About to take the step to saltwater arrggg :D :D

[Raideress]

So today im going to the pet shop to buy a small tank and try doing a saltwater tank, as a beginner im going to try a small fish only wish live coral sand and likely two clowns, but if that works i can see me converting my 75 gallon depending how hard and expensive it ends up being, any suggestions welcome

 

[Michelle2468135]

I don't have any suggestions because I have not done saltwater yet...hopefully in the future...but good luck!

 

[tuggerlake26]

The 75 gallon will be easier to keep as there will be more water and it's more forgiving to issues with water (salinity, etc.). Just remember that larger lights, filters, etc. will make it more costly up front. You wouldn't need a tank this large if all you want is two clownfish though.

What size tank are you thinking of picking up if not? I don't know that I'd recommend anything under a 29 gallon for a beginner in saltwater. That would easily host two clownfish.

How far into your research have you gone? Do you know what filtration, skimmers, etc. that you need?

 

[Raideress]

The 75 gallon will be easier to keep as there will be more water and it's more forgiving to issues with water (salinity, etc.). Just remember that larger lights, filters, etc. will make it more costly up front. You wouldn't need a tank this large if all you want is two clownfish though.

What size tank are you thinking of picking up if not? I don't know that I'd recommend anything under a 29 gallon for a beginner in saltwater. That would easily host two clownfish.

How far into your research have you gone? Do you know what filtration, skimmers, etc. that you need?

ok this makes me gulp, according to the pet store if i dont want live rock or coral, i dont need a skimmer and the filter it comes with, with some matrix and mods will do they were going a 20 gallon they are a good shop usually, family run been going 40 years, so i trusted their advise

 

[Gel0city]

I wish you the best of luck! It can seem daunting at first but I'm sure you will be able to learn. That being said, I don't have a saltwater tank so.... LOL

 

[saltwater60]

You can do a 20 gallon fish only but keep the stocking low. Also I would definitely add live rock as it helps with the filtration. You won’t need a skimmer for fish only in a 20 gallon tank.
it’s a lot of money for two small fish though. I find small saltwater tanks largely useless for fish only because you’re looking at 2-4 fish in a tank that size.
saltwater reef tanks add up fast. A 75 gallon reef tank you’re looking at $5,000+ for equipment and live stock.

 

[Rcslade124]

I agree 29g or bigger would be best. Research what you want. Hard to change your mind later. Live rock definitely. Great biodiversity. 75 is avoid size. Read up on sumps, live rock, cycling process after nitrogen cycle. Fish disease and fallow periods. Then decide on what kind of tank you want. I wanted fowlr but now want corals. Watch BRS YouTube videos on subjects to learn more at that point decide if it's for you. I don't have a fish or coral and I'm in love

 

[Raideress]

what my plan was to go with the tanks i already have so small isnt too $$$, if i go the 75 gallon later i will have the tank cabinet and cannister filter, if that will work, but thats where i need to learn, out pet shop sell a marine setup 24 gallon with a sump in the cabinet and marine lights, skimmer for $670 and bigger simular ones0

 

[Rcslade124]

Don't use canister filter with saltwater. It will become a nitrate factory and cause more harm than good. That's not bad of a deal. Would probably be good for fowlr. And has sump for future. Just not many fish.

 

[FishGirl115]

Man. I'm gulping just LOOKING at this thread! Dude! Saltwater is EXPENSIVE!!!! And I thought my freshwater tank was expensive...

 

[tuggerlake26]

Man. I'm gulping just LOOKING at this thread! Dude! Saltwater is EXPENSIVE!!!! And I thought my freshwater tank was expensive...

I think that's always the biggest surprise. The fish are pricey, but just getting the set-up in place and maintaining it is expensive. And if you don't start it right, chances are you'll run into issues with algae, etc. and then end up shutting the tank down.

Raideress what type of filter were they recommending?

 

[Raideress]

Just the one thats in the top of the hood, but add matrix

 

[Marsh980]

Saltwater tanks especially reef tanks can be very expensive. Just go into the hobby with your eyes wide open having done as much research as you can. However online research can only do so much, getting in there and getting your fingers wet is how you truly learn. I’ve still got so much to learn and the guys on here are very helpful.

I’ve only just started my SW adventure (10 weeks in) and am loving it.

I’d recommend having a ‘reef emergency’ fund to cover those unexpected costs that may crop up.

I don’t want to scare you with how much I’ve spent on my 190/200 gallon set up in the last 10 weeks.

