My 45 gallon tank

[canyoubelieveit]

I will use this thread to ask questions about equipment and setup for my tank.
I do wish to have corals and I would like to plan accordingly.

Here is what I am thinking:

45 gallon long tank
Oak stand (custom made)


Filtering/skimming
Bakpak CPR filter/skimmer for up to 60 gallons (is this the best way of filtering and skimming?)
Suggestions?


Lighting
1 Coralife 10,000k 250 Watt Metal Halide Bulb
Suggestions? What else?


I have ten and 20 gallon tanks readily available for a sump...but do I need one with the Bakpak system?

How powerful does the heater need to be?


I don't know that they make 40-45 gallon tanks with an overflow...but if they did, would it be worth buying that instead?

Sorry for these questions...but I would like to do this right.

Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[canyoubelieveit]

Any suggestions...any input at all would be helpful!!!!!

 

[Navarre]

Whilst a skimmer is a good choice its not a filter.
You will need a filtration system for the tank and i would recomend 25kg of liverock for this. Your skimmer will compliment this as it is only really used for assistance and not a sole for of filtration.

 

[canyoubelieveit]

"Cyclone Bak Pak II R Reef Ready

This protein skimmer is a easy to use, external hang on filtration system for tanks up to 60 gallons. It combines our Bio-Bale filter media & a highly effcient protein skimmer for most marine setups. Utilizes Rio 600 with high output RVT venturi system. Installs in seconds. Simply attach the included powerhead & plug in. Incorporates an algae-resisant, easy to clean inlet, multidirectional enclosed outlet, & break resistant collection cup."

I suppose I was mislead into thinking that this was a filter too. Nevertheless, that amount of live rock will be in there, eventually. What would you suggest that I do until I do have that amount of live rock in my tank?