Marine Aquarium

Question
I am currently setting up a 96x24x31 saltwater aquarium.  I want to
make sure I have everything I need to be successful.  I do believe
the hardware is easy enough but my question is what necessary
chemicals and additives should I have on hand?  I don't mind
spending the extra money as long as I am prepared for what may
normally happen.

Thanks

John

Answer
Hey John,
It depends on the type system you are going to run. FOWLR(fish only with live rock)or a reef. You'll probably need some mineral supplements like Coral-Vite or Essential Elements by Kent. They contain the necessary minerals/elements for healthy growth, alkalinity and ph in your system. You'll also need a water conditioner like Stress Coat or Aquasafe for your RO/DI water for salt mixing and I always recommend an additive like StressZyme or Spirulina to boost basterial colony growth. I'm not a big fan of most additives or chemicals made for aquaria. So thats about it. Once again this depends on stocking. Corals will need some other additives too. Phytoplankton, zooplankton food supplements are generally required to keep most corals. Well I hope this helps. Once you get a plan for what you want to keep I can help you with more specifics if you need. Let me know how it goes!