Help I'm a pre- schooler

[kelkoolaid]

Ok 1st some quick hist. Had FW for 7 yrs( boring, but got feet wet) Now ready for the good stuff. Selling 55g and got new 90g.
I have read every post on the New Hobbylist. Learned alot, printed out a bunch for future ref.I really feel alot better knowing I stumbled on to this site and board.
I cleaned the 90g used with water only. Having to modify my tank base to fit new tank. wanting FOWLR for now, reef when I've graduated lol.
I know I will use LS and LR, need advice on filters skimmers, lighting.I don't want to skimp on filters, but can I wait on the skimmer? and can I upgrade my lighting after I have cycled and added live.
And whats the raw shrimp thing?does it balance water, what will it look like.My husband will think I'm nutz.
Any advice is welcome I just want to succeed, and go slow.
Thank you, Kelly

 

[birdy]

JW answered all your questions so I will just say WELCOME!!

 

[beaslbob]

welcome to salt.
I agree that jwtrogan answered your questions. One thing I might add is that some fish are not compatible with reef tanks. The small angles like flame angels pick at corals for instance.
I am glad you decided to get the 90g vrs the 55g. Wish I had. My take on things is to establish plant life in the system (either display or refugium) before anything else. That is what will result in a balanced stable system. So if you have not researched macro algae or marine plants you might look into those things.
In starting the system don't rush. Allow the system to run fully set up for at least three weeks before adding fish. This will allow fish born parasites to die off from lack of a host fish.
Again welcome.
edit hey where (what city)in Iowa? Just came back from council bluffs and was raised in Des Moines

 

[scotts]

Welcome to SW. I too was like you and started with fresh water. I switched to SW when I went into the lfs and thought, so what type of gray fish can I buy today.
One word of advice, research everything before you buy it.
You are off to a better start than when I started.
Good luck with everything
Scott

 

[kelkoolaid]

thanks for the warm welcome and good advice. I will keep reading post here and researching. I'm from Waterloo, for the fellow Iowan that asked.
Still not set up here, had the 90g - tank only.
So I went to LFS and she had a bulletin board, with a 1 yr old 75g complete oceanic tank. SO I am bidding on that and selling the 90. I would love to go bigger, but the cost is way out there. This 75 has stand, tank, hood and all the equipment. for $425 I think its a way sweet deal. The guy has to move to germany.
It's comforting to know there is such a great support group out there. I will definiately benefit from your vast experience and research. thanks, Kelly

 

[calvindo]

WELCOME! I am also new to salt water... I've been glued to this site on a daily basis for the past 3 months. Am finally getting all my stuff this week.
$425 is a very good price for set up. I've spend roughly $2000 for my 125g tank and stand. i know, i know.... that is awfully a lot for tank, stand and canopy. But you have to see the wood and worksmanship to understand why i spent 1500 for stand and canopy.

 

[bang guy]

Welcome Kelly!
I'm really happy that you're being so patient. That virtue will take you far in this hobby/addiction.
My first suggestion for you is to buy a good book for background information and as a reference. It will be the best investment you can make. I recommend Natural Reef Aquariums or The Conscientious Marine Aquarist. Both of these books are available on this site in the Dry Goods section.
Second - Keep asking those questions!!
Guy

 

[clownfish1452]

I would just like to add something about the raw shimp. It has worked very well for me in the past and still does. But I would like to tell that it can be messy so if you have fresh fish you probly know what the baby bags are that you put around the filter and other places you do not want the babys to go. If you put the shimp in there it may be easier to remove. And it does smell really bad.
Sarah

 

[squidd]

Originally posted by beaslbob
... Allow the system to run fully set up for at least three weeks before adding fish. This will allow fish born parasites to die off from lack of a host fish.

Bob, Just a question...
I seen you post this several times and I keep wondering...If the tank is running for three weeks Before you add fish...
What fish born parasites are going to die off (from lack of a fish host) if there arn't any fish in there to start with???
Your just messing with my head...right??