton48PCMH_Hood.jpg
http://www.marineandreef.com/shoppro/metal_halide_Ham250_Hood.html

[bowser7of9]

It looks like you are going about this the right way. Learn from the rest of us who made many mistakes before we found a site like this.

When you get started with all this you should start a blog and keep some sort of tank log. They seem popular and it's fun to watch the progress.

About your choices I like almost all of them, with the exception of the Coral Banded Shrimp. I had one that recently ate one of my neon gobies. Actually say it catch the fish and have lunch, might have been brunch. I also believe they do not like other smaller shrimp around. I like the look of them but I will be staying away from them but that is just my oppinion.

BTW...my colour would be blue

[Morel]

I don't know if this is what you mean... but FO is fish only and FOWLR is Fish only with live rock... if that's what you meant of course! Just so that you know what kind of lighting and other stuff that you need otherwise the things you buy that aren't good enough will all have to be replaced and it will get even more expensive! Do if you're looking to get corals and whatnot just go with the best lights you can now instead of upgrading again a year from now!
You're on the right track though just keep reading!

This bears repeating.. Don't try to go cheap! And always research every purchase before you spend money.. Yes it will cost more the begin with, but believe me, you will end up throwing out the crappy "cheap" product and spending more money on the right thing..

Don't lie to yourself. You know that the 200 dollar skimmer is better then that 100 dollar one.. Get the 200 dollar one!

:)

[Lady G]

It looks like you are going about this the right way. Learn from the rest of us who made many mistakes before we found a site like this.

When you get started with all this you should start a blog and keep some sort of tank log. They seem popular and it's fun to watch the progress.

About your choices I like almost all of them, with the exception of the Coral Banded Shrimp. I had one that recently ate one of my neon gobies. Actually say it catch the fish and have lunch, might have been brunch. I also believe they do not like other smaller shrimp around. I like the look of them but I will be staying away from them but that is just my oppinion.

BTW...my colour would be blue
I did read they (the banded shrimp) didn't like others of their kind, I was a little leery of them myself when thinking of what I'd want. I will look into others then. Maybe I should stick to 1 type of shrimp for now.
Thanks!!
BTW-blue is a nice color also:)

This bears repeating.. Don't try to go cheap! And always research every purchase before you spend money.. Yes it will cost more the begin with, but believe me, you will end up throwing out the crappy "cheap" product and spending more money on the right thing..

Don't lie to yourself. You know that the 200 dollar skimmer is better then that 100 dollar one.. Get the 200 dollar one!

:)
This is why it will be a while before I really get it started. I know it's not cheap and it will take me a while to get every thing for it. I want to find out what would be the best for my buck, then look around at good deals, sales, ebay...ect to find the best for less that I can! I have learned that from my FW tanks, yes they say "just as good as" but really NO they are not...I went through 2 filters for my original 55 before I broke down and realized I had just spent more than if I would of just got the better one in the first place!

[FeatherDuster]

This is why it will be a while before I really get it started. I know it's not cheap and it will take me a while to get every thing for it. I want to find out what would be the best for my buck, then look around at good deals, sales, ebay...ect to find the best for less that I can! I have learned that from my FW tanks, yes they say "just as good as" but really NO they are not...I went through 2 filters for my original 55 before I broke down and realized I had just spent more than if I would of just got the better one in the first place!

There is a planning method you can do to move everything along a bit faster. At the moment I would just get the basic things you would need to start a cycle going. While the tank is cycling you can save up for your other equipment. For example, you don't need the skimmer and lighting right away (both can be very pricey). You can also add more power heads as you move along. Then only thing I would recommend getting right away with the other start up equipment is the live rock. That way you won't chance a mini cycle once you add the live rock.

I am not trying to encourage rushing (in terms of adding livestock). I just found this method allowed me to enjoy my tank more.

[Lady G]

There is a planning method you can do to move everything along a bit faster. At the moment I would just get the basic things you would need to start a cycle going. While the tank is cycling you can save up for your other equipment. For example, you don't need the skimmer and lighting right away (both can be very pricey). You can also add more power heads as you move along. Then only thing I would recommend getting right away with the other start up equipment is the live rock. That way you won't chance a mini cycle once you add the live rock.

I am not trying to encourage rushing (in terms of adding livestock). I just found this method allowed me to enjoy my tank more.

That is pretty much what I was thinking. I would start with finding and buying the basics.

