First Order

[rbro4]

Hello Everyone,

I'm starting a new tank setup and decided to start back with the hobby on the small side. I just picked up a 36 gallon tank and was going to be ordering from Richard soon. I'm getting ready for the tank to be delivered this week and wanted some advice on filters, skimmers, powerheads and any other recommended accessories. The owner of my local fish store mentioned a Fluval 205 filter and said for the 36 gallon, the other items aren't necessary now.

I emailed Richard and he suggested I post here. He mentioned that the live rock would act as a filter and I would need a skimmer and powerhead.

Any suggestions? Thanks for the help.

 

[mndfreeze]

You need a powerhead.

A skimmer is HIGHLY recommended but not REQUIRED if you really read up.

I'd check the main general and beginner areas.

The set up requirements change based on how you build your system, if you have a sump/fuge, if you are doing a fish only system or plan on corals, etc etc etc.

 

[Cloudburst2000]

To tell you the truth, unless you are doing an all-in-one system like a Solana or Res Sea Max, I would go ahead and have any tank drilled and attach a sump. Tanks with sumps/refugiums tend to do better where corals are concerned...and it also increases your water volume so it will increase the amount of bioload (fish) your tank can handle. Even if you don't plan on doing corals now, getting a drilled tank makes getting corals an easier option in the future. And most people who don't do drilled tanks with sumps usually regret it in the future. The sump also gives you a place to 'hide' most of your equipment (skimmer, heater, etc) and you won't have to have an ugly filter hanging off the back of your aquarium. I'd say go drilled. It's a better option for upgrades in the future.