First Purchases.. I'm a serious noob..

[DrewWoodside]

Okay, I'm currently big into planted tanks. But have now become interested in the possibilities of a salt water tank. I've done quite a bit of research, and as I start a brand new hobby from scratch. I'm hoping I can avoid any bad purchases regarding things I don't need or things that I will ultimately replace with better or more in expensive stuff..

I'm about to purchase the following tank:

http://www.greenleafaquariums.com/glass-rimless-aquariums/rimless-aquarium-91-l.html

Other than lighting, what other items will I need to purchase from the beginning, before I consider putting water in the tank? What sort of filter is considered to be a good standard in quality? I've read how I may need a skimmer, how much will that cost? Do I need to buy a chiller? At 48 gallons, how much live rock should I be purchasing to start?

My goal is live rock, possibly some coral, and community fish. :fish1:

[mjhall85]

Get the checkbook out it is not cheap! I'm new to the hobby as well,but I would go with a sump for your filtration as I have read it's a lot better in that case you would have to drill a hole in your tank and put a overflow box or could do a hang on back overflow box. Skimmers I can't speak on intelligently as I am currently shopping around for one. As far as Live rock I have a 60gallon tank and i bought just over 80lbs to put in my tank and sump. The rule of thumb from what I read is 1-2lbs per gallon buy as much as you can from the start. i'm sure many others will chime in but figured I'd let you know a little something good luck of course live rock depends on if you want to do a reef tank or swim tank etc

[gone fishin]

The tank does not appear to be drilled. I wish when I started I had went with a drilled tank. About 1-2 pounds of live rock will be your biological filter. Alot of people get dry rock and a little live rock to seed it. Eventually all the rock will be live. Skimmers are great to have. There are a whole lot of stickies at the top of the new to hobby page they are very helpful. They are like a walk through. Good luck

[smellslikeTUNA]

Sound like you still have lots of researching to do! start with the stickies at the top!
To get you going, def get yourself a good RO/DI unit with a TDS meter (buckeye field supply is a good source for this). Consider going sump/refugium for your filtration it has many MANY benefits over a canister filter. For skimming, I have a reef octopus 110, which is great quality and a great price, I think a skimmer rated at 110 would be fine on a 48 gallon but research this more I think too much over-skimming can have negative effects on your system. You probably won't need a chiller unless your planning metal halides, but just go LED you'll save yourself $ in the long run. You don't necessarily have to purchase all Live rock to start. You could buy a mix of dry rock and live rock and allow the live to "seed" the dry, which will take a little while but the $ you will save will make it worth it (marcorocks.com is a great place to start looking for this). Also consider your sand bed, I would reccomend going with a sugar fine shallow sand bed, but make your choice on this and read the DSB sticky up top! Most of all, take it slow and have patience... this may be the biggest money saver of all in this hobby! Good luck!

[Brando8719]

I agree with what was said above.. you will want to use a biological filter (ie live rock). You should get between 1-2lbs per gallon but it really depends on the porosity of the rock. You will need less if you get a more porous rock.

You're going to want to get your tank dilled to save hassle later on. If you haven't bought a tank yet I would look at pre-drilled tanks. You can also drill your own tank (that's what I did) and install you're own overflow box. You will also want to build a sump under your tank (or anywhere it fits).

I'm sure people with more experience will be able to chime in on the skimmer. I bought a used PM Bullet-1 and it works great but it is definitely an older skimmer. You can save a bunch of money by buying things in the classifieds.

[__SKINNY__]

Do not get a tempered glass tank as if you want to drill it later down the road you cant,and take your time and get the stuff you want instead of maybe things you can afford right now.

[DrewWoodside]

Get the checkbook out it is not cheap! I'm new to the hobby as well,but I would go with a sump for your filtration as I have read it's a lot better in that case you would have to drill a hole in your tank and put a overflow box or could do a hang on back overflow box. Skimmers I can't speak on intelligently as I am currently shopping around for one. As far as Live rock I have a 60gallon tank and i bought just over 80lbs to put in my tank and sump. The rule of thumb from what I read is 1-2lbs per gallon buy as much as you can from the start. i'm sure many others will chime in but figured I'd let you know a little something good luck of course live rock depends on if you want to do a reef tank or swim tank etc

Does a salt water tank need to have filtration that requires drilling? I am 100% not comfortable drilling a tank. Especially a just purchased tank of several hundred dollars.. Is there any reasonably adequate filtartion that does not require drilling? My stand would also then need to be drilled as well right? How quickly things get complicated!

