Beginner 55 gallon

[bridget111188]

Hello my name is Bridget. I bought a 55 gallon tank at a dollar per gallon sale about 6 months ago. I'm planning on starting up a saltwater tank. I have years of experience in fresh water and about a year experience in maintaining saltwater. But I have never started up a saltwater tank. I'm planning on housing fish and coral in this tank. So I have the tank, fluval led reef light, net, 55 gallon heater. I need a lot more supplies please let me know if I'm missing anything. This is where I need your input.
1 I have no idea what would be a good stand for a 55 gallon. Is there a stand out there that is heavy duty? What do you guys use?
2 I need a protein skimmer. What do you guys think about the Coralife turbo twist uv sterilizer?
3 What is the best live sand/coral to use?
4 I know I need two power heads. What ones should I use for a 55 gallon tank?
5 I don't think I'll be using a sump is that a good idea? can I put a UV sterilizer right in the tank?
6 I love my Marineland 70 gallon I don't think I'll have space for a canister filter. Is this a good idea?
7 What is the best salt mix to use?
8 Do I need to add any additives to the water before add fish and coral?
9 I know I also need a hydrometer, thermometer, test kit what do I need to test for?
10 How long does it usually take for a salt water tank to cycle?
11 How long should I wait to put fish and coral in?
12 What should I put in first?
I know it's a lot to take in but I would be so thankful for any information.

 

[jay0705]

First off get this book. Saltwater aquariums for dummy's. Honestly its a great beginner book. It covers a ton of your questions. I LL help where I can. A stand. Any stand build for a 55 is fine but if u go w a sump you want one that has room under it for it. Salt mix, I use instant ocean BC in my area its easy to find. I also like red sea but I can't find it any more. I run a fowlr tank and the instant works good. Cycling your tank it varies from tank to tank. I ran my 75 for a month b4 I added fish. To help get good live rock. The more life on it the better. Once your tank does cycle start w a hardy fish like clowns or fire fish. I didn't say damsels BC they can be nasty buggers lol. Yes clowns are in the same family but tank raised are generally better at least mine are

 

[geridoc]

Quote:
Originally Posted by bridget111188 http:///t/395886/beginner-55-gallon#post_3525707
Hello my name is Bridget. I bought a 55 gallon tank at a dollar per gallon sale about 6 months ago. I'm planning on starting up a saltwater tank. I have years of experience in fresh water and about a year experience in maintaining saltwater. But I have never started up a saltwater tank. I'm planning on housing fish and coral in this tank. So I have the tank, fluval led reef light, net, 55 gallon heater. I need a lot more supplies please let me know if I'm missing anything. This is where I need your input.
1 I have no idea what would be a good stand for a 55 gallon. Is there a stand out there that is heavy duty? What do you guys use?
2 I need a protein skimmer. What do you guys think about the Coralife turbo twist uv sterilizer? UV sterilizers are in-line, and are not placed submerged. There is a great deal of debate about their usefulness. I have had sterilizers, and have concluded that IMHO, they do not add to your success as a hobbyist.
3 What is the best live sand/coral to use? Lots of debate here, too. I think the quality of the live rock is more important than the sand. The live sand and rock they sell on this site seems to be well regarded (I am not in the employ of SWF).
4 I know I need two power heads. What ones should I use for a 55 gallon tank?
5 I don't think I'll be using a sump is that a good idea? can I put a UV sterilizer right in the tank? For the location of the UV sterilizer, see the answer to #2. I am a great believer in sumps - in addition to allowing you to hide your equipment, they provide increased water stability, and a place to grow macroalgae to lower nitrogenous waste products.
6 I love my Marineland 70 gallon I don't think I'll have space for a canister filter. Is this a good idea?
7 What is the best salt mix to use? For my FOWLR tanks I use Coralife, mainly because I have been using it for more than 30 years (if I can remember back that far). I use TtopicMarin Pro-Reef for my reef tanks, again, because I always have.
8 Do I need to add any additives to the water before add fish and coral? No
9 I know I also need a hydrometer, thermometer, test kit what do I need to test for? For fish, ammonium, nitrate, pH. I also prefer a refractometer to a hydrometer.
10 How long does it usually take for a salt water tank to cycle? This varies, depending on the nitrogen load introduced and the quality of the live rock. I used to use MOe's ammonium chloride method to cycle my tanks, and it always took exactly 6 weeks (back then we did not have live rock). My most recent tank start-up did not appear to cycle at all. I put in lots of live rock and a piece of cocktail shrimp. The shrimp rotted just fine, but ammonium never rose because the live rock had sufficient nitrosomonas bacteria to metabolise it away, so the tank was ready in very short order.
11 How long should I wait to put fish and coral in? Until the tank is cycled. Many corals will do better in a mature tank, so you might want to wait several months before introducing any expensive corals. Remember, nothing good ever happens quickly in a salt water tank.
12 What should I put in first? Something hearty that is not territorial, and will be able to coexist with the rest of your intended stock list.
I know it's a lot to take in but I would be so thankful for any information. Take a look at the guides for new hobbyists in another section of this beginners forum - Snake in particular has a great set of very specific and correct guides there to lead you. Good luck, and please do keep asking questions. Your fish and corals will be grateful.

