getting started

Question
Hi! We have just recently inherited an aquarium from a late relative. We currently have a small 10 gal aquarium that is freshwater with just a few fish for looks.  The new aquarium we have now is a 30 gal.  We want to do a saltwater tank this time, but are just too amateur to really know what to do.  Is a 30 gal too small to do a saltwater tank?  The tank came with all kinds of pumps, tubes, 60 gal filter, etc., but I don't know if the tank was previously salt or freshwater. Any suggestions as to what would be the best way to use the aquarium, salt or fresh?  Thanks!!!  

Answer
In all honesty the best saltwater situation is a 55 gal tank or larger. Saltwater stability is critical in terms of water quality, ph, temp, and salinity. The smaller a tank is, the more affected it is by even the smallest change. The larger the water volume the more stable it is. I have a 20 gal as one of my tanks but it needs constant attention to make sure everything is up to par, attention I love to give it. It houses a batfish which will outgrow this tank but is great to watch and hand feed. Go to about.com and click on hobbies and games, then click on saltwater aquariums and you will be at the site where most of you questions can be answered and where getting started is addressed in detail. Gerry.