Can Anyone Tell Me How To...?

[francesanna]

Hi
I have just decided to change one of my Tropical Tanks into a Marine Tank.
The Tank is an Aqua One Aquastart 500, 55 Ltrs.
On Sunday we went to an Aquarium Centre and they told me it was ok to change over but be sure to clean the tank thoroughly without any detergents etc.
I purchased a new filter, the Aqua One External 200, I got a box of Salt and was told to add 1833 grams to my tank when the temperature was at 75 degrees,and it should take about an hour to clear,after which I was to add the live sand I purchased.
Today is Tuesday and the salt still hasn't properly cleared yet. I have not added the sand as it hasn't cleared properly,but the problem is I now realise that I have to have other equipment as well which I was not told about, I am a little cross as I am not an expert on Marine tanks and I asked if I had everything I needed when I was in the shop.
I have since found out about Hydrometers, Protien Skimmers, etc,etc...
Can someone please help me by explaining exactly what I need for getting my new tank up and running.
I would prefer to get an external filter with a built in heater as the space in my tank is limited.
I also need to know when it would be best to add my sand and how long before I add my live rocks etc.
I would like to paint the back of my tank blue,do I need any special paint to adhere to glass.
Thanks in advance
Francesanna

 

[Dano]

Hi
I have just decided to change one of my Tropical Tanks into a Marine Tank.
The Tank is an Aqua One Aquastart 500, 55 Ltrs.
On Sunday we went to an Aquarium Centre and they told me it was ok to change over but be sure to clean the tank thoroughly without any detergents etc.
I purchased a new filter, the Aqua One External 200, I got a box of Salt and was told to add 1833 grams to my tank when the temperature was at 75 degrees,and it should take about an hour to clear,after which I was to add the live sand I purchased.
Today is Tuesday and the salt still hasn't properly cleared yet. I have not added the sand as it hasn't cleared properly,but the problem is I now realise that I have to have other equipment as well which I was not told about, I am a little cross as I am not an expert on Marine tanks and I asked if I had everything I needed when I was in the shop.
I have since found out about Hydrometers, Protien Skimmers, etc,etc...
Can someone please help me by explaining exactly what I need for getting my new tank up and running.
I would prefer to get an external filter with a built in heater as the space in my tank is limited.
I also need to know when it would be best to add my sand and how long before I add my live rocks etc.
I would like to paint the back of my tank blue,do I need any special paint to adhere to glass.
Thanks in advance
Francesanna

hi there, im pretty new to the world of marine fish, but i can offer you some advice on setting up your tank.
firstly and most importantly you need to gain as mush info as you can on the hobby and use the forum to answer any questions that your unsure of.
secondly you mus'nt rush as all good things come to those who wait.

as far a the tank goes, i resently set up my tank and have equip it with- external filter, skimmer, heaters , powerheads, RO unit and lights. all these things vary depending of the size of your tank and what your keeping. you will also need a suitable water test kit and a hydrometer.

as for your salt, you should of mixed it with RO water in the correct measures and left it at 24 degrees c before adding it to you tank. i also added the sand fist, but dont worry. as long as you did'nt fill the tank up with tap water you could be ok. tap water contains all the nasty chemicals that fish hate.

live rock should be added when ammonia levels are at zero. test your water until all levels are what they should be and what you really need to do is take your time and don't rush. hope i've been a help, good luck.

 

[demonmagus]

your tank is definetely a nano reef, if you scroll down a bit you'll find a dedicated section to it