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I definitely plan to, but being that I am still a couple months away from really starting the build I figured it might be too early?WELCOME!!! You are going to start a build thread in the "Members Tanks" section, yes?
I definitely plan to, but being that I am still a couple months away from really starting the build I figured it might be too early?
I'll have to take your advice and get one started in the near future. Probably would help with getting advice on so many of the decisions: Which powerheads: vortech mp40, vortech mp10, or AI Nero 5? Which lights and worth the extra cost (can't ceiling mount): radions, AI (and which), Kessil A360, T5? And the list of questions, decisions, and options seems to go on forever.It's never too early to start a build thread! Welcome, and I very much appreciate your planning. I also started with FW some 26 years ago, and at one point still had that tank going plus a 46-gallon SW bowfront. I currently am rebooting a 90-gallon SW tank. Those Red Sea tanks are very nice, and you are already on your way to success with great planning!
I'll have to take your advice and get one started in the near future. Probably would help with getting advice on so many of the decisions: Which powerheads: vortech mp40, vortech mp10, or AI Nero 5? Which lights and worth the extra cost (can't ceiling mount): radions, AI (and which), Kessil A360, T5? And the list of questions, decisions, and options seems to go on forever.
Kevin,Welcome!
I’m in North Tonawanda. I’ve been keeping tanks off and on for 20 years. Last few years it’s been on and I’ve had the best success dealing with the best places and having the right equipment.
ARC and Buffalo Coral Reef are in Cheektowaga by the airport. Randy and his guys (ARC) and Mike at BCR are great and very knowledgeable.
David at Mystic Blue in Tonanwanda is also great.
Joe at Saltwater Paradise in Tonawanda on Main Street is a staple and a must see as well.
These are your “go to’s” in and around Buffalo. (My typical Saturday morning - dangerous, but very relaxing and a lot of fun)
Coral Sea Aquatics in Hamburg is good, but a drive for me unless I’m in the area and has a lite selection.
Also the drive is definitely worth it to go see the folks at Caribbean Forest in Rochester! Great selection, great knowledgeable and friendly people, and custom woodworking and acrylic building in house.
When you leave, turn left at the corner and check out the Reef Shoppe half a block away as well.
Whatever you decide,
Ask questions from everyone!!!
The people at these places want to see you succeed because they also love the hobby and are excited about it everyday. (Find the right LFS and it isn’t all about the sale, it’s about the right sale and the right result)
Also, no matter where you buy from, DIP, DIP, DIP your new corals!!!
Some places are better than others but it’s not worth the chance, especially when you really get invested.
David at Mystic even writes the dates he received his Livestock right on the tanks so you know how long they have been there. It helps judge the health. And they will all feed them for you if you ask.
Also be aware, most LFS run some level of copper in their fish only tanks so verify when you buy and come up with a good acclimating routine so you don’t accidentally introduce copper into your reef.
Do it right the first time, trying to save a few dollars usually cost you 3 times as much. Buy good gear, save for the rest, and take time to Enjoy it!
Good luck!
Hope to see you at the stores! Let me know when your up and running. We can talk about trading corals.
Also, check out Queen City Reefers on Facebook. Good bunch of local guys who like to trade corals, help each other out, and talk saltwater reefs.
Kevin