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Heather
I have always had freshwater and dreamed of the sea for a long time, especially after two trips to Egypt, but once I got into it, I went completely crazy for the sea. I want to start a 250-liter sea aquarium (100*50*50 L*W*H). I certainly understand that my hobby is not cheap, but each of you has experience related to equipment and livestock, i.e., where to get it at reasonable prices and not throw money into expensive equipment. I am interested in the following points: 1. Is it worth making the aquarium partially from ultra-clear glass? And what thickness of glass is needed for the sides and the bottom? Who can manufacture it? If possible, the required sump volume and a drawing. 2. How many kg of substrate are needed, and specifically what is better - sand or coral chips? 3. How much, within reasonable limits, do I need D.R.R. (dry reef rocks) and L.R. (live rocks) in the right proportions, and where can I buy them at lenient prices? 4. I am thinking of making a light fixture with a 1MH Sylvania CoralArc 250W and T5 Sylvania Coralstar FHO 39W + T5 actinic 39W, will this amount of light be enough? And to install two fans in the hood to cool the water in the summer + I want one in the cabinet for the sump. 5. From your experience, who makes a hood based on the price-quality principle? 6. A protein skimmer - does it need to be factory-made or are there good DIYers who make them just as well as branded ones? Thank you in advance for the information processed for me, I look forward to your answers and advice.