Equipment question.

[blakes29]

I am new to the saltwatee/reef world and have a question regarding equipment.

I was gifted a 100g system with all equipment from a friend. It came with what I thought was a HOB protein skimmer, but is actually a Finnex HOB refugium with LED light.

My question is, with a limited budget, should my priority be a good light or a good protein skimmer?

I am on day three of initial cycling and have the following equipment:

Fluval FX 5 canister filter
2 x Marineland 1200 power heads
Light- Ordered a Coralife Seascape LED(the fluorescent light that came with it crapped out on day 2. It was pretty crappy looking so I am not sad).

I have about 4 inches behind the tank for a HOB style, or room in the stand for an under cabinet, as I do not have a sump.

Any input/recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[R.Weller]

What are you hoping to keep in the tank? Understanding your tank goals including a fish-only system or presence & type of corals are important to providing recommendations.

 

[blakes29]

I would like to have corals, not sure what types at this point, fish and some invertebrates.

 

[blakes29]

I forgot to add that I already have live sand and live rock. Currently 3 days into cycling/startup.

 

[Mical]

I would add a sump vs the canister filter. Canisters require more maintenance than routine maintenance of a sump.

Re: lighting - what kind of corals are you planning on? Depending on what you want lighting IS a big investment.

 

[blakes29]

At this time I am unsure on the corals. I need to do some studying to make good decisions on this. Definitely some types of anemones, as well as clownfish(I was directed on this by my children). Feather dusters are likely, and after that I am unsure.

 

[Mical]

If you're wanting nems you're going to need some pretty good (maybe expensive) lighting. nems will survive/adjust to lower light but will benefit from some "higher priced" lighting.

In your current situation I would cycle the the tank for a month or two and resist buying anything until you research more into what you want vs their needs. It'll save you from heartbreak and save your wallet. There's a mountain of information & help here on R2R and the very first lesson is patience & secondly knowledge.

 

[blakes29]

Thanks Mical. That is what I will do. I will say that I am impatient, but also willing to educate myself before throwing a bunch of money around, and more importantly, not rushing in and killing a bunch of animals.

My previous fish experience was solely African Cichlids, which are very forgiving and easy to maintain.

 

[Cole.mormon]

I would add 2 peppermint shrimp

 

[Cole.mormon]

STAY AWAY FROM DOTTYBACKS THEY LOVE TO EAT INVERTS

 

[Cole.mormon]

Can we get pics?

 

[blakes29]

Attached are a full tank pic and three pics breaking the tank down. I have added two pieces of live rock that had some zoas as hitchhikers, what I believe is a hermit crab, which stays hidden, and a bunch of tiny crawlies.....oh and I think some tiny feather dusters.

Cycling is going well. Ammonia dropped from 4 to 2 overnight and nitrites and nitrates are starting to increase accordingly.

Let me know if you see anything positive or negative as I am here to learn.

All input is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[blakes29]

I would add 2 peppermint shrimp

Peppermints are a definite addition. They are beautiful and fun to watch too.

 

[Cole.mormon]

Also 2 cleaner shrimp for some pop

 

[Cole.mormon]

O would do scarlet skunk

 

[Cole.mormon]

Attached are a full tank pic and three pics breaking the tank down. I have added two pieces of live rock that had some zoas as hitchhikers, what I believe is a hermit crab, which stays hidden, and a bunch of tiny crawlies.....oh and I think some tiny feather dusters.

Cycling is going well. Ammonia dropped from 4 to 2 overnight and nitrites and nitrates are starting to increase accordingly.

Let me know if you see anything positive or negative as I am here to learn.

All input is appreciated. Thanks.

Would u take out the cow skull?

 

[blakes29]

Would u take out the cow skull?

If it is a detriment to the tank yes.

 

[Cole.mormon]

It looks weird sharp ends though

 

[blakes29]

It is something I have had in my cichlid tanks for many many years. Came from my military days, it is the symbol of my Infantry Brigade and on the unit patch I wore of over 30 years. The wife and I have become very accustomed to it, so if it is not going to hurt any of the inhabitants so it will probably stay.

I do appreciate the input though.