TheReefGuy Posted January 11, 2016 Share Posted January 11, 2016 I know a 40B isn't quite a nano reef, but I posted this thread on RC and didn't get much of a reply. Hey guys,I have been in and out of reefkeeping for the last 5-10 years now. Throughout high school and some of college, I have kept reef tanks ranging from 5-29 gallons. After quickly realizing how difficult it is to keep a reef tank in college, I got out of the hobby and it kinda left my thoughts for a while. Well now that I'm graduated, and have a more steady living arrangement, the itch came back hard. I have always dreamed of owning a 40g breeder reef tank, and this time I think I'm gonna go for it. The last tank I owned was disassembled 4 years ago and I have not done any research since then as far as equipment and husbandry go. I want to keep this tank simple, low maintenance, and somewhat inexpensive. I know how much money you can "sink" into a reef tank, but I have also seen some beautiful tanks that don't cost an arm and a leg. I haven't done much research lately, so Ill probably be pokin around on these boards this weekend to see what's new and get some ideas.Here are my plans so far:40g breeder tankLighting - Up in the air, whats new, whats hot, what will fit my price range of ~$200Filtration - Might do a sump and get the tank drilled. What do you guys recommend?Protein filter - Same as lighting, same budgetRO/DI - Any suggestions?Tank Stand - DIY - anyone have experience, plans, tips, etc? Would be appreciated.As far as stocking goes, I am undecided. Most likely pretty standard stocking: Clown pair, some sort of goby, maybe a 6 line wrasse (fav fish), maybe a reef friendly angel. Not really thinking this far down the road yet.Inverts: most likely just a pre-determined cleanup crew from reefcleaners.com (people still use them, right)Live rock: Thinking 30 lbs of LR and 10-15 pounds of base rock. Maybe 20/20 split. Ill most likely purchase from an LFS, but would also be willing to purchase online if the price and quality is right.Corals: Mainly softies and LPS. I am a big fan of zoas, mushrooms, and pretty much any LPS. I like how they are a bit more hardy than some of the SPS, and do not require as much lighting and pristine water conditions to grow. I have some experience with softies and LPS, so I'll most likely stay in my comfort zone with these.The main thing I'm concerned with at this point is planning out my equipment. I really need help deciding on:* Lighting - $200-250* Sump or no sump (I have a 20 and 29g tank not in use for these)* Protein Skimmer - $200-250* RO/DI - $100 if possible* Water flow* Am I missing anything?Has the price of equipment gone down lately or remained generally the same?I am also located in the Chicago area so if anyone knows a solid forum or community for used equipment, frags, etc. it would be greatly appreciated. Link to comment
charnelhouse Posted January 11, 2016 Share Posted January 11, 2016 If you have the room and inclination a sump will be more versatile for you. I have a 40 AIO and it's great for my limited space, but if i wasn't trying to fit everything in as small a footprint as possible it would be nice to have a sump. I need the stand space for other stuff though. Most of the really good lights are going to cost you more than $250, but there are a few of decent lights in the $200-250 range. Kessil A160 and Current Orbit Marine Pro are a couple of choices. The skimmer is hard to nail down until you decide if you are going sump or no, but you should be able to fit your budget either way. Link to comment
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