Newby with questions on tankmates

[JerseyGirl]

Hi everyone! I am Ashley aka JerseyGirl. I live in Florida. I need some help please!!
I just bought a tank . I know I need to cycle . I'm new to reef tanks. I'm experienced with lots of freshwater!
So I'm doing my diligence. I want to have seahorses, star fish,and know not much goes with. I have been researching alot. I would love some first hand advice directly. I hear Tim is great! I have some questions like what is best substrate? I was directed to " Nature's Ocean sand and substrate ". (Sand and crushed shells/coral)
Also, what different fish will live peacefully with the sea horses and star?
What is best seahorse for beginners? ( Hardy)
What is best sea star ?
What other fish will live peacefully with those?
What types specifically of corals and reefs and such can I house with those?
I pretty much figures out the clean up crew. Thank you very much for your time!
BTW, I have what I believe is a 54 gallon corner bow front I just bought. No lid yet but was told living in Florida it's ok, no need for a chiller. Just hang light fixture. I was thinking of making some kind of screen tip so fish don't jump out if that's possible with salt water fish lol
Your thoughts?

 

[LBehr]

http://www.seahorse.org/library/articles/tankmates/tankmates.shtml

Seahorses are tricky I would recommend trying something easier first. Also I know tank bred are way easier to keep. Here is a link with a ton of info.

 

[LBehr]

Also there are definitely saltwater fish that jump usually it is certain species that have more risk. I know that wrasses are notorious jumpers. It also has to do with how stressed they are. A lot of species can be safely kept in open top tank.

 

[ReeferBob]

Sea horses are usually kept in species only tanks. That is, only seahorses. Although you could also put pipefish in with them. Seahorses are messy eaters and require calm water and good filtration. You should hold off on any crabs since they are opportunistic and may eat the seahorses. Seahorses also like cold water, under 75.

 

[JerseyGirl]

thanks! here are a couple more odd ball questions...
where can i find a screen lid for 54 corner bow front tank?
'' ' " " versa top/ plexi glass lid " " " ? i have been all over google!!
is a 29 coralife biocube sufficient for seahorse pair?

 

[cmcoker]

The biocube would probably not be ideal for seahorses. They need a taller tank.. And heat issues in the biocube would be an issue with the stock lighting. Seahorses need cooler water (74F ish or below depending on species) and my biocube would never have stayed that low with the Power compacts.