Theme Tank Possibilities?

Hello there forum, I am very interested in getting started in saltwater aquariums but have no prior experience. I've always been very interested in theme setups and for some reason have the idea in my head that it would be awesome to have an aquarium based on southern California's reef systems. However I know next to nothing about what type of creatures that would entail or if it's even feasible for a novice to attempt something like this.
I was wondering if anyone could offer any advice on if such a project can be attempted or if there are any other real world reef systems a beginner might attempt more easily. Thanks in advance!

Also, the tank in question that I have available is 80 gallons and is very rectangular and long in shape, though I don't have exact measurements on hand currently.

 

First let me welcome you to 3reef. I'm also just getting started with SW aquariums, but I can assure you that there will be plenty of knowledgeable people here to assist you (although I'm not one of them, yet).

Theme tanks sound very exciting and will most likely take time to research. I think the difficulty will be based on how accurate and precise your tank will be to the theme you are shooting for. In my opinion, tank themes, decorations, etc. are all a matter of personal choice, and I hope for the best of luck with your mission.

Not sure if this will help, but here's a link to a site that offers information on various types of fish. You can even specify the location of fish you are interested in. (ex. you are interested in California, so you can search for marine fish from California.)

The site was passed on to my by another 3reef member and it helped me. http://www.fishbase.org/

Best of luck.

 

Welcome to 3reef. Over the summer I noticed a slow down in the amount of new members here. Now as the summer winds down to an end, more & more people I see coming back and becoming new members too.

As far as the theme...it's feasible, yes. Though I don't know what exact inhabitants the Pacific ocean has. I'm sure others can help you out with this.

 

Welcome to 3reef.

It will be possible to get a fish or two but most coral you would want will not be because S Cal water is temperate not tropical like the coral that is available.