setting up 46 gal saltwater tank

Question
Hi Gerry,

I am setting up a 46 gallon bowfront tank in corner of the room which previously was used as a freshwater tank (had to rehouse the plecos to a 55 gallon along with the 2 balas, 2 clown loaches, 2 angels, they grow up fast!)  

Can I use gravel for the substrate in a saltwater tank? Local fish store said sand is too hard to clean and sold me two bags of gravel that were right from the ocean, I used one bag for the freshwater and have the extra so need to know if I can use it for the saltwater tank, I will be putting live rock in the tank this weekend.  

I just want to make sure I have everything right before adding the fish, I plan on starting out with 1 or 2 damsels and after a couple weeks maybe adding 2 clownfish and that will be it for the population, suggestions and opinions gratefully appreciated!   

Thanks so much
Angie  

Answer
substrate okay. let the rock cure for two to three weeks. check your ammonia, and nitrite levels every 4 or 5 days. Damsels are very hardy and can help with the cycle. go slow and you'll be fine. go to about.com-click on hobbies-then click on saltwater aquariums and take the 101 course.