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Jenene
03-05-2017, 11:11 PM
Never say never...I told myself I would NEVER do reef. I found a new LFS near me that has incredible soft corals. I keep seeing the small not quite nano but small tanks with gorgeous corals and one or two fish and a cleaner shrimp or other invert. I have so much to learn and lots of time to do it. I also know I will end up spending a ton of money. Not a huge issue but moving from discus to salt...should I do it? I have the time. But really, should I? Can someone talk some sense into or out of me? Please?

Mattgoanna
03-06-2017, 04:30 AM
That is the post of someone who has already made up their mind. Stop feeling guilty and just do it.

Swedgin
03-06-2017, 05:58 AM
Do it. My wife has one and we really enjoy it, lots going on in there. Amazing colors on some fish and corals.

If you get a small one with built in skimmer, just add live sand, live rock and watch what grows, really simple to operate. It's crazy what kind of critters develop, really cool little ecosystem in a glass cube.

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Jenene
03-06-2017, 07:25 AM
That is the post of someone who has already made up their mind. Stop feeling guilty and just do it.

I am really still on the fence but you are right on the guilty part Matt! I think the next post will push me over...going in for a closer look...

Jenene
03-06-2017, 07:28 AM
Do it. My wife has one and we really enjoy it, lots going on in there. Amazing colors on some fish and corals.

If you get a small one with built in skimmer, just add live sand, live rock and watch what grows, really simple to operate. It's crazy what kind of critters develop, really cool little ecosystem in a glass cube.

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Oh my! Yes. That is exactly what I was thinking. What is the name of that green bubble guy? That is really cool. What brand tank did you start with? Gorgeous. Pretty sure you have just pushed me over the fence I was balanced on.

DatDiscusDude
03-06-2017, 08:56 AM
Will you be leaving discus for marine or doing both?

Discus-n00b
03-06-2017, 09:12 AM
Do both! Honestly, SW has given me far more enjoyment than FW ever did, I like both but I could sit and watch or explore a SW tank for hours. FW there is only so much going on. SW is like an alien planet when you start inspecting rocks and crevices and watching so much creature interaction. I don't find it terribly expensive to maintain, the initial setup is the largest part. This tank has been going for at least 3 years now. It's stony not soft but I love it! Still trying to figure out how I can afford an upgrade to a larger system, to many expenses right now.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/2/1579/24600841083_3b905d18f3_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DtTJYt)FTSfeb2016b (https://flic.kr/p/DtTJYt) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr
https://c1.staticflickr.com/2/1511/25134450631_512eb3d13b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ei3Cv6)FTSfeb2016 (https://flic.kr/p/Ei3Cv6) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/692/31443756230_6c17308d1b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PUztf7)fts Dec 2016 (https://flic.kr/p/PUztf7) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/344/31778893086_fdc429f629_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Qqc8KL)fts Dec 2016 (https://flic.kr/p/Qqc8KL) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr

Second Hand Pat
03-06-2017, 10:57 AM
I went from SW to FW (and discus) and the discus are more work :). I miss my SW tank http://forum.simplydiscus.com/showthread.php?91252-Before-Discus-I-Had-This.
Pat

Lido
03-06-2017, 02:27 PM
I had one for years, they're fun. Can be expensive depending on the coral you buy.

They are a lot of work as well. Water changes are less but it's always something. I was always terrified to leave for vacation lol

Pat, you really think Discus are more work? I found my reef tank to be constant testing, dosing etc etc.

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Jenene
03-06-2017, 04:06 PM
Will you be leaving discus for marine or doing both?

I will keep discus as long as I possibly can. I can't imagine ever losing my passion for these guys. The marine is just something new to learn and try. I like the idea of the small tank. I think I just need a new project.

