I am new to SW and have been reading as much as I can and have several books. I may be getting into information overload from reading various opinions about what is needed.
I want to do a 90-125 gal FOWLR. I am thinking of getting acrylic (Tenecor) rather than glass. I realize acrylic costs more and scratches easier. I worry about leaks and the weight in terms of setting up) associated with glass. If I am careful when cleaning the sides is this a big mistake?
I plan to do a 3-4" deep sand bed and LR (1-1.5 lbs per gal). To save $ I would probably do a 50-50 split or something similar between LR and base rock.
I am confused as to the approach for a filter. HOB vs cannister vs wet dry. Opinions please with any specific suggestions. Pros and cons associated with adding a sump (I know it hides some of the equipment and helps stabilize the water). I want to keep this as simple as I can.
I am assuming I need several power heads. I heard 10-20x turnover. Do people get one for that or several smaller units that add up to what you need?
I am assuming I need a protein skimmer. Any thoughts on specifics?
Do most people invest in a RO/DI unit? I live in Denver if that matters. Does a RO unit have to be installed by a plumber or can you just connect it to a faucet when you need it?
Besides lighting issues, heater, testing kits, etc. are there other primary items I need to consider? Is there anything I have listed that verges on overkill? I think I will go get either The New Marine Aquarium or The Conscientious Marine Aquarist to supplement my confusion. Thanks for your help.
I want to do a 90-125 gal FOWLR. I am thinking of getting acrylic (Tenecor) rather than glass. I realize acrylic costs more and scratches easier. I worry about leaks and the weight in terms of setting up) associated with glass. If I am careful when cleaning the sides is this a big mistake?
I plan to do a 3-4" deep sand bed and LR (1-1.5 lbs per gal). To save $ I would probably do a 50-50 split or something similar between LR and base rock.
I am confused as to the approach for a filter. HOB vs cannister vs wet dry. Opinions please with any specific suggestions. Pros and cons associated with adding a sump (I know it hides some of the equipment and helps stabilize the water). I want to keep this as simple as I can.
I am assuming I need several power heads. I heard 10-20x turnover. Do people get one for that or several smaller units that add up to what you need?
I am assuming I need a protein skimmer. Any thoughts on specifics?
Do most people invest in a RO/DI unit? I live in Denver if that matters. Does a RO unit have to be installed by a plumber or can you just connect it to a faucet when you need it?
Besides lighting issues, heater, testing kits, etc. are there other primary items I need to consider? Is there anything I have listed that verges on overkill? I think I will go get either The New Marine Aquarium or The Conscientious Marine Aquarist to supplement my confusion. Thanks for your help.