Starting a reef aquarium

Question
Mr. Francis,

I'm looking to start my fist saltwater tank. (Saltwater mind you I've had many freshwater tanks. I'm not sure if that helps at all.) I can only afford 29 gallons so my question is what is the bare minimum amount of money to successfully buy and maintain it?

Mary

Answer
Hi Mary,

Regarding the cost of a 29 gallon saltwater aquarium:

You could shop around and find used equipment to save a little money; however being new to the saltwater end of the hobby, you may want to start with all new equipment; in this manner you won't have to worry about making repairs or retrofitting any necessary equipment.

Your total cost for a 29 gallon saltwater aquarium will be approximately $500 to $800, if purchasing a brand new nano style 29 gallon aquarium. For example, a JBJ Nano Cube, or an Oceanic BioCube.

Your total cost for a 29 gallon standard rectangular shaped glass aquarium, will be approximately $250 to $400; keep in mind this type of aquarium will not have a built-in filtration system.

See the following web page below, which includes tips to start a saltwater aquarium.

http://www.ocreef.com/a_simple_guide_for_beginning_a_saltwater_aquarium

I wish you luck with all your saltwater aquarium endeavors.

Sincerely,
David