New Tank Setup

I'm looking to setup my 35 gallon hex and I have some questions. I plan on putting in live sand and rock no corals just yet. I was thinking a fuzzy dwarf lion or maybe a couple of clowns and a blenny. I'm confused, my lfs said I would not need a skimmer, and a biowheel would be fine. Others say a skimmer is a must. Also, how much live rock would I need as a minimum? Lastly, do I need special lighting for live rock? Thanks for all your advice.

 

Hey, how are ya?
Dwarf Lion fish are venomous, which I am sure you know by now, but they are also detivores that can quicklt pollute and degrade your water quality in a short period of time.
Yes, it is possible to maintain a marine and even reef aquarium without a skimmer! I know first hand of this scenario as I have a 35hex with nothing more than a carbon supplementation.
Though it is not a good habit to get into, especially if you get involved in certain species of corals and Tridacna clams, it can be done. I would think about investing in a skimmer as it will be more beneficial than just using a biowheel, in my opinion.
I would also refrain from going with a Dwarf Lion if I were you, as serious consequences can arise, especially if one is not careful or is too comfortable in his/her ways! Plus it is kind of a small tank for the Lion.
You do not need specieal lighting for live rock as PC's, T5's and halides are acceptable lighting arrangements.
As for the amount of live rock, I would try for the more porous of live rock for optimal benefits and reduced costs(porous= like a sponge, light and many holes, nooks and crannies).
Enough live rock to fill about a quarter of your tank is sufficient and I would refrain from making it into a wall and building the rock up against the back of your glass tank. This reduces the amount of water flow to that part of your tank.

 

Theres not much to add after CR, with the exception of welcome to 3reef and do lots of research before you go out and buy anything. Luna