50 gallon first saltwater tank

newreefnick · Mar 23, 2017

Good Morning all,
This is my first saltwater tank. I've had freshwater cichlids years ago and always wanted a salt tank but never tried. I started the tank last night. Any tips would be great, but my question is how soon should I test the nitrates, nitrites and ammonia? Also how often from that point on? Any suggestions on a led light for this tank, its rimless and topless. I have a t8 now but I know that's antiquated and would like to upgrade. I'm hoping to get something that's not too expensive as I'm on a bit of a budget.

beaslbob · Mar 23, 2017

I won't hurt to start testing now. then after the cycle less testing is needed.

FYI I would add macro algae especially in some kind of refugium even just a partition to separate the live stock from the macros.

my .02

SantaMonicaHelp · Mar 23, 2017

newreefnick said:
Good Morning all,
This is my first saltwater tank. I've had freshwater cichlids years ago and always wanted a salt tank but never tried. I started the tank last night. Any tips would be great, but my question is how soon should I test the nitrates, nitrites and ammonia? Also how often from that point on? Any suggestions on a led light for this tank, its rimless and topless. I have a t8 now but I know that's antiquated and would like to upgrade. I'm hoping to get something that's not too expensive as I'm on a bit of a budget.

Hello Newreefnick,

Congratulations with your first salt water tank!
Looking great

What fish do you want to get to the tank?

Zhenya

newreefnick · Mar 23, 2017

SantaMonicaHelp said:
Hello Newreefnick,

Congratulations with your first salt water tank!
Looking great
What fish do you want to get to the tank?

Zhenya

Not 100% sure yet. I'm going for some lps or soft corals so something that's reef compatible. Probably a clown as I have some young girls who are a little interested in daddy's new hobby.

AntarcticIkeelu · Mar 23, 2017

You don't really need to start test until about a week before you start adding livestock, as far as lights it really depends on what kind of coral you plan on keeping. A good started led is the orbit marine pro. The 4-6ft model runs about $199 but the have smaller sizes if you don't need one that big.