First timer trying saltwater

[matt.radich]

Just wanted to say hello, and say this website is amazing. Makes me realize how much better saltwater is that freshwater.

I've been doing freshwater since I was 10, now I'm 17 and trying my hand At saltwater. My current tank is a 30 gallon, with a big protein skimmer( Craigslist), a big coralife circulation pump, 40ish lbs of live rock( From one of the starters of this site, I think), 40lbs of sand and no light yet, gotta find one soon.

I just wanted to say hello and how excited I am to be getting in this hobby, just need to get one or two more things( minus fish) and I'm ready to go!

 

[Craigar]

Welcome to the addiction

 

[Off The Deep End]

View attachment 3988

 

[Cake_Boss]

Welcome, we have a classifieds section when you're ready for a light.

 

[Wicked Color]

Welcome, +1 used lights are the way to go when getting into this hobby, gives you a good idea of what to expect and what you want to upgrade to (yes upgrade, it will happen fast)

 

[Boogie]

Welcome! Glad you made it here.

For the record, I start some stuff here but I didn't start the site. I guess my promotions came off a little strong but what can I say, I think its a great place to learn! =)

 

[matt.radich]

@boogie, haha sorry, I just see those badges and I'm impressed.

I also wanted to let you know the rock is amazing And the power head is perfect. Lots of flow in my tank

Thank you
Matt

 

[Boogie]

Glad I could help you get started! The masses will start asking for pics here soon so you might as well start figuring out how to do that now.

Oh and don't be impressed, I know absolutely nothing compared to alot of the members here. They just keep me around to help keep their minority numbers in check..

 

[matt.radich]

Well from the looks of it, you got it together.

And by the way, idk if this is more of a pm question, but how much did you want for that pair of clowns that you were selling?

 

[matt.radich]

Also forgot to ask, about how many watts per gallon would be needed for easy corals later down the road?( I have read that that rule has been sort of thrown out, but just need a general amount of lighting for my 30 gallon

 

[projectx]

Welcome to the madness, and take things slow, that will help greater success

 

[Cake_Boss]

Also forgot to ask, about how many watts per gallon would be needed for easy corals later down the road?( I have read that that rule has been sort of thrown out, but just need a general amount of lighting for my 30 gallon

I vaguely remember the rule, but think it depends on your light source. 3-4w per gallon for softies,....bring on the hate

 

[matt.radich]

I was thinking a t5 setup, like a 2x65watt? Or just 96watt?Would that be good?

 

[Cake_Boss]

Bob says 2-4 watts/gallon 12-14 hours a day.

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/soft.htm

Watts divided by gallons, so 65w x 2 = 130w. 130w/30g= 4.33. With this setup, you'll have more than enough. 96w/30g=3.2, this is also adequate. If you had both on hand, I'd go with the 65x2, not only because of the increased intensity, but I'm assuming it has a wider coverage area.

Don't mean to sound like I'm babying you, just put it up to help others as well.

Note: this is a rule that doesn't apply to LEDs

 

[ShelbyJK500]

Howdy!