20 gallon Fish Only tank

[mikellini]

I've come to the realization that I can't possibly afford live sand or rock, and I won't be able to for a long while, but I still love saltwater fish and want to try keeping some. I realize that I will have to do frequent water changes. I currently have a 20 gallon tank with an Aquatech 20-40 trickle filter with carbon filtering and bio-media, a 100 watt heater, and a very thin layer of white gravel. Any tips on what to do next? I'm guessing that I should acheive a salinity of around 1.025 SG, and then start the nitrification cycle, possibly with a piece of dead shrimp or something. So:

1. Can I use the gravel I currently have as long as I siphon vacuum it regularly?
2. What kind of fake plants/wood/rocks can I use with possibly a couple of percula clowns or some other small saltwater fish?
3. Is my filter OK as long as I change the carbon media frequently and commit to water changes?
4. Do I have the right idea here?

Thanks for any help,
Mike

 

[kraze3]

check your post in the "new to hobby" forum

 

[stykthyn]

I sent you a PM, I have a 20 gal that has been running for 2 years now, fairly bulletproof too.