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Ok guys, stick with me here...I've been READING constantly...I pretty much understand whats going on under a tank now. SOO.. I found 2 tanks, reasonably priced. 20 gal (I know they're small but affordable) Finnex. They both have built in filtration systems, one has a built in refugium... the other has a built in skimmer. Which one would be the most useful and cost effective? I would think the tank with the refugium because it seems it would be easier to ad a skimmer on. Any advice?

 

Hey Emily, welcome to the 3reef. All advice given so far is good. I dont know much about the above tanks but I would advise to take your time and scan your local craigslist. I have read many threads about people getting steal deals on almost everything you will need. Keep an eye out for the "for sale" thread here too. You have to be quick though as supplies go fast there. Good luck.

Brian

 

Yes, try to find some used equipment or people tearing down entire systems. I remember seeing somebody in this board post for $200 at least over $1000 of reef ready equipment.

 

Nothing wrong with a 20gal. tank but the previous answers are correct,larger is easier with a better chance for success.In a 20gal. tank you would also be limited to just a couple small fish and would probably want more than that before long.Take a look at some of the fish for sale on websites such as liveaquaria.com and notice the minimum tank size recomended and you'll probably start to get the picture.Also,be careful about advise from local fish stores as they often mislead people just to make a sale.This site is a good sourse for advise....honest answers.Good luck and welcome!!!