peacemaker92

Hi everyone. I'm new here in the Saltwater section of the forum so really need some introduction into all of this. I've been keeping freshwater fish and tanks for 3 years now and one day (a few days ago) decided to maybe start planning for a saltwater reef tank. I was just thinking to start small rather than big since I don't want to spend too much and start so much hard work.

I need some introductions about what I basically need for a saltwater tank. I know I need to get some stuff such as a protein skimmer (no idea what that is and what it does), live sand, live rocks, live corals and marine salt. Anything else? I was thinking to just start with my 8 gallon tank and have a few Clown fish (my lil' sister LOVES clown fish/nemo, so I'm doing this for her).

Note that I will be doing this step by step, so I'll be setting it up slowly not to make any mistakes and be able to have some space to gather up some more cash when needed.

Questions:
Can I use any normal filter I use for freshwater tanks?
I need a list of items needed for a basic setup.

Thank you so much and sorry this post is soooo long!

sgould

Hey, peacemaker92...here is a link to some beginning information, including equipment lists. It'll probably answer a lot of questions and maybe spark a few more.

From your post, one caution I would throw out right away is overstocking...multiple clowns in a tank that size would just be too much, IMO.

On the filter, if you run a skimmer, which I would suggest for any salt tank and consider required for coral, you can do without a standard filter such as you use on your fresh tanks.

ATP

A protein skimmer removes nitrate/ phosphates (makes water clean) in your tank.

I wouldn't put any fish in an 8 gal. I would only get corals

For your lighting, I would get power compacts. Make sure your lighting is half actinic and half daylight.

You'll need about a pound per gallon of live rock and sand.

Put like a power head in there for water circulation. Water circulation in reefs are very important to prevent algae growth.

Power filters are unnecessary, but when I had my 38 nano, I put one in there(without media) and inserted a sponge and nitrate/ phosphate remover.

When you start it, keep buffers in hand. They will be handy

peacemaker92

Thanks everyone for the replies!

KJB

I'm starting a new salt water tank and have spent about 2 weeks researching the internet. It has been a little confusing but well worth the time.

aquarist48

Best of luck with your salt set up PeaceMaker!
Ken