 

[snakeblitz33]

Quote:
Originally Posted by bridget111188 http:///t/395886/beginner-55-gallon#post_3525707
Hello my name is Bridget. I bought a 55 gallon tank at a dollar per gallon sale about 6 months ago. I'm planning on starting up a saltwater tank. I have years of experience in fresh water and about a year experience in maintaining saltwater. But I have never started up a saltwater tank. I'm planning on housing fish and coral in this tank. So I have the tank, fluval led reef light, net, 55 gallon heater. I need a lot more supplies please let me know if I'm missing anything. This is where I need your input.
1 I have no idea what would be a good stand for a 55 gallon. Is there a stand out there that is heavy duty? What do you guys use? Build your own custom stand out of pine, oak or any other suitable material. Plywood is also great and durable. Have someone build a stand if you can afford it.
2 I need a protein skimmer. What do you guys think about the Coralife turbo twist uv sterilizer? Try reef octopus brand skimmers. They make some seriously good quality hang on back skimmers if you are going that route.
3 What is the best live sand/coral to use? Dry aragonite sand is what I recommend to start a tank with. Any live rock will do, but be careful about live fish stores that will sell you coralline covered cultured rock as base rock. Be careful about live rock that has aiptasia on it. You can do a simple google search for "what is an aiptasia?"
4 I know I need two power heads. What ones should I use for a 55 gallon tank? Reef tanks enjoy a little natural wave action. A lot of people are now prefering higher dollar powerheads, even for FOWLR systems... a nice little Jebao WP25 might be in the works... and for $100, it's a steal. Other decent powerheads on a budget are Koralias. You need something in the 550gph range each.
5 I don't think I'll be using a sump is that a good idea? can I put a UV sterilizer right in the tank? I always recommend a sump for any marine system, even fish only tanks. You can hide equipment that would otherwise end up in the tank and look bad.
6 I love my Marineland 70 gallon I don't think I'll have space for a canister filter. Is this a good idea? Even though there is only one person on this entire board that will disagree with me, I still never recommend canister filters on saltwater aquariums. Canister filters are for freshwater systems... period.
7 What is the best salt mix to use? Instant Ocean for me has been pretty consistent over the years, even though their alkalinity is a little on the low side... but you shouldn't worry about that right now.
8 Do I need to add any additives to the water before add fish and coral? You should start with saltwater from your local fish store originally, and then top off only with Reverse Osmosis DeIonized water (RO/DI). Purchasing a RO/DI unit for your home is a good idea anyways, even if it's not for the fish tank.
9 I know I also need a hydrometer, thermometer, test kit what do I need to test for? I recommend actually investing in a refractometer to be more accurate for testing salinity. Swing arm hydrometers have been way off for me and quite a few other people in the past. To ensure that you are getting the proper salt content levels, I highly recommend getting a refractometer. A digital thermometer is good enough to monitor the temp when you are home. The water temp should stay within 1-2*F at all times. For test kits, I recommend the basic test kit of API for starting off. Their ammonia, nitrite and pH drop test kits are decently accurate. Once you get into reefs, I recommend something more expensive like salifert or seachem titration style test kits.
10 How long does it usually take for a salt water tank to cycle? Anywhere from a week to thirty days. You have to monitor your ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels pretty close the first couple of weeks to make sure that there are no more traces of ammonia or nitrite in the water before adding your first fish.
11 How long should I wait to put fish and coral in? You wait until your tank is fully cycled... see above answer.
12 What should I put in first? Most people start off with clownfish... but I would start off with any small fish that appeals to you. You should start off with small, peaceful fish and work your way up to more aggressive fish.
I know it's a lot to take in but I would be so thankful for any information.
Read a few good books, talk to some knowledgeable people and read some online guides. You will eventually be another expert on these forums.

