Just Started

Hey all, I just started my 30 gallon tank the other day. I only plan on doing a FOWLR tank for now. I also plan on doing about 35 lbs aragonite and 40-45 lbs live rock. I have the Current T5 HO lighting, right now I only have my Marineland power filter and a Red Sea prism skimmer running on it with a piece of shrimp in there to start the cycling, I'll add the sand and rock soon. any advice would be great. Thanks....I've had a tank in the past and fell off the wagon but I'm back for another shot.

 

You should add the rock to start the cycle, not wait and add it later. You probably don't even need that piece of shrimp. I would add the rock and sand then let the tank go from there. BTW, it doesn't really matter what order you add the sand or rock. Some like to add the rock first so it's siting on the bottom, more stable, others add the sand then the rock, it's really up to you.

 

I agree. Definitely have your sand and rock in there for the cycle. Good luck! Can't wait to hear updates!

 

Am i on par for the filter and the lighting? How about the skimmer?

 

Power filters aren't really needed unless you want to use them for mechanical filtration (not needed generally but some people like it) or chemical filtration (like carbon or GFO which a lot of people use). All of your biological filtration will happen in your rocks and sand. I would ditch it if it were me, just more stuff to maintain.

The skimmer and lights both aren't the highest quality but they might work for you. If you want to keep higher light corals you may want to get higher quality bulbs than the ones that current fixtures come with, at least.

 

Not planning on doing a lot of corals, maybe some pulsating xenia and mushrooms. Mainly want a fish only tank with some shrimp and fish, what lighting would be sufficient that would not require a chiller?

 

T-5 might be fine for some soft corals,mushrooms,zoas and leathers.Could be good enough for more depending on the number of bulbs and their quality as well as the type of reflectors.Where in Jersey are you from?

 

Somers Point