Now saltwater tanks don't have a filter..like a hob or a canister right, the refugiums would be the filter. Right?

So I would need my substrate, the refugium and what else to get the cycle going??

[Lady G]

OK, looking at power heads. What would you guys suggest? Here is a page I was looking at.

http://www.aquariumguys.com/powerheads.html

Something like the Customflo Water System Kit or more like the Aqua Clear Power Head Model 110 (Old 901) (Hagen), or something else altogether???

Again, I'm not really looking to buy from this company, just trying to get an idea of what I'm looking for, then I'll be making a trip to the closest LFS (about an hour away) to see what they have and looking on ebay and such.

Thanks, guys/gals!

[archer772]

That is pretty much what I was thinking. I would start with finding and buying the basics.

Now saltwater tanks don't have a filter..like a hob or a canister right, the refugiums would be the filter. Right?

So I would need my substrate, the refugium and what else to get the cycle going??

Yes the fuge, live rock and the sand bed would be your filter. You would need a heater and your power heads and the live rock plus the fuge (IMO) to get the cycle going. I feel that if you can let the tank go for a couple of months that would be great but it doesnt tanks dont need to go that long

[archer772]

With your return pump all you would need are 2 of these and that should give you all the flow you would need IMO
http://www.aquariumguys.com/hydor-koralia-3-pump.html

[Lady G]

Cool, thanks Archer!!

So I know what I will be looking for as far as Power heads. Moving on to look at the fuge and substrate.

I've read on a few sites ppl will use just a 10g tank for the fuge, this doesn't really sound right to me?

Also would it be easier, cheaper, worth it, to try and DIY my fuge???

[Lady G]

Substrate: what about a mix of
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10741+16764&pcatid=16764

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10741+16765&pcatid=16765

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10741+7322&pcatid=7322

or something on those lines.

Also, if I buy the live rock/sand...how long will it last unopened?

[nycsicktank]

making your own fuge is better.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b221/fkyounggs/DSCN0992.jpg

my fuge is somewhat small i believe. i regret going 20L sump, i wish i did 40-50g sump. the bigger the better.

[Lady G]

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3579+13648&pcatid=13648

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3579+10667&pcatid=10667

Is this what I am looking into??

If I were to make my own..where do I start, to I just go and buy some acrylic or glass and build the entire thing...or is there a base you start with?

[Lady G]

making your own fuge is better.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b221/fkyounggs/DSCN0992.jpg

my fuge is somewhat small i believe. i regret going 20L sump, i wish i did 40-50g sump. the bigger the better.

Wow, looks a little complicated...but if I got a walk through after getting the stuff for it, I'm sure I could pull it off. What do I start with?

[nycsicktank]

you can buy your own glass or acrylic make your own. to make it easier for you, you can just buy a 20L tank and get few pieces of acrylic at HD and glue making baffles.

Dont waste your money on those!

[nycsicktank]

its not that complicated. ask me if anything, when i started doing my pluming. man i had no idea where to start but i manger to finish it =)

[Lady G]

you can buy your own glass or acrylic make your own. to make it easier for you, you can just buy a 20L tank and get few pieces of acrylic at HD and glue making baffles.

Dont waste your money on those!

OK, well I could give it a try I reckon!! So a 20 long, some acrylic and 2 Power heads are my first for sure purchases!!

This will take me a while to get everything, especially now (Christmas season), but I know what to keep an eye out for at least!

Thanks, and nycsicktank plan on lots of communication from me once I get going on that;)

[nycsicktank]

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b221/fkyounggs/untitled.jpg

this is what my tank looks like.

[nycsicktank]

this website will help you ;)
http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html

[archer772]

I would use a 29 gallon myself it will give you a little more water volume. Check out this site it should help you out
http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html

[nycsicktank]

I would use a 29 gallon myself it will give you a little more water volume. Check out this site it should help you out
http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html

more water volume is good of course but you have to watch out for the heights under your tanks. 29g has too much Height.

[archer772]

more water volume is good of course but you have to watch out for the heights under your tanks. 29g has too much Height.

Look at the heigth of most skimmers they will be about 21-25 inches and if they will fit then a 29 is no problem because they are 19 inches tall

[nycsicktank]

my skimmer i believe is 23" and wont fit under my skimmer, its HOB on my sump. the 29 will go under without a problem but lets say you have to take out something from your 29 then :swear: lol

[Lady G]

Height will play into this for sure. My 29g does fit under my 55 IF it is tank only but when adding the light and HOB it would not fit. So it there is NOTHING on top it would work, but anything at all on top would cause it not to fit.

