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Originally Posted by DJ's left nut
Oh yeah - other questions:
Online resources: Marinedepot.com and Drsfostersmith.com are where I get most of my food/supplies. Some swear by Big Als as well. Aquacon has some great specials, but I've never bought from them as the shipping is prohibitive.
Aquarium Wholesale at the great mall is an incredible fish store, though the staff will annoy me on occasion (they're simply understaffed). They have the best prices on coral frags and generally the best fish selection. The owner (Pat) is a nice guy and generally means well, but can be a bit much at times. I try to run by there whenever I'm in town just to see what they have. I've found things like a Mystery Wrasse there for $45 when the only other places I could find them were selling them for $200. He'll also get Achilles tangs, Black tangs and all kinds of stuff that you're otherwise just not going to find.
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Couldn't agree more with the info you've supplied on here. You obviously are experienced in saltwater tanks. I've done both fresh and salt setups before, and I agree with you. Saltwater isn't any harder, just takes a little bit more thought than a freshwater.
I almost said something about the staff at AW also, but didn't want to bash them, as I buy probably 75% of my stuff from Pat. But yeah, he can be a bit of a used car salesman at times. It's espicially dangerous if you are inexperienced and don't know that he's overselling you on something you don't really need. I don't know his name, but there's a young guy thats in there most of the time that is very experienced, and if I ever have a question, generally offers good advice. If you become a repeat customer, he will also hook you up on some good deals on stuff he has too much of in stock and the like.
I started with a 75 gal, and I think it's the perfect size for a starter. I've had friends with 55 gal tanks before, and I don't like them. Not enough room to work with your rock, and what you said about water volume is critical. IMO 75 is a great starter tank.