Need some help and advice

luisprado · #1 04/11/2005, 10:19 AM

I want to start keeping soft corals in my tank, but I am still a bit sketchy on the how to's of the deal. My question is what chemicals do I need to keep healthy corals? A friend of mine said Iodine. What else do I need? I see soo many chemicals out there such as reef essentials, strontium,etc... Also what do I feed them and how often. Just so you know what direction I am heading in, I plan to keep a couple of bubble coral pieces, some zooanthids, a flowerpot and mushrooms.

Thanks!

Blastomussaman · #2 04/11/2005, 10:32 AM

You need to start by finding a good book and read. After that, find another book and read more.

If you don't even know that bubble and flowerpots are not soft corals, you shouldn't be keeping them yet.

Start with regular water change schedules and worry about additives later. Beginners should avoid LPS or SPS corals at first.

Study more or else you will find that money can't buy you a healthy coral.

john76 · #3 04/11/2005, 10:35 AM

Weekly water changes should be enough to replenish trace elements.

Also, if you aren't testing for it.... you shouldn't be adding it.

luisprado · #4 04/11/2005, 10:43 AM

Could you point me to some good books that I might buy or find in the library? I know there are tons of books out there, but you more experienced or more knowleged reefers must know some good books out there, please.

john76 · #5 04/11/2005, 10:49 AM

Here's three that I have and recommend

Corals by Eric Borneman

Invertebrates by Fenner and Calfo

Coral propogation and aquaculture by Calfo

luisprado · #6 04/11/2005, 10:58 AM

Thanks. Any more advice would also be greatly appreciated.

Blastomussaman · #7 04/11/2005, 10:59 AM

Aquarium Corals by Borneman is a must have. I would recommend Conscientious Marine Aquarist by Fenner for beginners. Invertebrates can come later on, and coral prop for more advanced. All good books to have.

Jus Reefin · #8 04/11/2005, 10:26 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Blastomussaman
Aquarium Corals by Borneman is a must have. I would recommend Conscientious Marine Aquarist by Fenner for beginners. Invertebrates can come later on, and coral prop for more advanced. All good books to have.

All of these are great selections.