[nycsicktank]

Height will play into this for sure. My 29g does fit under my 55 IF it is tank only but when adding the light and HOB it would not fit. So it there is NOTHING on top it would work, but anything at all on top would cause it not to fit.

:headbang2: im with yah

[archer772]

OK I am just going by what I have built and seen and I have a 55 under my 65 with an ASM G2 and I can get anything I want in and out of my sump including my skimmer. I have used a 20 long and they do work but I saw a great improvement in my tank when I went with a larger sump/fuge

[nycsicktank]

thats why most people make their own stands

trust me if i had the tools i would make my dream stand =)

[Lady G]

Now, you guy's are going to make me want to get a new stand AHHHHH!!! I know Archer you make me a stand and nycsicktank you make my fuge, then you can just bring them to me and help me with setting them up:grinyes:

Problem solved!!!

[nycsicktank]

:rofl:

[Lady G]

:rofl:

:huh:, waaa? Sounded good to me;)

[Lady G]

Well, I just made another decision for my tank. I will not use crushed coral. I just read an article about it and it just doesn't sound good.

[Reefscape]

Now, you guy's are going to make me want to get a new stand AHHHHH!!! I know Archer you make me a stand and nycsicktank you make my fuge, then you can just bring them to me and help me with setting them up:grinyes:

Problem solved!!!

Ahhh....the sublime art of task delegation...love it!!!

[nycsicktank]

Well, I just made another decision for my tank. I will not use crushed coral. I just read an article about it and it just doesn't sound good.


yea no CC. you can just get regular sand but get aragonite sand.
your lr will seeds your sand in short time

[Reefscape]

Just use aragonite sugar grade reef sand, its a great product..Example below

http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~idProduct~CS0930.html

Niko

[clown-lover]

more water volume is good of course but you have to watch out for the heights under your tanks. 29g has too much Height.

Not if she gets you to build it :D (thought I'd help ya out LadyG)

LadyG you asked about power heads.. I have used (or had with my tank at purchase) MaxiJets which I didn't like the directed flow and jumped on the Koralia bandwagon.. I do like these because of their wide dispersal pattern. The flow isn't directed like the maxijets.

You know though you really should find a local reef club and become a member.. You don't have to have a tank to be a member and may find some really good deals on people getting rid of equipment that they have upgraded.

Just a thought.

[Grins]

I have a 55g already, that is why I was going to go w/ the 55. Thank you though for the advice. I will look through your link. I do dislike the footprint of a 55 and agree, if I didn't already have one I would like to go another way most likely. Although in the end I may end up looking into something else and using the 55 for something else (may have to move to a bigger house:) for all this!)



Well in that case you can join me in having a 55g reef. =)

[Grins]

this website will help you ;)
http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html

:iagree:

[Lady G]

Ahhh....the sublime art of task delegation...love it!!!
Well, it sounded perfect IMO!! Somehow though, I don't think they are going to do it for me....you'd think with me being new and all, they would but :headshake2:


Not if she gets you to build it :D (thought I'd help ya out LadyG)

LadyG you asked about power heads.. I have used (or had with my tank at purchase) MaxiJets which I didn't like the directed flow and jumped on the Koralia bandwagon.. I do like these because of their wide dispersal pattern. The flow isn't directed like the maxijets.

You know though you really should find a local reef club and become a member.. You don't have to have a tank to be a member and may find some really good deals on people getting rid of equipment that they have upgraded.

Just a thought.
Thanks for the help there Clown :grinyes:!!
I'll have to look into if there are any local clubs, and the Koralia.


Well in that case you can join me in having a 55g reef. =)
Awww, we can be 55g reef buds!!!!:perv:

[Grins]

Thanks for the help there Clown :grinyes:!!
I'll have to look into if there are any local clubs, and the Koralia.
Awww, we can be 55g reef buds!!!!:perv:

Would love another one around here LadyG. Oh and the Advice to Newbies Link below has a reef club post with links to club lists.

[bowser7of9]

I have to agree with all the comments on the Koralia PH. I just purchased a #3 for my 32G and it is amazing. Creates more than enough flow and yet doesn't disturb all the sand at the bottom.

