Hi all. This is my first introduction to this hobby. i successfully build a large pond in my yard and have thriving koi. Now I thought about something i could enjoy all year. I have done a lot of reading and have found a 75 gallon salt water reef and fish aquarium on craig's list that is still put together and running. The aquarium comes with all the necessary equipment, including fish, live sand and rock. My question is can a newbee successfully transport this aquarium 60 miles to a new home. I would assume you would have to dismantle the wntire aquarium and rebuild in new home. How practicle is that? Thanks.
New to hobby
- Thread starter debarmay
- Start date
reepher315
Humble Student
Not so practical. But it could be done.
This is exactly how I got into the hobby and I totally regret it. Transport was not a problem. It was a 58 gallon with a fuge. I transported about 30 gallons of water, all the rock, sand and fish and had saltwater made at home for the rest. Did not have a problem with the tank cycling and all but 1 of the fish made it. However so many little things went wrong that could have been solved had I gone slower.
Fish got stressed and ich outbreak eventually wiped out all but 1 fish (in retrospect it may have been marine velvet, not ich). Didn't realize what was going on and added fish that kept dying quick after initial fish died. Had to QT 1 survivor and run main tank empty for 12 weeks. Painful lesson learned. Finally added fish again and now things are good and have great QT protocall in place. Just wish I hadn't gone right to a full setup. In retrospect I wish I cycled my tank on my own and followed normal newbie steps. Just my 2 cents.
whiteshark
Active member
If you don't enjoy the setup phase of a reef tank (plumbing, wiring, carpentry, etc.) I think it puts you at a big disadvantage. If you set up your own system not only will you know and understand how everything works, but you will be able to set it up exactly how you want. You also aren't limited by the existing livestock. The process of doing your own setup also teaches you the necessary patience to succeed in this hobby.
reepher315
Humble Student
+1. Ive had to reassemble my plumbing many times and when something goes wrong Im glad I know exactally how to fix it.
What size tank are you going with? Depending on the size you may not even need major plumbing. If its reef ready getting the plumbing for the overflow is a kit and you can use flexible hose on the return pump. If your starting with a smaller tank you could always start with a hand on back filters.
I started by watching lots of youtube videos and reading stuff on here. Also facebook forums are good.
I started by watching lots of youtube videos and reading stuff on here. Also facebook forums are good.
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