New Jack

[pb_floyd]

I am going from a 30 gal. freshwater to a 180 gal. saltwater tank. I am in the process of going to pet stores pricing and also i have gotten mixed emotions ranging from it hard to the only thing that is hard is cycling. Does anybody have some advice for me? <img src="graemlins//confused.gif" border="0" alt="[confused]" />

 

[guppie]

It is no harder the fw, maybe alittle more time is spent takeing care of the tank, but that is it. The best thing I could tell you is take your time with everything, do not rush. Make sure your cycle is done before you move on, and don't add your fish too fast. Also read everything you can get your hands on, and don't be afraid to ask questions, Hope you have a good lfs that helps too. Good Luck

 

[bluegoose972]

I have always had tropical tanks and just recently started my first saltwater with a second started about a month ago. My first tank was a reef tank (46bow) and what I found was that everything is alive. The rock, the sand, and of course the plants and fish. I spend alot more time working with the tanks, not so much because it is always required but because I find it fascinating to watch for all the small creatures.
But if I had to do over, I would start with a fish only with live rock as my first tank. That will give you a chance to learn about the water parameters and general care. Fish are a little more forgiving when it comes to mistakes.
Read as many books as you can find. Many will offer multiple ways to filter your tank. I would recommend reading the posts and asking questions and stay with a simple system. Probably a wet/dry filter, protein skimmer, and an UV Sterilizer. Make sure the tank is predrilled for the filter system. I didn't on my 100 gal and now regret it because my only option for a sump is to use a hang-on the back sump which may have siphon problems.
Good luck and keep asking questions!