[rangerblp]

I just got a 55 gallon aqua tech package from wal-mart, and have been considering taking it back and getting everything one part at a time. Anyone have any advice? I've also been looking and from what I've seen this hobby may cost more money and time than I have.

[RyanG]

Welcome to RB Brian, every tank is worth keeping as a saltwater aquarium. What type of corals did you want to keep?

[rangerblp]

I'm not sure yet. I was just wondering if it would be cheaper to take it back and get all the parts for the tank separate.

[e_baer]

it might be. perhaps if you look on craigslist or ebay, you can get a already-made tank for cheap!

[1ThriftyReefer]

Hi Brian! Marine aquariums aren't cheap and they can be time consuming at first, but here are a few things to keep in mind...

Try to pick up used equipment...if you are looking for something particular I can probably help you find it (I am working on setting up an online used aquarium supply store and have a number of sources for used equipment). PM if you'd like some help...

Try to stay away from hard corals at first...they are more expensive and much harder to keep. liveaquaria.com has a really amazing selection of corals - I have never bought anything from them, but the info they post in the item descriptions has been extremely helpful - they tell you what to feed, where to place in the tank, what kind of current the animal likes, etc. They also have a fantastic compatibility chart so you can make sure the inhabitants of the tank don't eat each other!!!

I have been in the hobby for 5 years, and I have finally gotten my tank as close to self sustaining as it's going to get. Pretty much, I only have to feed it and do water changes at this point. My advice is to check out as many forums as you can find and check out what everyone is running in their setups. Eventually you will find something that works for you.

As far as the time involved, the more experience you have the less time you have to spend. I think it's definitely worth it...think of it as a pet that doesn't shed or have accidents on the carpet...and you don't have to walk it!

Hope that helps!

Ryan B.

[e_baer]

it actually might have a few accidents on the carpet.....if you spill water. or your tank overflows.