This project got started when I had to find something to do in the winters to keep busy rather than play world of warcraft, etc. I grew up in California and Minnesota (since 2nd grade) but spent all my summers in California with my dad and relatives on both sides of my family. I am a true California native, born and bred and miss that beautiful state. Although, Minnesota has started to grow on me there are somethings that I still miss. Such as mountains, a real beach (sorry but lake shores are not beaches!), the ocean, the desert, and snow that only stays on the ground for a few hours.
The thing I miss the most is the ocean though. My dad spoiled me when I was younger and got my brother and I certified as scuba divers so that we could explore the world around us. I will never forget the crystal clear water of Catalina Island, the warmth of a dive off of Carlsbad and my favorite was to feed sea urchins to the Garibaldi that would nibble on my hair. So when looking for something to do this winter to add to my list of hobbies I decided it was time to start a saltwater tank, and not just any saltwater tank but a reef tank.
Since I knew this was going to be much more difficult than the freshwater tanks I've had before I knew I needed to spend time doing research on what is needed, how the ecosystem should be designed (did I mention I'm a biologist), etc. After searching online I found some great websites and communities to assist me with my desire to start a reef tank as well as some great publications/books. After reading, asking questions, etc I invested some of my hard earned tip money (the job in the winter to keep my busy since I hate to go outside) in a used 150 gallon glass aquarium, stand, 40 gallon breeder, and a 72" auqlight pro with HQI lamps, lunar lamps and 460 nm actinics. Don't worry there will be many photos! And thus a project was born...
Rules to the new tank build...anything goes! The husband, Ed, can help with construction, etc but the tank is MINE! We both agreed that it will be my project and he can be my labor force.
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