grump

Hi everyone I am new to saltwater I have had a FW tank for about 10 months...Ok now 1st I need too know can I seed the tank for the cycle with media from my FW tank or do I need to start a cycle from the start I plan on using live rock don't know about crushed coral or live sand yat.. 2nd can I use a cannister filter or HOB or do I have to have sump? Oh the tank will be FOWLR... Thanks all Rob

sgould

You will not be able to seed from your fw tank as the bacteria are different. If you don't mind a suggestion, go with sand rather than crushed coral. Also, I would forgo the traditional filter (canister or HOB) and go with a protein skimmer and a couple of powerheads instead. What size tank are you planning?

grump

I am not sure what size yat I have a 35gl in the basemet M/T but I want to go at least 55 or bigger just need to get the wife on board if you get what I mean... So I can use just a protein skimmer and some power heads or do I use them with a sump? Sorry for all the questions I feel like a real newbie here..I am still in the planing & research stage with the salt water

sgould

A sump is nice for several reasons...it adds water volume to the system, helping to keep everything stable. It also gives you a place to go with equipment (skimmer, and heater for example) so that you can keep the display tank "clean" for viewing. If you can do one, it would be a good idea. However, a sump is not required. You can get a HOB protein skimmer, and many are able to work either in sump or HOB, so you can start HOB, then convert to sump down the road.