 

[mohawkninja]

I am not going to answer all of the questions because these people ? are smarter than me. I think that a great starter fish are green chromis because they will eat anything and they are very peaceful. They also don't turn evil like the other varieties of damsels.

 

[geridoc]

Quote:
Originally Posted by mohawkninja http:///t/395886/beginner-55-gallon#post_3525891
I am not going to answer all of the questions because these people ? are smarter than me. I think that a great starter fish are green chromis because they will eat anything and they are very peaceful. They also don't turn evil like the other varieties of damsels.
I agree. I also don't think there is anything more entertaining than a shoal of green chromis flitting around the tank together.

 

[beaslbob]

Let me tell you of one thing I did with my old 55g.
I just crammed in 1/4" square plastic grid (egg crate from ceiling section of home supply stores) about 3" in front of the back glass. ,
I then added two $10 2 tube 4' flourescent tubes with 6500k tubes (2 for $6) behind the tank pointing forward.
The idea is to make the back 3" of the tank a refugium where macro algaes and pods can thrive free of the fish.
Then I just put everything in front of the egg crate like you would do normally.
So I started the tank with macro algaes right from the start.
Then wait a week and add 4-5 male mollies.
Wait a week with no food being added.
Then add the more expensive saltwater fish like the chromis or whatever.
IMHO everything else is a far distant second to that in terms of making the tank easy to maintain and healthy for the fish. Live rock, live sand, filters, UV's, water changes--- everything. That tank ran for 8 years with a very heavy fish load, some easy soft type corals, with no water changes. The fish were active healthy and some were even spawining.
In that time I used a total of 3 55g bags of salt. Not to mention the expense saved by using play sand and landscape rocks from Home Depot.
But hey. That's just my .02

 

[bridget111188]

Quote:
Let me tell you of one thing I did with my old 55g.
I just crammed in 1/4" square plastic grid (egg crate from ceiling section of home supply stores) about 3" in front of the back glass. ,
I then added two $10 2 tube 4' flourescent tubes with 6500k tubes (2 for $6) behind the tank pointing forward.
The idea is to make the back 3" of the tank a refugium where macro algaes and pods can thrive free of the fish.
Then I just put everything in front of the egg crate like you would do normally.
So I started the tank with macro algaes right from the start.
Then wait a week and add 4-5 male mollies.
Wait a week with no food being added.
Then add the more expensive saltwater fish like the chromis or whatever.
IMHO everything else is a far distant second to that in terms of making the tank easy to maintain and healthy for the fish. Live rock, live sand, filters, UV's, water changes--- everything. That tank ran for 8 years with a very heavy fish load, some easy soft type corals, with no water changes. The fish were active healthy and some were even spawining.
In that time I used a total of 3 55g bags of salt. Not to mention the expense saved by using play sand and landscape rocks from Home Depot.
But hey. That's just my .02
Wow that sounds amazing! So let me get a couple things straight...
1/4 inch plastic grid 3 inches from the back of the tank... Then had 2 4inch fluorescent lightings set up behind the tank. How did you get the lights to stay up to the glass? How much of the back did you cover with the plastic? Where do you get macro algae? What brand did you get? So as soon as you set up the tank you put the algae in? I'm assuming when you set up you had a salt mix added, filter, power heads and a UV sterilizer, sand and live rock in place? The algae wont die when the ammonia spikes? Then you added mollies. Wont the mollies die in a saltwater tank? Some say UV sterilizers aren't as good as protein skimmer. What do you think? Did you have a sump? What type of filter did you use? What type of UV did you use?
Sorry for all the questions. I just would like to know how you managed your tank. It sounds like a great idea. Thanks

 

[beaslbob]

.Wow that sounds amazing! So let me get a couple things straight...
.
OK.
.

1/4 inch plastic grid 3 inches from the back of the tank... Then had 2 4inch fluorescent lightings set up behind the tank. How did you get the lights to stay up to the glass?
.
I did built a simple stand for the lights.
.
How much of the back did you cover with the plastic?
.
The entire back. The plastic grid (egg crate) is available as lighti diffusers used in drop ceilings. a 2'x4' sheet is around $10 or so. At the bottom I just used rocks to hold it and the top was held off by power heads. So the power heads were kinda hidden also. You do have to cut it in halfs or thirds to get it into the tank past the center brace.
.
Where do you get macro algae? What brand did you get? So as soon as you set up the tank you put the algae in?
.
SWF sells some along with other vendors. the best source is locals in you area who may be tossing the stuff each month. I recommend starting the tank with the macro algaes.

