New system questions from a newbe

[BCReefer]

I would like to do a small upgrade from the system I have now. Currently I have 1 each of the following:

Maroon Clown
Flame Angel
Yellow Tang
Bi Coulour Blenny
Lawnmower Blenny
20 Lbs. Of LR
27 G tank
2 water agitator pumps (can’t remember official name)
25W fluorescent light

I would like to go to a 45 – 55 G system, would go bigger but lack of space and money.

My plan is as follows:

1. Purchase new tank and skimmer and proper lighting that would allow me to have corals etc.
2. Remove water, fish and LR from 27 and move to new tank. This time I will be properly securing the LR.
3. Arrange LR and add new LR.
4. Use existing water and use that in new tank and topping off with fresh water.
5. Add skimmer
6. Add existing fish
7. Run the system as is for a month.
8. Start adding new fish and/or corals etc.

OK any problems with the above list. Would I require a sump? What about an overflow system? How long can I leave fish in bucket with air stones?

I also see on this site and on other tanks with holes drilled into them, why would you do this?

So many question, so little time. Would have come to the meeting but duty called on that day.

Any help would be appreciated, I’m buying the beer if you can lend me an hour of your time in or around Langely.

[reefburnaby]

Hello BCReefer...

Number of things to consider :

1) When buying a tank, test tank for leaks with fresh water. Test in area where a leak doesn't wreck your house.
2)Top off for new tank should be done with saltwater such that the total salinity of your tank is about 1.021 to 1.025.

As for tank sizes, try to find a tank that isn't very tall and very shallow. Something along the lines of >16" deep and 20" high is acceptable. Tall tanks are difficult to light up and difficult to perform maintainance on the bottom of the tank (i.e. I am short...). Shallow tanks are difficult to arrange lr.

Any who...these are guidelines and suggestions. Any tank will work...just some tanks are easier to deal with. Drilling two holes in your tank is also suggest so that a sump can be added immediately or in the future. See link for sump explaination :
http://saltaquarium.about.com/librar...y/aa061900.htm

P.S. Take your time and do it right the first time. If you don't have the money now, then wait till you do and get the quality equipment you wanted. I've wasted money on buying cheap inadaquate equipment and later regretting it.

- Victor.