starting up

[vikings]

So I am starting a small reef tank. a 15 gallon tank (maybe a 20 not sure yet) some questions

For a 15 Gallon tank I will get about 20 - 25 pounds of live rock what is the best rock to get.? Should I mix types of live rock.? I have never bought online what is a good site to buy.?

I also want live sand. I notice they come in 50 lb bags how much will that cover.? My last tank was fish only and I just used crushed coral.

I think I know what I need for lights

Some people say I need a skimmer some say I dont. I was going to get a hob filter and a skimmer.? any further advice here.?

With such a small tank I can probably only get a few fish plus probably 2 cleaner shrimp and some hermit crabs and snails. What are a good small tank fish for a reef tank.?? I am guessing 3 fish max in a little tank (15 or 20 gallon).?

Thanks

 

[melosu58]

A skimmer is always needed IMO. I am a big fan of LR and skimmer for all your filtration needs. Liveaquaria.com sells good LR. Many different types. Live sand is a good idea. 20-25 lbs is a good no. Good Luck and welcome to AA

 

[tmkx3]

Live sand that you buy in a bag isn't live. think about it. how can the bacteria stay alive in a bag with no aeration, no food source and no telling how long it has been on the shelf. Doesn't make any sense how the lfs get away with selling this stuff

 

[ckmn101]

I agree with melosu58, always use a good skimmer. A small tank will require more attention so I would go more toward the 20gal(slightly more room for error) I have heard of lots of satisfied customers of liveaquaria. One plus to ordering rock is that you automaticly have something to cycle with. I think mixing the rock is up to you. Here is a link to nano fish- http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/scateg.cfm?pCatId=2124 here is their link for rock/sand http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/scateg.cfm?pCatId=393
I would just buy play sand and put it in during the cycle. There is lots of info on playsand on this site and it will save you big $
sand link- http://www.aquariumadvice.com/viewtopic.php?t=79651

 

[vikings]

thanks

Thanks for the info

so for lights I was going to use T-5 HO Fluorescent that should be fine.?

Any comments on the amount of fish / inverts I can put in a 20 gal tank.??