Saltwater aquarium Berlin system equipment question?

Question

For my 46 gallon tank i have 46 lbs of live rock about 30 pounds of live sand two zoo med power heads, a sea clone 100 protein skimmer, and a flouescent 1 light strip perfecto light that came with the tank, not sure about the specs on the light though... so my question is what should I upgrade on my system and in what order since I can only afford a big piece of equiptment one at a time like even 3 or so months... I was thinking of upgrading the skimmer or lights, so what should I upgrade and any suggestions on the brand etc. of the upgraded item... thanks

Answer 1

I'd say get a compact flourescent light. Right now the light is the only thing you have that's truly weak. Frankly the skimmer is only marginally important. I used a homemade skimmer in my similar sized tank for 2 years before I found one on sale and upgraded to something professional. The lights are much more important as they'll promote positive algae growth and stimulate the stuff on your rocks. With lights, the sky's the limits as far as what you CAN spend. I'd say spend what you can afford. Anything is better than nothing, and in that market there's always something better.