List of equipment you need to consider:
~Tank: is it too deep? has copper ever been used in it?
~Filtration: what kind? what is my overall filtration scheme?
~Lighting: will I ever want to keep a reef? will I want to keep anenome? will this always be strictly a FOWLR?
~Live sand: will this be a shallow bed or deep bed? do I want fine or medium grade?
~Live rock: what density? will my inhabitants need caves and hiding places?
~Water: Use RO/DI water only! buy a RO/DI unit or buy each gallon from the store?
~Salt: what brand? ( you need to stick to one brand)
~Water test kit: you will need a complete kit with ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and alkalinity tests to start with.
~Lighting: what kind of inhabitants will I be housing and what are their requirements? what kind of lighting effects do I want to accomplish?
~Heater/chiller: stable temp is important!
~Protein skimmer: one that will handle AT LEAST as much as your tank's volume.
You also really need to put together a stocking list before you buy any equipment so you know exactly what your long-term plans are. This will save lots of time and money down the road. Good luck, and ask questions!  |