29 Biocube build by the new guy

[Rudolfo Martinez]

Hello all

I wanted to document and share the build of my new tank.

I recently found a Coralife 29 Biocube with stand on Craigslist for only $90!
Which was perfect because I had been dreaming over YouTube videos of reef tanks for months.

The tank is filled with;
20# Pukani dry rock, carved cave by hand and leveled base by filing on cement until flat)
20# Black argalive indo-pacific live sand
25 G RO water with reef salt equal to 1.023, 31ppt (measured by refractometer)
Hydor Koralia wave and circulation pump
Stock return pump

The tank has been running one day with stock pump and wave pump.

I plan on cycling for 4-6 weeks, no light while I save for new equipment.

I would love advice on which retro kit to go with for lighting. I'm thinking Nanobox or Steves LED?

Advice on filter setups?
Do I need a protein skimmer with a healthy refugium and chemical filtration via Intanks aftermarket setups?

My ideal setup up is all Indo-Pacific. It seems easier to stick with one area and slowly expand. I chose indo-pacific because the sand looked cool and there are several species of coral that seem native I like like Frogspawn.

Any advice on my build would be appreciated as well as insight and knowledge as I am just getting into the hobby. Also any clubs or traders in the Seattle area?

Looking forward to e-meeting new reef buddies

 

[GatorScott]

Welcome.

To answer a few of your questions, if you are keeping the lid and have the cash Steve's Leds are amazing.

Don't waste money on a skimmer. Nothing that's worth it can fit. Just upgrade your return pump for higher flow and get a vivid creative aquatics random flow generator. I have the Sicce 1.5 return pump and that RFG nozzle and it does wonders! And best part is you don't need a bulky powerhead

 

[GatorScott]

Also just reread your post, I'd keep your salinity slightly higher at 1.025.