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caldar

Hi, I'm a newb!

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by
caldar
, 01-05-2010 at 11:45 PM (2201 Views)
Just thought I'd throw that out there. For the last two years I've been looking at pictures of reef tanks and I've just been
in awe of the colors, the fish, and the whole idea of having a complete living ecosystem in your living room. So I bought a tank. And since everyone told me to do a freshwater tank first, and I have had the most experience around fresh water tanks, and I knew a few people who were really good at freshwater tanks, I set up my tank as a fresh water tank. And then I inherited another. I kept them both alive and well for quite a while. But then I had to move. Not just down the street (I did that also), but from California to Texas.

So here I am, with some fish-keeping experience under my belt and with two completely empty tanks ready to be set up.

So, right now I have a 55 gallon tank (with stand) and I want to take it to a reef tank, but I'm not quite sure where to start.

I do have kind of limited funds for this hobby, and I am okay with taking my time getting it set up.

So, what's my first step?

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Comments

  1. melev's Avatar
    The best thing you can do is make a plan. What kind of livestock do you want to keep? What kind of fish, specifically? This dictates the equipment needs for the system. Do you just want something you can set up in the next six weeks to enjoy, or do you want to map out a really nice system now and build it more slowly? Those choices help us help you.

    I'm subscribed, so just speak your mind.
  2. Jessy's Avatar
    well for starters you're probably going to want a sump, a skimmer, a return pump, some lights (T5's are my personal favorites), and some internal water flow provided by powerheads. From there you'll need sand, live rock and some patience to let it sit for a month or more.
  3. BetterMetalReef's Avatar
    First Step: RESEARCH! Like melev said, plan out something before you really start buying lots of equipment, especially if you're budget limited.

    If you're serious about setting up a reef tank for the long term (years) I'd invest in a good, all around reef aquarium book or two. Always good for an immediate go to reference when you don't want to wait for replies online. We could recommend some if you're interested.
  4. Skamin's Avatar
    Where in Texas, I have found it helps to have a tank buddy or tank mentor. some one you can discuss issues with, and develop your plan as Marc suggested above.....
  5. melev's Avatar
    Did someone say Mentor?