What kind of skimmer do I need if I am planning on turning my tank to a reef?

[bethany]

I don't currently have one. Right now all I have in my 45 gallon tank is 60#ls, needing about 20-30# more lr, carrot sponge, 1 royal gama, and a wet/dry filter for up to 60 gallons. I am planning on returning my livestock and add more rock, let it recycle if necessary and then begin my quest for a reef. Also, what requirements do i need as far as lighting goes? Currently have 1 20watt blue light, 1 20watt full spectrum light......thanks

 

[slothy]

i would either step up to vho or pc lighting..
and for a skimmer i have a seaclone 100 (new version) and it works pretty good for a 40 gallon... i cant comment on other brands since i havent used them.. my seaclone sits in my sump (lifereef 60)

 

[bethany]

what is vho or pc lighting? Never heard of it....

 

[ilove2ride]

VHO= Very High Output
PC= Power Compacts
They are strong lights needed for most corals, and other reef organisms.

 

[josh]

Hi,
Well as far as skimmers go, there is really some debate as to whether you would even need one...having said that a bakpak II ( or IIR ) or a Remore ( or Remora Pro ) would be fine for your system.
As for the lighting, you said you want a reef....well what kind? Are you into sofites or SPS and clams?
HTH

 

[bethany]

Am i into what??? I am still new to the saltwater thing.... all i know is i want a pretty tank with rocks, corals (dont know the difference between soft or hard), I want everything colorful, pretty fish, and what about the lighting?????? HELP ME PLEASE....

 

[josh]

Originally posted by josh
Are you into sofites or SPS and clams?

Are you into just what I asked
Ok, it sounds like you best bet is to first buy a good book on corals and decide what you would like to keep. Eric Borneman has a very very good book out that you should buy and read before you even think about lights.