Octonauts to the HQ!

[ArthurS1234]

Octonauts! (Great kid show btw).

So, the (Bimac) Octopus is for myself and my 2 12 yr old kids.

I started with freshwater, and “graduated” to some small 13.5 gallon saltwater tanks for Pistol shrimp, and Mantis Shrimps.

I’ve read a lot of information from many forums in here, and I know enough to know what I DON’T know and will be using The Hidden Reef in Levittown PA for the 65g tank and supplies.

I plan to ask them for lighting, lid, and Octo-escape-proofing suggestions.

Here’s a rough starter list of what I intend to use:
(If I’m missing items/good brand name suggestions for items, please let me know!)

Sump pump
Chiller
(Not using a wave maker, not crucial and I don’t want their tentacles hurt).
Oxygenation? What do people recommend to ensure good oxygenated water?
S2 Ecotech Marine Pump
ATO Tunze Osmolator 3155
Live sand
Nutri Sea Water
Live (wet) rocks from the Store


I plan on using a local contractor expert (who has previously installed many reef-ready tanks) to fully install, and maintain for a bit, and will be watching him like a hawk to learn as much as I can through this process.

A few months to cycle correct?

Any suggestions for who to buy from/get onto a “Bimac-waiting-list”?

 

[tonmo]

Nice! @Tomh may be able to help you source a bimac when you're ready -- check out his forum, and read through the program details, here:

Tomh Cephs

Cephalopods for sale (conditions apply)

tonmo.com

Hopefully others here can assist with your more detailed questions here -- looking forward to your project!

 

[Kchristensen8064]

You will want an oversized protein skimmer not only to handle the bioload, but it is also what will oxygenate the water.

 

[ArthurS1234]

It’s a 65 gallon tank (glass lid, adjustable lights , so we can keep it on a low setting,
FIRST QUESTION-unless room lights are sufficient? In which case I’ll return the light….)

And as you said, gonna get the biggest protein skimmer that will fit.

To start things up, I have 2-3 qualified aquarium tank setup people.
I eventually want to be able to run
the tank myself. So I’ll be watching them carefully maintain the tank initially…

My SECOND QUESTION is (to whoever can help)-
Is a refugium “necessary”?

Thanks in advance for help!