[DrewWoodside]

I agree with what was said above.. you will want to use a biological filter (ie live rock). You should get between 1-2lbs per gallon but it really depends on the porosity of the rock. You will need less if you get a more porous rock.

You're going to want to get your tank dilled to save hassle later on. If you haven't bought a tank yet I would look at pre-drilled tanks. You can also drill your own tank (that's what I did) and install you're own overflow box. You will also want to build a sump under your tank (or anywhere it fits).

I'm sure people with more experience will be able to chime in on the skimmer. I bought a used PM Bullet-1 and it works great but it is definitely an older skimmer. You can save a bunch of money by buying things in the classifieds.

What are some good websites for pre drilled tanks? I was really hoping to get a rimless tank.. That's part of the dream for me!

[mjhall85]

No it doesn't have to be drilled its more so a personal preference just like many others have said they wish they would of went that route from the get go. If you haven't bought that tank already I would look for a drilled one. As far as the stand goes it would just need a couple inch hole drilled for the bulkhead.

[Brando8719]

What are some good websites for pre drilled tanks? I was really hoping to get a rimless tank.. That's part of the dream for me!

I can't really help you out on the websites... but I know my lfs usually always has a few in stock. With the price you will have to pay on shipping it might be your better option.

[DrewWoodside]

I agree with what was said above.. you will want to use a biological filter (ie live rock). You should get between 1-2lbs per gallon but it really depends on the porosity of the rock. You will need less if you get a more porous rock.

You're going to want to get your tank dilled to save hassle later on. If you haven't bought a tank yet I would look at pre-drilled tanks. You can also drill your own tank (that's what I did) and install you're own overflow box. You will also want to build a sump under your tank (or anywhere it fits).

I'm sure people with more experience will be able to chime in on the skimmer. I bought a used PM Bullet-1 and it works great but it is definitely an older skimmer. You can save a bunch of money by buying things in the classifieds.

Everyone is great, I'm having an informational overload right now. But it's a great thing! Okay I'm just going to SW noob out on everyone since I've already started. Ultimate SW Noot question about filtration in 3....2....1..... With the filtraiton, what is the name of the type that requires a drilled tank? Also, does that then mean the stand or cabinet the tank is on needs to also be drilled?(obviously, which means I'll be doing some drilling whether I like it or not right?) Whatever tubes I'm putting into the drilled holes, how does this not have leakage? Do I use some sort of sealant? Or are the tubes standardized and perfect fitting?

[DrewWoodside]

No it doesn't have to be drilled its more so a personal preference just like many others have said they wish they would of went that route from the get go. If you haven't bought that tank already I would look for a drilled one. As far as the stand goes it would just need a couple inch hole drilled for the bulkhead.

I know my questions are crazy, so I'm sorry. I'm like a newborn baby regarding SW. So why is having the tank drilled a preference again? Is it simply b/c it's less stuff being visible? Or is the filtration then more effective as well? Thanks :bounce1:

[smellslikeTUNA]

What are some good websites for pre drilled tanks? I was really hoping to get a rimless tank.. That's part of the dream for me!

For your drilling issue, just buy a tank thats "Reef Ready". See if your LFS carries any or see if they can order it for you because shipping costs on one of these tanks will probably scare you away. I had my LFS order my rimless 57g ReefReady Oceanic Illuminata and it was there within days! :) This tank is absolutely my pride& joy couldn't be happier with it!
(Pic is slightly outdated, has some life in it finally... but gives you an idea if your looking for a good rimless tank)
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/8659/kessil4.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/690/kessil4.jpg/)

[DrewWoodside]

No it doesn't have to be drilled its more so a personal preference just like many others have said they wish they would of went that route from the get go. If you haven't bought that tank already I would look for a drilled one. As far as the stand goes it would just need a couple inch hole drilled for the bulkhead.

Hey, the forum won't let me PM you back until I have 10 posts.. I will reply for sure then, thanks!

[DrewWoodside]

For your drilling issue, just buy a tank thats "Reef Ready". See if your LFS carries any or see if they can order it for you because shipping costs on one of these tanks will probably scare you away. I had my LFS order my rimless 57g ReefReady Oceanic Illuminata and it was there within days! :) This tank is absolutely my pride& joy couldn't be happier with it!
(Pic is slightly outdated, has some life in it finally... but gives you an idea if your looking for a good rimless tank)
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/8659/kessil4.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/690/kessil4.jpg/)

This is exactly what I'm talking about. That's gorgeous(yes I realize it's an empty tank.) For some reason I'm obsessed with rimless, and I have a feeling I'm going to fall in love with this project. I will definitely be checking into LFS possibilities.

