New Tank Set Up

[vikki7]

I have had a Nano 12 gal tank for about 2 years now.
In the Nano tank is LR, LS, crabs, Mushrooms, getting rather large, and
one Anemonie which is also getting rather large. Just recently his little clown buddy died... but he is doing well.
Now for my main reason for popping on here again.
I purchased a 55 gal Perfecto tank :joy: with oak stand.
It came with lighting, but not sufficient for what I need.
The lable reads 24RFH-I OR L / 24 RFH-F RECESSED HOODS
I really have no idea what type of lighting to get.
Currently the tank has to partitions...... ie two hoods fit the width of the tank.
The tank is standing with nothing in it, yet.
I need to get the LS, LR,( filter I have), larger heater.
Then I need to start to cycle ( am i missing anything)
What type of critters do I need to cycle this 55 gal?
I have a GREAT Anemonie (healthy happy and getting big) and Mushrooms and don't want to kill them with this move.
So I want everthing correct before I try to move them to the new tank.
So you will know my plan...... I want Anemonie/s, mushrooms, coral, bottom feeders, etc.
That is about all I have planned so far........ I do want to get my Anemonie a little buddy
as soon as the tank is ready for them.

 

[happyvac]

No idea how you had an anemone with the Nano's lighting, but I'll move on...
Since you're upgrading by such a huge amount you will need to cycle the tank. Just keep the other tank running while its cycling, then add say 50 lbs. LR. But then you'd need to wait for a few months (to be safe) before adding your corals. Longer for the anemone.
The anemone would need VHO or preferrably T-5/Metal Halide lighting. The other corals would do fine under PC lighting.

 

[vikki7]

Originally Posted by HappyVac
No idea how you had an anemone with the Nano's lighting, but I'll move on...
Since you're upgrading by such a huge amount you will need to cycle the tank. Just keep the other tank running while its cycling, then add say 50 lbs. LR. But then you'd need to wait for a few months (to be safe) before adding your corals. Longer for the anemone.
The anemone would need VHO or preferrably T-5/Metal Halide lighting. The other corals would do fine under PC lighting.
I have two sets of lighting in place of the original Nano Hood with lighting.
It puts off enough to keep him happy.
I realized he needed more and since he and the clown were the only two in the Nano
at the time.... I thought it would be ok.
He is absolutely beautiful and has grown abundantly.
Since I am so new to the larger tanks.
Could you explain what the VHO lights are I understand what the Metal Halide lighting is.
What type of wattage do I need for this 55 gal?