Tropical Fish Forums

Justin1989 · New Members Joined: 07 Mar 2009

I started a 15 gallon freshwater tank almost a month ago. Little did I know, there was so much more to know when setting up these tanks. So my first mistake, bought fish before I knew about the cycling. I have a submersible heater, set for 79 degrees, a penguin 100 filter, and also a duetto 50 I believe. So I continued doing a fish-in cycle. Had a bristle nose pleco, and 2 cichlids. One cichlid jumped out due to me not having a lid, didn't think it was possible to have a lid/hood with the penguin filter I had hanging out the side. After 4-5 weeks, I come home from work to find my pleco dead. I was doing water changed, along with using ammo-lock to sustain the ammonia. Nitrite finally started to form, still doing water changed. Tested water today after I found my plec dead, ammonia was terrible due to the plec, and nitrite was getting pretty high also so I figured it was best to do a water change, vacuumed gravel and so forth. Once my cycling is complete, I thought about changing over to saltwater tank. Granted I have read it will be a little more time consuming. I have also read the cycling process a freshwater tank goes through isn't the same as a salt water tank, so my question is what is different? I don't plan on having live coral in this tank, just for the moment sand and fish. Do I need to change my filters, or what exactly will I need? I know I need a hydrometer, but other then that I'm not to sure of what else I need.

The reason for the change is the fish I planned to originally get (clownfish) were saltwater and I did not know this at the time. I would like to have clownfish, and also I seen a chocolate chip starfish at the local pet shop, which I was quite interested in. The lionfish I want will have to wait for my bigger tank; Looking at around a 90 gallon Tank. Honestly the tank isn't the issue, its the stand.

FloridaBoy · Moderators Joined: 04 Jul 2004

A basic marine fish setup is not too difficult providing you double that size and do your research in advance. For example, research will reveal that most types of starfish are a very poor choice for most aquariums since they usually cannot survive on prepared foods and they will slowly starve in captivity.

That 15 gallon is a little too small for a proper marine system but it will make a fine quarantine tank. Here's a link for you... if you are serious about a marine tank, make this book your first purchase. After you read it come back with some specific questions and someone will help you.
http://www.amazon.com/Conscientious-Marine-Aquarist-Commonsense-Successful/dp/1890087025

Here are a couple of articles that may help you also, and best wishes for your success:
http://www.aquahobby.com/board/viewtopic.php?t=24970&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0
http://www.aquahobby.com/board/viewtopic.php?t=17688
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Keepin' marines happy for 25 years

Justin1989 · New Members Joined: 07 Mar 2009

So with your advice, I decided to buy a bigger tank. I am looking to go for around a 55 gallon tank, which will set on my desk. I will find somewhere else for my tv lol. I am looking for a kit, which I have found on forums people saying they bought a 55gal kit for around $150. In the local pet shop I found one for $200. Honestly, I know its going to end up costing me more; due to kits only including a filter, submersible heater, lighting fixture which is simply the basic. However I will improve that after I have it setup and going through the cycle. I don't plan on having any coral, and also I plan on using sand. Sand to me looks more well; appealing. My 15 gal will be turned into a quarantine tank; its cycle is hopefully nearing its end.

FloridaBoy · Moderators Joined: 04 Jul 2004

That's good news about the bigger tank and don't forget the book I suggested by Fenner. Honestly, I would highly suggest the book before buying any more equipment.
Your research will lead to success...
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Keepin' marines happy for 25 years

Justin1989 · New Members Joined: 07 Mar 2009

Well its been a while since I have posted; so heres some updates Smile

I bought a Oak cabinet stand; with the intentions of buying a 55 gallon tank. I have decided against the 55 gallon tank, and went with a 90 gallon tank. I have not picked up the tank; however will be here soon. The 90 gallon's at a LFS are $150. The fish will be based around a Picasso Trigger; also will be building a sump. Hide all the ugly stuff, and possibly a small refuge. I will do some more research on the piping; don't want a nasty mess all over my floor.