New to salt water

[brendanwp]

Great site, and already answered some of my questions, but had some more specific ones. I haven't had a tank for about 15 years and when I did it was fresh water. Had a lot of success keeping all types of fish, from basic tropical stuff to piranhas. My 7 year old daughter and I love to snorkel on vacation and she has asked for a tank for Christmas. After a few trips to the fish store we have decided on salt. She is really into small crabs and invertebrates. In fact it would seem what is contained in a basic "cleaner pack" would keep her happy.

While I realize this will be more labor intensive then fresh water, I am also looking for good starter system. Preferably something I can put on a table or stand where my daughter can get a good look at it. Space isn't so much of an issue as is height off the ground. My specific question, does anyone have experience with the "Clear for life" tanks. Ideally I would like an "all inclusive" tank that just sits somewhere without having to run hoses underneath ect. It would appear that "Clear for life" is my only option for that but you guys know better then me. Any other options out there? Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[oceanlassiter]

As far as just a basic CUC, there pretty hardy. Live rock is the main thing as that is the biological filter. A decent protein skimmer will be good to have as well and you can get a HOB for that (Hang on back). certain species of your CUC require a sand bed. You can do that in a simple 20 gal tank. Clear for life are good options, just a little pricey. Just depend on what you're willing to spend on a good tank. A smaller tank has less room for error as far as the water parameters. This hobby can be very addictive and you could be looking for a bigger tank in no time.

 

[wcarterh]

Oceanlassiter is right on all points. You might want to google "nano tanks" or "nano reefs". It might give you a better idea.

 

[kfisc]

You could do a 12g tank with a HOB filter and relatively inexpensive lights- with just a few small inhabitants your daughter would appreciate- for less than the "clear for life" kit.

It would also likely be more fun as a project together, but I always liked the DIY build-out aspect of reef keeping. Good luck!

 

[kevin21]

I don't know what your budget is, but the best all inclusive type setup I have ever experienced is the JBJ nano cube. I have the 28g and it is awesome. Literally plug and play with the built in pumps and lights. I have some add-ons such as a protein skimmer and phosban reactor running out of the back chambers as well. Really makes for a nice set up. Check it out online or in the nano forum here. There is a JBJ nano cube thread that pops up in there all the time.

Good luck