Reef Tank Simulator

[skulboep]

This may seem like a bizarre inquiry, but does anyone know if there is a legitimate reef tank simulator program available for PC? Something where one can virtually "setup" a tank, watch it through the cycle, virtually check water parameters, perform "water changes" and experiment with different lighting setups/bulb combos? To take it a step further, if such a program exists, does it offer the opportunity to add various livestock to the tank and monitor their response to different lighting setups, water parameters, etc?

I ask only because I am foaming at the mouth with excitement to start my first reef tank, but will unfortunately be moving in ~5 months and don't want to deal with the hassle of moving the tank while it's still maturing. Playing with such a program for the next couple months would be a fun (and potentially cost-saving) way to learn the pitfalls/basics of reefkeeping.

Let me know if you guys know of any such program in existence. Thanks!

Erik

[dots]

Welcome to Reef Central!!

For a simulation to be as close to being real as possible, all of the rules about the real world example it is modeled under must be understood.

We are not quite there yet, but each year we learn more about the ocean and how our reef tanks....the metrics you mention contribute to the overall heath and well being of the creatures we try to keep.

Until then, I have some suggested reading:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh....php?t=1379607

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/past.php

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh....php?t=1031074

Start reading up on the threads and asking questions here:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/fo...play.php?f=104

Start researching equipment that you will want, tank size, lighting etc...so when you can you will make the best decisions because of this time.

As far as the "pitfalls", there are many people here to help you in your discovery. Most notably are the Moderators and those like myself with the Team RC logo on the left. We are here to help you both in using the forum and to provide guidance in helping you make those choices and to help you with problems when you have them.

[Borchers]

I know that feeling but this is the time for you to study, read up on tank basics. Read the forms here. Ask a ton of questions. I don't think there's.anything that can come close to a real reef system at home. Day to day things change. Plus with a PC you might fall into the feeling of its only a fake reef who cares! I expect that between now and when you move you can learn a whole help of a lot. Good luck

[joejoe1055]

read online and books
go ahead and join a reef club and go to meetings if you can, nothing beats real world experiences. above all else take it slow on whatever u do.

[skulboep]

Thanks for all the help, will keep up on my reading and research!