All I can say is go for it but make sure you’re ready and so are your finances haha

 

[Jesterrace]

ok this makes me gulp, according to the pet store if i dont want live rock or coral, i dont need a skimmer and the filter it comes with, with some matrix and mods will do they were going a 20 gallon they are a good shop usually, family run been going 40 years, so i trusted their advise

Don't want live rock? Unless you are doing dry rock to keep costs down and avoid pests, the tank needs needs one or the other for the biofilter as it is the biofilter in your tank.

A Hang On Back Filter with no skimmer is perfectly fine for a 20 gallon Long with just a couple of fish. And a 20 gallon Long with a couple of Ocellaris or Percula variety clownfish and no corals would be pretty easy to maintain as long as you adhere to the following: 1) Weekly partial water changes 2) Don't overfeed, no more than they can eat in 2-3 minutes 3) Make sure salinity levels stay balanced, something like an Auto Top Off System (ATO) would make it much easier for you. Keep in mind that water evaporates but salt doesn't so fresh RODI water is needed to keep the salinity levels balanced between water changes. 4) A clean food source (ie LRS Reef Frenzy) will go a long way to keeping your fish well fed with a balanced variety diet and helping out with your water quality.

Saltwater tanks especially reef tanks can be very expensive. Just go into the hobby with your eyes wide open having done as much research as you can. However online research can only do so much, getting in there and getting your fingers wet is how you truly learn. I’ve still got so much to learn and the guys on here are very helpful.

I’ve only just started my SW adventure (10 weeks in) and am loving it.

I’d recommend having a ‘reef emergency’ fund to cover those unexpected costs that may crop up.

I don’t want to scare you with how much I’ve spent on my 190/200 gallon set up in the last 10 weeks.

All I can say is go for it but make sure you’re ready and so are your finances haha

It's true to an extent but comparing a 20 gallon Fish Only with just a couple of clowns to a 190/200 gallon reef is like comparing a Betta Tank to a big CO2 infused planted setup loaded with Discus. The setup he wants can be done for a few hundred.

 

[Marsh980]

It's true to an extent but comparing a 20 gallon Fish Only with just a couple of clowns to a 190/200 gallon reef is like comparing a Betta Tank to a big CO2 infused planted setup loaded with Discus. The setup he wants can be done for a few hundred.

Of course that’s true buddy, I just wanted him to know that this hobby can be very expensive especially if you want a reef tank.

Totally agree that a 20 gallon FOWLR will be very affordable but once the bug bites you start looking at corals and larger tanks haha.

 

[Jesterrace]

Of course that’s true buddy, I just wanted him to know that this hobby can be very expensive especially if you want a reef tank.

Totally agree that a 20 gallon FOWLR will be very affordable but once the bug bites you start looking at corals and larger tanks haha.

Fair enough. I did go from a 36 bowfront to a 90 gallon with a 29 gallon sump within a year.

Man. I'm gulping just LOOKING at this thread! Dude! Saltwater is EXPENSIVE!!!! And I thought my freshwater tank was expensive...

As mentioned in my previous post it all depends on how crazy you want to get with it. The hobby has everything from a $5-$6 Damsel to a $30K Peppermint Angel for fish and there are actually a decent number of marine fish that can be had in the $25-$35 range and some in the $10-$15 range. Also no one is pointing out how much money one can save by buying a used reef ready setup from your LFS, Craigslist, etc. The $5K and up figure for a 75 gallon tank can be true but it can also cost much less if you don't have to cover your rockwork with coral colonies. Coral Frags can be had for much less and as long as you are willing to let them grow out, they will eventually become colonies.

For example this guy cost me $20 when I bought it and has been growing ever since:

This guy was also $20:

 

[Marsh980]

Fair enough. I did go from a 36 bowfront to a 90 gallon with a 29 gallon sump within a year.

Haha I bet it was well worth it though

 

[Jesterrace]

Haha I bet it was well worth it though

It has. I think only 1 of my current fish (Pajama Cardinal) would work long term in my old 36 gallon bowfront. I also have had fewer aggression issues.

 

[kanzekatores]

Definitely get live rock if you can! It is essentially the filter of your tank. Clownfish are for sure the way to go. Just make sure you have the right test kits before you dive in. FOWLR is best to start with. Corals like a mature tank best I’ve heard.

 

[saltwater60]

Definitely get live rock if you can! It is essentially the filter of your tank. Clownfish are for sure the way to go. Just make sure you have the right test kits before you dive in. FOWLR is best to start with. Corals like a mature tank best I’ve heard.

