Better for newb: FO or FOWLR?

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dougall

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Mar 29, 2005
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My first SW experience was FOWLR, and it was pretty easy.

never tried FO, so my vote is for liverock.
 

greech

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May 13, 2009
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FOWLR. No reason to do it any other way, IMO.
 

Cksnffr

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Aug 5, 2013
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Cool. Live rock in the tank or in the sump?

Is there a marine newbie FAQ somewhere that's meant for people who already know freshwater? All the ones I've seen have things like "you'll need a tank and a stand."


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greech

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Cksnffr

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Excellent--I've committed that one to memory. I guess this is as good a place as any to ask some related newb questions:

Assuming I get a RODI system, do I need to run it and store some water, or can they just run on demand like a faucet?

In a FOWLR tank, what does one use for "decoration" other than the live rock? Wood is out, but can you use regular old rock? Cichlid caves?

Can you set up a FOWLR tank and then "convert" it to a reef by adding corals and good lighting?

Thanks!


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TL1000RSquid

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Most make 75-125 gallons per day, quite a bit slower then your faucet, also cold water is optimal for filtration.

For decor you can do plants, and or fake corals.

Adding lighting will do it and a skimmer if you didn't already have one as a FOWLR, may also have to up your circulation. You'll also have to start monitoring other parameters such as calcium, stronium, etc.
 

greech

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I wouldn't use non-aragonite rock. The rock you get wuill provide many caves. Assuming you get good dry or live rock.
 

OrionGirl

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I've never felt the need to add anything in terms of decoration, but you can. There are also marine themed decorations that could be used. I wouldn't--I'd rather put more live rock in than take up space with something that's not serving a purpose.
 
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