Jenene
03-06-2017, 04:10 PM
Do both! Honestly, SW has given me far more enjoyment than FW ever did, I like both but I could sit and watch or explore a SW tank for hours. FW there is only so much going on. SW is like an alien planet when you start inspecting rocks and crevices and watching so much creature interaction. I don't find it terribly expensive to maintain, the initial setup is the largest part. This tank has been going for at least 3 years now. It's stony not soft but I love it! Still trying to figure out how I can afford an upgrade to a larger system, to many expenses right now.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/2/1579/24600841083_3b905d18f3_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DtTJYt)FTSfeb2016b (https://flic.kr/p/DtTJYt) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr
https://c1.staticflickr.com/2/1511/25134450631_512eb3d13b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ei3Cv6)FTSfeb2016 (https://flic.kr/p/Ei3Cv6) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/692/31443756230_6c17308d1b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PUztf7)fts Dec 2016 (https://flic.kr/p/PUztf7) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/344/31778893086_fdc429f629_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Qqc8KL)fts Dec 2016 (https://flic.kr/p/Qqc8KL) by Matt (https://www.flickr.com/photos/scmatt/), on Flickr

Wow! That is a gorgeous one too. I really get what you mean by an "alien planet". Walking around the reef shop is surreal. The shapes and colors are amazing. Thank you so much for posting. How many gallons is yours?

DatDiscusDude
03-06-2017, 04:10 PM
I will keep discus as long as I possibly can. I can't imagine ever losing my passion for these guys. The marine is just something new to learn and try. I like the idea of the small tank. I think I just need a new project.

Totally here ya there! New projects are always fun. I plan to foray back into this shortly, myself. I had a little 8 gallon all in one nano going but that has been a few years. I spend way too much time on youtube watching and researching reef tanks...

Like anything else, discus included, there seems to be a multitude of variations. I've seen some really simple and easy to maintain set-ups that make it all seem easy and possible. The initial start up seems to be like the real task, once you are going, it sort of runs itself.

That being said, as you can see here, some do a glass box and a sponge filter and some do big crazy biotopes and huge sumps and what-not. Make it what works for you and what will bring you pleasure.

Jenene
03-06-2017, 04:13 PM
I went from SW to FW (and discus) and the discus are more work :). I miss my SW tank http://forum.simplydiscus.com/showthread.php?91252-Before-Discus-I-Had-This.
Pat

That is a gorgeous tank too Pat. You should get it up and running again! You can do both- I am sure of it.;)

Jenene
03-06-2017, 04:16 PM
I had one for years, they're fun. Can be expensive depending on the coral you buy.

They are a lot of work as well. Water changes are less but it's always something. I was always terrified to leave for vacation lol

Pat, you really think Discus are more work? I found my reef tank to be constant testing, dosing etc etc.

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That is a gorgeous one too Casey. I have a lot to learn. It all looks pretty intimidating. I am in no hurry. I am going to do what I did before my discus and read, read, read. I actually need to take more time to learn because I bought a lot of stuff I didn't need. I will be spending enough on the things I really do so patience will be a virtue here.

Jenene
03-06-2017, 04:19 PM
Totally here ya there! New projects are always fun. I plan to foray back into this shortly, myself. I had a little 8 gallon all in one nano going but that has been a few years. I spend way too much time on youtube watching and researching reef tanks...

Like anything else, discus included, there seems to be a multitude of variations. I've seen some really simple and easy to maintain set-ups that make it all seem easy and possible. The initial start up seems to be like the real task, once you are going, it sort of runs itself.

That being said, as you can see here, some do a glass box and a sponge filter and some do big crazy biotopes and huge sumps and what-not. Make it what works for you and what will bring you pleasure.

Yes. I am thinking no larger than a 32 gallon bio cube. Need simple as possible. Small and contained was the only way I could convince the husband. He already thinks I am nuts with the discus.

Make sure to post here when you get back in. Would love to see what you end up with.

Discus-n00b
03-06-2017, 04:38 PM
Wow! That is a gorgeous one too. I really get what you mean by an "alien planet". Walking around the reef shop is surreal. The shapes and colors are amazing. Thank you so much for posting. How many gallons is yours?

Thanks! It's just a tiny 15gal cube!

Lido
03-06-2017, 05:49 PM
The cubes are nice, but if you do buy one i would highly recommend doing your research on them. They ARE NOT all created equally.

Personally, I'm a fan of the sump. Just easier to maintain. Especially for a reef.

Did i mention, do it! If you do, you're required to get a two spot goby if you have substrate. They're funny little fish.

