new tank

[scottrader]

I'm sure that this one has never been posted. I am starting a new (eventually reef) tank and would like advice on some equipment. Specifically, an under gravel filter and lighting.
Its a 55 gal I will have protein skimmer and UV sterilizer. Any advice?

 

[henkelsfamily1]

Well Scoot if it were me I would take the money that I was going to spend on the UV and the UGF and buy some killer LR and a nice PS. Of course that is me. As for substrate, being that you live in NJ drop by Home Depot an pick up some South Down sand. If they do not have it now they will shortly being it is a seasonal item It retails for 3.50 a bag. I live in Doylestown Pa. and if you are anywhare near me on the Jersey side of the Delaware I am more than williing to help you get the tank up and running.

Regards

Walter

<a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>

 

[henkelsfamily1]

The South Down will be the DSB.

 

[scottrader]

I really appreiciate all the help. Lastly, what kind of lighting and preotein skimmer would you recommend?

 

[danmhippo]

4 x 96W PC (power compact) for medium stength lighting, 2 x 175W MH (Metal Halide) + 2 x 96W PC for higher intensity lighting.

I personally liked the product from Aqua-C, Try the EV90 for protein skimmer.

 

[scottrader]

Thanks for the info. I don't know much about UGF, so I am moore than happy to dump it. As for the UV, it seems like a pretty good idea to me, no? And finally excuse my ignorance, but what are LR and PS(protein skimmer?). I live in Warren. its right where 287 and 78 meet Its pretty central to the whole state. Is that anywhere near Doylestown?

 

[Gatortailale1]

The UGF is a detritus trap and will not benefit a "live" sandbed consisting of crushed coral or sand or both.

Walter is right, skip the UV as well and buy some nice rock (LR=Live Rock)(PS= skimmer)UV kills beneficial critters as well as harmful. The LR, PS and DSB act as your filter eliminating need for UV.

 

[scottrader]

Sorry, DSB?

 

[Gatortailale1]

deep sand bed