Getting ready for my first saltwater aquarium.?

Question

I am a longtime fish keeper, with experience in goldfish, live-bearing tropicals, and African Cichlids so I have some basic know-how but fully understand that saltwater aquariums are completely different and a lot more difficult. I have been thinking about it for years and am finally ready to get my first saltwater aquarium. I have done tons of reading and research, but want to know from those out there with experience, what books or web sites would you recommend I read before getting started? Also, I have a 55g aquarium-not reef ready...is it reasonable to use it, or would you suggest only using on already set up for saltwater? What are the best filters to use? Can I use the same filters from my fresh water set up (HOB filters w/biofiber, enough to filter a 120g aquarium, being used on a 55g)? What substrates would you suggest? I have super rinsed play sand for my Cichlids, lots of work to rinse but looks beautiful, would that work? What other tips or suggestions do you have?

Answer 1

I suggest that you join a marine aquarium club. the marine aquarium society of toronto is an excellent source of information and other like minded fish keepers. If you dont live anywhere near Toronto I'm sure there is a marine society near by that you can join.

Answer 2

To start saltwater tanks have to be in the proper cycle, which can take up to 6 months. Live rock will help start and maintain the cycle. They will also be a good indicator by the presence of aptaisia and sponges of when your tank is ready for invertebrates. You can have fish during this period but no invertebrates. damsels are a cheap, beautifull and hearty fish to start with. Filtration is totally different since you are sustaining a cycle. The most important piece of equipment is a protein skimmer. You also need substantial flow increase. Power heads are the way to go. Crushed coral substrate is ideal. Sand does not allow enough flow and is much higher maintenance. Also a sump tank can be a usefull tool. if you need more info let me know.

Answer 3

Go to "About.com" and follow their links to "Setting up and maintaining a saltwater aquarium." They have lots of great information and good ideas for starter fish or inverts.

Good luck! I hear it costs about $500 to get started with a 55 gallon tank. There is no reason you couldn't use it.

You need something like crushed coral to maintain the pH of the saltwater. Be sure to get the right test kits, you must be sure the water stays in perfect condition. Marine fish and animals are VERY sensitve to changes in water quality.

But, if you do your research and use the knowledge of those who have done it already, you will be fine. Good luck!

Answer 4

While there are a lot of myths here about the expense of salt water you are only runing a 20 gallon I would go with fresh water. As far as decorations, if you are having a hard time choosing salt and fresh why not get the fake corals for your fresh water with white stone. It will kind of look like salt but be a fresh tank (and personally, Salt water is easier to care for. I have a number of both) Now for the fish. You can start with perhaps a crab or two, no more. If you plan on going with gold fish, I would not recomend more than 3 small fancy no common or comets. There are a number of beautiful fish. I would suggest going to your LFS and looking at them. Write down the names of the fish you would like to have then research, care, water params, and compatability then decide which you would like to have. You can buy a 20 gallon tank with hood stand and filters for under $100. Pets supplies plus usually sell the glass for around $1 per gallon and I think they have a sale going on. Shop around for the tank get the most for your money so yu can spend more on your fish and decor.