[bethkira2000]

Lady G congrats on all your research I am also a 55g and I am starting my tank too. Another book that is good is Saltwater Aquariums for dummies, I know it sounds crazy but it helps. And now I want Koralia not maxijets. well there goes my tank budget

[Lady G]

Lady G congrats on all your research I am also a 55g and I am starting my tank too. Another book that is good is Saltwater Aquariums for dummies, I know it sounds crazy but it helps. And now I want Koralia not maxijets. well there goes my tank budget

LOL, thats funny Beth...that was my first thought "Is there a salt water for dummies":grinyes:

I knew going into this is was not going to be cheap, but wow...some of the prices really floor me, oh well guess it will be worth it in the end!!!

With everyones help here though, I'm sure I wont go wrong!!

Now if I could just get nycsicktank and Archer to agree to my offer!!

[Grins]

I recommend the book The Conscientious Marine Aquarist by Bob Fenner for your first SW book. It is well written and good for understanding the fundamentals of a marine tank. With your experience in FW I think you'll find it very useful for filling in the differences between the two.

[archer772]

Well Lady G if you were closer I would be more than happy to build you a stand :grinyes: but I dont see myself getting down that way any time soon LOL

[clown-lover]

:iagree:

[Lady G]

Well Lady G if you were closer I would be more than happy to build you a stand :grinyes: but I dont see myself getting down that way any time soon LOL

Awww, thanks!! Hey, it's the thought that counts right:grinyes:

[nycsicktank]

[QUOTE=I knew going into this is was not going to be cheap, but wow...some of the prices really floor me, oh well guess it will be worth it in the end!!!

With everyones help here though, I'm sure I wont go wrong!!

Now if I could just get nycsicktank and Archer to agree to my offer!![/QUOTE]

a tank with few sheets of acyclic and gun glue, you should able to pull it through. :)

[FeatherDuster]

I knew going into this is was not going to be cheap, but wow...some of the prices really floor me, oh well guess it will be worth it in the end!!!


Once you get things going and move onto corals you should do what I do. Bring a printout of your current credit card dept. That way when you are tempted to overspend you just look at the paper. It works for me sometimes :lipssealedsmilie:

[Grins]

I don't buy anything for the tank unless I have cash. It is one rule I've managed to stick to it thank goodness. I shudder to think what I'd have spent otherwise. :eek:

[clown-lover]

Same here.. If I used plastic I'm afraid I'd have Robbie's system..

[Grins]

Same here, and you'd drool over my fish room.

[Lady G]

I don't even have a credit card *GASP*, I know...everyone has at least one..but nooooo credit cards here, it's way to easy to shop with one of them...plus I don't like to be reminded how much I have spent on things.

[Sploke]

Well in that case you can join me in having a 55g reef. =)


Me too :)

[Reefscape]

I don't even have a credit card *GASP*, I know...everyone has at least one..but nooooo credit cards here, it's way to easy to shop with one of them...plus I don't like to be reminded how much I have spent on things.


Just grab my credit card off J'Max when she has finished with it...lol :)

[Lady G]

Just grab my credit card off J'Max when she has finished with it...lol :)

Wow, what a sweetie you are, thanks!:headbang2: Watch out coral Frags, here I come..hey Dr Foster & Smiths had a few beginner packets of hard and soft ones!!

[clown-lover]

I'm thinking better than that.. If he's gonna give up the card.. Why go 55.. Get this one..

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-1000-GALLON-ACRYLIC-TANK-AQUARIUM-MADE-2-ORDER-JBJ_W0QQitemZ170176155775QQihZ007QQcategoryZ20755Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[Grins]

Silly people. Do you really think the last few winners of Guess the Reefkeeper left an unspent balance on his card?

[Slappy*McFish]

Giving a Reefer a credit card is like giving a monkey a gun. :eek3:

[Lady G]

I'm thinking better than that.. If he's gonna give up the card.. Why go 55.. Get this one..

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-1000-GALLON-ACRYLIC-TANK-AQUARIUM-MADE-2-ORDER-JBJ_W0QQitemZ170176155775QQihZ007QQcategoryZ20755Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

OH, yes I want one!!! Coarse I'll first have to use the credit card to add onto the house so I can make room for it!!!

[j_chicago]

Giving a Reefer a credit card is like giving a monkey a gun. :eek3:

yes they both throw their **** around

[OgreMkV]

Go on LadyG, I'm keeping real close track of this one.

I'm still thinking nano myself (lack of room), but I WANT another 55!

