Where do I begin?

dmolson21

New Member
Well I bought my new 44 gal pentagon tank with hood and light. Now I need to buy everything else: filter, skimmer, etc., etc, as well as sizes/strength of equipment. If anyone wants to take me through it a little bit that would be great. I am most interested in trustworthy brands to get me started. Thanks
 

whitey_028

Member
How much room underneath stand would be a good start and what kind of lighting do you have.That info will help us help you...
 

dmolson21

New Member
Well I have just the flourescent light that came with the hood, and a pretty large stand, it custom fits the tank.
 

some1fishy

Member
Well, there are several threads on here as for equipment needed. Also, since you are new to the hobby, try reading a few good books FIRST! Then research your equipment. The conscientious marine aquarists or new marine aquariums are good starting points. From there you will understand what the system, tank and cycle is/should be.
Then, once you obtained that knowledge, specific questions about products can be asked. to answer you quickly, heres the rundown:
1. Tank, stand, canopy
2. Lights (yours is fine for FOWLR) T-5, PC, MH, VHO - your call
3. Heaters (sized for your tank)
4. Powerheads (15 times water change per hour)
5. Substrate (Sand)
6. Live rock (1.5 lbs per gal) - this is your biofilter
7. Mechanical - is what it is.
8. Protein skimmer
9. Thermometer
10. Cleaning kits
11. Test Kits ( Am, NO2, NO3, Ph, Ca, Ak )
12. Buckets
13. Refractometer/Hydrometer
14. RO/DI Water Source
15. Salt
16. extra PwrHead/Heater for mixing water/water changes
anything else I cant remeber - someone will chime in.
Start with a book or two. It will be worth it in the end. Plus its a good reference point whenever you have questions.
Good Luck!
 

nigerbang

Active Member
there are 3 types of filtration: Bio, Mech, and Chem. If your were to buy a canister such as an Ehim, or a fluval they offer all 3 the use of live rock is very important and I can swear by Live Sand. If you dont cut cost at the start(hard not to do, but peice it together) it will be a lot more rewarding in the end. Will also make the exhibit more self contained
 
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