Fish only or FOWLR bare bottom.

I am looking to convert my 55g freshwater to saltwater FO or FOWLR. This is a standard "55 gallon" and is NOT drilled. For this build I have no interest in coral, and other invertebrates will be an afterthought at best.



Does anyone have any suggestions regarding equipment, chemical filtration and/or maintenance regimen?





So far I am envisioning a streamlined setup;

-Basic lighting

-No substrate

-minimal live rock

-A couple of Wavemakers, perhaps on timers for a rudimentary controller.

-HOB protein skimmer.





If chemical filtration is needed, I have a HOB filter from the FW setup. Or I would consider purchasing an inexpensive HOB reactor(e.g. the one from Bulk reef supply).



I believe even with minimal live rock this system would be able to support enough bacteria to process the ammonia and nitrite. But with moderate to fairly heavy stocking would it be reasonable to expect acceptable nitrate levels if the tank bottom is cleaned regularly? Or would chemical filtration(or something else) be necessary at that point?







Am I on the right track? Thanks.