H e l l o ! ! !

Hi all,

I’m new to not only the Saltwater world but to keeping fish in general! : s

I started the build of my first ever reef tank in May 2011, using a 30 gallon tank complete with stand and hood I got from ebay. I drilled holes in the bottom of the tank for the overflow and return. I bought a small tank to use as my sump, creating the Refugium, skimmer chamber, bubble stop, and return pump chambers from acrylic dividers I cut and siliconed into the sump tank. (http://www.3reef.com/forums/members/mrk82-albums-building-my-first-reef-tank.html)

The tank has cycled and is now 73 days old and I thought I had a idea about what I want to achieve and how to go about it but I have very little hands on experience so I would welcome any comments about the equipment I’m using/not using (UV Sterilizer), the amount of flow I’m providing, my lighting, what I’m currently testing for and what else I should be testing for or anything else for that matter I would be very interested in hearing your opinions.

I HAVE HAD A FEW PROBLEMS BUT I’LL POST THEM IN THE RELAVENT THREAD!

Anyway I’m really happy to have found a bunch of people I have something in common with who can help me on my road to reef success. One day I hope to have enough experience and knowledge to impart with other members who are on the same journey!

Cheers
MRK82

 

Hey MRK82, welcome to 3Reef!

Here are some basic suggestions if you're a newcomer to the hobby:
1) Do 30% water changes twice a week (some people do it once a week)
2) Check water parameters often
3) The key to success is to keep everything stable and ideal (water changes help a lot in this aspect!)
4) Before buying a desired fish, check to see if it's compatible with your other tank inhabitants
5) Research, Research, Research

You're off to a great start! Hope to see more pictures from your tank!

 

nice tank. the sump area looks very organized.

 

Also, when I had my larger tank, I loved using my UV sterilizer. It kept the water clean and free of parasites. As you probably already know, it also kills everything that passes through it, whether good or bad. So, it's your call. But, for me, it was pretty useful overall.

 

WOW thanks guys, Its great feeling part of something! I don't know anyone who's intrested in this hobby so thanks again for you comments!

 

wecome, i can tell you planed your tank and it's paying off for you, looking good

 

Its always good to hear your on the right track! All comments are welcome!!

 

hello and welcome, glad to see a new comer who has done the necessary research before throwing himself into the hobby. seems like you passed the hardest part (the waiting) and the tank + sump does indeed look well thought out and organised, should be only fun and games from here.

 

I used to be into weight training but I was involved in an accident which prevents me from lifting anything heavier than a brue/pint this hobby is taking up ALL my spare time which I love! with a bit of patients and help from all you guys I think I'll be "reefing" for years to come!! Thanks for the comments, please keep them coming!