Have you ever wondered why there aren't more hobbyists in this hobby? It is probably because of the horror stories that have been told to them by friends, relatives, even pet stores about the immense amount of money, time, and equipment they will need to start a small marine tank. In this day and age, this is no longer so! In this article will show how a marine can be set up easily and relatively inexpensively.
TANK- the rule of thumb here is: The bigger the tank, the more forgiving it is. This does not mean that a 2 gallon reef can't be done. The average size tank for the beginner is 30 - 55 gallons. All of the following pertains to tanks in that size range. For tank construction, our preference is glass. It is easier to keep clean and doesn't scratch as easily.
FILTRATION - one of the most important pieces of equipment that you will purchase is the protein skimmer. Don't skimp here! A skimmer that doesn't do as intended is totally worthless. There are two great protein skimmers for the size tanks that we are discussing; the CPR Bak Pak and the Precision Marine HOT-1. Both of these models hang directly on the back of the tank, eliminating the need for a sump system under the tank. The Bak Pak is a wet/dry filter and protein skimmer in one. This model works great for tanks that don't use live rock for biologic filtration.
HEATER - almost any submersible heater will work. Use about 3 watts of heating power per gallon.
LIVE ROCK - not a necessity but preferred for biological filtration. The live rock will also be a source of food and shelter for many marine fish and invertebrates. In our opinion, a tank using live rock just looks more natural. BE SURE TO USE QUALITY LIVE ROCK! Rock is available either fresh or cured. Fresh is less expensive but you must wait a while (up to 2 months) before adding livestock to the tank. If cured rock is used, livestock can be added almost immediately.
TEST KITS - again, don't skimp here. You are testing the water quality, the tank's life blood. A low quality test kit is both inaccurate and hard to read. Basic test kits to get are for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, ph, and alkalinity.
MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT - other things that you will need to get started are dry salt mix, digital thermometer and a hydrometer to measure the salt content of the water.
That's it! You don't need to be a millionaire or a scientist to start a salt water tank. All you need is knowledgeable advice.
Copyright 7/00 by Marc DeSatnik
North Coast Marines