[Reefscape]

Silly people. Do you really think the last few winners of Guess the Reefkeeper left an unspent balance on his card?


Its all paid off, unless of course you lot have made some fresh purchases and not told me recently?????

[Grins]

Um well, er...did you see this thread (http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=135200)?

[Reefscape]

DOH!!

[Lady G]

Go on LadyG, I'm keeping real close track of this one.

I'm still thinking nano myself (lack of room), but I WANT another 55!
Awww, Hi Ogre...miss ya over in Mafia:)
I was going to go today up to Springfield (about an hour from my house) to look at some stuff...unfortunately we have ICE all over the roads and weather watches out, so I was unable to go..stupid mother nature:mad2:


Um well, er...did you see this thread (http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=135200)?
ERRRR, don't be using up his credit card....I NEED THAT!!

[Lady G]

http://cgi.ebay.com/11LBS-LIVE-LAVA-BASE-ROCK-3-6-FREE-SHIPPING_W0QQitemZ250197134722QQihZ015QQcategoryZ3 212QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Is this something I should look into?? How long does it stay "live"??

[clown-lover]

I personally wouldn't use Lava rock in a SW system. But thats just me. I would stick with a good fiji or marshall islands LR.

[Lady G]

Ok, I just was looking at stuff and seen them, I really wasn't sure what ppl used. Thank you, if I find a good deal on either of them should I jump on it or wait??

[Lady G]

Something more on the lines of this??
l
http://www.vividaquariums.com/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=03-1130-10

http://www.vividaquariums.com/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=03-1110-01

[clown-lover]

Both of those look good. But I'd check around for pricing, a lot of people seem to like Premium Aquatics. They don't have any marshall islands but they do have figi for like 3.99 a lb. With the costs of shipping LR you really need to look at the overall price.

[Lady G]

Yeah, Shipping will kick you ***! I am going to look at a place not to far from here and see what he has. When I was looking for my FMs, he said he can order about anything..so I want to see what he can do for me and for how much. Just have to get this darn ice crap to stop coming so I can drive up there!

[sdveirs]

Substrate: what about a mix of
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10741+16764&pcatid=16764

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10741+16765&pcatid=16765

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10741+7322&pcatid=7322

or something on those lines.

Also, if I buy the live rock/sand...how long will it last unopened?

I have heard you can get (not sure the type) of playsand from home depot, and a small amount of live sand from someone instead of spending all the money on "labeled live sand". Plus the live rock will seed the sand.

Please tell me if im wrong.

[Lady G]

I use playsand in my FW tanks, cheap as heck...and I love it. Could I do something like that???

[Lady G]

So, can I just add live rock/sand to regular?? If so that would be way easier for me, I wont have to take all the sand out of the tank then!!

[clown-lover]

I personally wouldn't use play sand due to the possible silicate content which will make for algae issues later. I would go to marinedepot.com and look for just a standard reef grade sugar sand. (NOT LIVE SAND) and use that. Its not that expensive (I think like 19 bucks for 20 to 30 lbs) an will eventually become seeded from your Live Rock. You could get a cup or two of live sand from someone you know that has a saltwater tank to help speed up the process of seeding your sand.

[FeatherDuster]

I personally wouldn't use play sand due to the possible silicate content which will make for algae issues later. I would go to marinedepot.com and look for just a standard reef grade sugar sand. (NOT LIVE SAND) and use that. Its not that expensive (I think like 19 bucks for 20 to 30 lbs) an will eventually become seeded from your Live Rock. You could get a cup or two of live sand from someone you know that has a saltwater tank to help speed up the process of seeding your sand.

I agree. Its worth it to get regular aquarium sand, but it doesn't have to be live. I wouldn't even worry about seeding with live stand. Live rock is wonderful and will take care of that for you.

[Lady G]

Ok, then. I was just thinking if it was ok, it would save me alot of man work taking the sand out of the tank. It's been there for like 2 years. Oh, well it was a good thought for a moment!

[Reefscape]

Even so, after 2 years, i would still suggest a replacement sand bed for the tank to ensure more stability...

Niko

[Lady G]

Yes, I will take it all out:thud: I am just trying to put off the tedious task of removing like 70lbs of sand.

[Reefscape]

LOL...dear oh dear..skimming threads...skimping on hard work? Whatever next.....

Niko

[Lady G]

LOL...dear oh dear..skimming threads...skimping on hard work? Whatever next.....

