Starting New FO system...

[satellite4881]

Hey everyone,

I have been out of the hobby for about 4 years. I used to have a 75g reef. I am looking to start an in-wall FO project. I have built a bar/man cave in my basement and think an aquarium would look great. Looking to do between 75-125g.

What I really am looking for is a starting point. Any ideas on the build, what I would need. Pros and cons of FO or FOWLR. Any sites that would list how to build a system from scratch. Do I need a sump? What type of filter is best?

I'm looking for any help from your past experieinces. i want to set this up right the first time.

TIA,
Tim

 

[randomfishguy85]

if you are doing an in-wall tank go as big as you can afford and feel comfortable with. A closed loop circulation system would look alot better than a tank full of powerheads. Get dry rock, dry sand, and drill the tank(or buy a pre drilled tank). I would also look into led lighting. It can be expensive if you are going with leds for a reef, but you can find them cheaper if you look around. Try LEDwholesalers.com. Also dont forget to browse the large tank forum for ideas and tips.

 

[namxas]

What fish are you interested in keeping? That will help us give you suggestions as to how you set the tank up.

+1 on the CL comments. You don't want a lot of ugly stuff in the tank.

 

[satellite4881]

I really like tangs(would like one) possible a puffer and maybe a small school like chromis or something. One other bigger fish as well, maybe dwarf angel or trigger. I am pretty open but l like different colors and swim patterns

How would I do a closed loop?

 

[satellite4881]

I really like tangs(would like one) possible a puffer and maybe a small school like chronic or something. One other bigger fish as well, maybe dwarf angel or trigger. Looking for col

 

[HASBRO]

Sounds like he is trying to go simple. Closed loop and simple dont really go together. This is a smallish tank and two powerheads one on each side would be the way too go. Do the sump before you consider the closed loop. With 25w you could move alot more water than 100w of closed loop and rememder this pump runs 24/7.