Saltwater Tank Set Up Made Easy

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For every fish enthusiast, saltwater aquarium are definitely far more exciting than the normal freshwater fish setup. The marine species and reefs are absolutely wonderful and create a stunning view to decorate your home. Compared to the freshwater fish and plants, marine tanks are truly unique. However, one particular thing to take note about saltwater aquarium is that the fish and reefs have a specific general requirements. Apart from that, the tank dwellers are also very susceptible to any slight changes in the aquarium water condition. Therefore, a close monitoring on the water quality, lighting intensity and water temperature is very important in order to ensure that you have a stable environment. To become a hobbyist, it is advisable to learn and grasp the basic maintenance tips before setting up your own saltwater fish tank.


Setting Up a Saltwater Aquarium

Though a saltwater aquarium can cost a lot to purchase and maintain, the money spent is definitely worth every dime. In fact, if you already have an experience managing a freshwater tank, you can also convert it to become a marine aquarium. Before you get things started, make sure that you properly clean the fish tank by using clean water and sponge. You have to ensure that you scrub the tank, rocks, decorations that you intend to put in and by doing this, you lessen the risk of introducing disease to your fish. If needed, rinse them again and again with clean water for several times. However, avoid using soap and detergent because residue can harm your fish.

Equipment
The equipment that you purchase for your new fish tank should be durable so that it can withstand the water pressure and effect of salt corrosion. All equipment made up of metal must be avoided and if possible, you should only use stainless steel, or plastic so that things are more durable. Equipments like filter system, pump and heater must be carefully installed according to the manual stated by the supplier.

Filtration
Filtration is most integral part for any fish tank whether it is freshwater or saltwater. The aquarium water should be filtered and clean all the time with clear appearance. For better results, you can consider using ozone filtration and protein skimmer to get rid of scum buildup over time. Filtration should be run in such a way that useful colony of bacteria and microbes have chance to populate and their role is very important to help clean up the water. Protein skimmers will ensure that any organic debris were removed before it pollutes the water.

Temperature
Temperature is another criteria that should be carefully looked into when you have a saltwater aquarium. Certain marine fish are best housed in tropical climate temperatures while others are more suited for colder water condition. For this, make sure that you make full use of your heater or chiller to adjust the water temperature. Avoid extreme changes as this could cause your fish to have shock and then becoming lethargic.

Finally, it is also important that you carry out research about the fish you intend to rare. Some of the most popular choice are like butterflyfish, angelfish, tangs, sharks, clownfish, blennies and each group can be further divided into different species. In fact, there are endless choice for you to choose from and your only worry is whether you can become an expert in saltwater tank setup.