A new guy question

[wirenut]

Hello everyone, have a few questions about a aggressive tankLooking to get a 180 Gal tank, not sure whats the best filter, protein skimmersump, ect. not sure what i will all need?Been doing fresh water for 5 years.As far as fish i would like to have this if possible ?snowflake eelporcupine puffervolitan lionfishone spot foxfacelyretail or pinkface wrasseThank you for your time.

[leebca]

A good way to start is to do the asking, investigation, and reading. So you're off to a great start.

Now read this:
Setting Up a FOWLR Aquarium

If you diligently read through the above post AND all the links provided in that post, you'll have almost all the answers you need.

Whether you decide to piece it all together yourself or go with a pre-assembled package by your LFS, you need to be informed well enough to know what is and isn't needed.

Brand names are pretty much an emotional issue. To tell you the truth, they are all 'good.' Just be aware that some equipment needs more maintenance than others. Always check that side to any equipment purchase. You might come across an inexpensive pump, for instance, that requires frequent maintenance, or a much more expensive pump that will run without maintenance for years. And secondly with regards to equipment, you can't always count on the manufacturer's recommendations to what size tank it is suitable for. Know how to make these kinds of determinations yourself.

The more informed you are and the more planning you do, the less disappointed you'll likely be with this hobby!

Good luck!