Hello all!

Hello everyone,
I know there are tons of similar threads on this and I've tried to read them all but would feel more comfortable with my own. I am new to saltwater and have been researching for a while what I would need to get started. Below is what I have or am planning on purchasing. I would really appreciate any advice or suggestions!

First off, I would like my tank to be relatively simple/easy to care fish, inverts and bright colorful corals (not SPS or claims as I've head they are more difficult). The only thing I have purchased at the moment is the 55 gallon tank with stand (4 foot tank). Below is the equipment I am planning on purchasing:

Filter: Eshopps WD-75CS Wet Dry Filter - 10 to 75 gallons - 18 in. x 10 in. x 16 in.

Protein Skimmer: Eshopps Protein Skimmer PSK-75 (made to sit in sump)

Pump: Marine land NJ1800 Maxi jet 474 GPH

Lighting: 48’’ 260w PI aquarium light reef marine (Amazon.com: 48" 260w Pl Aquarium Light Reef Marine Fish Tank Hood Light: Pet Supplies)

Circulation Pump: Hydor Koralia Evolution 750 Aquarium


Is there any other essential equipment I would need to purchase to get this project running?
Also, I am having a little trouble determining which sand to purchase and what kind or amount of live rock. I’ve heard you need about a pound or each per gallon or water.

Thanks in advance for any help or suggestion, I hope I'll be able to contribute more in the future.

 

Welcome to 3reef JackRyan.

You will need an instrument to measure specific gravity, preferable a refractometer.

The basic test kits for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates.

Typically you need 1-2 lbs or LR to get the real benefits of the biological filter.

I have found corals to be easier than fish in general so for level of ease do not rule even what is considered to be more sensitive hard corals.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. Forgot about the refractometer. Glad to hear about the corals...I think I prefer them over the fish as well.

 

Hello there! Welcome!

 

Welcome , sounds like you're going at this in a conscientious way !
Our tanks throughout the last couple of years have done well with both (easy) corals and fish (lightly stocked), best advise I can give ya is go slow and be consistent (as much as your schedule allows), I'm not at all a pro it just works for me
Rock is all in preference and sand well maybe someone can help a bit more ( can't remember what I bought) lol

 

Welcome to 3reef.