Components of a Modern Marine Tank
1. Tank Size: - In saltwater
bigger is better. We recommend a tank size of 40 gallon or more for
beginners. The
larger volume will be more stable. In general short wide tanks are best.
Here are our favorite sizes: 56 gallon
column, 65 gallon, 75 gallon, 90 gallon , 125 gallon.
2. Live Rock: Live rock is decorative and provides a
refuge for the fish. Most importantly it is the primary
biological filter in the modern marine tank. Use about 1 lb. of cured live
rock per gallon of water. Place the live rock so that water can move
through it and fish can swim around it.
3.
Upgraded Lighting: Extra lighting will enhance viewing
of the fish, and the proper biology in the tank. Lighting choices include
a double bulb flourescent fixture, compact fluorescent lighting, or even more
intense lighting. Our staff can help you choose the proper lighting.
4. Protein Skimmer- A good skimmer will extract dissolved impurities
and nutrients that cause unwanted algae growth. We like the Excalibur
hanging skimmer.
5. Water Movement- Lots of water movement enables beneficial
organisms to grow on the live rock. (Think of the constant water movement
in a natural coral reef). At least 2 powerheads will help move
water. For example the total flow rate of a 65 gal tank should be 650 gal/hr or more.
(10gph/gal of water).
6. Power Filter- A good power filter will provide additional water
movement, aeration, mechanical filtration, biological filtration, and the
activated carbon will provide chemical filtration.
7. Aragonite Gravel- Use a 1" layer of aragonite
gravel. It is decorative and helps maintain the correct pH.
8. Reference Book: We recommend the New
Marine Aquarium by Mike Paletta, or the Conscientious
Marine Aquarist by
Robert Fenner. These books explain how all these components work
together as well as the benefits of live rock.
Additional Items Needed:: Sea Salt,
Hydrometer, Stand, Net, Test Kit, Food,
Thermometer, Chorine
Neutralizer Recommended: Quarantine tank