inverts- level of difficulty

[pas13]

OK- I'm new to the forum but must say that I am impressed with everyone's knowledge, so here is my question:
About 6 years ago I kept a 55g FO tank. Now I am getting a 90g bow front, reef ready tank. I am trying to decide between a FOWLR tank or taking the plunge and doing a reef tank. I think that I might be in over my head for a reef tank but am more than willing to learn. My question- do inverts require the same special conditions, such as lighting and water flow, that corals do? I was hoping that I could do fish and inverts without having to invest in the really expensive lights right away. Also, I love porcupine puffers but I understand that, along with the other aggression and growth issues, they are not reef friendly. Maybe somebody could just decide for me. I would appreciate any advise. Thanks.

 

[bigarn]

Most inverts will do fine under normal lighting. Stay away from the puffer if you plan on a reef tank.... Not reef friendly at all.

 

[rubberduck]

Originally posted by bigarn
Most inverts will do fine under normal lighting. Stay away from the puffer if you plan on a reef tank.... Not reef friendly at all.
:yes: :yes: :yes: :yes: :yes:

 

[pas13]

Thanks for the replies. I'm all happy now that I can at least add inverts to my fish.

 

[ophiura]

They don't necessarily require lighting, but they may require different water conditions than a FO, so you should look into your conditions before buying any

 

[tigerlover]

Depends on what type of inverts you mean. Shrimp and crabs, ect. don't need special light, but special care is req. Clams and anemones are a different story altogether though

 

[pas13]

I'm thinking of inverts more like feather dusters, nudibranches, starfish, urchins and/or cucumbers. Do they fall into the other story category?

 

[tigerlover]

no, all they need is phytoplankton(and therefore a small current to bring it to them) for the dusters, the others may need a few supp. feedings, but no special light is required.

 

[pas13]

Thanks so much for the info!

 

[ophiura]

However, again, thinks like starfish, nudibranchs and sea cucumbers do have special needs and special water quality requirements...some cucumbers also have specific sediment requirements. Many seastars require a minimum amount of LR...and none are particularly hardy.
So even without lights, there are still lots of considerations

 

[mombostic]

My son thinks the inverts are the best parts of the tank. Just read and learn the acclimation, feeding and "survival" requirements for the different species, and decide what level you are ready to take it to.
I'll get on my soap box for a moment.........I love my two cleaner shrimp!
:jumping:
Not only are they fascinating and beautiful, they provide a valuable service to your fish and your tank! Read about them and see what you think.
Maybe I could do a cleaner shrimp info-mercial........

 

[mudplayerx]

I only have one inch of fish inside of my 55 gallon tank. I like live rock and inverts much more myself.

 

[pas13]

Thanks for all the insight everyone! I really appreciate the help.