What is essential to a beginner saltwater fish tank??

[Osprey85]

I am starting a 55 gallon saltwater fish tank. I plan to just have fish (no corals, etc). What do I definitely need to have (equipment, substrate, etc)???
Thank you!

 

[Gti_Leo]

there are stickies at the top of the forum for it but the biggest thing is you need a tank and saltwater a protien skimmer and a canister filter. if you're not goign to be gettign live rock then theres no need for a power head.

as for substats most of us woudl recommend sand. its harder to clean but easier to maintain, if that makes any sense

 

[uscamaro]

Knowledge. Basically you don't want to start a SW tank without knowing what you're getting into. Read the stickies as "gti leo" recommended. Also, stick around the forum and follow along with some of the topics, a lot of answers to questions you don't have yet will be there.

*Also, remember that it's going to be more expensive and time demanding than you expect. If that flies, then you're ready!

 

[cmor1701d]

Here's a some good reading to get you started...

Stock list and tips for maintaining your SW tank

How to cycle your tank with out the use of fish

Quarantine article

An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure: A Quarantine Tank for Everything by Steven Pro

Refugiums
Reef Aquarium Water Parameters
Tap Water in Reef Aquaria

 

[Osprey85]

Thanks Everyone!