What Supplies Are Needed to Start a Marine Aquarium?

A marine or saltwater aquarium lets you view a small part of an ocean ecosystem right in your living room. Keeping a marine aquarium can be a fun and exciting hobby, but it can also be difficult and expensive to set up and maintain. Before you start setting up your aquarium, research on the basic equipment you̵7;ll need to avoid some of the challenges and pitfalls.

  1. Your Tank

    • Your choice of tank depends on the number and types of fish, and environment you want. A basic saltwater aquarium can be as small as 10 gallons, while tanks with coral reef environments are often 200 gallons or more. Experts recommend you choose the largest possible tank you̵7;re comfortable with and that will fit your home and lifestyle. The larger your tank, the more you will be able to duplicate an ocean environment. Large tanks are also less susceptible to sudden temperature and chemical fluctuations, and water quality is easier to maintain.

    Filtration

    • Your marine aquarium will need a proper filtering system to maintain healthy water quality for your fish. The three basic types of filters are mechanical, biological and chemical.

      A mechanical filter is usually a canister containing spun nylon fibers or other absorbent material that traps and removes fish waste before it decomposes and fouls your tank. A biological filter breaks down waste products and stabilizes the biochemical processes that are a continuous part of your aquarium̵7;s life. A chemical filtration system uses active carbon to absorb the ions of dissolved waste. Your local aquarium shop can assist you with the best approach for your aquarium.

    Lighting

    • Lighting is important not only for illuminating your tank for aesthetic purposes, but also for the biological processes of your tank̵7;s aquatic life. The best kind of light depends on the type and size of your aquarium as well as the marine life you plan to include. Your best resource is to consult with your provider.

    Bottom Substrate

    • Your aquarium habitat needs a material for its floor. Any commercial aquarium sand or gravel will work. As a beginner, don̵7;t use non-commercial substrates. They are not sterile and may contain harmful substances.

    Salt Water

    • Your tank is called a marine aquarium because it simulates the ocean. Therefore, you need to provide a saltwater environment. There are various commercial products available that let you prepare the proper saltwater for your fish. Follow the directions carefully.

    Fish and Food

    • Not all fish in your marine aquarium will get along this well

      Finally the fun part ̵2; populating your tank. However, it̵7;s not simply a matter of choosing the fish with the characteristics that appeal to you. Some fish or plant species do not cohabitate well. Do some research before adding anything to your tank. The food you choose, whether flake, freeze-dried or live, will depend on the inhabitants of your tank. Most likely you̵7;ll want to feed a combination.

    Maintenance and Control

    • Maintaining the health of your aquarium requires other tools such as a thermometer and heater for maintaining a proper temperature; test kits for monitoring the chemical composition and pH of your tank's water; cleaning products and tools such as water buckets and plastic hoses; and fish nets, medicines and a separate quarantine container to treat sick fish.