converting a 55 fw into sw

[arowanaking]

ive never had a sw tank so im a newbie at this..i know i will need a protien skimmer, powerheads, and i will probly get an RO unit. but what else will i need? can i run two ac 110s for the filtration? oh and around how much would the full conversion cost me?

thanks

 

[arowanaking]

i want to keep softcorals and anomies...kind of like a tank based on the movie "fineing nemo"

 

[squirt2005]

2 AC110's are fine. It will help with current as well. I prefer water movement that is at least 10 x total tank volume per hour so up your powerheads. Get a venturi protein skimmer if you can. R/O unit is good. You will want live rock, and possibly sand, test kit,
lighting at about 165 watts for soft corals or more. The cost depends on what equipment you buy. Live rock is the most expensive. Don't get an anemone the first time around.

 

[arowanaking]

i dont have the AC's right now but i came across some skilters which filter and skim should i get them check them out http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+4392+3641&pcatid=3641

oh and if i get the RO unit..does the tank still need to cycle even though the ro takes out all impurities? and i could get two powerheads that blow out 400gph ea?

 

[arowanaking]

if i cant have anenomies as a beginner than can i have some soft corals? like some leatherfingers and a toadstool mushroom?