Step-by-Step Saltwater Refugium Setup

Aquarists often use marine or saltwater refugiums to protect smaller fish from predators. A refugium is a smaller tank beside the aquarium, allowing fish keepers to operate two tanks under one set of equipment. Plants are also kept in refugiums to protect them from being abused by large fish. Aquarists often make adjustments to cover pipes and other equipment with plants as they install their refugium.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon or more acrylic aquarium
  • Sturdy shelf or tank stand
  • Aquarium lid with light attachment
  • Air hose
  • PVC pipe
  • Single-edged razor blade
  • 2 PVC attachments for the PVC pipe
  • Sand, 1 to 3 inches
  • Aquarium salt
  • Water test kits
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse out a small aquarium. Place it on a tank stand. Position it slightly above the main tank to eliminate water flow issues. Put a little water in the tank to check if it is level. Adjust as appropriate.

    • 2

      Put the lid on the aquarium. Carve holes into it with a single-edged razor blade to fit a PVC pipe.

    • 3

      Place a water pump big enough for a 10-gallon aquarium into the tank. The pump will draw water from the main tank to the refugium. Filter water from the refugium to the main tank by placing a PVC pipe or air hose from the inside back of the main tank to the inside back of the refugium. Ensure the tank is still level before adding water.

    • 4

      Pour 1 to 3 inches of treated sand in the bottom of the tank. Place rocks that have been treated inside. Fill your tank with aquarium salt and water. Test the pH factor of the water to ensure chlorine and ammonia levels are appropriate for the fish you are putting in the tank.

    • 5

      Wait one week before adding live plants, fish and crustaceans to the refugium. This will ensure there are no leaks and that the pumps are working.