Complete newbie with a few questions

[Tweakfish]

I dont have an aquarium yet, But I'd like to get one. Im probably way over my head but, Could a beginner get a reef aquarium? What size tank, should someone start out with, and whats a reasonable group of fish. Money isnt too much of an object. I have alot of time too. Thanks!

[Doctor_Reef]

First welcome to CF...and to the hobby... Could a beginner get a reef tank...Yes...You will need to do some research and ask lots of questions...I would always suggest the largest tank you can afford to start with.... Once you look through this site and go to the information about starting in this hobby and decide what type of reef tank you want to keep...types of corals, inverts, and fish we can help you with understanding the equipment needs such as lighting, etc... and the types of fish for your system…that are reef safe…

Again welcome to CF....

[newtofish]

Tweakfish, Welcome to the forum. I wish I would have started asking the questions first.
I will make this short but before you begin or buy anything please read, read, read and read so more.
What size tank? Start off with the largest you can afford. The larger volumn of water the easier it is to remain stable. WHen I say afford, take in to consideration lights and pumps and all the stuff that goes with a tank. Think about rock and substrait also.
What a reasonable group of fish? The hardest question, it is up to you. Remeber alot of the cute little fish you will see in your LFS will grow up to be big beautiful fish someday. Research your fish first. alot have special feeding or other requirements.
Lurk through the site and read up on what we have done right or wrong. It will be a big help. ALso check into local clubs to see what they offer. Good luck and welcome again.

[TranZ]

Welcome Tweakfish!!! First get yourself a book to read or read some of the threads here at CF. The "Knowledge Base" has full of information to get you started.

Reef aquarium are for everybody as long as you have the patience and passion. Since money is not really an object...start with a bigger tank. A 125gal or bigger will be nice. Bigger is better. Get yourself a Metal halide as lighting for more on corals. if you have any question just stop by and someone will help here. Good luck and welcome to the hobby!!

[Tweakfish]

Thank you! I'm really excited to get started on all this.. Althought it wont be until next year that I can even get it. But I need to start everything now If I want it to acctually happen lol. Does anyone know any good imformation sites where I can learn all of these things?

[Doctor_Reef]

YOU FOUND IT!!! Go to the Knowledge base here on CF and read the articles.... Here is the link...
http://www.coralforum.com/kb.php

[Tweakfish]

Lol, thank you.

[TranZ]

You will learn alot on this site. as I said before just ask away...someone will help you. i learn some in peteducation.com as well if u want another site.

[Tweakfish]

Alright, Thanks! Also does anyone know anything about marine hermit crabs. I have land hermit crabs. But Marine ones seem really cool.

[Doctor_Reef]

Yes...you can keep hermits in a reef system and there are lots to choose from....
Here is a site that you can read about several kinds of crabs...hermits included...
http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/scateg.cfm?pCatId=501

[Tweakfish]

Oh wow cool, Thanks!

[Doctor_Reef]

No problems....Glad to help!!!

[Sugar Magnolia]

Welcome Tweakfish! After you've read through the articles, and have an idea of what type of marine system you want to keep, be sure to ask lots of questions. We'll be glad to help.

[Condiman]

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