[smellslikeTUNA]

^I will never go with anything but rimless, love the modern & sleek look of it

[mjhall85]

Most LFS will have to order them I personally never seen any rimless in my local one, I have a rimmed tank just because I got a smoking deal on my 60gallon drilled

[johnwick]

Tuna, I hope that's not a bottle of Windex sitting on the table you used to clean the glass. Keep that stuff away!! :)

[DrewWoodside]

Most LFS will have to order them I personally never seen any rimless in my local one, I have a rimmed tank just because I got a smoking deal on my 60gallon drilled

Is it difficult to come by a rimless reef ready tank if I go via LFS? I really don't have the extra cash, but I will sacrifice to make sure the tank is rimless. Okay, now for the bad news. If you guys had to estimate.. Lets suppose I get around a 40gallon tank. What would the cost of the entire filtration system be?(generally speaking, I understand of course price varies depending on where it is purchase dand what is purchased.) Also, what would the price of a skimmer be?

Thanks so much everyone!

[DrewWoodside]

^I will never go with anything but rimless, love the modern & sleek look of it

Do they have smaller models of that tank? Even by a different brand? Are there any good websites for browsing this? I'm guessing LFS will be one of my first looks, but while I'm stuck at work... I'd like to put price points together in my head..

[smellslikeTUNA]

Is it difficult to come by a rimless reef ready tank if I go via LFS? I really don't have the extra cash, but I will sacrifice to make sure the tank is rimless. Okay, now for the bad news. If you guys had to estimate.. Lets suppose I get around a 40gallon tank. What would the cost of the entire filtration system be?(generally speaking, I understand of course price varies depending on where it is purchase dand what is purchased.) Also, what would the price of a skimmer be?

Thanks so much everyone!

probably somewhere in the 300-400 ballpark for something that will work, could always try craigslist?

[mjhall85]

One thing I have been told over and over is don't be cheap when buying things for your tank depending if you go with a sump or other filtration it will vary from 100 to a few hundred very easily

[smellslikeTUNA]

Tuna, I hope that's not a bottle of Windex sitting on the table you used to clean the glass. Keep that stuff away!! :)

it is. I know, I am ashamed :worried:. I've since upgraded to ro/di+vinegar :)

[smellslikeTUNA]

I really don't have the extra cash


If you don't have extra cash, I would reccomend waiting until you do before you jump into this hobby. Your wallet will drain faster than you can believe! Not to scare you off, but be ready because costs add up quickly

[DrewWoodside]

^I will never go with anything but rimless, love the modern & sleek look of it

This is a rimless model too right?(i'm affraid it's going to show up with a thick black or brown trim) With the whole reef ready setup? Not quite as sleek as the Oceanic model, but still rimless and bad ***?

[DrewWoodside]

If you don't have extra cash, I would reccomend waiting until you do before you jump into this hobby. Your wallet will drain faster than you can believe! Not to scare you off, but be ready because costs add up quickly

Okay 40 Gallon Truv = $250 + $100(?) for shipping.

Filter and Skimmer = roughly $400

Lighting = roughly $200

Sand + 50 LBS of live rock = ?

(Miscellaneous other stuff I need?) =

[Brando8719]

If you are seeding your live rock you can get away with buying less.. It's usually around $8-$12/lb then buy your dead rock for $2-$4/lb... so if you buy 10lbs of live rock total costs will be around $200.

I bought aragonite sand.. which was $50 for a 40lb bag.

You also need a bunch of other miscellaneous stuff... salt, test kits, heater, thermometer, pumps, powerheads, plumbing, etc... this will cost you at least another couple hundred.

[smellslikeTUNA]

Your lighting costs are probably slightly underestimated, will probably be closer to a bottom line of 300 depending what you want to keep in the tank

[smellslikeTUNA]

Also don't skimp and get a hydrometer to measure Salt content in your water get a refractometer it'll run you ~$50

[JCareyETexas]

If you don't have extra cash, I would reccomend waiting until you do before you jump into this hobby. Your wallet will drain faster than you can believe! Not to scare you off, but be ready because costs add up quickly

+1 .... I saw somebody's signature one time that said something about it costing $5 per gallon and I thought to myself, "no way". Well, about $5 per gallon later I learn that that statement is pretty accurate.

[DrewWoodside]

If you are seeding your live rock you can get away with buying less.. It's usually around $8-$12/lb then buy your dead rock for $2-$4/lb... so if you buy 10lbs of live rock total costs will be around $200.

I bought aragonite sand.. which was $50 for a 40lb bag.

