How to Increase Salinity in a Salt Water Tank

One of the most important aspects of any aquarium is that the water is suitable for the fish to live in. With regards to salt water aquariums, this means that the salinity level of the water must be kept at a constant level. Salinity is nothing more than the amount of salt that the water contains. If the salinity levels are too low, it can harm fish just as much as if the salinity levels are too high.

Things You'll Need

  • Hydrometer
  • 5-gallon bucket
  • Distilled water
  • Salt mix for aquariums
  • Long handled spoon
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a hydrometer to measure the current salinity of the aquarium water. If the hydrometer reading is below 1.021, the salinity of the aquarium needs to be increased.

    • 2

      Use a bucket to remove approximately 20 percent of the water in the aquarium.

    • 3

      Fill a 5-gallon bucket 3/4 full of distilled water. Allow the water to sit for 10 to 15 minutes so that it adjusts to room temperature.

    • 4

      Read the instructions on the aquarium salt mix and pour the recommended amount of mix into the bucket. Salt mix is available anywhere that sells aquarium supplies.

    • 5

      Use a long-handled spoon to thoroughly mix the water and salt solution until all of the salt is dissolved.

    • 6

      Insert the hydrometer into the bucket to test the salinity. A hydrometer reading between 1.021 and 1.024 is the optimal salinity for a salt water aquarium.

    • 7

      Pour the prepared water mixture into the aquarium.

    • 8

      Continue the process until the water level is approximately 3 to 4 inches below the top of the aquarium.