[csk109]

I've got a 55gal tank I'd like to setup. What is the big difference between a fish only and a reef tank. I'd like some live rock and coral but don't want to fill the tank with it.

[the_blue_tuna]

First off , welcome to Reefland.

I would have to say that the single biggest difference in the two setups is lighting. Reef tanks require a much more intense light set-up as a rule. Reef tanks have ( as a general rule) much better water quality . Reef tanks have a stricter list of allowable fish . Some fish will eat the corals and some fish will eat the inverts. You can have a successful tank with all, fish , corals , and inverts if you are careful as to what you stock . Many fish do great in a reef tank. The live rock is a good idea either way you choose. It is a great natural filter.If you could come up with some specific questions it might be a bit easier .

[Leddy]

in my opinion, you should do a fish only with live rock(FOWLR). you wont need any special lighting, just like 55-60lbs live rock and a good protein skimmer, a few powerheads for circulation, maybe a hang on filter for chemical filtration(carbon)now and then. if you are new to saltwater and want corals, you will need some type of better lighting than just standard flourescents. power compacts/VHO/T5/MH, depending on what corals you'd wanna keep. for a fish only, you don't need any special lighting, maybe just a 10k and actinic, or 50/50, just for the look.

either do sand or crushed coral, try not to mix the two, i found out the hard way and am currently in the process of removing it all and replacing it with just sand. if you do CC, you'll need to vacuum it monthly or so to remove waste, or else you may have a nitrate problem after a while.

anyway, welcome to reefland. you'll find many answers to any question you have hear, it has helped me so much. good luck, have fun, and be patient.

leddy