tr0gd0r

Is this a good equipment list for a 29G SW FOWLR tank?

29G All-Glass Aquarium with Flourescent full hood
Bio-Wheel 200GPH
Hydor Koralia Nano 240GPH Powerhead
Aquarium Thermometer
20LB bag of Carribsea *LIVE* Aragonite
15-20LB of Fuji Live Rock
100W MarineLand Stealth Heater
Hydrometer
Instant Ocean

Also, is it important to have a protein skimmer? If so, what protein skimmer is a good HOB? I will not be having a sump.

Please let me know what I am forgetting or if you have any other suggestions.

Tumbleweed

For the most part that list is ok. I would take out the bio-wheel filter, add 10-15lbs more of live rock and get a protein skimmer. The only experience I have with a HOB skimmer is with the Red Sea Prism Skimmer, and it worked well for me. Very slim and effiecent.

sgould

I 2nd scratching the filter and going with a skimmer instead. I have also used the Prizm skimmer and found it to be ok, though not great. I have had better results since I switched to the Coralife Super Skimmer 65.

You want 1-1.5 lbs of rock per gallon, so I agree with Tumbleweed on that suggestion too.

Also, go with 2 power heads instead of just 1...you want a little more current than just the one will give you.

andy65

I agree with everything Tumbleweed and sgould said.

tr0gd0r

Would it be better to get 2 or get one with a higher flow rate? Also have you found that SW do not need mechanical or Carbon filtration? Is that why you suggest skimmer instead of biowheel?

Tumbleweed

I would do some research on skimmers and find out which HOB skimmer works in your situation. For me when I needed a HOB the Red Sea Prizm was the only one that worked because of space requirements. With my current setup I have a Euro Reef RS135 skimmer and it works great. Carbon is really only needed when problems arise and you need to try and remove extra pollutants from the water.

fishrule101

Are you planning on getting any corals or anemones?? If yes ,in my reseach, would try to upgrade. i'm upgrading into antinic.

sgould

I would go with 2 at opposite ends of the tank.

Correct. Skimming is far more effective at maintaining water quality in a SW tank than mechanical filtration. As Tumbleweed said, carbon is better used as a short term "sponge" to remove pollutants or medications from the tank, rather than on a continuous basis.