125g used tank

[tmkx3]

I just bought a 125g tank from a neighbor that was moving. It was a cichlid tank,so I will need some new equitment. I have been researching this project for about 2mons. I am going to set-up a fowlr tank for now. I know that most of the reefers say to go with a sump LR and DSB with a skimmer But the whole sump thing sounds a little difficult to me. The lfs has suggested a wet/dry system and they look at me funny when I mention the whole sump thing. From what I have read don't wet/dry system have a sump? Is the only difference between the two the use of the bio-media(balls and wheels). I will be using Lr but I will have to add it gradually, so do I need the wet/ dry to filter until the tank is fully stock with rock? If so what is the best system? I have read that the wet/dry filters can't filter nitrates but won't the lr and sand do that? IF not is there something that can? I was thinking of putting in a 2-3 inch bed. I was thinking about mixing sand and cc. Is silica sand a no,no? I have read conflicting comments. I can't get southdown. Any help would be greatly appreciated. THanx

 

[bradreef]

for sand there is usually a generic bulk brand that most fish store have. People give it away like crazy though, so If you are patient you can get it for cheap or free. Fowlr is a good Idea. Wet/dry is not a good idea because it will cause too many nitrates. The plumbing of most wet dry filters is identical to a sump. you jsut need an overflow and a return pump. Both of these things you can find for cheap used. I would try a macro(cheato) to remove nutrients with a protien skimmer. These two things are easy to use and work great. Look for a used 20-30 gallon tank for a sump or you can buy one at petco for $30.