New Tank questions

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by Reefer Rob

"Base" rock to me is the petrified rock that is as hard as glass and about as impervious. I still have some in my garden from my first tank Dry rock like Marco rocks is soft and porous, and will eventually work just like live rock with time. I don't like to fill the tank up with rock so there's no room for the fish to swim, so I don't see the need for "base" rock.

Agreed. To me, "base rock" is just filler. And I've discovered that it isn't necessary. I'm pretty sure the pound per gallon rule was thought up by someone that sells rock I've used half pound per gallon for the last 6 or 7 years, and aside from having nicer corals than ever, I found I still have no measurable NO3, even with a fairly high fish load.
For the OP's tank above, 55g, easily 30 pounds of good quality ocean rock (my new word for real live rock) would be enough to filter the water, provide enough rock to scape the tank well, and leave lots of room for the fish to move around. Even at an average retail price, it's not going to break the bank, and long term, will provide a better base for a reef.

I certainly understand the desire to save money, but if you're deciding to set up a reef tank, there's a certain minimum requirement for expenditures. In my mind, good quality rock is THE most important aspect to spend money on. You can get an awesomely functioning skimmer used/cheap/DIY, and you can ghetto together a lighting system, but skimping in the rock is a great way to sabotage your success from the moment you add water. Yes, you "could" use premium quality dry rock (reefers are known for their patience, right??), but this does not contribute to the biodiversity that I feel is very important. If you seed with top quality rock, and don't mind waiting a very long time, it might be the route to take, but unless you REALLY REALLY can't afford premium ocean rock, I would not use it.