How to Mix Sea Salt Into a Freshwater Aquarium

Sea salt is used in saltwater aquariums to boost salinity, but a few aquarium experts also use salt to improve the health of freshwater fish. When mixed with fresh water, in specific quantities, sea salt can add electrolytes for the fish and help create the mucous on fish needed aid in osmosis. It also prevents common fish diseases like ich. Sprinkling sea salt into the aquarium may harm the fish. There is a way to add salt to the freshwater tank without traumatizing the fish and plants in the habitat.

  1. Preparing for New Freshwater Fish

    • A teaspoon of sea salt for every 10 gallons of water can act as a preventive measure against common fish illnesses. Add the salt to the water and run the filter for a few hours before adding new fish to the aquarium. Doing so can avoid getting too much salt into a concentrated area that can harm the fish.

    Salt as Medicine

    • Sea salt can kill parasites in the freshwater aquarium and help fish to heal wounds. A saltwater dip kills the parasites when 1 1/2 cups of salt is added to the freshwater aquarium per 10 gallons of water. If the fish tolerates the salt level well, maintain it for up to three weeks or until the parasites are gone. Then, place the fish back into freshwater. Put a teaspoon of sea salt into the freshwater aquarium containing an injured fish to aid the healing process. Once the wound heals, change the water to remove the excess salt and allow the fish to rest.

    Keeping a Brackish Environment

    • Some fish thrive in a brackish habitat, one that is a bit on the salty side but is still freshwater. Mollies, guppies and betas all love the brackish environment. Add a teaspoon of sea salt to the water with every water change to maintain a brackish habitat.

    Warnings

    • Fish that are showing signs of stress must be returned to fresh water immediately. Fish with scales don't tolerate salt in the water at all and neither do live plants that populate many aquariums. Fish needing the salt treatment may need to be segregated until the treatment is finished.