.
I'm assuming when you set up you had a salt mix added, filter, power heads and a UV sterilizer, sand and live rock in place?
.
Correct only I did not use live rock or a filter nor a UV sterilzer. For sand I used play sand from home depot. For rocks I used landscape type rocks and limestone rocks from a local quarry which cost $20 per TON.
.
The algae wont die when the ammonia spikes?
.
no. In fact the algae prefers ammonia over nitrates. So it is normal to have no ammonia spike during the cycle period. But not always.
.
Then you added mollies. Wont the mollies die in a saltwater tank?
.
actually mollies do better IME in saltwater. Less cottony type stuff. Plus if you learn how to acclimate the FW molly to salt you should be good to go when acclimating the more expensive marine only fish.
.
Some say UV sterilizers aren't as good as protein skimmer. What do you think? Did you have a sump? What type of filter did you use? What type of UV did you use?
.
I don't recommend either protien skimmers or UV sterilizers. I did later have a sump with the wet/dry. Originally to add more macros and to help buffer calcium with the crushed oyster shells. But I did find out the in tank refugion with the egg crate did everything required, and eventually dosed calcium with the diy two part system. Plus I had three floods before I learned how to setup and adjust the sump. Which is not a concern with an in tank refugium.
.
Sorry for all the questions. I just would like to know how you managed your tank. It sounds like a great idea. Thanks
.
You're welcome. Sometime things IMHO can be too complicated. In this case just adding macro algaes is much simplier.

 

[bridget111188]

Bob is there any possible way I could see photos of your refugium? It sounds like an fabulous design.

 

[snakeblitz33]

Bridget, apparently bob no longer has a tank running and cant post any pictures of his system. Bob is really old school. What i suggest is to look at tanks on here and elsewhere on the internet to get an idea of what you like. You should also do additional research before taking only one mans advice. Ask bob why he no longer has a tank...

 

[bridget111188]

Oh that's what I'm doing. I have already found another refugium design that I think I like more. It's a hang on filter redesign. So is there anywhere I can buy the algae to start the tank? I can;t find anyone in my area that has any.

 

[snakeblitz33]

We cant post links to other sites. But, if you do a google search for chaetomorpha or caulerpa racemosa im sure you can find a good source.
I personally prefer C. racemosa macroalgae. Chaeto always falls apart on me for some reason.

 

[bridget111188]

Ok sounds great thanks.

 

[novass]

Quote:
Originally Posted by bridget111188 http:///t/395886/beginner-55-gallon#post_3525707
Hello my name is Bridget. I bought a 55 gallon tank at a dollar per gallon sale about 6 months ago. I'm planning on starting up a saltwater tank. I have years of experience in fresh water and about a year experience in maintaining saltwater. But I have never started up a saltwater tank. I'm planning on housing fish and coral in this tank. So I have the tank, fluval led reef light, net, 55 gallon heater. I need a lot more supplies please let me know if I'm missing anything. This is where I need your input.
1 I have no idea what would be a good stand for a 55 gallon. Is there a stand out there that is heavy duty? What do you guys use? I built my stand for about $35-40. I would have someone that knows wood to build it if you go that route.
2 I need a protein skimmer. What do you guys think about the Coralife turbo twist uv sterilizer? bh-90 octopus skimmer
3 What is the best live sand/coral to use?
4 I know I need two power heads. What ones should I use for a 55 gallon tank? I got to maxjet 1200 pro not with the big fan its way too much sand wont stay in place. but it comes with 3 options fan, power head, and powerhead spreader type works great
5 I don't think I'll be using a sump is that a good idea? can I put a UV sterilizer right in the tank? I use a fluval 406 took the marineland c-360 back
6 I love my Marineland 70 gallon I don't think I'll have space for a canister filter. Is this a good idea?
7 What is the best salt mix to use? I think there all about the same. just make sure you mix it 24hr
8 Do I need to add any additives to the water before add fish and coral? Just a raw shrimp it will jump start the tank
9 I know I also need a hydrometer, thermometer, test kit what do I need to test for? hydrometer works good for me
10 How long does it usually take for a salt water tank to cycle? 3 weeks - 1 1/2 months
11 How long should I wait to put fish and coral in? after cycle, add slow
12 What should I put in first? Fish
I know it's a lot to take in but I would be so thankful for any information.