Switching from fresh to salt?

[CarterRH]

I've got a 30 freshwater tank that I would like to switch over to saltwater and I want to keep it simple with a fish only tank.

So what would I need to get before switching over?

And what types of fish would you recommend?

 

[isde02]

This is a question that I also have I want to know what I need to turn my 180 into a fowlr tank.

 

[joe jaskot]

Assuming you already have a filter, light, thermometer, and heater, you would need a hydrometer, salt mix, marine buffer, and saltwater test kit. Those are the basics necessary to run a marine tank. Most everything else is optional. A protein skimmer would be beneficial. An ultra violet sterilizer can also help. Substrate is optional.

 

[clekchau]

the key to a successful sw aquarium whether fish only, fowlr or reef to me was live rock filteration and a good protein skimmer.

you should invest in a good book, this one is excellent from bob fenner:
http://www.amazon.com/Conscientious-Marine-Aquarist-Commonsense-Successful/dp/1890087025

regarding beginner fish, you are a little limited due to the tank size but here are some good beginner fish to give you an idea:
http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/aquarium-fish-supplies.cfm?c=15+1926

if it was me, i would do a pair of tank bred clownfish, yellow tail blue damsel, purple pseudochromis and let it stablilize for a few months.

 

[Sarmo]

the hardestest part (and most $$$$) for me was thinking i wanted fish only and ending up with full blown reef. the steps along the way all have different lighting and water quality requirements. with FO i would just use cheap lights or whatever you have, you only need to test nitrates and salinity (calcium, magnesium and ALK are for reef tanks). you'll probably want RODI water to keep algae down (you need to add fresh water to make up for evaporation). get 1.5 to 2# or LR per gallon, so 45ish pounds. get a HOB skimmer like this http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaC_Ur..._Gallons-AquaC-AC3511-FIPSISSIUH-ACUB-vi.html
read all reviews of equipment......

pic fish that stay small. remember most places don't guarentee SW fish. i had a yellow tailed blue damsel that lived in my tank for 13 yrs and is in someone eles tank now.... mean little bugger but a favorite

good luck!

 

[CarterRH]

Thanks for all your help