You also need a bunch of other miscellaneous stuff... salt, test kits, heater, thermometer, pumps, powerheads, plumbing, etc... this will cost you at least another couple hundred.

So If i went with a total of 40 Lbs of Rock, and seeded. What % of my rock would need to be live to properly seed it and save money? Thanks!

[DrewWoodside]

Your lighting costs are probably slightly underestimated, will probably be closer to a bottom line of 300 depending what you want to keep in the tank

Would you consider this model to be a decent runner up to your 57 G Oceanic? It's rimless and looks to be a fairly quality company..

Dollars are adding up fast, Really appreciating how this forum is allowing me to get a quote before ever entering a LFS. I can't imagine how ppl used to jump into brand new hobbies before internet forums.

[smellslikeTUNA]

So If i went with a total of 40 Lbs of Rock, and seeded. What % of my rock would need to be live to properly seed it and save money? Thanks!

5 lbs of live would seed any amount of dry. I went with 50# dry and 15# live from marcorocks.com, great rock btw

[dsn112]

So If i went with a total of 40 Lbs of Rock, and seeded. What % of my rock would need to be live to properly seed it and save money? Thanks!

You can but 39lbs of dry rock and add a lb or two of live rock to seed it, it won't happen overnight, but if you can be patient, it will happen. If you can be patient, you can start your cycle, and as its cycling over a month or two, you can slowly acquire your other stuff like lights and so on.

My new 20l is cycling now with base rock and sand and a heater and powerhead, and I am slowly buying my t5's, skimmer and other odds and ends.

Also look on craigslist and other local forums for rock and supplies, because people jump into this hobby and spend a ton of money, then quit after a few months and unload it all cheap. Buying new stuff in this hobby is cool for a day, then you realize you could have got it for 60% less if you hunted a bit

[smellslikeTUNA]

^I wouldn't take advice from a phillies fan ;) (juuuuust kidding) Go CARDS!

[maymania6]

I know my questions are crazy, so I'm sorry. I'm like a newborn baby regarding SW. So why is having the tank drilled a preference again? Is it simply b/c it's less stuff being visible? Or is the filtration then more effective as well? Thanks :bounce1:

Having a drilled tank means that the water draining into the filtration system (sump/refugium) does not have to involve a siphon effect. A HOB (hang on back) drain requires a siphon/pump in order for the water to flow over the back of the tank and into your sump/filter. Having a drilled drain means no siphon, and more importantly, no siphon-break, like when the power goes out, which could cause water to overflow and end up on your floor.

On a personal note, a drilled tank looks more aesthetically pleasing. You have nothing hanging over the back of the tank to look at, and if you like the rimless look, Im willing to bet that you would NOT like a bunch of tubes hanging over the back of the glass. Just a month ago we drilled our 180gallon tank. It was scary, but ultimately it was quite easy. Check out glass-holes.com if you decide to drill yourself.

Word of advice, research like crazy!! Dont even set up your tank until you understand all the options of salt water filtration, water chemistry, and fish care. Read every bit of information you can. I bet I read for atleast a month and a half before I was even remotely clued in!

Good luck and welcome to salt!!:D

[PoeticInjustice]

Also look on craigslist and other local forums for rock and supplies, because people jump into this hobby and spend a ton of money, then quit after a few months and unload it all cheap. Buying new stuff in this hobby is cool for a day, then you realize you could have got it for 60% less if you hunted a bit

+1 on this. You'll get a lot of good deals if you look around and be really patient. :thumbsup:

[A_Z]

well here are some good rimless that are already drilled they offer multiple sizes, I know because I have looked into rimless tanks as well.

Current USA's line of Solana offers several sizes up to 67 gallon and some even have the sump, stand included.

Next there is the Finnex line that offers some smaller sizes.

Cadlights which is what I am going to get is very versatile and has many different sizes at an affordable price.

Elos are nice tanks and an option but they are really expensive.

Glasscages makes custom rimless tanks but If you do that I would go with Reef Savvy custom tanks.

*some notes are to check the glass thickness on rimless some powerheads (like vortech) have a max thickness to operate on.

the filtration ballpark would be in the $200-400 range easy esp if you add ATO, reactors and all the stuff. and don't forget a reliable return pump (my favorites are Sicce USA and Eheim)

also yes research until you are sick this will help you get the most value out of your equipment. two import things are an RO/DI and a Refractometer. The refractometer are quite affordable at about $40+ and a basic RO/DI would run in the $100+ range.

also I wouldn't go with sugar fine sand I would go with aragonite in the 2mm size range, my favorite is Tropical Eden Reef Flakes.

