What do I need to get started?

[Steph_D]

I've read and re-read through all of the stickies. I've looked through books (unfortunately our library has absolutely nothing on saltwater tanks) and searched the internet for hours. I've decided that I'd like to start getting the supplies to start my first nano tank (either 5g or 15g, depending on how cheap I can find live rock). My problem is that there's so much "stuff" out there, what do I absolutely need and what can be done without? I know that I need RO water, salt mix, testing supplies (including hydrometer), heater, powerhead(s), live rock, and sand. Am I missing anything? For right now, I just want a FOWLR tank. I don't want to mess with any kinds of corals until I kinda know what I'm doing. I also don't have the desire for big fish. If I set up the 5g tank, it'll be mainly inverts and maybe a false percula or some small goby, but not both. If I use the 15g tank, there'll be a little bit more room for fish, but I still don't like the big ones.

Any help, suggestions, or seasoned advice?

 

[JWright]

Even FOWLR you're going to want a light of some kind.

Other than that, I'd say it sounds like you've done your homework...

Go with the 15 if at all possible, for the extra $50-$60 it will be well worth it.

~JW

 

[aresgod]

I agree, your list looks fine, just go slow and be patient, that is the key to this hobby.

 

[saltwater4life]

ya sounds good also 15g would be beter probbly for you if this is your first tank just for more room for error

 

[JWright]

I agree, your list looks fine, just go slow and be patient, that is the key to this hobby.

The old adage... Nothing good happens fast in a [nano tank], only bad...

 

[Steph_D]

LOL, I can't believe that I forgot to put a light on my list. But to me, lighting is standard. I like to be able to actually see my fish.

Thanks everyone. I'm going to my LFS on Saturday to start pricing things. It might be cheaper, even with shipping, to get some of the stuff online.

 

[JWright]

It generally is cheaper... at least for dry goods... to get stuff online.

 

[SALTY WATERS]

My opinion is go with the 15g it is not going to cost much more, you will have more option for stocking (though still limited) and besides...your fish will thank you for the extra swimming room!

Here is what you should go price out at your LFS or online to get started:
-Tank & Stand
-Light (I would also invest the extra $10-20 for an auto On/Off timer)
-Powerhead(s)
-Heater(s) (I personally preffer using 2 smaller wattage heaters over 1 higher wattage, the reason is there is less chance of boiling or chilling your tank if one heater goes on the fritz)
-Thermometer
-RO water
-Saltmix (Get the big bucket as it is quite a lot cheaper in the long run... and you will end up using it all anyway)
-SW test Kits (pH, Alkalinity, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite)
-Hydrometer
-Substrate
-LR
-Syphon and bucket (don't forget about your water changes)

 

[Steph_D]

Thanks again for the replies.

Salty Waters, thanks for the list. Are there any particular brands of any of this stuff that y'all recommend? I don't want to goof up by getting something that's got a bad reputation.

 

[JWright]

I like Coralife's light...

Seio is the Cadillac of powerheards, but I use Maxi-Jets for half the cost without a problem.

I use Visi-Therm heaters and have never had a problem. A lot of people like Jagers as well.

 

[YahooFishKeeper]

i alo use a visi therm heater. i like the sweeping head powerheads. mine are by zoo med, and are at the petsmart store for $30-40. you can get them online though for a lot cheaper from petsmart.com i heard somewhere that they price match their own site, so if something at the store catches your eye, id preint off a price sheat.

 

[Going for broke]

i alo use a visi therm heater. i like the sweeping head powerheads. mine are by zoo med, and are at the petsmart store for $30-40. you can get them online though for a lot cheaper from petsmart.com i heard somewhere that they price match their own site, so if something at the store catches your eye, id preint off a price sheat.

yes Petsmart will match their on-line prices. I set up an entire 90 gallon that way and saved over $140.