jsb515

I'm new to all this but have been reading as much as possible about how to properly set up a tank for a 'first-timer' and I must say I'm a bit overwhelmed. I'm trying to take it one step at a time. All I have at this point is the tank with no light fixtures (it's been a slow process). I'm really excited about setting this up, but as soon as I start reading about a particular thing, I get pretty frustrated with all the options. SO, I've decided I'll start with one question at a time. This weeks question is about lighting. I've already decided that I do not want to go with Metal Halides right now. My plan is to start with a fish only (maybe some motile invertibrates) until I get the hang of everything. But, I would eventually like to be able to get maybe some soft corals - I've read that while they require intense lighting, they don't require the most intense. I would prefer to go ahead and buy lighting that would allow to have more intense light in the furture when I upgrade - Instead of just buying the regular fluorescent lights that would sustain a fish-only system and then having to buy something totally new in order to upgrade adaquate lighting for some corals. Basically I think I'm looking for HO or VHO lights. So, I was reading and was so excited that I had made up my mind on what I wanted... That was until I started searching some internet stores. I thought I had read enough on the subject, but it was like I still had no clue what the websites were selling and it if was what I needed. Okay, you're probably bored with all this by now, but if anyone has any suggestions on what kind of lighting would work best for me, I'd love to hear what's worked (or works) for you. Or any suggestions on where to buy such a thing. Also, what should I expect to spend? Remember, I'm looking for something to get me started - not necessaily the best of the best stuff at this point. I have a 55 gl tank (48 in. long/12-13 in. depth/20-21 in. tall) Thanks in advance for your time!

Hi Dena, Is this still available? If so, do you have any pictures? What are the dimensions of the tank? My husband and I are looking to start our first salt water set up. :-) Thanks! Jennifer

Hi Cindy, Thanks for the post. What is LFS? I hope I don't sound silly asking that.. :-)

Hello everyone! This is my first post here. My husband and I have been doing a lot of research and are interested in setting up a fish-only tank (since we're new to all this). I see that there are several shops around Austin, but does anyone have any tips or preferences on the best place to go for someone just starting out. We have yet to purchase anything - not even a tank, but we're looking at getting a 55gal. Also, what are your thoughts on puchasing any used equipment? I know we might save some money that way, but I'm not sure if it's possible to be sure that everything is really clean and ready for a new set up. So maybe it's not worth the little bit of money you could save. Thanks so much for your time!