:)

my 50g rimless system I have estimated to cost in the $2500 range +
(mostly because of LED lights are over $1000 but worth it)

[smellslikeTUNA]

H

On a personal note, a drilled tank looks more aesthetically pleasing. You have nothing hanging over the back of the tank to look at, and if you like the rimless look, Im willing to bet that you would NOT like a bunch of tubes hanging over the back of the glass. Just a month ago we drilled our 180gallon tank. It was scary, but ultimately it was quite easy. Check out glass-holes.com if you decide to drill yourself.



Good luck and welcome to salt!!:D

A sump is essential for a rimless tank, otherwise your kinda defeating the purpose from an aesthetics point of view. Also, it adds water volume to your system which is a plus. I personally don't trust anything that's HOB, and you can also add a refugium which can be just as interesting as the display tank itself! I personally chose to go with a trigger systems sump/refugium. You can check them out on premiumaquatics.com if you want

[smellslikeTUNA]

Cadlights which is what I am going to get is very versatile and has many different sizes at an affordable price.


I love the cadlights systems :)... this would be a great choice to start off with!


you might like this? not too small, yet not too big :) and decently priced
http://www.marinedepot.com/Innovative_Marine_38_Gallon_Mini_Nuvo_Aquarium_%28Tank_Only%29_White_Nano_Cube_Aquariums_Tanks-Innovative_Marine-0I10217-FIAQNCNT-vi.html

[mjhall85]

Yes craigslist is your friend i found some great koralia powerheads for 20a piece every store i been into they are 50 or more. Also like smellsliketuna said macrorocks is a great site i ordered rock from them the other day and got it what seemed like virtually over night.Saltwater is a great hobby but is not the cheapest to start but from what I gather once you have all the things needed it's not all that much just my two cents

[DrewWoodside]

well here are some good rimless that are already drilled they offer multiple sizes, I know because I have looked into rimless tanks as well.

Current USA's line of Solana offers several sizes up to 67 gallon and some even have the sump, stand included.

Next there is the Finnex line that offers some smaller sizes.

Cadlights which is what I am going to get is very versatile and has many different sizes at an affordable price.

Elos are nice tanks and an option but they are really expensive.

Glasscages makes custom rimless tanks but If you do that I would go with Reef Savvy custom tanks.

*some notes are to check the glass thickness on rimless some powerheads (like vortech) have a max thickness to operate on.

the filtration ballpark would be in the $200-400 range easy esp if you add ATO, reactors and all the stuff. and don't forget a reliable return pump (my favorites are Sicce USA and Eheim)

also yes research until you are sick this will help you get the most value out of your equipment. two import things are an RO/DI and a Refractometer. The refractometer are quite affordable at about $40+ and a basic RO/DI would run in the $100+ range.

also I wouldn't go with sugar fine sand I would go with aragonite in the 2mm size range, my favorite is Tropical Eden Reef Flakes.

:)

my 50g rimless system I have estimated to cost in the $2500 range +
(mostly because of LED lights are over $1000 but worth it)

I'm now thinking a 29 gallon rimless would be my ideal size. Living in an apartment, and not being filthy rich. I'm sure I won't save too much money by keeping it relatively small. But I'll feel a little more confident in it from several aspects.

I've seen a lot of people happy with their bio cubes. This would be a really easy solution to my tank search, but I really have my heart set on an open top rimless tank. Do any of the above have 29 Gallon sizes? Elos is too expensive, and glass cages told me they wouldn't deliver into manhattan(i live in nyc.)

Would it still be advised that I get a skimmer at 29 gallons? I'm thinking yes if I want to be as thorough as possible.

Also, are there any obvious fish I couldn't keep as a result of an open top? Any known jumpers that would be a really good 29g fit..

And just on a side question. Is it possible to keep 2 dwarf angels in a 29 gallon tank? I would obviously limit the # of other inhabitants. Just wondering. The Coral Beauty and Red Stripe angel fish have really caught my eye.(might as well find out the truth early about what I can't have..)

Thanks everyone!

[DrewWoodside]

I'm now thinking a 29 gallon rimless would be my ideal size. Living in an apartment, and not being filthy rich. I'm sure I won't save too much money by keeping it relatively small. But I'll feel a little more confident in it from several aspects.

I've seen a lot of people happy with their bio cubes. This would be a really easy solution to my tank search, but I really have my heart set on an open top rimless tank. Do any of the above have 29 Gallon sizes? Elos is too expensive, and glass cages told me they wouldn't deliver into manhattan(i live in nyc.)

Would it still be advised that I get a skimmer at 29 gallons? I'm thinking yes if I want to be as thorough as possible.