Lido
03-06-2017, 05:59 PM
Thanks! It's just a tiny 15gal cube!

Nice little cube man. I wish the 150 would have filled out as nicely as your cube!!!

Jenene
03-06-2017, 07:59 PM
Thanks! It's just a tiny 15gal cube!

That insane! It looks amazing! 15 gallons??? Whoa.

Jenene
03-06-2017, 08:11 PM
The cubes are nice, but if you do buy one i would highly recommend doing your research on them. They ARE NOT all created equally.

Personally, I'm a fan of the sump. Just easier to maintain. Especially for a reef.

Did i mention, do it! If you do, you're required to get a two spot goby if you have substrate. They're funny little fish.

I think a few of you had said "do it!" so I think I am going to do it. Like Matt said I must have had my mind mostly made up. I should have known you guys would convince me the rest of the way pretty quickly.

I do need to really research the cubes. I want to upgrade the lighting but I like how they have the guts tucked back behind the tank. I think you can buy just the tank. It is a waste to buy the kit and then take the light off when that is a big part of the price. I think there is a youtube guy that modified his. I have my research cut out for me. This is fun stuff though. It keeps life fun.

I will check out the goby. Is it considered a beginner fish? I really don't want to start killing things right off the bat! I need to start with the hardy guys.

Jenene
03-06-2017, 09:50 PM
The cubes are nice, but if you do buy one i would highly recommend doing your research on them. They ARE NOT all created equally.

Personally, I'm a fan of the sump. Just easier to maintain. Especially for a reef.

Did i mention, do it! If you do, you're required to get a two spot goby if you have substrate. They're funny little fish.

Uh oh...started looking at the different ones and of course my favorite is the most expensive one...it comes with the cabinet though and I would not need to upgrade (I don't think) Like the rimless. Sump in the back. Anything out there like this one at a more reasonable cost? This is craziness.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtvgAVeqzqk#t=383.608837

This one is a bit better priced but not sure about the lighting...

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=27974&cmpid=03cseYY&ref=6194&subref=AA&cmpid=PLA_G_6194&gclid=CKGluJGnw9ICFdCCswodJbsLuA

Yom
03-07-2017, 09:05 AM
Jenene, I am in the process of combining two 29 Gal biocubes and one 14 Gal biocube into a 75 Gal reef. If you are interested we can work something out while you are in Ct for Al's NEDA party. All have been retrofitted with Current USA Orbit LEDs, Tunze protein skimmers, and also have a canister filter plumbed into the back "wet dry" portion of the tank for extra filtration. Sorry but the fish and coral are moving over into the 75 Gal. Let me know, I will be at the party and live about an hour from Al by the casinos.

Kirbs
03-07-2017, 10:15 AM
I would do it! I have considered it many times. I decided that would best wait until retirement!

Jenene
03-07-2017, 01:02 PM
Jenene, I am in the process of combining two 29 Gal biocubes and one 14 Gal biocube into a 75 Gal reef. If you are interested we can work something out while you are in Ct for Al's NEDA party. All have been retrofitted with Current USA Orbit LEDs, Tunze protein skimmers, and also have a canister filter plumbed into the back "wet dry" portion of the tank for extra filtration. Sorry but the fish and coral are moving over into the 75 Gal. Let me know, I will be at the party and live about an hour from Al by the casinos.


Yes! I am interested! I figured there would be some people I could chat with about setting one up at least. I am at work but when I get home I will check out your pics. That would be amazing if we can work something out. The lighting you chose is exactly what I would be looking at as well. Somethings are just meant to be. Will write back later today. Thanks so much.

Lido
03-07-2017, 03:09 PM
Here is my buddy's innovative marine system we built.

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RichT
03-07-2017, 04:25 PM
The IM Systems are very nice. Just finished cycling a 40.

