new tank advice please

leesst200 said:

Hi all,

I will be upgrading my tank to a juwel 180 next weekend and have a couple of questions.

1, Can anyone advise me the best way to transfer everything across from my old tank? Can i put all the rock etc in at once or do i have to start the cycle again?
If you transfer everything over you may get a mini cycle, however it shouldn't be too bad. Transfer some of the water over from your old tank, and move your rock. If you are going to add sand do it after you put the live rick in, as this makes it more stable. Fill it up and you should be good to go.

2, I currently dont have any substrate on the bottom of the tank, would t be a good idea to get some live sand, if so, does this need to cycle?

Don't waste your money on live sand as dead sand will become live soon enough. Just buy dry argonite sand and use that 1-2 inches. However sand is not necessary, only if you want it.

3, Has anyone got any pics of a juwel 180 which they have as marine?

no, sorry

4, What flow should i be looking for when buying powerheads for this tank, and how many should i have?

If you are not planning on having coral 10X/hour is ok, if you are planning on coral 30X/hour is good. The number and flow depends on how you set it up. You want to make sure there are no dead spots, just use your judgement on number and placement.


5, I have a Fluval 205 external filter which i would like to use on this tank, any objections/suggestions?

I wouldn't, but that is my opinion. IMO they are nitrate factories. I would drill or use and overflow box, and use a sump/refugium. Using this type of filtration you can keep it all natural, keep the uglies (skimmer, heater and anything else you use) out of the display tank and inside the cabinet.


6, I have a TMC Vskim 400 protein skimmer, will this be ok?

I have no experience with this one, but it looks ok. The device is rated for a 90 gallon tank, and you have a 48. Most people suggest doubling it anyways.

7, What other equipment will i need/should i have? It doesn't have an external sump.

Would definately try to go with a sump/fuge for filtration. You could have the tank drilled or use an overflow box to get the water to the sump. You would need a pump to get the water back to the tank. You will want a heater, good light, and some powerheads.

8, When transfering corals, do they need to be in water all the time or will they be ok when lifting from one tank to the other about 4foot away?

If you can keep them in water, I would, however as long as you do it quick it shouldn't be an issue


Sorry for all the questions but im only 10 months into the hobby.
Any help and advice would be most appreciated.
Thanks, Lee.

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