Also, are there any obvious fish I couldn't keep as a result of an open top? Any known jumpers that would be a really good 29g fit..

And just on a side question. Is it possible to keep 2 dwarf angels in a 29 gallon tank? I would obviously limit the # of other inhabitants. Just wondering. The Coral Beauty and Red Stripe angel fish have really caught my eye.(might as well find out the truth early about what I can't have..)

Thanks everyone!

So I've been looking at the 34 G Solana. It appears to be completely sold out everywhere.. That looks pretty much exactly like what I want. Not surprised it's gone.

[Brando8719]

I'm now thinking a 29 gallon rimless would be my ideal size. Living in an apartment, and not being filthy rich. I'm sure I won't save too much money by keeping it relatively small. But I'll feel a little more confident in it from several aspects.

I've seen a lot of people happy with their bio cubes. This would be a really easy solution to my tank search, but I really have my heart set on an open top rimless tank. Do any of the above have 29 Gallon sizes? Elos is too expensive, and glass cages told me they wouldn't deliver into manhattan(i live in nyc.)

Would it still be advised that I get a skimmer at 29 gallons? I'm thinking yes if I want to be as thorough as possible.

Also, are there any obvious fish I couldn't keep as a result of an open top? Any known jumpers that would be a really good 29g fit..

And just on a side question. Is it possible to keep 2 dwarf angels in a 29 gallon tank? I would obviously limit the # of other inhabitants. Just wondering. The Coral Beauty and Red Stripe angel fish have really caught my eye.(might as well find out the truth early about what I can't have..)

Thanks everyone!

You should take a look at liveaquaria.com.. It pretty much says how big of a tank you need for each type of fish. Both angels are semi-aggressive and probably won't work together.. if you will have any hope of keeping both you will need to add them at the same time.

Even in the red stripes blurb it says "It prefers not to be housed with other Dwarf Angels." So I would advise against it.

[DrewWoodside]

Okay the cadlights is blowing my mind right now... At 39 gallons, it looks like it would be a very user friendly option for me to begin corals, and it's rimless!

http://www.cadlights.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=41&products_id=153

[DrewWoodside]

You should take a look at liveaquaria.com.. It pretty much says how big of a tank you need for each type of fish. Both angels are semi-aggressive and probably won't work together.. if you will have any hope of keeping both you will need to add them at the same time.

Even in the red stripes blurb it says "It prefers not to be housed with other Dwarf Angels." So I would advise against it.

I figured so much would be the case. I will 100% be very informed about fish purchases. No impulse livestock purchases on this project!

[smellslikeTUNA]

get the cadlights!

And wouldn't worry about it being in an apartment, my illuminata is sitting in the living room of my apartment right now

[DrewWoodside]

get the cadlights!

And wouldn't worry about it being in an apartment, my illuminata is sitting in the living room of my apartment right now

Cadlights apparently has an aquarium and system with stand, that would all but eliminate any of the difficult DIY aspects of it. I'm sure some of the more advanced hobbyists, those trickier touches are the fun parts but.. The cadlights looks great.

http://www.cadlights.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=41&products_id=153

The cadlights system for the 39 G comes with the filter, skimmer and other particulars etc.. Do you think this stuff is adequate that it comes with? Also, they offer the option of buying your lighting with the system. Is buying the lighting via cadlights with my system advisable? I'm wondering if lighting should be bought separately... I want this sooo bad.

Soon I'll be just as cool as the people on Tanked! JK

[smellslikeTUNA]

Cadlights apparently has an aquarium and system with stand, that would all but eliminate any of the difficult DIY aspects of it. I'm sure some of the more advanced hobbyists, those trickier touches are the fun parts but.. The cadlights looks great.

http://www.cadlights.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=41&products_id=153

The cadlights system for the 39 G comes with the filter, skimmer and other particulars etc.. Do you think this stuff is adequate that it comes with? Also, they offer the option of buying your lighting with the system. Is buying the lighting via cadlights with my system advisable? I'm wondering if lighting should be bought separately... I want this sooo bad.

Soon I'll be just as cool as the people on Tanked! JK

If this was me making the decision from your perspective, I would probably go with the plug-n-play package and just get the lights and all the other goodies. I would imagine any problems you might encounter down the road would be much easier to fix dealing with a single company rather than 10 companies. But, you should probably research this more and get some feedback from people that have this system or a cadlights system similar to it before dropping nearly a grand on this stuff.

