WHat do we need?

[brittlestar]

Okay, one of my husband's goals for the new year is to set up a small reef tank in the 30-gallon tank he bought.
I had the bug *years* ago, and frankly, my books are pretty out-dated. Some months ago, I found an aquatics store on the web that had an extremely simple set up for a reef tank, with a minimum of equipment and a lot of live rock. I can't find the site again, but I did find you all.
Anyone want to help an old bird learn? All help will be greatly appreciated.
So far what we have is one (very dirty) 30-gallon (long) tank. No lights, no pumps, no filters...and no water--although we have tested it for leaks..
Thanks.

 

[kinkfish]

try www.ffexpress.com

 

[luvnluk]

I agree - great explanation! Also, I believe a deep sand bed (4-6" seeded, as previously explained) is very beneficial when it matures for biological filtration (nitrate reduction) Good luck with your tank revival!

 

[brittlestar]

Wow--thanks for the information.
Questions:
To what do you hook up the powerheads? (Someone else posted this question in another thread, that's what made me ask.)
And--
Any tips on how to clean the tank without leaving something harmful behind? It's really grimy right now, and I have no clue as to what was kept in it before. (Could have been lizards, for all I know.)
Thanks.

 

[luvnluk]

My powerheads are just pluged in and mounted on the glass with suction cups (submerged). I would suggest more than one to create better circulation. Also, I cleaned my empty tank with vinegar and water - thoroughly rinsed, afterwards. Hope this helps - keep seeking advice from others - I'm a fellow newbie

 

[dindi]

You can clean your 30 gal with a bleach and water solution if it has alot of junk in it. This will also kill old algea and bacteria. Be sure to rinse it well after you clean it. As far as your power heads from now on, PH, you don't need to hook them up to anything, just use them for circulation. also, I would not use Southdown, I read on a website it has too much silicates which you want to avoid because it causes diatom blooms, ugly to say the least, think of brown on everything then you will get the picture. If you want a mini reef, lighting and excellent water conditions are a must. Keep checking this post and others with more experience will gide you. Good luck!

 

[dindi]

Sorry, let me clarify, use LIVE SAND, it isn't cheap but well worth the money. For your size tank it will be around $80 or more (depends on where you get it). Check your budget.