In research phase

[jltucker229]

Hi, All,
I am Jessica and am highly interested In Beginning a reef aquarium in the very near future. I am still in the research phase. I want to begin with 5-6 fish, some inverts, and some soft corals. I have my eye set on a 60 gallon tank to begin. I have been reading and have heard some confusing information on what type of equipment to use for a larger tank. I hear hang on back filters are good for smaller tanks but I am unsure about larger tanks. Any information you can give me on proper equipment and tank size would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Jessica



Jessica

[jltucker229]

Also from you more experienced people, what brands of aquariums and equipment have you had the best experience with?



Jessica

[SeanMonster]

I would definitely get a reef ready with a built in overflow so you can do a sump.


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[jltucker229]

Thanks a lot for the help



Jessica

[54seaweed]

remember everything in saltwater you should do slow rushing causes nothing but issues

this article should help you understand step 1 cycling

Cycle your salt tank - Aquarium Advice

once you finish through your cycle you will be ready for step 2 livestock
remember add livestock slowly over time , be sure the fish you choose are compatible
and will fit in a tank your size and are reef safe live aquara has a good selection of nano fish , but since you have a bigger tank you can add 1 or 2 bigger fish but worry about that once you get there

Saltwater Fish Compatibility Guides - Aquarium Advice

[jltucker229]

Very helpful articles. The raw shrimp idea for cycling is brilliant



Jessica

[ImACoolguy]

Originally Posted by jltucker229

Very helpful articles. The raw shrimp idea for cycling is brilliant



Jessica

I actually did that method for my saltwater tank and it worked well. Just make sure it's in the pantyhose or you will have a mess


Caleb

[SeanMonster]

You could also do live rock. I used live rock in both of my reef tanks and they cycled in under 3 weeks. Agree with others pertaining to stocking though. Go slow to ensure success.


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[jltucker229]

For your first aquarium would get sand or no sand?



Jessica

[Masoniac]

To me sand is more attractive than bare bottom.

[ImACoolguy]

Originally Posted by Masoniac

To me sand is more attractive than bare bottom.

Same.

But I have seen some beautiful barebottom ones where the bottom glass was painted black.


Caleb

[SeanMonster]

I'm with you guys. Prefer the look of sand on the bottom. Not a deep bed, just like the bottom covered.


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[jltucker229]

Thanks a lot for the input. I definitely like the look of sand more but is it more to maintain?



Jessica

[jltucker229]

Also, I am struggling deciding on the size of a tank. I was thinking the 55 gallon but I am starting to think smaller bc of budget constraints. Also, is an RO machine and protein skimmer essential for a reef aquarium? (I'm asking bc it is also a budget concern. These are not cheap items)



Jessica

[bribo12]

I'd definitely get an rodi machine and skimmer for a reef tank. I'd go with a 40 breeder over a 55 though, better dimensions.


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[jltucker229]

Oh thanks



Jessica

[SeanMonster]

I think a shallow sand bed is pretty easy to maintain. Plus with sand you will see all kinds of "critters" emerge.


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[jltucker229]

Update: I bit the bullet and bought a 36 gallon starter aquarium!!! So excited to begin.



Jessica

[SeanMonster]

Congrats. Keep us posted.


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[jltucker229]

My new tank is up and running. Now to cycle and wait.



Jessica