Starting a Salt Water Aquarium
Starting a saltwater aquarium opens doors to an array of spectacular fish, the opportunity to see an ecosystem close up and a new appreciation of the delicate creatures in our oceans. When first starting out, it is better to begin with a fish-only aquarium. It is the best way to begin in the marine hobby.
Start with a tank size that you will be comfortable maintaining. Although it is possible to house marine fish in a tank smaller then 20 gallons, it is not recommended. Consider how many fish you would like to own in the aquarium when considering the size of the tank. Generally you should allow 3 to 5 gallons for each inch of fish capacity. The general rue is; ten gallon tank equals two one inch fish.
A good filtration system is of the utmost importance. Plus, you will need a heater and thermometer, to maintain the recommended temperature of 78-80 degrees for tropical fish and a hydrometer which is a device that measures the salt content of the water in the aquarium.
When purchasing a fish always remember to bring in a water sample for the store to test. A bacteria culture is essential for cycling the aquarium. Bacteria can be added once the aquarium has been prepared meaning it has been de-chlorinated, heated to the right temperature, and salted to the proper level. This process can take between a few days and a week or more. When the water quality allows, the starter fish can then be introduced.
Because of their hardiness and their ability to survive the conditioning period of the tank, a great starter fish is the damselfish. They are classified into many genera and species including the domino damselfish, the blue chromis, and the anemonefishes also known as clownfishes. They live a long time, they are not very particular about their food, they are active, colorful and inexpensive. But, like anything else, they have their disadvantages too. They are highly territorial and aggressive towards unrelated species and their own kind regardless if the fish is much larger then themselves.
The most important thing bout picking fish is to be aware of where the fish you are buying comes from. This may not be a concern when you are filling you aquarium with the common species of fish but, most reef fish and coral are wild caught. It is estimated that wild coral structures contain about 25 percent the planet’s marine life. Coral reefs are being harmed by bad weather and stress. Marine hobbyists have to be aware that, although the wild marine life may be plentiful at the time being, harvesting may soon begin to play a role in the destruction of such a magnificent splendor if it hasn’t already.
Until you get to be more experienced in your hobby, stay away from mini-reefs. But, if and when you decide you want to keep any corals, do some research. They have different light requirements for different species and they are not as hardy as they seem. But, if you are willing to take on the task; good luck and enjoy.
Starting a saltwater aquarium opens doors to an array of spectacular fish, the opportunity to see an ecosystem close up and a new appreciation of the delicate creatures in our oceans. When first starting out, it is better to begin with a fish-only aquarium. It is the best way to begin in the marine hobby.
Start with a tank size that you will be comfortable maintaining. Although it is possible to house marine fish in a tank smaller then 20 gallons, it is not recommended. Consider how many fish you would like to own in the aquarium when considering the size of the tank. Generally you should allow 3 to 5 gallons for each inch of fish capacity. The general rue is; ten gallon tank equals two one inch fish.
A good filtration system is of the utmost importance. Plus, you will need a heater and thermometer, to maintain the recommended temperature of 78-80 degrees for tropical fish and a hydrometer which is a device that measures the salt content of the water in the aquarium.
When purchasing a fish always remember to bring in a water sample for the store to test. A bacteria culture is essential for cycling the aquarium. Bacteria can be added once the aquarium has been prepared meaning it has been de-chlorinated, heated to the right temperature, and salted to the proper level. This process can take between a few days and a week or more. When the water quality allows, the starter fish can then be introduced.
Because of their hardiness and their ability to survive the conditioning period of the tank, a great starter fish is the damselfish. They are classified into many genera and species including the domino damselfish, the blue chromis, and the anemonefishes also known as clownfishes. They live a long time, they are not very particular about their food, they are active, colorful and inexpensive. But, like anything else, they have their disadvantages too. They are highly territorial and aggressive towards unrelated species and their own kind regardless if the fish is much larger then themselves.
The most important thing bout picking fish is to be aware of where the fish you are buying comes from. This may not be a concern when you are filling you aquarium with the common species of fish but, most reef fish and coral are wild caught. It is estimated that wild coral structures contain about 25 percent the planet’s marine life. Coral reefs are being harmed by bad weather and stress. Marine hobbyists have to be aware that, although the wild marine life may be plentiful at the time being, harvesting may soon begin to play a role in the destruction of such a magnificent splendor if it hasn’t already.
Until you get to be more experienced in your hobby, stay away from mini-reefs. But, if and when you decide you want to keep any corals, do some research. They have different light requirements for different species and they are not as hardy as they seem. But, if you are willing to take on the task; good luck and enjoy.
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