Niko

Hey, I said I'd do it!!! Now, be nice:lipssealedsmilie:

[Grins]

"To dream the impossible dream
To fight the unbeatable foe
To bear with unbearable sorrow
To run where the brave dare not go"

[Lady G]

"To dream the impossible dream
To fight the unbeatable foe
To bear with unbearable sorrow
To run where the brave dare not go"

Yep, that be me...LOL!!! Nice quote Grins!!!:)
Well, I'm headed up to Springfield to get my Gold Severums, also going to look at a couple things while I'm there. Not sure I'll come home with anything besides the fishies, but if I do...I'll let ya all know!!!

[Grins]

I was actually responding to this one...


Hey, I said I'd do it!!! Now, be nice:lipssealedsmilie:

[Lady G]

I was actually responding to this one...

LOL

[clown-lover]

So have you started to think of a stocking list now that you are almost done converting your 75 over?

[Lady G]

Ok, I came home with a new FM. They didn't have any Gold Severums in stock..suppose to be coming in on Tues. Shipment.

OMG, they have EVERYTHING though, they had blennys, and clowns, and cardinals...corals, and sponges, clams and pincusions!!! I did end up getting 1 bag of sand, if I'd had enough on me I would of got 2 and the bag of live sand. OH and they have the Koralia power heads!!
They were out of 20L (just had a big sale last week, of coarse I missed it). Anyway, I was talking to the lady about the fuge...she is telling me I could use a canister that they have, and showed me a 55 that they have running off it. I had 5 bio "stations", 1 had bio balls, 1 had the ceramic ring things, 1 was carbon (I think) and then filter floss and something else I can't remember now. But it was only like 150.00?? Would this work, really?? Coarse she did show me their fuges it was like 500.00.

Well, when I go back next week, I plan on getting another bag of sand at least..maybe the power heads, how many should I get???

[nycsicktank]

$500 for a fuge? are you serious!? just make your own fuge :grinyes:

[clown-lover]

Ok, I came home with a new FM. They didn't have any Gold Severums in stock..suppose to be coming in on Tues. Shipment.

OMG, they have EVERYTHING though, they had blennys, and clowns, and cardinals...corals, and sponges, clams and pincusions!!! I did end up getting 1 bag of sand, if I'd had enough on me I would of got 2 and the bag of live sand. OH and they have the Koralia power heads!!
They were out of 20L (just had a big sale last week, of coarse I missed it). Anyway, I was talking to the lady about the fuge...she is telling me I could use a canister that they have, and showed me a 55 that they have running off it. I had 5 bio "stations", 1 had bio balls, 1 had the ceramic ring things, 1 was carbon (I think) and then filter floss and something else I can't remember now. But it was only like 150.00?? Would this work, really?? Coarse she did show me their fuges it was like 500.00.

Well, when I go back next week, I plan on getting another bag of sand at least..maybe the power heads, how many should I get???

If the tank your setting up is big enough look at that thread I put in marine hardware forum.. Thee is a guy selling new koralia #3's for 31.99 with shipping it comes out to less than retail at any online place or local place in my neck of the woods.

What she was showing you was a wet/dry filter and I personally would stay away from those as well.. But thats a personal choice.

[Lady G]

$500 for a fuge? are you serious!? just make your own fuge :grinyes:
Oh, I have no intention of paying that for one. I do plan on trying to just make one myself, I was just wondering about the canister really. I've been keeping an eye out for anyone wanting to sell a 20L or anything close.


If the tank your setting up is big enough look at that thread I put in marine hardware forum.. Thee is a guy selling new koralia #3's for 31.99 with shipping it comes out to less than retail at any online place or local place in my neck of the woods.

What she was showing you was a wet/dry filter and I personally would stay away from those as well.. But thats a personal choice.

I trust you Mark, I will not get it. I was looking (again) for an easy way to get it going, I hate wanting something and having to wait so much!! I just thought if it would work I may try it out just so I can start the cycling on it. Oh well, it was another momentary thought.

What was so funny, when I was talking to her, I was saying..."they said I should look for this or that" and she recomended I get a bag of the CC, I was like.."No, they said I should stay away from that"..then she was like "you keep saying "they said", who are they?" I was like, Clown, Grins, Niko and a few of my other fishie friends!!! She laughed and looked at the guy working and said "she has fishy friends too" and he laughed. So I found myself explaining AC to them:perv: I'm sure they thought I was nuts with my Clown, Grins, Niko remark!!!

