Looking to start

[waterwonder]

Hello everyone!! I just joined the board due to my new found dazzle of salt water aquariums and the fish that inhabit them. I was wondering what one would really need to start an aquarium up, such as pumps and what not. Also since I would be new to this, what size tank would be best for me?? I have been told that since I am new to this, it would be wise of me to start with fish only and then add rocks and other items to the aquarium as I progress. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. I look forwarded to seeing any info. Thanks!!

 

[waterwonder]

Wow thanks for the info Super. Very thourough which is very good. So what I understand is that the bigger the tank the easier it is to maintain?? I was thinking about getting a 80 gallon aquarium but then again that means I'll have to purchase more supplies probably. Well thanks for the info and I'll keep coming back for more and posting questions if more come about.

 

[bdhough]

80 gallon fully stocked reef tank will cost you around 2000 dollars and maybe more if you do it right which you should anyways.
Larger tanks are easier to maintain due to the amount of life contained in them. Once your bacteria levels build up they will decompose whatever gets put into the tank ie food, waste, etc.... Salt water is prone to sudden changes in various chemical levels the more water you have the subject to changes the tank is. You will also undoubtedly have small critters in your tank as well, hermit crabs, snails, shrimp. All of these will help go through your tank and clea whatever rock or sand you have. Combine them with bacteria and a good protein skimmer and filter and you have a potentially self sufficient system. Its more complicated than that but thats the gist of it.
Get yourself a good book.....