Got a 55 gallon

[bradttu]

Okay, I got a 55 gallon tank. It came with a 30-60 power filter, and two 18 inch 15w bulbs (one light per light fixture), and a heater. All I want to have is some live rock, a few smaller fish, and possibly some anemones, etc.
The guy at the LFS said that I have enough to get started. I thought that I would need to purchase a Power Head for circulation. What about more powerful bulbs? Protein skimmer?
I want to take my time and do this right the first time. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

 

[bradttu]

Besides the lighting, do you feel that I have enough to get started? Or should I wait and get better lighting?
The guy at the LFS suggested that I use crushed coral for substrate because it has certain things that are good for the tank. I thought of using the Southdown as a base with a bit of live sand. I noticed lots of people in here suggest that. He says that sand is great, but there is a greater chance for algae growth than with crushed coral.
What type of powerhead do you suggest? SWF.com has the Rios that are fairly cheap, I just don't know what kind of power I need.
I would like to have clowns, tangs, etc.

 

[angelofdeath132]

in my opinion, i would go with the sand instead! my 55 has been up for almost a year i have crushed coral in mine and its a pain in the ass!! IMO sand looks better also. GO WITH THE SAND!!

 

[bradttu]

Why is it a pain?????

 

[angelofdeath132]

constantly have to vacuum it out to get all the "gunk" out of it like fish poop and uneaten food and all that stuff that will make your Nitrates go through the roof. whereas the "live" sand has all kinds of critters in it to take care of all that "gunk" for you. thats just my opinion though, you do what you like best. "if i knew then what i know now" i would have gone with sand and about 60-70lbs. live rock instead!!

 

[bradttu]

ttt