Tips on starting a FOWLR aquarium

[clownfishlover]

Hello

I am new to the saltwater world, I have been had a freshwater tank for awhile. I was wondering if you guys could help me out. I am looking at a 55g for now, then switching to a 72g bowfront in the future. I have been doing quite a bit of research on the net just to make sure I do it right the first time! Here are a few questions.
1.) Which is the best way to set up your tank, live sand with live rock or crushed coral with live rock.
2.) What are the best ways to filter these setups? (protein skimmer, undergravel biological filter, bio-wheel) I really like the look of the sand compared to the crushed coral, it gives it that ocean look!!
3.) How long does the cycling process take?

[zhenya]

Hello

I am new to the saltwater world, I have been had a freshwater tank for awhile. I was wondering if you guys could help me out. I am looking at a 55g for now, then switching to a 72g bowfront in the future. I have been doing quite a bit of research on the net just to make sure I do it right the first time! Here are a few questions.
1.) Which is the best way to set up your tank, live sand with live rock or crushed coral with live rock.
2.) What are the best ways to filter these setups? (protein skimmer, undergravel biological filter, bio-wheel) I really like the look of the sand compared to the crushed coral, it gives it that ocean look!!
3.) How long does the cycling process take?

Hi, clownfishlover,

Welcome to Reefland!

First, to quickly unswer your questions. ;)

1), Definately would choose fine sand, preferably aragonite. Crushed coral is nothing but a detritus trap and can contribute to nutrient build up and will require regular maintanance( cleaning). Do a search on DSB and take a good look at that method of filtration.
You can start here to see how sand bed really works.

2). Protein skimmer is one of the very important pieces of equipment that you shouldn't skimp on. Good sump, live rock and good, properly set up sand bed combined with good protein skimmer is all you need. I would save your money for a good skimmer instead of buying one of those bio-wheels.

3). Cycling can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. I would do some more searches on that through the forums( just use search button on the top of the page) and use keywords like tank cycling.

Good luck!