Pisces

Hi Everyone -

I'm new...so new that I hope my questions make sense. I am interested in a reef saltwater set up. I've been trying to research the different types of filters etc. but not sure what the best option would be. The neighborhood fish store suggested a wet/dry filter system (Advance aqua tank/uni) with the filtration system that comes with the tank. In reading some of the post, there seems to be a better alternative with the sump and a canister type filter?

I would welcome any detailed recommendations as to the filter type etc. including tank style and size. I don't mind making an initial investment if it means getting it right.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Regards,
Susana

Wolfgang8810

It really depends on the size of your tank. How big are you thinking of going?

nemo addict

wolfgang is right depends on size of tank , for larger tanks i would reccomend a sump as this serves more then one purpose you can hide all your equipment ie heater skimmer ,
leaving only power heads in tank
you can have different sections in sump (depending on size) bio filtering, refugium, natural filtering section ie miricale mud deep, sandbed, caulpera, cheato,
LIVE ROCK is a must wot ever size you going for ,as live rock is a good natural filter and contains lots of life for your aqaurium , (some not good)

if you google the above and get more detailed info on each item and understand more ,
there is to many different ways so read read read and when ya think you know enough read some more , but imho live rock and live sand is a must the rest is personal prefference so reading is a must

also a cannister filter can become a nitrate factory if your not careful

Pisces

Thanks for both your reply. The size I am looking at is at least 40 perhaps up to 55 gal for now due to space constrictions. I will be using live rock and am leaning towards a "bio" system?. I'm confused re the sump so I'll continue to research but
please don't hesitate to send me links etc. or suggestions. Basically, if you have suggestions for each major apparatus I would need, please post. : )

Thanks,
Susana

nemo addict

you can house your bio system in the sump and equipment if your going to use i would run a skimmer with a eco system as until i setup 2nd tank with trials on eco systems i cant comment on reliability , even if you run skimmer twice a week just to be on the safe side ,you are buying a tank if so i would buy one with a sump and throw away the bio balls if supplied and chuck in some cheato or culpera i will track down some inks for you when i have time for examples of sumps for you