probably a thread already set up for this but...

K

KrazyKangaru

New member
Im really new to this hobby so im just looking for proof that i can do it without killing everything that goes into my tank. Ive got a 40 gal breeder and was wanting to get some corals started but im not sure what to start with. If anyone has any thoughts on what i should start out with that would most likely survive even with the greenest of greenhorns in charge of a reef tank that would be awesome. Im picking up a hob skimmer today, a bakpak 2. Trying to stay as simple as possible and have a successful tank. If i can keep it healthy for a year or so i want to go really big. But its expensive so the hardier the tank inhabitants the better. Lol. Thanks in advance for any tips or guidance.
 
If you are planning on having something in the tank today. That's probably not going to happen. Read the sticky at the top of the forum on setting up. Lots of good information.
 
No no. Tank isnt set up yet. Im still planning it out. Just not sure what tank inhabitants to start with. Hopefully if i can get some good ideas from RC ill do some more research on them to make sure everything is compatible. I dont plan to set up my tank in the near future. Ive read nothing but bad things happen fast with reef tanks so im really wanting to do this right.
 
KrazyKangaru said:
Lighting would depend on whats in the tank right?
Click to expand...
Yes.

Since you are a beginner, I would recommend looking at LPS corals, as well as polyps.

They are very hardy, don't require huge amounts of light or flow, and IMO, look way cool.

My top 5 corals for someone in your situation:

Acan lordhowensis
Zoanthids
Torch corals
Hammer corals
Green star polyps
Mushroom corals

Ok so that was 6 lol.

But a tank stocked with those, plus a pair of clownfish is probably the easiest and best looking combo for a beginner.

But as stated a zillion times on here, go slow, do everything right, or you will just be dumping money down the drain.

I have a budget friendly thread started, it's a build on a 55g, and it is the simplest build I have come up with, while still being able to perform.

Keep us updated on your progress!
 
Lighting will determine what will work in the tank.
You've got great suggestions here so far, let us know how it goes!
 
Thanks for all the great ideas. I cant wait to stock the tank. But no where near ready.

Im currently looking for a t5 fixture. At least 4 bulbs (2 blue, 2 white). Was also thinking of setting up some kind of "moon light". Not sure if i wrote that correctly. But ive read at least 2 places that say its good to give the corals a rest period.

So far heres what ive got: 40 gal tank, cpr bak pak 2 (bought used for less than half what its worth), two 800 gph power heads in the mail.

This plus a decent 4-6 bulb t5 fixture with some decent bulbs i should be ready to add water and start to cycle right?
 
I would start with 2 ati blue plus, and 1 ati coral plus, and 1 10000k bulb. This will give you the pop you want from the colors, as well as the growth spectrum needed for growing corals.

I am using 2 bulb t5s, 54w, and it is super super bright.

If you go 4 bulb, be sure to have your lights on a pully system so you can start corals out with subtle lighting, and then increase over time by lowering it.

Overexposure is more harmful than underexposure. Could cause oxygen radicals.

Or you could do the screen technique, where you start with several screens to prohibit light, and then remove one screen a week to help acclimate the corals properly
 
I didnt even think of too much light. Ive got my tank in an old entertainment center. The tank and hob skimmer fit perfectly where the tv would sit and with the overhead shelf I could easily rig a pulley system for the light fixture. I was also planning on a piece of acrylic for a lid to minimize evaporation. When I figure out how, I'll post some pics as equipment gets added.
 
Acrylic lids get messy, water pools up on them, and when you take it off to feed, it sloshes all over the place. Learned the hard way.

BRS makes a screen kit that's pretty awesome, but evap is kinda unavoidable.

It's not the end of the world tho about the lights, layering some egg crate or screen between the light and tank would solve it without compromising your limitations due to your cabinet.

Either way, your off to a good start, and asking good questions.
 
KrazyKangaru said:
Thanks for all the great ideas. I cant wait to stock the tank. But no where near ready.

Im currently looking for a t5 fixture. At least 4 bulbs (2 blue, 2 white). Was also thinking of setting up some kind of "moon light". Not sure if i wrote that correctly. But ive read at least 2 places that say its good to give the corals a rest period.

So far heres what ive got: 40 gal tank, cpr bak pak 2 (bought used for less than half what its worth), two 800 gph power heads in the mail.

This plus a decent 4-6 bulb t5 fixture with some decent bulbs i should be ready to add water and start to cycle right?
Click to expand...
why not look at some LED's that will save you in the long run? if you're on a budget there are 2 really good choices that have alot of success.
The MarsAqua 165w $90 or the Ocean Revive t247 125w $179. The cheaper ones don't have timer's or remote/hanging kits.
 
Man, those Mars Aqua lights look awesome. And i cant find a bad picture or review anywhere. The 300w light look even better. Deffinately worth asking the accountant (wife) for a fathers day present.

Levi, youre right about the acrylic top too. Just another thing i didnt think of. Thanks. I was only thinking of evaporation. I think i would swap cleaning a water mess for topping off as needed.

Im really excited about this build and really want it to be successful so thanks again for all the help guys.
 
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