New to the Reef

[jdespins]

I have a 180 gallon tank that I bought to turn into a reef. Plan on buying 200 lbs of live rock and 180 lbs of argonite sand to cycle the tank with.

I have the 2 heater for the tank and would like to know more about a sump/refugium (size and a DIY plan). Plus how to getting all working.

I have already planned on the skimmer, the lighting and two power heads. Do I need much more in equipment?

My LFS told me at first that I needed a wet/dry trickle filter. I've read and researched alot and don't think I need one. Can some please help me with this......... :oops:

[ssgibby]

Welcome To Reeflounge :)

180 will be a sweet tank to start on! You dont need a wet dry. Before I get into too much more detail, please tell us some more.

What kind of lighting?
Is your tank Reef Ready (Drilled)
What do you plan on keeping?

Thanks and again, welcome to reeflounge

Scott

[jdespins]

Lighting is all new to me.

The LFS is going to give me some advice, but I was hoping to get a little help on that.

The tank is going to be drilled and set up with a sump/refugium.

I would like to keep corals, anemones and some fishes, but not alot. Possibly somes clowns, some tangs, butterfly fishes, and the cleaning crew of course.

[Reef Scooter]

As you discover new things about reef keeping, make sure you read up on hardiness and compatability of fish, corals and invertibrates. I'm not sure if there was anyone out there who at one time or another didn't think about having an anemone and clownfish.

Anemones, unfortunately usually don't survive in an aquarium, when they do, it's by folks who know a lot about them and the conditions they need.

Also, if you're going to have corals, you won't want butterfly fish. The butterfly fish will eat them.

Just wanted to give you a head start on those. For me, the best part of this hobby is learning all the wonderful things. You can and will learn something new every day.