Freddy's Fishes

Hi,
I've kept a lot of fresh water tanks before but I am planning on turning my 55 gal, into a REEF tank. My main question is about filtration. There are so many choices, and I don't have a ton of space. What do you experienced fish keepers recommend?


Thanks
Freddy

Mitchell5108

There are many possible filteration options. You can use a run of the mill canister filter that won't blow you budget (depending on what model you buy) and works well. You can also by or build your own wet/dry filter or sump. Think about what you are planning to have in the tank and buy a filter that best suites your future tank and its inhabitants

Freddy's Fishes

OK, thanks, I found a canister that I like (FLUVAL 305) but I'm wondering if i should use a protein skimmer in addition to it?

lanlesnee

I would use a protein skimmer no matter what filter set up you use.

Freddy's Fishes

Alright thanks, anyother advice for starting out?

harpua2002

If you are sure that you want a reef tank, my advice is to invest in an RO/DI unit and a refractometer, then research the corals that you are interested in so you can decide on lighting. I would strongly suggest running a skimmer on a 55 gallon reef.

Welcome to FL!

zeeter

For a reef tank you'd really be better off running a sump system below the tank. You'll want a refugium and you'll also want to have the added water that the sump will hold. For a 55g you might have another 15 gallons of water to play with in the sump. This will also allow you to have a refugium and skimmer both within the sump and not up by the display.