Fish: [S&F and Reef Aquariums] Re: Introduction & question

When it comes to deciding the size of tank I suggest you first decide what type of fish you would like to have. If the fish you want to have are tangs and clowns than a 75 would be just fine. If you are looking into getting larger fish such as foxfaces, bamboos and triggers than a larger size tank would be required. I went from a 75 to a 200 because my fish needed more space. I added in a subtank for the 200 with moss and a mangrove tree. The only major difference is that everything is bigger ex. skimmer and lights. The amount of water needed for cleaning has also increase. You will need to use more chemicals. It will be cheaper to run a 75 gallon tank over a 200 gallon. I still only clean my tank once a month. When it comes to cleaning a saltwater tank you don't actually clean it like a fresh water tank where you take out all your fish…ect. You only need to skim the surface of your sand and rocks to remove any debris that may have settled there. Regardless of the size of tank as long as you start slow after your tank cycles for 2-3 weeks add in a few fish. Then add in 2-3 corals and work your way up from there.

--- In Saltwater_Fish_and_Reef_Aquariums@yahoogroups.com, Marianne <marianneh@...> wrote:
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> I just joined this group. I have had freshwater fish for a long time and am thinking of adding a saltwater reef setup. I am at the reading and research stage. I first thought of getting a 55 gallon tank like the one I have for my cichlids but after reading about the disadvantages of a narrow depth (only 13"), I have decided I want a tank that is 18" deep and about 20" tall (so it is easy to clean). So I am looking at either a 75-gallon, 100 gallon or 125-gallon aquarium which would be pre-drilled.
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> I am considering getting a used one with a lot of the equipment, stand, lights etc. Am I crazy to even consider a 125-gallon as a beginner? I think I would prefer a 75-gallon (less intimidating, easier water changes, less costly maintenance) but know of a nice 125-gallon that seems to have all the right equipment (at least from what I have been reading in the latest edition of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Saltwater Aquariums" - great book); beside a good protein skimmer, lights, etc., it includes a sterilizer, reactor and RO/DI system.
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> What would you recommend? Wait for a 75-gallon or go for the larger one? Pros and cons please.
> I would like to know if the 125-gallon may be overkill at this stage and whether I might find it too much to start with. I know bigger is often better, means more stability, and more livestock possibilities but will it be overwhelming for someone starting out with saltwater? Doesn't it also mean a lot more maintenance than with a 75-gallon, more cleaning, water mixing etc. I can certainly wait till the right 75-gallon comes along if that is a better choice for a beginner.
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> Thanks for your input.
> Marianne
>