I’d say it’s more corals hate change and new tanks are susceptible to changes as well as new reef keepers are. Of course a mature tank won’t hurt. It takes a keen eye and dedication to keep everything stable.

 

[Raideress]

As mentioned in my previous post it all depends on how crazy you want to get with it. The hobby has everything from a $5-$6 Damsel to a $30K Peppermint Angel for fish and there are actually a decent number of marine fish that can be had in the $25-$35 range and some in the $10-$15 range. Also no one is pointing out how much money one can save by buying a used reef ready setup from your LFS, Craigslist, etc. The $5K and up figure for a 75 gallon tank can be true but it can also cost much less if you don't have to cover your rockwork with coral colonies. Coral Frags can be had for much less and as long as you are willing to let them grow out, they will eventually become colonies.

For example this guy cost me $20 when I bought it and has been growing ever since:

This guy was also $20:

they are cool i like that kind of coral

ok so i have set up my 20 gallon tank rather then buy a new one for now, put in the salt, prime and live sand and its looking great lol, i bought a fake coral, which my husband asked why did you get that one? i dont care i like it, and i bought a rock that has some bacteria, not sure if its live rock or not lol will get a photo soon

 

[Raideress]

its got live sand and i keep stirring it up to try get the water clear even if i move stuff , as at first even if i moved anythig a touch omg fog, its improving, i think im doing the right thing

the rock turned out to be life rock carribean sea

 

[tuggerlake26]

its got live sand and i keep stirring it up to try get the water clear even if i move stuff , as at first even if i moved anythig a touch omg fog, its improving, i think im doing the right thing

the rock turned out to be life rock carribean sea

That rock is pretty good, it has bacteria without the potential pests like live rock does.

 

[Raideress]

That rock is pretty good, it has bacteria without the potential pests like live rock does.

that sounds good

 

[Rcslade124]

Welcome to the salt side. What filter are you using? Took me 2 days for cloudiness to go away from not rinsing sand.

 

[Raideress]

Welcome to the salt side. What filter are you using? Took me 2 days for cloudiness to go away from not rinsing sand.

Thanks Just the one in the hood, realized i needed to keep changing the filter pads, lol der, took two days for it to still be kind of clear with me stirring the sand up

 

[Raideress]

Welcome to the salt side. What filter are you using? Took me 2 days for cloudiness to go away from not rinsing sand.

Im so excited always envied salt tanks can believe im about to own one

 

[thefishn00b]

i know this is random would it be hard to have a 2.5 gallon saltwater aquarium?

 

[Raideress]

i know this is random would it be hard to have a 2.5 gallon saltwater aquarium?

Not sure any fish can go that small, maybe a shrimp

 

[kanzekatores]

i know this is random would it be hard to have a 2.5 gallon saltwater aquarium?

It would be really hard to keep params stable like salinity. And not much can go in there. The smallest size you can probably have is a 10g but even that's pushing it.

 

[saltwater60]

i know this is random would it be hard to have a 2.5 gallon saltwater aquarium?

Nearly impossible unless you have lots of automated equipment and you can put much of anything in one so they are essentially pointless. No fish. Maybe a shrimp or so and one or two corals or snails. Salt and temp fluctuations are a major concern.

It would be really hard to keep params stable like salinity. And not much can go in there. The smallest size you can probably have is a 10g but even that's pushing it.

The minimum I recommend is a 20 L as with many others on here. Good advice on the fluctuations. They are killer in small tanks.

 

[thefishn00b]

Nearly impossible unless you have lots of automated equipment and you can put much of anything in one so they are essentially pointless. No fish. Maybe a shrimp or so and one or two corals or snails. Salt and temp fluctuations are a major concern.

alright thanks it was just a random thought and i heard that saltwater is much harder and more expensive than fresh water right?

 

[Rcslade124]

alright thanks it was just a random thought and i heard that saltwater is much harder and more expensive than fresh water right?

A reef tank is definitely way more expensive. A fowlr can be cheaper. Still have extra expenses. Salt,rodi,wave makers plus a good hob filter. Then sand and rock.

 

[Jesterrace]

i know this is random would it be hard to have a 2.5 gallon saltwater aquarium?

Very. Zero room for error with water parameters. Fishless would be a must. I wouldn't go less than 20 gallon long to start out with for a newbie for those reasons alone.

 

[Jesterrace]

alright thanks it was just a random thought and i heard that saltwater is much harder and more expensive than fresh water right?

