AboutT.J Expertise I can answer virtually any question on saltwater fish. I have had saltwater aquariums for 8 years, ranging from large reefs to nano reefs. I can answer technical questions on lights, skimmers, heaters, etc. I am knowledgeable on species compatibility, diseases, tank setup, and more. I am EXTREMELY beginner friendly, if you are just starting a tank i will take the time to help you with everything. The only thing I am not too familiar with is breeding saltwater fish, I have had limited experience with breeding, so no breeding questions please.
Also, to answer questions, I need to know your the size of your tank, Lbs of LR, Lbs of live sand, and skimmer/filter/refugium/sump/lighting if applicable. else, it takes me longer to help you
Experience I have kept various reefs, from nano reefs to large reefs. I have had saltwater for 8 years, and am familiar with all equipment and species.
Expert: T.J Date: 7/23/2008 Subject: Planning for the future
Question Hey Tyler! I recently found a 90 gallon tank for only $50 bucks on Craigslist. I jumped at the chance and am picking it up on Thursday. I really don't have any room for it until I move to a house in about a year, so my friend said I could keep it at his house, outside in the shade. Any recommendations on how to keep it in good condition? The person selling it to me is also selling the sump that went with it. What exactly does a sump do? I tried looking on Google but only found out how to make my own. He is selling the sump for $75 dollars. Is this a good deal? Also, does you have any reading suggestions for a DIY stand for a 90 gallon? Since I've got about a year to plan, I think this is going to be the best fifty bucks I've ever spent! Thanks for any and all help!
Answer Hey Emily
good deal! To keep it in good condition, keep it away from direct heat, moisture, and snow. Basically, dont stick the tank in a snowstorm or heatwave, the silicone will wear out. Outside in the shade works fine, just put a tarp or some other protection over it.
A sump is a separate tank under the main tank that holds chaeto, live rock rubble, fish, inverts, heater, skimmer, etc. depending on the sumps size, $75 could be a good deal if its 20g+. sumps are awesome for hiding bulky equipment and good biological filters
for a stand, if looks isnt a huge deal, you can take a stack of cinder blocks, put a thick piece of wood on the 2 stacks, and screw in separate pieces of wood over the front, sides, and back to hide the cinder blocks. if you dont want that route, this site has good plans http://www.aquariumlife.net/projects/diy-aquarium-stand/56.asp
you can also go on a online classifieds site and make a wanted ad for a 90g stand, lots of people have stands laying around
when you set the tank up, feel free to ask me questions!