Landon722
03-07-2017, 05:35 PM
Here's the 150 i kept in the dining room
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Jenene
03-07-2017, 05:51 PM
Jenene, I am in the process of combining two 29 Gal biocubes and one 14 Gal biocube into a 75 Gal reef. If you are interested we can work something out while you are in Ct for Al's NEDA party. All have been retrofitted with Current USA Orbit LEDs, Tunze protein skimmers, and also have a canister filter plumbed into the back "wet dry" portion of the tank for extra filtration. Sorry but the fish and coral are moving over into the 75 Gal. Let me know, I will be at the party and live about an hour from Al by the casinos.

Yom- Those are really beautiful tanks! You must have them all over your house! 3! I was thinking of going rimless but I am still doing some research. Which is the 14 Gallon? I would be getting something more like the 29's. The stock is gorgeous but a lot of the fun is picking things out as I am sure you know. I will PM you with some questions. Thanks!

Jenene
03-07-2017, 05:52 PM
Here is my buddy's innovative marine system we built.

107796107797107798

That is a gorgeous tank...Someone has been frag shopping!

Jenene
03-07-2017, 05:54 PM
Here's the 150 i kept in the dining room
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107800

You guys are killing me with these pics. So beautiful. I am definitely going smaller though or my husband will make me live in the basement. :argue:

Lido
03-07-2017, 07:09 PM
You guys are killing me with these pics. So beautiful. I am definitely going smaller though or my husband will make me live in the basement. :argue:

People may agree or disagree on these but here are my recommendations to you, not including tank/skimmer/hardware

1. When you set up, use dead rock and make it "live rock" yourself.
2. Use Reef Crystals w/ RO and make your own salt water
3. If you plan on dosing, get a pump
4. Remember those awesome quarantine practices you learned with Discus. :) continue to do that. Hair algae, random critters, can really wreak havoc on your corals/fish
5. After you've established your system before you add any fish. Especially nano type fish, gobies, wrasse etc, add in rotofers or copepods to your system. They'll help to build a healthy food source for your fish.
6. always dip your coral
7. Keep your lighting schedule the same everyday. Corals require a photo and non photo period for optimum growth.
8. Add all of your tangs at the same time if you choose to have any.
9. If you have any questions at all, ask. Email me, message me i'd love to help.

PS just like discus keep your parameters within a healthy range. Red Sea makes awesome test kits.

now i'm thinking about a tank... GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

Yom
03-07-2017, 07:26 PM
The 14 gal is the top right pic with the two shrimp in it. Right now there are 15 running tanks in my house between the discus and the salts. The 3 bio-cubes are still up and running and the 75 is finishing its cycling.

Jenene
03-07-2017, 07:45 PM
People may agree or disagree on these but here are my recommendations to you, not including tank/skimmer/hardware

1. When you set up, use dead rock and make it "live rock" yourself.
2. Use Reef Crystals w/ RO and make your own salt water
3. If you plan on dosing, get a pump
4. Remember those awesome quarantine practices you learned with Discus. :) continue to do that. Hair algae, random critters, can really wreak havoc on your corals/fish
5. After you've established your system before you add any fish. Especially nano type fish, gobies, wrasse etc, add in rotofers or copepods to your system. They'll help to build a healthy food source for your fish.
6. always dip your coral
7. Keep your lighting schedule the same everyday. Corals require a photo and non photo period for optimum growth.
8. Add all of your tangs at the same time if you choose to have any.
9. If you have any questions at all, ask. Email me, message me i'd love to help.

PS just like discus keep your parameters within a healthy range. Red Sea makes awesome test kits.

now i'm thinking about a tank... GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

Thanks Casey! I appreciate your advice and will definitely use it. I had already decided on the dead rock just because I am a control freak. And other than QT practices everything else is new to me information. It kinda scares me. I have a lot to learn. Thank you I will be bugging you. Be careful what you wish for. :D

Jenene
03-07-2017, 07:49 PM
The 14 gal is the top right pic with the two shrimp in it. Right now there are 15 running tanks in my house between the discus and the salts. The 3 bio-cubes are still up and running and the 75 is finishing its cycling.

15 tanks! You must just be as wet as the fish all the time with all the maintenance.

Yom
03-07-2017, 08:56 PM
I don't do it all my self, my son is a UConn Marine Science grad and still lives at home so he does the coral and reef stuff, I do the discus and we share the FOWLR and the predator tank.