New member with new tank

[jtrux]

What's up, I just picked up a 3 gallon tank from my friend and set it up as a saltwater. This is my first time so it should be a nice learning experience. Right now it's got a 4 pound chunk of LR in it and i'll probably throw a damsel in it in a week or so to see what happens. The SG is 1.022 and temp is fluctuating between 70 and 80 (it's hard maintaining temp in this tiny thing). Once i'm satisfied it's cycled properly i'll probably swap the damsel for a juvenile black and white occelaris clown or possibly a juvenile dwarf lionfish. This is only the begining for me as i've already started looking at a 58 gallon or maybe a 42 hex. This stuff is addicting.

[lhoy]

There is no need to cycle the tank with a damsel. The live rock is sufficient. Need to keep Temp more stable (there are some very small heaters). Way to small fo ra clown or the dwarf. Try one of the dwarf gobies and some sexy shrimp or something.

Enjoy.

Lee

[jtrux]

Even for a juvenile for a little while. I don't plan on having it there forever. I'm gonna look up some of the fish you said and take a look. I figured that a young fist cuold live in there for a while but i'm new so i'll take your advice.

[lhoy]

Trust me, don't waste the time with the damsel. Let it cycle with live rock and get you a fish you REALLY want and will live well. Look at these "nano fish" on http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/s...fm?pCatId=2124

Now,even some of those on their site will require a VERY well established tank with lots of pods, etc. Be aware of "jumpers" as well in a small tank.

Also, Pom Pom crab is great for that size tank.

Enjoy a cash drain of a hobby!! ; )

[MissT]

Keeping anything at a constant level is difficult in a 3 gallon. Make sure to keep up with your water changes!!! Get a small submersible heater and like Lee said, the damsel isn't the best fish for that size aquarium. Neon Gobies and other "nano" gobies should do fine for you. If you keep a close eye on your water parameters and like I said, don't slack on the water changes.
Best of luck, have fun, and welcome to MAAST!

[bronck83]

Found a heater for you Josh.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...7&pcatid=12087

[tony]

agree with all thats said. dont get a damsel. a gobie and shrimp combo would be great for that size tank.

[goodiebag]

great fish are the clown gobies.
I have the citron(http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/p...cfm?pCatId=161) and the green(http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/p...cfm?pCatId=159). both have great personalities and never get big. also very colorfull and hardy.
go with those and maintain a strict feeding cycle/ammount. Overfeeding was really the hardest part of maintaining the nano for me. I started with 1/2 gallon nano and am now thinking my 75gal ins't enough space,
yes my name is Brad, and I'm a fish-oh-holic.
now I just need to get to a meeting.

[SABOB]

Congrats on your maiden voyage into the wonderful,addicting hobby of saltwater.Ask alot of questions here,there are many who can help steer you in the right direction.Try to find a good LFS with knowledgeable employees ( this may be alittle harder).Good luck.

[erikharrison]

yes my name is Brad, and I'm a fish-oh-holic. now I just need to get to a meeting.

Unfortunately the MAAST meetings only help FEED the addiction....