And, that "Tanked" comment better have been a joke :fun2:

[DrewWoodside]

If this was me making the decision from your perspective, I would probably go with the plug-n-play package and just get the lights and all the other goodies. I would imagine any problems you might encounter down the road would be much easier to fix dealing with a single company rather than 10 companies. But, you should probably research this more and get some feedback from people that have this system or a cadlights system similar to it before dropping nearly a grand on this stuff.

And, that "Tanked" comment better have been a joke :fun2:

A joke? I plan on installing this beautiful rimless fixture directly behind my toilet bowl. What a glorious thing it would be turning/flushing and seeing a gorgeous mini coral reef!

So just to be clear, you think(and I should of course research heavily before any major purchases.) But at a glance, you don't see anything particularly wrong with using cadlights lighting system right? I just wanted to make sure it wasn't some common knowledge that you don't buy lighting from a tank distributor or something.

Also, just wondering and I know I'll need to take this sort of specific quesiton to another section when I want thorough answers but.. What is the general price of fertilizers or food for the coral? What do they need besides an overpriced lighting system?

I'm beginning to feel pretty confident about everything I need to purchase. Although I'm sure if I had everything in front of me ready to hook up, I will have many head scratcher moments!

[smellslikeTUNA]

So just to be clear, you think(and I should of course research heavily before any major purchases.) But at a glance, you don't see anything particularly wrong with using cadlights lighting system right? I just wanted to make sure it wasn't some common knowledge that you don't buy lighting from a tank distributor or something.


As far as I have heard cadlights systems, including their lights, are great products.

Also, just wondering and I know I'll need to take this sort of specific quesiton to another section when I want thorough answers but.. What is the general price of fertilizers or food for the coral? What do they need besides an overpriced lighting system?


Can't REALLY comment on this as I would consider myself a newbie still, in fact I am only on day 7 of my cycle. However, I have been researching every aspect of this hobby and the equipment since last March. Be patient with everything about your system, including yourself :). I know that most corals will need some type of dosing (especially calcium) because they will deplete the elements that are present in your salt mix. These reactors can be pretty expensive.

I will have many head scratcher moments!

They never seem to end... which is partly why this hobby is so interesting

[DrewWoodside]

As far as I have heard cadlights systems, including their lights, are great products.




Can't REALLY comment on this as I would consider myself a newbie still, in fact I am only on day 7 of my cycle. However, I have been researching every aspect of this hobby and the equipment since last March. Be patient with everything about your system, including yourself :). I know that most corals will need some type of dosing (especially calcium) because they will deplete the elements that are present in your salt mix. These reactors can be pretty expensive.



They never seem to end... which is partly why this hobby is so interesting

Agreed, I'm sure if I go with the mostly all inclusive system from a quality brand, the more annoying head scratcher moments will be greatly reduced.

I understand you're still in the learning stages yourself, but.. For the more basic or beginner corals. What sort of additional things does one need to keep them healthy. I know that's an incredibly general question but.. For instance. In planted tanks, as a foundation for most plants including many basic ones. You need C02, a nutrient rich substrate and the more advanced you go you may need certain fertilizers.

How would this translate itself over to coral, and I'm sure it's not an exact translation. But generally speaking what else do I need to start up besides the system, lighting, filtration, correct water parameters, live rocks(some not live,) etc etc..

[A_Z]

well here was my complete equipment list to give you an idea (including misc)

broken into sections

Primary Equipment:

Display: 50g Long Cadlights Artisan 36 x 18 x 18 w/stock stand it comes with
Sump: Eshopps Refugium Series R-100 (rated at 20g capacity)
Skimmer: Reef Octopus NWB-110
Return Pump: Sicce 2.0
Lighting: x2 Aqua Illumination SOL
Cadlights Lamp Tree (to hang lights from)
AI Controller
AI 36 inch rail kit
AI hanging kit
Controller: Reef Angel
Powerhead for tank flow: Ecotech Marine Vortech MP 10 ES
JBJ Nano LED Glo Refugium Lamp/Light

Filtration:
(besides skimmer and sump)

Miracle Mud for Fuge
Dry rock rubble for Fuge
Ulva sea lettuce is my algae of choice for fuge
30-40 pounds dry rock (BRS, Marcorocks and Premium Aquatics mix)
1-2 pounds live rock (LFS)
15-30 lbs or Tropical Eden Reef Flakes
BRS Dual Carbon/GFO Reactors
Maxijet 1200 for reactors

Maintenance:

Salt mix (instant ocean)
Salifert Test Kits (Ammonia, pH, Nitrite, Nitrate, Alkalinity, Calcium, Magnesium)
Premium Aquatics Refractometer (comes with fluid to calibrate)
BRS Economy RO/DI
5 gallon buckets
20-50ft of one inch tubing for water changes
maxijet 1200 for water changes
arm length gloves for tank work
mag float medium
kent marine scraper

