Cold Water marine aquariums

Not necessarily--it depends on where in the world the organisms come from. There is plenty of cold-water photosythesis that happens in a kelp forest in California, for example. But you would need an insulated, double-pane tank or you will have condensation on it all the time.

 

That's why Steve uses very thick acrylic. It avoids the sweating (condensation).

 

Good point. I think that would be more cost effective and wayyyyy lighter than glass. I believe acrylic is commonly used for cold-water tanks.

From what I understand such systems are more susceptible to heavy-metal poisoning and other chemistry probs. Any thoughts as to why?

 

Acrylic definitely would need to be used... otherwise the sweating would be very bad.

I'm going to talk to the guy at the LFS here today, he has relationships with divers all over and I may be able to get some connections lined up to obtain livestock. No need to price out equipment if I won't be able to find critters to put in a tank ;D

 

lareefs.com and liveaquaria.com often have temperate anemones. The latter often has temperate fish, but not for the faint of wallet. If you don't think 120 bucks is too much for a damsel, you can get Garibaldis from reefhotspot.com. There are many sources for that classic coldwater fish, the Catalina goby. I have even seen at least a couple species of surprisingly inexpensive Northern European anemones on ebay (apparently direct through the collector). If you find any other sources, let us know.

 

Also, you might consider contacting Steve Weast about getting in on a group order. He will possibly be bringing in a large shipment of fish and inverts from Tasmania when he puts up his next coldwater system this spring.

 

Good info on this! I'll make sure to check them out. I hope to set up a coldwater system in the next year or so. Due to the extraordinary chiller that is needed I'll most likely go for something in the 55g range when it's time.

Right now my time is being put towards breaking down my house and packing, making moving preparations, and my money is being put towards a 120g tank / new lights / etc. :