Just inherited a huge system and I know nothing! Please help!

[Azsrael]

My brother just purchased a home and I’ve inherited the aquarium that came with the house. I’ve owned some freshwater fish in the past but other than that, I know nothing! My brother knows even less. I really don’t want these beautiful creatures to die, so I’ll be ordering a comprehensive water test kit over the next few days. The home has been vacant for 3 weeks and I fear that time is running short. I don’t know if some of these corals were already dying, but one doesn’t look so hot.

Please help with anything you can and don’t worry, you won’t insult me with the super simple obvious stuff. For example, what the heck is that huge jug? Is it just saltwater? Can I pour it in? The aquarium is running a little low since I can hear the pump struggling to displace water. Thank you so much ahead of time.

 

[Peace River]

#WelcometoR2R!!! Are there any local fish stores or other hobbyists in your area that could help?

Although there is a lot of information that you need to learn, this R2R article may give you a few helpful tips:

The Supreme Guide To Setting Up A Saltwater Reef Aquarium

The Supreme Guide To Setting Up A Saltwater Reef Aquarium Introduction The marine environment is one of the most complex systems on the planet. The aquarium you are about to set up is only a tiny sliver of the vast ocean, but it is nowhere near simple. This task is going to take patience, a...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[outerbank]

Personally, I would run by the local saltwater fish store ASAP to see if they can send someone out asap to measure salinity, dKH, Ca, pH, NH3, Nitrate, P, and temp, check pumps and lights and adjust as needed. May need large water change but need to be careful if parameters are all out of wack.

 

[tehmadreefer]

Nice but you better find someone to do something otherwise that return pump is gonna fry and you will have a big stinky mess of a tank and possible fire on your hands.

 

[Rmckoy]

We could just suggest adding fresh water to the sump to top off .
that will keep it running while buying a little time to get information .
Fresh water ( RODI or even distilled water )

 

[Rmckoy]

Looks like a huge hammer or some sort of euphillia colony on the bottom right .
That’s huge

 

[joseserrano]

Hire you local store to come service ASAP.

 

[DaneGer21]

Actually, call the LFS and have them send 2 guys. Tear the tank down and let them keep all the livestock and equipment for their time. Perfect trade.