Livestock related:

Coral Dipping solution by Seachem
Specimen container large size
nets of various sizes fine mesh
fish foods
kent marine sea squirt and DFS basters

Misc:
PVC Plumbing (PVC primer, glue, pipe cutters, elbows, check valve, ball valves etc)

I think that is it :D
also although I provided brands it is for a general view too

[Playerdrm]

+1 .... I saw somebody's signature one time that said something about it costing $5 per gallon and I thought to myself, "no way". Well, about $5 per gallon later I learn that that statement is pretty accurate.
$5g seems extremely low to to me. I've always figured around $20-30 a gallon. At $5 a gallon a 49g tank would be $245. Easy to go over that on just a light let alone skimmer, sump, RO/DI if first tank, heater, ATO, Rock, pumps...Etc.

[jamesbaur13]

For food I'd suggest the following...

Cyclo-peeze Flake
Frozen Mysis
Rod's Fish Only
NLS Spectrum Pellets... 2mm
BRS Reef Chili

I'd also throw in these additives...

Kent Garlic Extreme
Selcon

I'd try to figure out what you can not obtain locally and order the rest with your dry goods purchases.

I didn't do this and it caused me to place a couple extra orders :sad2:

[snowriderz]

Cant wait to see the pics of the new CAD Lights 50G Long Artisan tank. its got good length width and height proportions. it should be awesome, keep us posted!

[jamesbaur13]

Salifert Test Kits (Ammonia, pH, Nitrite, Nitrate, Alkalinity, Calcium, Magnesium)

nets of various sizes fine mesh

For the test kits I'd get an API Saltwater Master Test Kit and the Salifert Kits you mentioned with exception to the Salifert Ammonia and Nitrite Kits.

Once cycled you won't need them too much. The only instance you will need them is if you have a large die off or if you are overfeeding to a huge extent. The biological filtration will break down nitrite and ammonia pretty quickly. The API is good enough to let you know something funky is going on. At that point it's up to you to figure out what and take the appropriate actions.

I'd use the cheapo API for all tests until you get to the point of adding corals. After that point then it will be advantageous to use the salifert kits. It's kind of a waste of money imo to be using the more expensive and accurate tests at times that you don't need accuracy.

As for the nets I'd use them only when you really really have to.

Netting fish adds stress to the fish. It's better for the fish if you use a clear plastic container to capture them, that way they always stay submerged in the water and are less apt to panic.

Recently I got frustrated with chasing a fish around the tank with a bowl and decided to use a net. Big mistake. My Anthias had it's mouth all tangled up in the net. After 30mins of me being very careful I managed to free him with no visible damage. Lesson learned.

[Bens_Reef]

ok, i scanned most of the post here and drilling that particular tank that you posted the link for will only work on the back or side of the tank as it is tempered on the bottom. your LFS should be able to drill it for you and install the bulkhead fairly cheap. (mine charges $35) then all you will have to do is install your pump and plumbing. i would do this if you can as more water volume will help your system stay more stable if something goes wrong.

i missed some pages in your thread but just a little insight, my tank so far has taken over $1000 where 300 is lights and ro/di system 200 with live rock, 100 for the tank, split the rest for everything else. adds up very fast. im still not done buying stuff either. need another pump ect.

[Reefnut2010]

There are many Budget Reefers, but to really be one you have to be eduacated on the subject, and keep things on the smaller end of the scale(100g or smaller). My advise to you is don't rush !! This is the singlemost problem with newbies. Do lots of research before starting. If you don't do this you'll end up spending twice as much...cause believe me once you start you're hooked. It's really more of an obssesion than a hobby for most !!. That's why regardless of wether we really need it,we always find excuses for that next purchase.

In my opinion a good tank should be at least 55-60 gallons. This doesn't mean you can't go smaller, but this will give you more options for stocking. A sump is a must. It will keep your filtration equipment out of view. Live rock is important, but many keep it simple (minimalist) and sweet.Skimmer a must.Carbon reactor a must. good flow and if you want Corals a good light is also a must. Read,read, and read some more. This is not a cheap obssesion. Even with small set ups, you'll end up dumping a couple of grand into it. It's a great hobby though and you don't have to buy everything at once.Again go slow.. good luck !~

[smellslikeTUNA]

That's why regardless of wether we really need it,we always find excuses for that next purchase.


Sounds to me more like an "addiction" than an "obsession" :bigeyes:

[A_Z]

also read the stickys there are some really good lengthy reads.