New Tank- What Filter And Protien Skimmer

[dallassvt]

I have had my tank running for about a month. it is a 35 gallon tank with 40 pounds of live sand and 40 pounds of live rock and a 6" eel. I want to make it a reef tank and was wondering what is the best filter, protien skimmer, and lightning that I should buy.
Also, do i need any other equiptment to have a good quality tank with all types of coarl and sponges? thanks for your help

 

[ivanfj]

It's harder to pick a good skimmer for a smaller tank. Both the Prism and the Seaclone 100, I've heard both goods and bads about them. I am using the prism right now over in my 20 and not liking it that much. You don't necessary need a filter. You have enough LR and LS to have a good biological filtration system. Just add 2 powerheads to create good water circulation. If possible, maybe add a refugium as well for plant life.
As for lighting, I would go with 175w MH with maybe one strip of VHO actinic bulb to make the coloration a little nicer. That would probably allow you to keep every LPS corals and softies and maybe even a few SPS. However, the down side of this would be overheating your tank and you may have an evaporation problem. If not, you could go with 2 strips of VHO or PC, but that would limit you the choices of corals. HTH

 

[robchuck]

Live rock is the best filter you can use in a reef tank.
The AquaC Remora is a really good skimmer for tanks of your size.
Ivan said everything I would have regarding the lighting.
Also, do i need any other equiptment to have a good quality tank with all types of coarl and sponges?
Maintaining good water quality, water flow that keeps your entire tank moving, strong skimming, and strong lighting are in my opinion, the keys to a quality reef.

 

[boomper]

I second the Aqua C remora, I use it on my 29 and its been excellent so far. If you search around online you can find it for a decent price, around $175 or so with the Maxi Jet included.