[bbrianmo]

I have had amazing success with freshwater fish aquariums for abuot 10 years now, and am looking to start up in saltwater now. I am picking up a 5o or 55 gallon tank with stand and lid this weekend. I believe it has a filter with bioballs coming with it. After that I know I still need to get the lighting and a skimmer before doing anything. Anything else I need before I start actually putting stuff in the tank itself? Any ideas where to get the stuff I need for a cheap price while retaining good quality?

[glampka]

Depending on what type of tank you plan on keeping (FOWLR or reef) you should consider getting rid of the bio-balls. If not cleaned from time to time they can accumulate dirt & cause a nitrate problem. Lighting will depend on if you will be keeping coral & what type. There are a number of good on-line sources for the equipment. You should review the forum section on "Vendor experiences". Good luck!