new sps tank

[reefgeek67]

I just took down my 75 gallon softie/lps tank of 2 years because i am planning to move this fall to a permanent location and i figured this is the best time to start saving and planning for the sps tank of my dreams....... i have little experience with sps so i just wanted some reccommendations from some experts! from the right size tank to the sandbed to lighting and filtration. my plans are to buy a 180 oceanic reef ready and i am planning on starting with some guisemann lighting and a 55 gallon sump/refugium and lots of protein skimming. also, calcium reactor and phosban reactor...... my budget should allow me to purchase some electronic testers and controllers.......any suggestions on a new setup for sps in general????????

 

[REEF-DADDY]

Man thats like asking how to build a house. Check out all the JB NY "lets talk" threads. When you done with those find a tank you like and copy it. Your local reef club would be a great place to start. No need to re invent the wheel. Most Reefers will be more than happy to help you copy there set up!

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=403161&highlight=TALK+LIGHTING

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=380913

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=387360

 

[reefgeek67]

thanks for the info!!! i know its asking a lot but i really want to get this tank right in every way........though the "right way" changes every year!

 

[Frankysreef]

no need for a phosban reactor... u can also start by dripping kalk , before you get a reactor...

But it may be a few mos till you can add colorful sps.. too many ups and downs of chemistry on a new tank until it stablizes...

sometimes 6 mos.. just trying to save u some money. Having a $135 purple monster frag die on you because of an alkalinity spike is no fun...

There is no "right" way...each tank is different.

Start a logbook, and let the rock cure in your tank.. I would start with FRESH rock instead of rock from your local store.... you can get it shipped directly to your house..

More cool critters that will breed and feed your sps, let that stuff cure with all lights and skimming for at least 3 mos, or until all readings read 0.

Then start work on your calcium/alk supplementation, keep a logbook and find the rate of change as to how much to add/ or dialing in your reactor.

Add frags slowly.. start with the cheap ones.. for you will have problems until the tank stabilizes...

Refugiums are a agreat idea... plan for one of these... feeds your fish and corals with live foods...

Filter socks and carbon 24/7 are a great idea also.

Automated top off systems can't be beat...

Draw each system up on graph paper, along with equipment that you are going to use.,...

Search reef central for used equipment.. there is always someone getting out of the hobby cheap...

Start there.. and good luck

 

[reefgeek67]

thanks for all the advice, im trying to gather as much info as i can and consider everything before i even buy the tank......that way i do everything right from the start!