What's up guys? I just started the saltwater hobby and would love some knowledgeable and experienced enthusiasts advice on exactly what to do with my initial start up cycle and if you think I'm ok with the supplies I've got. I've done plenty of research the past few weeks on everything from the nitrate/ammonia cycle to the reviews of products. Here is a list of everything I have at the moment.
Craigslist:
•29g bowfront aquarium w/ stand (used)
•fluorescent aquarium hood (used)
•marineland c-160 canister filter (used)
•Aqueon ta100 100w heater (used)
BRS online:
•live sand
•30lb reef saver dry rock
•Red Sea reef mature pro kit
•maintenance tools/refractometer
Amazon:
• Hydor Koralia Evolution pump (750-850gph)
•saltwater test kit
•marineland replacement filtering for the used canister filter.
So that's currently what I'm working with. I know I would definitely need a lighting upgrade from the fluorescent hood light. Was thinking a Current USA Orbit Marine LED. Especially since I plan on growing beginner level corals. Also looking for a protein skimmer.
As for my next step, I just bought my aquarium and filter from a guy on Craigslist using it for his freshwater fish. Do I need to do anything special to make sure bacteria is rid of this before the cycling? Next, I set up my sand and rock and do I just mix up saltwater in a bucket to the right parameters and pour it in the tank? Also do I introduce live rock to my dry rock while using my reef mature kit? And at what timeline of the cycle do I introduce my lighting? Also, should I run a skimmer through my cycle?
I'm sorry this is so long but I am excited to start my new hobby and have so many questions to ask! Thanks for your time and input!
Craigslist:
•29g bowfront aquarium w/ stand (used)
•fluorescent aquarium hood (used)
•marineland c-160 canister filter (used)
•Aqueon ta100 100w heater (used)
BRS online:
•live sand
•30lb reef saver dry rock
•Red Sea reef mature pro kit
•maintenance tools/refractometer
Amazon:
• Hydor Koralia Evolution pump (750-850gph)
•saltwater test kit
•marineland replacement filtering for the used canister filter.
So that's currently what I'm working with. I know I would definitely need a lighting upgrade from the fluorescent hood light. Was thinking a Current USA Orbit Marine LED. Especially since I plan on growing beginner level corals. Also looking for a protein skimmer.
As for my next step, I just bought my aquarium and filter from a guy on Craigslist using it for his freshwater fish. Do I need to do anything special to make sure bacteria is rid of this before the cycling? Next, I set up my sand and rock and do I just mix up saltwater in a bucket to the right parameters and pour it in the tank? Also do I introduce live rock to my dry rock while using my reef mature kit? And at what timeline of the cycle do I introduce my lighting? Also, should I run a skimmer through my cycle?
I'm sorry this is so long but I am excited to start my new hobby and have so many questions to ask! Thanks for your time and input!