[Lady G]

Oh, I forgot to add...where is the Marine "hardware" forum???

[daayda3]

right here (http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=29)
:D

[Lady G]

Thanks Daayda!!!

[clown-lover]

What size salty tank are you going to put up? As far as the wet/dry filter goes, if your gonna put up a 55 get like a 20 long add some acrylic (not plexiglass) baffles and you are on your way.. You can put your heaters, skimmer and even have room for a fuge in there.

[nycsicktank]

Oh, I have no intention of paying that for one. I do plan on trying to just make one myself, I was just wondering about the canister really. I've been keeping an eye out for anyone wanting to sell a 20L or anything close.



I trust you Mark, I will not get it. I was looking (again) for an easy way to get it going, I hate wanting something and having to wait so much!! I just thought if it would work I may try it out just so I can start the cycling on it. Oh well, it was another momentary thought.

What was so funny, when I was talking to her, I was saying..."they said I should look for this or that" and she recomended I get a bag of the CC, I was like.."No, they said I should stay away from that"..then she was like "you keep saying "they said", who are they?" I was like, Clown, Grins, Niko and a few of my other fishie friends!!! She laughed and looked at the guy working and said "she has fishy friends too" and he laughed. So I found myself explaining AC to them:perv: I'm sure they thought I was nuts with my Clown, Grins, Niko remark!!!


:rofl:
my friends thinks im nuts when i tell them i have my own fishy friends lol

[Lady G]

What size salty tank are you going to put up? As far as the wet/dry filter goes, if your gonna put up a 55 get like a 20 long add some acrylic (not plexiglass) baffles and you are on your way.. You can put your heaters, skimmer and even have room for a fuge in there.

Yes, it is a 55, and the 20L was what I was looking into. Been looking around for anyone getting rid of one, or sales on them. Once I get that, things can get moving along a little better I think, cause I really can't do much until I get that set up. But hey, I'm getting there, since well I found my hydrometer from my BW days, and I now have a least a bag of sand:grinyes:

[Lady G]

:rofl:
my friends thinks im nuts when i tell them i have my own fishy friends lol

I know, ppl at work and my family think I'm insane too I believe, my son is always saying things to me like "Oh can't go w/out talking to your fish friends!"

[Grins]

I'm sure they thought I was nuts with my Clown, Grins, Niko remark!!!

Well you are...:lipssealedsmilie:

[nycsicktank]

are you doing fuge too? if so, ill go for 30L in my opinion :cool-1:

[Grins]

LadyG, have you looked into IL reef clubs? Good chance you can get used equipment at a great place from them. My current sump/fuge is from someone in my local club.

[Lady G]

are you doing fuge too? if so, ill go for 30L in my opinion :cool-1:
Yes, I am doing a fuge, how big is a 30L?

LadyG, have you looked into IL reef clubs? Good chance you can get used equipment at a great place from them. My current sump/fuge is from someone in my local club.
No I haven't, Clown has mentioned this too...guess I really should look more into that!


Well you are...:lipssealedsmilie:

:banher::silly:

[nycsicktank]

30G=36 1/4 x 12 5/8 x 16 3/4

[Lady G]

Hmmm, I wonder if that would fit? Thanks guys!!

[Lady G]

OOOOHHHHHH, guys...don't hate me but I will have to hold off on my SW tank for a while now. I went to pick up my Gold Sevs, and possibly some more sand for the SW, my hubby noticed the huge Oscars and HAD to have one, the only tank I could put him in was my 55g which really he wont be able to stay in long. So the money I was planning to put toward the SW stuff will have to go to a bigger tank now.

I will be getting a SW, it's just going to end up being a little longer than I had planned.

Thank you all for you time and input and everything else...it was not wasted, as I WILL end up with my salty tank!! I guess, I'll just buy the books and learn everything I can, and wait:(

Although while there, I was showing him the SW tanks they had set up, with the corals and sponges and mushrooms...he really liked them, so once I am able to I think, he will not argue with me on any of it...he was very interested in them!!

[Grins]

Hey, look at it this way, it just gives you more time to research before plunking down your first dollar right?

[Lady G]

Yeah, I know....and I do really like the Oscar, I did tell him he can't go with me anymore when I go, went to just pick up a couple sev's and a pack of frozen bloodworms, planned on spending like 20 bucks...ended up spending close to 90!!!! I told him "Merry Christmas"!!! LOL, gotta love em though!