FishChannel Forums / Saltwater Forums / A Place for Beginners / Where to start / Latest Posts

RE: Where to start

Nep2Ns PlumR — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:41:46 GMT

I really like the 40g breeder idea. It's a great size tank if you decide to move up to a reef in the future too. Very inexpensive to light and the dimensions make for some nice aquascaping.

RE: Where to start

Hailey — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 13:35:02 GMT

Check Craigslist.org for your area, and local classifieds. You can get amazing deals on used tanks (just make sure they are water tight before buying).

RE: Where to start

guppygirl1990 — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 12:38:36 GMT

Wheres a good place to buy a bigger tank?Most of the time I've gotten mine from my LSF but there tanks are really pricey.Is the internet a good place?thanks.

RE: Where to start

Hailey — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 04:40:44 GMT

A long, wide, shallow tank is best. Live rock can topple and break glass if it is stacked too high, and the more swimming space there is, the better. Also, gas exchange is better in a tank with a bigger footprint. That's not to say you can't use a tall tank, but you'd probably be better off with a different one.

RE: Where to start

guppygirl1990 — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 19:25:50 GMT

Ok next question does the shape of the tank matter like could I use my really tall and skinny 40 gallon or does it need to be normal shaped?

RE: Where to start

Hailey — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 12:58:51 GMT

There's no way we can tell you everything you need to do...there's just way too much information. Saltwater is far more complicated as far as initial start up goes than freshwater so it is very important that you get off on the right foot. I would read everything you can here to start with. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/index.htm You definitely should read the entire set up 1 and 2 guides, about livestock, and maintenance and operation. Also, I would pick up a a good saltwater book like The Conscientious Marine Aquarist and read it cover to cover.

As for your tank size to start out with, I would go as large as you possibly can (40g or more would be the minimum I would suggest). The parameters can shift dramatically in small tanks, and in saltwater that is deadly. Also, stocking has to be much lighter in saltwater than freshwater, so you want as much space as possible (or you will be disappointed by what you can keep). For instance, that 10g tank you mentioned could basically hold about one small fish, if any (I wouldn't generally recommend any fish in a tank that small to a beginner). At least with a 40g you are looking at being able to choose 3-5 fish depending on size.

Where to start

guppygirl1990 — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 10:02:53 GMT

Ok I think I'm ready to start with saltwater but I have no idea were to start.How small a tank can a saltwater be?Would ten gallons be big enough?What are some good fish to start with?Weres a good place to get all the stuff I?What all do I need?Ok I think thats it but I'm sure i'll of more.