what to use for 70 gal tank

[jshsedgwick]

i have been doing research for the last long time and i decided on a 70 gallon tank about 48x24x13. it will be a reef tank with obviously Coral and fish. live rock. what should i put in it. money isn't an total issue so just name what you would put in your tank. a complete setup. thanks. :-)

[graphixx]

WOW where to begin.......
well lets start with filtration. I would go with at least a 3 inch sandbed 4 inches would be better. and at least 140 lbs of LR.
and I would do a sump/fuge under the tank. this will increase the water volume and give you a place to culture pods and hide equipment.
and for a skimmer I would go with like an ASM skimmer.
lighting this is not my storng point but someone wil chime in with alot better info that I can give you. if you wanting sps corals and the more demanding live stock I would go with probably MH lighting I run 2x250w MH lights 14K and 2 VHO super actinics. that gives me great light for my 50 gallon.

but most importantly when your ready to start this adventure just make sure to take your time and practice patience. that is the main key factor in this hobby especially in the conditioning period of the tank.

I know I left a lot out but this is just a general list I am sure you wil l have more questions and people will be here to help along the way.

Good luck

[jshsedgwick]

what exactly does a refuge do. i never read up on those. should the filter have bio balls. i have seen lots of different balls. should i put one kind in it or lots of different ones. how many pounds do you think 4 inches would be in that size tank.any other suggestions would be very helpful. what brands are good and which ones are great. :D