newbie here.

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by ryan88210, Jan 19, 2009.

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  1. ryan88210

    ryan88210 Plankton

    Joined:
    Jan 19, 2009
    Messages:
    2
    i am wanting to do a 75g reef tank. i am very new and dont know a whole lot about the process other than what i have read online. i think i want to do live rock b/c i like the anemone and colors and stuff. the things i want are

    some cool colorful fish
    some colorful anemone and coral
    crabs
    shrimps
    maybe an urchin

    can anyone tell me exactly what i would need to do this? thanks in advance.
     
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  3. PorkyBubs

    PorkyBubs Spaghetti Worm

    Joined:
    Mar 11, 2008
    Messages:
    195
    Do you have all your stuff, and lights?

    You need Sand, live rock, Salt water (of course), Lights that are very pricey, and 2-3 weeks of waiting.
     
  4. Bunner

    Bunner Bubble Tip Anemone

    Joined:
    Jun 20, 2008
    Messages:
    684
    Location:
    Ontario, Canada
    I would suggest reading some of the sticky threads in the "new to the hobby" hobby forum.

    your choices on fish will depend whether or not they can live together :) ie compatibility.

    Anemones require a mature tank, lots of light and excellent water conditions. I think they amazing creatures but maybe should stay in the ocean.

    but welcome! this form has a wealth of knowledge and some experienced, knowledgeable people.
     
  5. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Jul 10, 2007
    Messages:
    7,933
    Location:
    Miami, FL
    Welcome and check out this web-site. www.saltwater101.com

    Luna
     
  6. GuitarMan89

    GuitarMan89 Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Mar 31, 2008
    Messages:
    5,736
    Location:
    Wilmington, DE
    You need to do some research before you start. Are you planning on doing a sump or refugium? As for the basics, you will need a tank,(if you are planning a sump/refugium, I would get a pre-drilled tank), live rock (I would suggest base rock, it's cheaper and there won't be any nuisance algaes or pests. You will need between 75-150lbs for a reef, less for a FOWLR), Protein skimmer, heater(s) ( I would suggest two if you do a sump incase one fails) Power Heads/pumps (these are for water circulation. Try to get anywhere from 20-35 times turnover in your tank, I have 30x)lighting This will be expensive. I would go with either a 6-8 bulb T5 setup or MH, depending on your budget and preference. Sand, salt. I would also get an Ro/DI system. Im sure im missing something. The most important part is to do research and understand what you are doing and why before you start. You will need patience and time, but you will be very happy with the result. Also remember that you will save time and money by doing it the right way first. Good luck
     
  7. RHorton

    RHorton Pajama Cardinal

    Joined:
    May 11, 2007
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    1,407
    Location:
    upstate NY
    Welcome to 3Reef.
     
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  9. bbsbliss

    bbsbliss Ritteri Anemone

    Joined:
    Jun 7, 2008
    Messages:
    640
    Location:
    Lake Orion MI
    Welcome to the reef! Enjoy the obsession...
     
  10. ryan88210

    ryan88210 Plankton

    Joined:
    Jan 19, 2009
    Messages:
    2
    i dont have anything yet. im waiting so i dont spend money on something i cant use. thanks for the warm welcomes. what is the difference b/t rock and corral? what about soft corral? i may just be confused about the anemone. i want the stuff that grows out of the rock in a tube like form thats colorful.
     
  11. Otty

    Otty Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Nov 20, 2006
    Messages:
    6,467
    Location:
    Elizabethtown, IN
    Welcome to 3reef.
     
  12. coral reefer

    coral reefer Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2006
    Messages:
    4,860
    Location:
    Wonderland
    Hi!
    Welcome to 3reef!
    I am glad that you are excited in getting into the marine hobby, however, it is not as easy as it may look. Freshwater and salt have their diferences and marine is definitely harder than fresh. Having said this, you may want to get one of the plethora of marine books that are ideally suited to your ability level. Gaining knowledge regarding all aspects of the marine hobby, from establishing and maintaining ideal water parameters, to equipment, chemistry, husbandry and livestock compatibility, will ensure your success and enjoyment combined with the health of your livestock.
    Please take the time to do it right, go slow and learn as much as you can beforehand and it should always be an ongoing effort.
    Best of luck to you and your involvement in the marine hobby. Enjoy it here on 3reef as this awesome site will offer you many benefits that, in combination with reading a good book on the marine hobby will only increase your chances of success!
     
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