If you are looking at getting a jawfish for that size of tank, I would build him an enclosure out of PVC pipe. It is essentially a small square with a small piece of pipe coming out of one side that comes out of the sand. Here is a link to the forum on how to make it.
http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/inde...053&hl=jawfish
Otherwise, you are going to have to have 3-4 inches of sand for a minimum.
As for test kits, there are 2 really good ones. I use the Salifert brand, but I know a lot of people use Elos as well.

I Cant Wait To Build That!
 

Wow That is great with the PVC pipe! Thanks for letting me know,so I can have inplace before he Live rock goes in,I will post pics as soon as I make it!

Today Is Live Rock Day!!
 

I cant wait! my Jawfish Condo is done and planted and this afternoon I add live rock! Oh How I wish I would have just one fishy in there...

People have been really nice so far but I'm warning you...new users who don't post pics get flamed hard and then BANNED =)

Having said that...I remember my first time. It's a great feeling! Welcome!

Famous last words...

You have to go slow with this hobby. Once you get your LR in there you will find some critters crawling around and sprouting up to amuse you until you can add fish.

get a damsel or chromis, to accompany you in the wait:razz:

I don't know if I'd recommend a damsel, as you will want to get them out of there before adding other livestock. Most damsels get mean, while a single chromis wouldn't typically.

What ever you do make sure you DON'T get any fish before 3 month or more.
This will give your tank some time to stabilize, also remove phosphates from day one.
You can buy things that you don't have to feed earlier then 3 month like mushrooms etc.

I promise pics soon ive just been busy planning,I will add a Cromus because I used live rock from a friends amazing tank and live sand mixed in with the arronite.My live rock has lots of good things growing on it. Pics soon I Promise!!

Hi Fraggalrock, love the excitement of a hobbyist starting out each step of the way, we need pictures and more pictures. Regards Ken