I need help putting a 55 gallon tank together for 2 spotted puffer fish

Question
Starting from pumps, filtration system, type of salt to put in tank, names of products you suggest, basicly everything dealing with putting a great tank together for these lil guys. thanks, tiffany

Answer
Hello Tiffany,

There is no perfect setup or combination.  All items have pros and cons, some are easier but less flexible for future upgrades or add-on, while others are harder / more complicated to understand but make it easier and cleaner to run your tank.

If you are just going to have a fish only setup, you dont really need a lot. And please keep in mind, that just because i may want something, doesnt mean it is good for you or anyone else...

I would want a sump, with a protein skimmer in it.  I would put my heaters, chillers, and media reactors down there, out of site.  It would have a filter sock, which i would only use periodically, and a return pump.  I like Danner/MAG pumps, or QuietOne pumps,  Teh sizes depend on how big of a tank and how you plan on supplying water to the different componenets i mentioned above.

The tank would have an external overflow box, maybe 'coast to coast' style, and would have several drains that run down to the sump.

The lighting would be at least a 4 tube T5 light fixture with 54 watts per tube...

I would have some fans for cooling, blowing across the tank and the sump...

I like ReefCrystals salt, and usually get it from Drsfostersmith.com when it is on sale.  Usual price i pay is $35 per box and i get 3 boxes at a time.  (about a half year suppply for me)

I would put some macro alage in the sump and maybe a deep sand bed as well.

The type of skimmer is totally personal.  So many different brands and styles/technology, but they all do the same... so price would drive my decsion.

I would shop around and locate a used setup from someone that is getting out of the hobby.  This economy has driven tons of folks out of the hobby and deals are around if you look for them.  Great place to look would be craigslist...


BUT, most importantly, is to take your time, and research on how to setup a saltwater tank and read and ask as many questions as possible...


Good luck and please let me know what you end up with.


Bill