2) Looking for recommendations on what & where to get
*On tank light with the best actinic effect (hanging light from ceiling is out of the question).

Look into t-5 fixtures. T-5 is all the rage now. Longer lifespan than most other types of lighting and is cheaper to run.

*what size/model powerhead (funky circular / global looking things)

Hydor Koralia makes a line of powerheads that are cheap and well known now. Tunze has also come out with a nano version of their popular Stream powerheads.

*hang on back refugium

*Sand bed vs. bare bottom (which would be best to survive Tampa Bay hurricane power outtage?)

For a softy tank, I don't think you should worry about going barebottom. For one, you don't need the extra flow in a tank like that.

*salinity measuring thingy

Refractomer or a floating hyrdometor

*What else do I need to buy?

Auto top off for your tank. RO/DI filter to help save time and money, a controller (Reefkeeper 2) to make life easier......those are just suggestions.


Check out some of the online websites and start browsing through them. You will see a lot more equipment than the last time you looked I'm sure!

www.marinedepot.com
www.premiumaquatics.com
www.hellolights.com

Also hit up our vendor section here on MAAST. We have online sponsors located there as well.

Thats just a brief reply but may get your gears turning...