Cayman Is.

Hi

I had a saltwater tank for two years but its been about 5 since I came out of it. I want to get back into it but i just need a refresher on what i need again. I have a 55 gal but i was also considering buying a 29 gallon bio cube cause i know that comes with everything. Anyway my plans for the tank is live rocks with fish then when i master that move to reef. Would it be best i use the 55gal or buy the bio cube.

If i use the 55gal what filters do i need and is it ok to just upgrade the bulbs that comes with the tank.

Also i live in the Cayman Islands and i live next to the beach is it possible for me to use sand n rocks from the ocean and even catch my fish instead of buying from pet stores.

ATP

I would do a sump and throw in a skimmer under there. Powerheads for waterflow, skimmer, sump, return pump are the basics.

Lights doesnt really matter if you're just keeping fish. BLue ACtinic bulbs will help coraline growth. PCs, VHOs are good for softies. T5s are good for some SPS in shallow tanks. MH + VHOS gives great ammount of light which would result in fast growth + VHOS (actinics) would give great color to SPS so it would make a great combination

or invest in LEDs