seawater?

[dennis26]

how many people out there use real seawater instead the oceansalt mix? what do u think about it? is it a good or bad idea? :notsure:
If so how long do u have to leave it in a cool dark place?

 

[pontius]

probably not if it's collected directly from the shore, because of too much pollution. if it's collected miles out, maybe ok. but either way, it's cheaper and less hassle to just use synthetic saltwater.

 

[belothsurf]

Yeah, I agree with Pontius, unless you can go out to a reef, and dive down, and snag some water, don't use real seawater.
RO/DI water, and even tap water as a last resort, is fine to use. No one uses real saltwater, that I've seen on this board. But I don't blame you for asking that, living in Destin. It's got to be hard to resist.....
(Pontius.......Roll Tide!)

 

[spline9]

At least out here in the west coast you can get Catalina Water from the Catalina Water Company. They are a supplier to some companies such as the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach as well as universities, labs, and seafood distrobuters.
Ive been buying this water for a couple months now with no ill effects. Their website has some good info on their water (http://www.catalinawater.com/Report.html).
As for just using a bucket of ocean water straight from the docks, I would highly recommend against it. See if theres a company with similar services for the east coast. It will probably be worth it.
belothsurf: I was just in Birmingham/Tuscaloosa the other day for business. Was surprised I was able to get a room considering the last minute reservations. Heh.

 

[belothsurf]

Hey Spline,
Yeah, you would think that, cause Bama sells out every home game, but everybody always drives back home. Most of the schools we play are also within driving distance. It usually takes about 4 hours to get back to Bham after a game, and it's barely 50 miles. I heard it was even worse last night, because Auburn played Miss. St, about 50 miles south of Tuscalloosa.

 

[dennis26]

thank you guys for the informations.
Having the beach right nextdoor got me thinking about
saving some money with using the real stuff. Now i see that it wouldnt be the best idea.
I got into this hobby few months ago and im a little dissopointment of how expensive and fragile everything is.
Now im in a point where i read books instead of spending money first.
thanks you all

 

[spline9]

Yeah, using straight beach water could be bad. You have no idea what kinda nastiness you'd be bringing in your tank. I'd probably be worse off since I'm in Los Angeles. Real bad waters out here. Chemicals n stuff.
I agree about the hobby being expensive and the critters fragile, but on the other hand... it makes them more appreciated. I definately care more for my critters because I have to pay so much more attention to their well being.
belothsurf: I was just happy to get out of L.A. for a bit. Needed some fresh air. Wish I couldve stayed a bit longer.

 

[obarrera]

I get NSW for free here in san diego,I think it's the same water as catalina water.(pretty good water)

 

[dennis26]

i started with the 26g reef tank . probable if i went for the freshwater first it would be a lil easier start . Maybe the FOWLR wouldnt be a bad choice also. but im in it now so ill do my best.
once again

to all the people with the beautiful reefs.