Hey guys. I have had a freshwater tank for a while now, and have found that I want something a little more challenging and more pretty than that. so Ive been thinking about converting it into a saltwater tank. I am thinking that I want a fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) setup. For now
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EQUIPMENT
What kind of lighting should I get? I am trying to chose between Normal Output Fluorescent lighting, Very High Output Fluorescent lighting, and Power Compact Fluorescent lights. I am more leaning towards the PC/VHO lighting instead of the NO lighting.
Do I really need a Powerhead? I read that I am supposed to turn the tank water over 15-20 times, but is it really neseccary, because I dont really like equipment sitting in the tank, taking up space?
What kind of salt do I need: Marine or Reef? What are the differences of the two? I have been looking at Seachems line of salt products, should i buy some Seachem salt?
What kind of live substrate should I use? I dont really want to use crushed coral because its messy, I would prefer sand. What is Argonite sand? would you recommend it? how deep should the sand be, 1 inch?
What kinds of test kits should I get? Is there an API master test kit for saltwater? What should i be testing for? What should the levels be at?
Should I get a sump or a canister filter? Which one is better? I was watching a video about how to make a diy sump, and I kinda like it, because I am all for using less money. I know that some of you are going to say: "because of your tank size, you should get a HOB filter". I just dont really like the visibility factor. its just sitting there, and you cant really hide it at all.
what is a protien skimmer? what does it do? would it be neseccary?Arent there two kinds, like HOB and in-sump?
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FISH
What kinds of fish should I get? It would be nice if I could get some yellow or blue fish.
They cant grow very big (obviously).
thx for the help.