First timer here to marine. I've read a lot of posts so far and probably need to read more. However, I thought I'd start my own thread and get my questions answered directly.
I have a 90 gallon bowfront used tank. I rebuilt the stand using real wood instead of the crappy MDF that it came with (don't get me started). I resealed the tank. I made a DIY sump from a 20 tall tank and Lexan baffles. It has a pre-filter pad and bioballs similar to a trickle or wet/dry filter. I plan to make one section a refugium with chaeto algae, live rock, and substrate. Also, I have a Pro Clear Aquatics MPS 75 protein skimmer that I'm not real proud of and realize it is too small. But for now I'm just doing a few fish only, no coral. I also have a 40w UV sterilizer and a 500w titanium heater with a digital temp controller.
Q's:
What lights do you all recommend within reason? IOW, keep the utility bill down and the wallet and wife happy. Not in that order of course. It is going to be fish only for now, but maybe coral in the future. So, are there any lights suitable for use now and then able to add to for coral later? (no English majors here I hope)
What light needs to go over the refugium? Mind you, it is a small area within a small area. Think minimalist meets economist.
I bought crushed coral and pool filter sand for my substrate. The coral is a little on the chunky side. Is this going to be a potential problem with detritus? What about with gobies?
Are powerheads a must have or a highly recommend?
Will live rock in the sump convert the substrate and rock in the display to live sand/rock? Or, do I need to buy live rock for both areas?
I'm sure I'll have more Q's but this will do for now. Thanks!
I have a 90 gallon bowfront used tank. I rebuilt the stand using real wood instead of the crappy MDF that it came with (don't get me started). I resealed the tank. I made a DIY sump from a 20 tall tank and Lexan baffles. It has a pre-filter pad and bioballs similar to a trickle or wet/dry filter. I plan to make one section a refugium with chaeto algae, live rock, and substrate. Also, I have a Pro Clear Aquatics MPS 75 protein skimmer that I'm not real proud of and realize it is too small. But for now I'm just doing a few fish only, no coral. I also have a 40w UV sterilizer and a 500w titanium heater with a digital temp controller.
Q's:
What lights do you all recommend within reason? IOW, keep the utility bill down and the wallet and wife happy. Not in that order of course. It is going to be fish only for now, but maybe coral in the future. So, are there any lights suitable for use now and then able to add to for coral later? (no English majors here I hope)
What light needs to go over the refugium? Mind you, it is a small area within a small area. Think minimalist meets economist.
I bought crushed coral and pool filter sand for my substrate. The coral is a little on the chunky side. Is this going to be a potential problem with detritus? What about with gobies?
Are powerheads a must have or a highly recommend?
Will live rock in the sump convert the substrate and rock in the display to live sand/rock? Or, do I need to buy live rock for both areas?
I'm sure I'll have more Q's but this will do for now. Thanks!