Starting marine aquarium?

Question

I'm considering starting a small saltwater aquarium. What kind of fish, tanks, etc. would be good for an amateur.

Answer 1

More answer than will fit in this box. Best thing is to read a couple books on setting up and operating a marine aq.

Answer 2

Since you have had fresh water , Most of your battle is won.  You already know what is needed.

Really, any tank will do.  For starters you don't need a protein skimmer in a tank smaller than 30. (They are nice to have but really aren't needed here)  Just a standard 20 or 30 is fine.  Hang on filter, some crushed coral or dolomite.  You don't HAVE to have live rock or live sand so don't worry about that.

Get your salt, hydrometer, test kit and your almost there.

I would suggest checking out saltwaterfish.com and going thru the types of fish to see what catches your eye and what would go in the size tank you choose.

Read about their requirements, compatability requirements etc.

Don't rush starting fish unless you know you can incorporate them in the tank later.

To cycle the tank, get a black molly.  They are only .99 cents at the fish store and make great cycling fish. (Yes they are salt water fish and just happen to live in salt, brackish as well as fresh water)  

The main thing you want to remember is patience.  Planning out your tank first then getting it going will pay off later.

Make a list of what you would like to keep and do research.  Bacteria takes longer to mature in a salt tank, so don't expect to dump salt and water into the tank and wait a few days for it to be cycled.

You will have to test.

As always with questions feel free to email or repost

Answer 3

I think you should get this book first. It explains everything from equipment to livestock stocking and what to expect as far as mainetence.

The New Marine Aquarium: Step-By-Step Setup & Stocking Guide (Paperback)  Link:

http://www.amazon.com/New-Marine-Aquariu...

I bought it when I set my first tank up and help a huge amount.

If you don't buy the book I would go with damsels and a 40 gallon breeder as the minimum.

Answer 4

If you start a small reef tank filled with live rock and inverts you will learn more and have more success than if you try to keep fish.  Trying to get a balanced tank will take time.  As you learn about water chemistry, filteration, aeration and lighting, you will be learning the basics to fish keeping.  Eventually you will be able to introduce a small colorful fish or two to your tank if your invertebrates are healthy and growing.  

How long have you kept tropical fish?  You should be an expert at keeping tropical fish before you invest in a salt water set up.  Good luck!