65 Gallon Freshwater to Salt

[bengalyork]

I have an emporer 400 on my freshwater tank I would like to have a sump eventually with a protien skimmer I'm going to use live sand substrate why else will I need thanks

 

[eric faatz]

Live rock is another great substrate.

 

[eric faatz]

You may also want to use power heads so there is no dead spots in your tank

 

[bengalyork]

Will the emporer be an ok filter for awhile?

 

[eric faatz]

Yes,it should,but you will need a sump and skimmer.What are you planning to do reef or fowlr?

 

[bengalyork]

Fowlr I have a heagon tall tank with no much of an opening like 12 in to be exact what sump would you recommend that's cheap

 

[eric faatz]

Im not sure but sometimes its better to go a little expensive so you know youre getting good quality.

 

[Zer0]

Live rock is not a substrate. Live sand, or dry aragonite sand would be considered substrate. For a 65G tank you definitely want a protein skimmer, and you most likely would not be able to get by without one. For a tank that large, proper filtration is a must, and while a sump is NOT required, it is in your best interest to obtain one. A sump will allow you to have more water volume throughout your system, and will contribute a big part to having better water quality.

The live rock will count for biological filtration, which will play a big part in filtering your water, but 65G is a lot of water, so live rock alone won't cut it. Also, for a tank this size, you won't be able to skimp on a protein skimmer. You will want the best one that your budget can afford. One type of skimmer i would stay away from is the Seaclone. Types of skimmers that are great are Venturi, Reef Octopus, and a couple others i forget the names of. A great place to look for skimmers is at Aquarium Supplies - Aquarium Supplies for your Tropical Fish, Saltwater Fish, Reef Aquarium, Marine Fish, Saltwater Aquarium Their prices are excellent and shipping is only 4.95. However, they may charge 6 or 7 $ extra if it's a heavy item.

For more on skimming, i would advise strongly on reading this article from our very own AA:

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/artic...ein-skimming---is-it-right-for-you/Page1.html

 

[melosu58]

Save your money and just get a dry aragonite sand and it will become overtime. Read this

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f14/stock-list-and-tips-for-maintaining-your-sw-tank-73477.html

 

[bengalyork]

I'm looking strongly at the CPR 192 with venturi skimmer. Anyone have any experince with a marineland canister filter are they any good? Also how forget work, you would need to get a hang on the tannk protien skimmer with one of those wouldent you?