upgrading my tank:

Question
    Hello, my dillema begins with upgrading from a 20 gallon saltwater tank to a 45 gallon.  Origionally I had 20lbs live rock, 10 lbs live sand, a whisper 20 bio-filter, visi-jet protein skimmer, heater, 900 power head.  Live stock I have 2 clarki clowns, 1 scooter blenny, 1 bi-colored blenny, 1 emerald crab, 1 serpent starfish, 3 hermit crabs, 4 turbo snails, 1 pepermint shrimp,1 lettuce nudebrach, 1 bubble tip anenome, and various polyps, zoos, and mushrooms.
    This past thursday I set up the new tank, i got a new filter emperor 280 bio-wheel filter, new sand, 2 new 600 powerheads (one at each end and I plan on putting the 900 in the middle), a viper k2 hqi 150 watt lamp, I've transfered about 15 gallons of the old water to the new tank and a hand full or two of the old sand, a few pieces of the live rock along with purchasing new rock.  I also moved the protein skimmer to help with the transfering of beneficial bacteria.
    My question begins with Did I do the right thing?  How long should I wait to begin transfering livestock and in what order?  I am perticularly worried about my anenome It's doing wonderfully now I'd hate to move it too early.  Right now there is no cover for the top of my tank is that ok?  I was told it is but I would like a second opinion.
Thanks for your help,
Lisa

Answer
sounds like you have done everything right, the only thing i would be worried about is a mini cycle with the new rock you added. if the livestock are no under any stress where they are for now, i would give it a couple of days and keep testing the water for the usual perameters.

if you see any ammonia/nitrite you know there has been a mini cycle. if a mini cycle has occurred just keep monitoring until ammonia and nitrite have gone, do a water change to bring the nitrates down, then transfer your stock.

also i wouldn't worry about having no cover for your tank, from your stock list it doesn't seem like you have anything notorious for jumping out of tanks.

hope that helps

Paul.