Dipping my toes back in

I have spent the passed 2 or 3 weeks researching, reading, going cross-eyed, more reading and some eventual learning. I am not new to fish or even saltwater but I have been out of the "game" for a while. I've gone from across the spectrum of animal ownership and have wandered my way back to the aquatic type again. When I was younger, I owned a 55gal. with a dwarf lion and also got into breeding/selling black mollies (it helped pay for the upkeep). Of course, I was still in grade school then so it goes without say that I've forgotten a thing or 2.

I've tossed ideas ranging from another 55gal. with a full custom sump/skimmer to my most current 29gal. HQI Biocube. Bottom line, I don't want/need anything more than a pair of clowns (True Percula) and a BTA, or bubble-tip anenome (btw, the usage of acronyms in the aquarium industry is terribly frustrating).

I know the standard lighting on the Biocube is not, typically, substantial enough to care for an anenome but I have heard, in some cases that it can be. I have also come the realization that 2 small powerheads would be a neccesity. Live sand/live rock are also on my list of must-haves.

How do most of you get your water? Purchase or have an RO/DI unit? I would like to do regular water changes but purhcasing pre "mixed" ocean water sounds like it can become expensive but making my own fresh water is a foreign concept (hook-up/implementation).

I've come across a protein skimmer that fits within the Biocube filtration system--the SR3 I believe. Anyone have any experience with this unit or would recommend it for my intended setup?

Anyone recommend an all-inclusive water testing kit? Thermometer? Refractometer?

I'm still undecided about the heater. One of my goals is to have a clean looking setup without a lot of clutter. Obviously, the power heads and heating element will combat my goal but I see this only as another hinderance to overcome.

I may have left some things out but I'm sure my mind will wander onto those things again. I plan on purchasing everything I need (to get the cycle going) this month. Up to that point, I'm impressionable and still soaking up what I can.

Pleasure to be aboard!

 

Welcome to 3reef and back into the hobby

 

hi and welcome ;D

 

Forgot to mention, the BTA isn't terribly compatible with the true percula. Would I be better advised to go with a carpet?

 

Hello and welcome to 3reef...Pastey

 

I wouldn't worry about the lighting since you have a MH that will be plenty sufficient for your BTA. I also wouldn't worry about the compatiblity of the clowns and the anemone. The clowns will take up residence where ever they want.

 

Welcome to 3reef.

A Biocube is a great way to get back into the hobby.

I suggest buying a RO/DI unit and mixing your own salt.

There is an acronym thread here some where I just can not find it presently. But I will keep looking.

Also if you did not see the thread, it's a good general information even for someone getting back into the hobby.

http://www.3reef.com/forums/new-hobby/whats-important-successful-tank-108699.html

 

Found it using the search function.

http://www.3reef.com/forums/general-reef-topics/acronyms-30622.html

 

Thank you for the acronym list. At least now I have to revert to when I get the "what the hell is that?" face.

 

Welcome to 3 reef Pastey