How to Add Beach Shells to a Saltwater Fish Tank

Saltwater fish tanks are beautiful aquatic habitats for sea life and fish. The brilliant colors of salt water fish, coral and plants transform the aquarium into a work of art. In fact, decorating the salt water tank with shells and other items is just as important as selecting which fish to buy. Although shells and other decorations are readily available at pet stores and aquarium supply stores, you can also collect them from the beach.

Things You'll Need

  • Bag
  • Container
  • Sink or tub
  • Water
  • Scrub brush
  • Towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Visit the beach and collect shells in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Place the shells into a bag or container. Examine the shells carefully and do not select ones that still contain sea creatures. Some examples of shells to collect include clam shells, scallop shells, oyster shells and even snail shells.

    • 2

      Shake each shell individually to remove as much beach sand as possible from the surface. Do not shake the entire bag or container of shells as the jarring motion may damage the shells.

    • 3

      Place all of the shells into a sink or tub.

    • 4

      Turn on the water faucet and wash each shell thoroughly in plain tap water. Do not use soap or any other type of cleaner on he shells. To remove algae from the shells, use a scrubber sponge in addition to the water.

    • 5

      Dry the shells thoroughly using a clean, dry towel.

    • 6

      Grasp a shell in your hand and slowly insert your hand into the salt water tank until reaching the bottom. Place the shell in the desired location and then remove your hand. Place larger shells into the corners or against the sides of the aquarium. Place smaller shells towards the front and center of the aquarium.

    • 7

      Continue until all of the shells have been placed into the salt water fish tank.