Saltwater Aquariums: How to Set Up a Saltwater Fish Tank
Setting up a saltwater aquarium is easy, provided that you understand the basic requirements of the inhabitants. Some of the concerning factors for marine aquarium are equipment, filtration, temperature, light, salinity, substrate, plants and fish.
For many hobbyists, saltwater aquariums are more fascinating than the traditional freshwater fish tanks. The marine fish and reefs are highly spectacular in comparison the freshwater fish and plants. However, one word of caution is that marine aquarium inhabitants have a specific maintenance requirements. They are also susceptible to mild changes in the aquarium environment. Hence, a close monitoring on the water chemistry, light and temperature is essential in order to maintain a stable marine aquarium. On the safer note, it is advisable to understand the basic maintenance tips before setting a saltwater aquarium.
Setting Up a Saltwater Aquarium
Though a saltwater aquarium is expensive, it is worth setting up one. You can also convert a freshwater fish tank into a marine aquarium. In any case, clean the fish tank by using a solution of pure bleach. You can scrub the tank, rocks, decorations and plastic plants (if any) before introducing into the saltwater aquarium. Following this, rinse them with clean water for several times. Never wash the tank, equipment or other items with soap and detergent.
Equipment
The equipment for marine aquarium should be durable, so as to withstand the salt contain in the aquarium water. In order to avoid rusting by salt, any equipment made up of metal is strictly not recommended. You can select stainless steel, plastic or metal coated with plastic equipment rather than pure metal ones. Install the equipments like filter system, sump, powerhead and heater by following the instructions of the manufacturer.
Filtration
Filtration is one of the most important aspects for setting up a saltwater aquarium. The aquarium water should be filtered ands sterilized at the same time. For this purpose, you can consider ozone filtration and protein skimmer. Filtration should be performed in such a way that some useful bacteria and microbes are retained in the water. Protein skimmers clean the organic debris before they get converted into plant nutrients.
Temperature
Temperature is another criteria that should be maintained carefully in a saltwater aquarium. Majority of the marine fish are active between 75 to 80 degrees F. Accordingly you can set the temperature of the heater. Closely monitor the thermometer level for any change in the temperature inside the saltwater aquarium.
Lighting
The saltwater aquarium should be placed away from the window or any opening, where direct sunlight is received. Sunlight is a major triggering factor for the growth of aquarium algae that are very difficult to control. You can place the saltwater aquarium near an electric outlet, so as to provide easy access for any external light or temperature fixtures.
Water and Salinity
For preparing the saline water for marine aquarium, purchase aquarium salt and mix it with water as per the instructions. A hydrometer is necessary for marine aquarium in order to monitor the gravity and/or salinity. As evaporation occurs, the saline concentration can be maintained by adding water to a specific level.
Substrate and Plants
Speaking about the substrate, use one pound of gravel per gallon of water that the aquarium holds. Vacuum clean the gravel before adding in the aquarium. Once the substrate is added, place the decorative live plants by inserting their lower portion on the substrate.
Saltwater Aquarium Fish
Marine fish are more expensive than the freshwater aquarium fish. There are wide varieties of saltwater aquarium fish and invertebrates to choose from. Nevertheless, the criteria for selection of aquarium inhabitants should not be solely on the appearance and color of the fish. Rather they should be selected after understanding their basic requirements in terms of food and environmental conditions.
Some of the spectacular saltwater fish varieties are angelfish, tangs, gobies, clownfish, butterflyfish, dragonfish, rays and wrasse. If you want exotic and poisonous fish, you can consider leaf fish, lionfish, scorpionfish and rockfish. While pairing them, ensure that the fish requirements are matching. You can also introduce coral reefs or other live rocks in the saltwater aquarium. Before adding these inhabitants, allow to stabilize the temperature, light, and water chemistry in the aquarium.
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By Ningthoujam Sandhyarani Published: 6/25/2009 |
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