help me out!

im kinda new to this thing, not entirely coz i've rared them b4 but they all died after sometime so i need to know exactly what i need to do with the water. a filter, protien skimmer and salt water. is that enough? and must a change the 25% of the water every month? that''' be kinda expensive. im looking for a budget-way to rare these salt fishes, economy not very good now

 

You've raised a huge question, if I have read your post correctly, which was fairly difficult. There is no one way to keep a salt water aquarium. First, it sounds as if you haven't done enough research into this hobby. You are on the right path though by coming here and asking questions. I would do more research until you are comfortable with the various pieces of equipment and what they do and the various tests you need to perform. You should be running carbon in the system. It could be in a HOB filter, as I did for a while, or in a reactor. That will help keep the water quality high. A protein skimmer is not a per se necessity, but close to it, especially if you want to keep corals. Salt water is necessary, you need to either buy a hydrometer or preferably a refractormeter to measure the salinity of the water to ensure its at a proper level. There is no set way to do water changes. I do about 10% a week, other larger changes less frequently or smaller ones more frequently. Some don't do any water changes, but they have very good filtration and dose trace elements and other necessary elements such as Ca, Alk and Mg. In your situation, I would recommend doing water changes. This hobby is very expensive and shortcuts in inferior equipment and lack of time tend to produce poor results, as you have apparently recognized. Salt, equipment, Ca, Mg, Alk, testing equipment, all get very expensive and are continuing costs. I hope I have been able to clear up some of your issues, but there is much more to talk about and learn.

 

im new to this myself and its cost a lot in the beginning to start anything marine. once youve made the initial outlay and got the proper kit to do the job it aint so bad cash wise, but it is worth it all the way. wouldnt go cheap on it either because it will cost in the long run

hope you get there

 

Cost saving ideas

There's tons of things here you can make at home for a very little cost compared to the store bought stuff. Look up DIY under forum menu.

Also you may want to read craigs list under free stuff/for sale items that may be a killer deal. Some things you will have to spend the big bucks for others you may get lucky.

Hope that helps,
Mike

 

Costs

Like reef salt is where i live about 70 bucks.

Or you can go get pickling salt.

Epsom salt for magnesium LOL hints and tricks..your in the right place

There's a few of them around here that you can use alt's for.

 

Definitely, the more research, the better, you know the saying, knowledge is power...the initial outlay of cash does vary, and DIY here in forum is great. I'd say, going slow and being very patient is key! Looking in forums for answers or asking in a thread before you make a move is super beneficial. Good luck!