All depends on how crazy you want to get with it. Much like the difference between a Beta Tank and a huge CO2 Infused Planted Setup loaded with Discus, saltwater has a big difference between a Fish Only Tank with a couple of clownfish and a massive 8-10 foot long reef loaded with nothing but SPS Corals (Short Polyp Stony Corals are considered the most demanding and difficult to keep) and the most finicky Tangs, Angels and a Moorish Idol. With Fish Only with hardier saltwater fish other than using an RODI Water Source and staying on top of your salinity levels for evaporation and regular partial water changes it's not really anymore difficult than freshwater.

 

[saltwater60]

All depends on how crazy you want to get with it. Much like the difference between a Beta Tank and a huge CO2 Infused Planted Setup loaded with Discus, saltwater has a big difference between a Fish Only Tank with a couple of clownfish and a massive 8-10 foot long reef loaded with nothing but SPS Corals (Short Polyp Stony Corals are considered the most demanding and difficult to keep) and the most finicky Tangs, Angels and a Moorish Idol. With Fish Only with hardier saltwater fish other than using an RODI Water Source and staying on top of your salinity levels for evaporation and regular partial water changes it's not really anymore difficult than freshwater.

Only thing I’ll add is with smaller tanks a very difficult to stock with fish and must be kept light on the stocking list.
Best thing about saltwater is the vast selection of inverts and other than fish selections.
I agree it can be done fairly cheaply if fish only but even live rock is expensive.

 

[Jesterrace]

They will have more community issues for sure. Live Rock costs can be mitigated a fair bit by going with dry rock though.

 

[Trung Nguyen]

I went from 55 fowler to 125 full reef within a year (pics below). It is a very addicting but you must do your research before buying anything.

If you don't care for corals, then it is not as expensive. But let's be real, 90% people would wonder into coral world within the first year. Who doesn't like to see colorful corals brighten up the tank

They say if you can burn a 100 dollar bill and not cry, you are ready for reef tank. It's very true. I no longer keep track how much I spent. The lights alone cost over 2500..Yikes

 

[Rcslade124]

I went from 55 fowler to 125 full reef within a year (pics below). It is a very addicting but you must do your research before buying anything.

If you don't care for corals, then it is not as expensive. But let's be real, 90% people would wonder into coral world within the first year. Who doesn't like to see colorful corals brighten up the tank

They say if you can burn a 100 dollar bill and not cry, you are ready for reef tank. It's very true. I no longer keep track how much I spent. The lights alone cost over 2500..Yikes

Looks good
What are the lights orpheks and bars? I agree I was just going to do fowlr and an anemones. But while researching the corals caught me so I went all in

 

[Marsh980]

I went from 55 fowler to 125 full reef within a year (pics below). It is a very addicting but you must do your research before buying anything.

If you don't care for corals, then it is not as expensive. But let's be real, 90% people would wonder into coral world within the first year. Who doesn't like to see colorful corals brighten up the tank

They say if you can burn a 100 dollar bill and not cry, you are ready for reef tank. It's very true. I no longer keep track how much I spent. The lights alone cost over 2500..Yikes

Same here, I find a FOWLR a little boring to look at, however I am envious of the non reef friendly fish.

 

[Trung Nguyen]

Looks good
What are the lights orpheks and bars? I agree I was just going to do fowlr and an anemones. But while researching the corals caught me so I went all in

Aquatic life T5/led hybrid (4 ATI bulbs and 3 AI Hydra 64)

 

[Rcslade124]

Yes the lights are expensive. As are the love stock. I love my saltwater tank and I only have 4 fish.

 

[Marsh980]

I've found this hobby is as expensive as you want it. You can decide to buy cheaper frags or the more expensive larger colonies. You could stick to the more common corals and fish or try and find the rare expensive stuff. This is what I'm finding fun, especially the corals.

My wallet hates me and wife tells me she just doesn't want to know haha

 

[kanzekatores]

It def gets more expensive with corals. But you can run FOWLR with a few fish and sufficient equipment for a few hundred. I'm not sure how much my family will help me out with the money if I get into keeping corals

 

[NC122606]

Trust me corals are the best part of having a tank! They are well worth it and not all of them are $100 USD. Some go for 20. Trust me you will not regret going for corals!

 

[saltwater60]

You won’t regret going to corals unless you skimp totally and don’t have the right equipment. IMO an RODI system or water is a must, a good skimmer, good amount of live rock, good powerheads, and a good light are a must. Of course you’ll need a sump for a good skimmer and you’ll need a drilled tank or an overflow and a good return pump. Right there depending on size of tank you’re looking at $2,000 or more. You’ll also need elements and test kits if you’re going with stony corals.
A fish only with invert tank can be rewarding though.