new tank

[chuck116]

Im shopping for a new tank. looking at a 150 gal. with dual overflows. Im interested in fish and a small amount of rock,should i get a sump or a refgium and put some rock in the ref ... Im new to this and want to do it correctly.. thanks for the advise...

[BadOleRoss]

Remember that your rock and sand are your filtration when you are dealing with saltwater. Unlike freshwater you really want to stay away from canister filters. I recommend starting with as much live rock as you can afford and a sump with a protein skimmer. Once you get up and running and you get truely addicted to SW you can add a refugium. Most people recommend about 1.5 lbs of rock per gallon of water. I really think 2 lbs is better.

[chuck116]

thanks for the advise.. what is the biggest difference between a ssump and a refugium.. is it just the contents???

[skeety]

it's the contents, but more importantly, it's the intent.

A sump's main intent is to add water volume and give you a place to hide the equipment.

A refugium's main intent is to remove nutrients from the water column, by allowing an area for algae to grow that can easily be trimmed.

There are those that swear by refugiums, and those against. I personally think they can potentially help hide a bigger problem with husbandry, therefore *I* choose to not run one. But I strongly encourage you to do the research and see what opinion you come up with.

Good luck, and keep us posted!!

[skeety]

btw...this FAQ will help you a lot. It's a great place to start:

http://thereeftank.com/forums/faq.ph...les#faq_sywart

[chuck116]

thanks for the advise .. im still reading and trying to decide... can i get your opinion on a "current" brand skimmer. the model is the fission its rated at 220 gallons i believe.. thanks