Andrew

Hello. I was thinking about trying a Saltwater tank. I would like to know what a good beginning size would be. I was thinking a bout a 30 gallon but i didn't know if that was big enough. If you could help me on this topic I would very much appreciate it.

Thank you,
Andrew Clark

cerianthus

Any size which you can fit and afford is as good as others. One thing is that bigger the volume of water, easier to maintain. SInce you are beginner, should do as much reading and/or research before you spend a dime.
Know the difference b/n FO, FOWLR, reef and concept of sump/refuge. Then Protein skimmer (I think PS is the most important) then lighting, etc etc....

30 gallon isnt that bad. COnstantly check Craigs List for used equioments and LR. Can save you a bundle.

Good Luck with new adventure.

Andrew

thank you i've done some research but i wanted to get a general idea so i kinda had something to look forward to. and thank you for the advice.

cerianthus

Where is Vernal located? Geo lesson!

Want to get your habd wet in s/w? I think 30 is not that bad to start. Any idea of how you will run flters or what kind filters, protein skimmer?

harpua2002

I agree, I think a 30 gallon is just fine for starting out.

Are you more interested in reef or fish only? If you can narrow that down I think the research part of your project will be less overwhelming, if that makes sense.

AusBloke

Andrew,

I have just started SW myself. I did a HEAP of reading before I took the plunge, and it helped a lot. I am still confused on a lot of stuff, but it a learning process, and its heaps of fun. A good book to buy is "The New Marine Aquarium" by Michael S Paletta, its a very good starting point with a heap of info on what you will need and can expect. Another book is "The Nano-Reef Aquarium" by Chris R. Brightwell. Very good for small tanks.

I started small with a 10gal Nano, and its been good as the expense hasn't been huge to get to the stage I am with my tank (I am now building a 120gal as well). A good site for small SW tanks (Nano's) is http://www.nano-reef.com lots of info on small tanks, and good info guides on setting up 'without' protein skimmers and sumps. Just gotta keep on top of the water changes and check you chemistry alot (mostly just SG, pH and KH after its cycled)

Good luck which ever way you decide to go, and I have to say I am having more fun with my new SW than I ever did with tropicals.

aquarist48

Hello Andrew. Best of luck starting up your new salt tank. I hope you can share some pictures along the way.
Ken

gmen4life

i read somewhere that 40 gallons was good to start because then you have more room for error with your water perameters i dont have sw just telling you what i read