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new2fish

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Is there a "saltwater set up for dummies " kit? There is so much to remember, and I don't want to forget anything. What is a stable sized tank to get started with? Any info or advice on set up would be greatly appreciated.
 

reefhound

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Hello new!
best thing to do is read read read! go through the Archives and say up with new post every day.
on to the tank question, well the biggest you can afford to keep up is the one for you. larger tanks are more stable as it taks longer for bad thing to happen if a large fish dies ect.that said you must test and do water changes big or small.
read and ask questions before you buy! not all LFS are just init for the money some will help.
good luck
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A

Anonymous

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Most people will tell you that your tank will cost you $40-50 per gallon to setup. I'd say that's a good figure to plan on. Also, don't forget to figure in your extra utilities, testing supplies, feed, additives, and such.

Again many people will tell you to get the biggest you can fit in your home within your means. Do it. I got a 58 gallon, and now wish I would have just shelled out the extra $200 for a 90 or 110.

The cost per gallon of your tank and cabinetry is slightly inversly proportional with respect to its size. Your equipment costs are pretty linear per gallon. Stocking your tank, on the other hand, increases proportionally per gallon. So, not only is a larger tank less tempermental, you get more than its share of things to look at compared to a smaller tank.
 

Gatortailale1

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Check the equipment forum and local paper. More often then not you can find a deal on used tanks and equipment. I would buy a tank that is 2 feet wide front to back. Easier to aqua-scape with rock - ex 90 or 180 gal; maybe 120 too if I remember right.

You have to decide how much you are willing to spend; and have patients to wait 4-6 weeks to get tank, stand, canopy, ect. (Something I didn't do in the beginning but now wish I did)

If you can afford MH (metal halide) lighting to start off then buy it now. It seems like it costs more up front, but you will spend more in long run converting to MH in future and be stuck with left over parts you have little use for and only get 25% or less for them if you sell used v. what you paid new for the parts.
 

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