Wanting to start a salt water tank!!

[Crittercrazy]

I have never had a salt water tank before, I have always had freshwater. I currently have a 75gal and 55 gal freshwater setup. I would like to take the plunge(so to speak) into Salt water, but was thinking I would start small. I was thinking 10-20 gallon setup. Now since i have never done this before, I want to do it right from the start. Could you all give me info on what all i will need to get started???? also is 10-20 gal okay to start?? also what types of fish wuld be great for this size tank, and best for a beginner???

Thanks in advance for all your help!!

 

[ryshark]

In my opinion, from what I have read in books and learned on this site, a 10-20gallon for just starting saltwater is too small and unstable. You should start off with at least a 30gallon. Why are you thinking only 10-20gallons? If you are thinking smaller is easier, that is not always the case with saltwater. You may want to consider converting your 55 or 75.

 

[roka64]

I agree, bigger is better. The more water volume will give you more room for error. Bad things happen a lot faster in smaller tanks.
Are you planning on having corals (reef) or fish only (FO) or fish only w/live rock (FOWLR)? Deciding on this will help to narrow down your critter selection.
liveaquaria.com is a good place to see some pics and learn about fish.
Check out our Articles http://www.aquariumadvice.com/articles/categories/Saltwater/Articles/ to help out further.

 

[Crittercrazy]

I agree, bigger is better. The more water volume will give you more room for error. Bad things happen a lot faster in smaller tanks.
Are you planning on having corals (reef) or fish only (FO) or fish only w/live rock (FOWLR)? Deciding on this will help to narrow down your critter selection.
liveaquaria.com is a good place to see some pics and learn about fish.
Check out our Articles to help out further.

I was thinking either FO or FOWLR. I just dont want to get in over my head, and have a huge disaster! LOL! I could convert my 75 Gal. to salt water.

 

[roka64]

I wouldn't worry too much about a disaster, I have had a few and recovered quite nicely, thanks to the folks on this site.

 

[Crittercrazy]

I wouldn't worry too much about a disaster, I have had a few and recovered quite nicely, thanks to the folks on this site.

Phewwww.....well that is a relief!! I am so excited, but nervous at the same time! LOL!!

 

[ryshark]

Converting the 75g would be a good idea, and that would open up WAY more options as far as what fish you can have compared to a 10-20gallon. 8-months ago I started my 75gallon saltwater tank with no aquarium experience at all. I have come across a few bumps in the road, but as long as you research/read a lot about what you are doing and going to do, I think it is definitely do able. I don't regret starting, in fact it has become an addictive hobby. With that said, I don't think there is anything for you to worry about as long as you are diligent about reading/book, threads on this site etc. Also, I would higly recommend going with the FOWLR instead FO, it will likely be easier to keep a stable tank and is more natural.

 

[melosu58]

The bigger the tank the less chance of a disaster. Bigger water volumes are more forgiving of mistakes and oversights. I always suggest at least a 55 gallon tank.

 

[ct67_72]

I started with a 29, I make sure to really stay on top of top off water because within a day salinity can change dramatically, other than that the tank has been great and I love the size, and am glas after 12 years of fresh Ive finally gone to salt, on that note I also just set up a 150... I cant stop

 

[roka64]

LOL! Ct does bring up a good point. If you stay on top of your water chemistry, there is less chance that bad things might happen, even in a smaller tank.