Contents
Saltwater Aquarium Basics
How to Plan Aquarium Inhabitants
How to Choose a Saltwater Tank
Saltwater Aquarium Filtration
Saltwater Aquarium Equipment
Saltwater Aquarium Decoration
How to Make Aquarium Seawater
How to Test Marine Aquarium Water
How to Set Up a Saltwater Aquarium
How to Feed Fish
How to Keep Fish Healthy and Happy
Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance
Saltwater Fish for Beginners
Saltwater Invertebrates for Beginners
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How to Choose a Saltwater Tank
The size and shape of the fish tank you choose, as well as the space it occupies in your home, guide many of the decisions you’ll have to make about the tank later.
Choosing a Tank
Select your tank carefully. Since saltwater aquariums take several weeks to set up, it’s important to choose the right tank and stick with it.
- Size: Saltwater tanks need to be fairly big for several reasons. Larger tanks experience fewer fluctuations in temperature or water chemistry than smaller ones do, and they give marine fish the swimming space they need. Invest in a tank that holds at least 30 gallons (114 L); 55 gallons (208 L) or more is ideal.
- Shape: Buy a long, wide tank, not a tall, narrow one. Long, wide tanks have more surface area, which improves gas exchange, the process by which carbon dioxide leaves the water and oxygen enters. Marine fish need lots of oxygen, so tanks with plenty of surface area help keep fish healthy.
Aquarium Stands
Many fish tanks come with a premade aquarium stand. The stand supports the tank and sometimes includes a cabinet underneath for storing supplies. If you choose not to buy an aquarium stand, make sure to support your tank on a sturdy, firm base with a flat surface. Imperfections in the support’s surface can cause your tank to spring leaks.
Positioning the Tank
Once your aquarium is stocked with water, fish, and invertebrates, you won’t be able to move it easily. So choose a location for your tank carefully and consider the following:
- Temperature: Avoid drafty places and hot spots. If you live in a warm region, choose an air-conditioned room.
- Sunlight: Keep the tank out of direct sunlight, which encourages temperature fluctuations and algae growth.
- Space: Before adding water, attach all of the equipment to the tank (or inside the stand), and make sure you can access and service the equipment.
- Foot traffic: Pick a spot that will allow an unobstructed view of your fish, but avoid heavily trafficked areas since fish are sensitive to loud noises.
Quarantine and Hospital Tank
In addition to your main tank, invest in a small second tank in which to quarantine new fish before you add them to your main tank. You can also put sick fish in the secondary tank to isolate them (see How to Keep Fish Healthy and Happy). The tank must have the required accessories (such as a filter and heater) and can be filled with water from the main tank as needed. The tank needs no substrate, though it’s a good idea to include a decoration in which fish can hide.
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