Marine Stock if possible?

My decision to try salt this way was to try to avoid all of the expenses of the equipment needed for a full blown large salt tank. I have read where you have to have a sump, protein skimmer, etc. So since I have decided to take this salt, order the salt let it cycle again get all the equipment, hydrometer and test kit and once its ready add the fish. Surely there is a fish out there for a 30 gallon tank. Am I own the right track? ty

 

You don't have to have a sump. Skimmer helps a lot but there are people who have done successful skimmer less tanks you can find some on this forum through the search.

 

What you have is ok as long as you understand the maintenance routine- cleaning the HOB filter frequently, vacuuming the CC, water changes...

And yes, there are plenty of marine fish suitable for a 30g tank. As mentioned before, however, you should steer clear of gobies and other fish that burrow in the substrate; you would need fine sand for them.

Here's where I go to research potential tank inhabitants:

Aquarium Fish: Tropical Freshwater Fish and Saltwater Fish for Home Aquariums

 

+1 LA is awesome.

 

Thank you all.....totally burned out on freshwater tanks.

 

it sounds like you really need to research some more on this hobby before taking the plunge. it takes alot of work. but if your up to it its more fun than a chore.

as said you cannot just put salt into a cycled freshwater tank and be ready to put fish in it. its an entirely different cycle between the two of them. your equipment is fine, this hobby doesnt have to be as complicated as alot of people make it out to be. my first 20 gallon reef tank had power compact lighting and a simple hang on the back filter along with the heater. this was the only equipment i had for my tank and it was a beautiful thriving tank. a skimmer is hardly necessary, especially while your only planning on fish in the tank. as soon as you plan for coral things get alot pricier.

as for the price comparison between fresh and saltwater fish, you cant get a decent saltwater fish for under ten dollars IMO, damsels are the cheapest by far and also a pain in the ass. clownfish are decent fish for their price. but compared to the usual freshwater fish being between 1 and 10 dollars its a major price difference. the saltwater hobby is alot more demanding, not only with maintenance but with the money as well.

 

I am going to do just that... thanks for the input and well informed post.