Newbie to SPS Suggestions please

beaupierce · #1 11/21/2007, 06:15 PM

Ok,
So my tank has been set up for about 5 months now. My water is crystal clear, everything is balanced, sea swirls are moving the current in a circular motion. LPS corals are happy, zoos are spreading everywhere. Now I want to start my sps adventure.

1. What should I start with?

2. Food for the little guys?

3. Any one want to get me going with some useful advice/ help/ or frags to start me off??

Thanks and can't wait for your knowledge.

IPT · #2 11/21/2007, 07:04 PM

just a quick blerb of thoughts for you. Hopefully you have your lighting in order. Current seems good.

There is something called Aleolpathy (or something like that). Basically it's chemical warfare and with a lot of LPS and other softies it may be an issue for you. That being said, many people do fine mixing. May want to run carbon (but I am speaking from a theoretical point of view - I don't have a mixed reef).

Many people feel fish waste is plenty for SPS food. I add "Oyster eggs" 3x a week to my tank.

The Montipora species is one of the more hardy and tolerant SPS's. There is branching, plating, and encrusting versions.

Good luck.

beaupierce · #3 11/21/2007, 07:37 PM

Awesome. Lighting: I have 2 250w MH's and 2 90w Pc's.

I already run carbon too. Montipora is the way to go? Alright what type is your favorite??
thanks

tunaluver · #4 11/21/2007, 07:46 PM

some people suggest having the tank running for a year before sps... dont know if there is anything to it or not. i had mine up for a couple years before i started sps. now i want to get rid of my lps to make room for more sps

IPT · #5 11/21/2007, 08:00 PM

I started my SPS with a starter pack in a 20L with just PC lighting. They did fine. The growth definately took off once I went to T5's but they did OK in a rlatively new tank with low lighting (as considered by most). I like the M. Cap (a broad plating coral) and the digita's. I am sure there are other hrdy ones too of different species like maybe Birdsnest?