The Reef Tank banner

FO vs FOWLR

1 reading
7.3K views 18 replies 8 participants last post by  Chino161  
#1 ·
FO (fish only) vs FOWLR (fish only with live rock)
My question: Is one better than the other? I am still in the planning stages of a 75 gallon tank yet I am unsure which direction I should take. Anyone have any particularities when it comes to the benefits and disadvantages of these systems?
 
#2 ·
Fowlr is the way to go

Fish only is like the tanks on the show tanked... they take a lot if equipment and chemistry to keep them safe for fish

Fowlrs use the live rock as the main part of the filter for your tank... the rock is a biofilter and processes the ammonia abd nitrites created by your fish and other critters

I am positive that everyone here will agree live rock is a must have
 
#4 ·
Fowlr is the way to go

Fish only is like the tanks on the show tanked... they take a lot if equipment and chemistry to keep them safe for fish

Fowlrs use the live rock as the main part of the filter for your tank... the rock is a biofilter and processes the ammonia abd nitrites created by your fish and other critters

I am positive that everyone here will agree live rock is a must have
Well I was planning on filling up a section of my sump with live rock. Can I start off with dry rock and allow it to grow things on it by adding live rock to the sump and a small amount to the display tank? It is a 75 gallon tank
 
#5 ·
Most people like to keep there sump for just equipme t so that it is easy to clean out ... but I would guess tjay would work... are you going to use decorations for your fish to swim through or hide and sleep in... also how much rock in tje dt and hoe mich in the sump you thinking
 
#10 ·
You must cycle the tank regardless. I like 1 lbs per gallon. Others lile more others less. Buy a test kit once. You fill the tank testing everyday you will see the ammonia go up then nitrite then nitrates once there is no sign on ammonia or nitrite and nitrates get to around 5 wait a week and add one clean up crew wait 2 more and then add your first fish
 
#15 ·
Powerheads... skimmer... live rock... id get a canister filter to run during either oh crap moments when somethings wrong or after water changes to clean and polish the water... I rrecommend poly bio marine pad and carbon

And yiu have to cycle the tank