what do i need to start a tank?

[shaido]

I need help choosing filtration i currently have either a 46-55 gallon tank i bought used but im getting a 120-180 gallon tank shortly.I want to get the best setup i can for my tank i.e. the best equipment.
All of these filter options confuse me. I want a filter that allows me to do less work and one that excels in filtering.what equipment do i need to get my tank set up good! I need a list of stuff so i can get this show on the road

 

[phixer]

One that excels in filtering but reduces the work :thinking: What do want to keep. Fish or a reef tank (corals, invetebrates) this will dictate what type of filtration is best for your application. Either way Live rock is a good foundation. Trickle filters are not as popular as they were in the 90s but work very well for fish only systems. Reef tanks do better with sump filters (several types, Berlin, Algae, even small Mangrove plants). Either style use a good skimmer (many to choose from).

 

[turningtim]

As much water volume as possible (sump/fuge), adequate water flow for the critters you decide to keep, and a killer skimmer..........
So yea what Phixer said.......
Tim

 

[agent707]

My suggestion is don't do ANYTHING until you've read at least ~200 threads here... in a time span of no shorter than 2 months...
Knowledge is Power. You'll be glad that you did. I'm sad I didn't.

 

[lion_crazz]

or pick up the Conscientious Marine Aquarist by Robert Fenner and read that.

 

[leftyblite]

I agree with the above, after reading the book by Fenner and reading on this site for about a month, I realized how little I actually knew about saltwater tanks. And this was after keeping freshwater for years. Just remember a key word I learned early on......PATIENCE!!!

 

[phixer]

Wet web media, an awesome site and Bob takes the time to reply. Very good source one of my favorites.