How to Create Brackish Water

Brackish water is the term used for water that is part fresh and part saline. Bodies of water that connect freshwater streams with the salty ocean contain brackish water. Here, many fish species thrive. Aquarium hobbyists set up their aquariums with brackish water for these species. Set up your aquarium for brackish water fish with water that mimics their natural environment. Common set-ups are for estuary, brackish river and mangrove swamp fish.

Things You'll Need

  • Marine salt
  • bucket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy marine salt. Do not use aquarium salt; save this salt for freshwater aquariums.

    • 2

      Mix two tablespoons of marine salt per gallon of water in your bucket to form brackish water particularly good for young fish. Add to your aquarium.

    • 3

      Add an extra tablespoon of salt per gallon every 6 months during cleaning and water changes. Eventually, put up to 7 tablespoons of salt per gallon. Stay at 7 tablespoons to mimic the natural migration of brackish water fish. These fish move closer to the salty seawater as they age.

    • 4

      Use a hydrometer to measure the gravity of the water; most fish like a gravity of 1.005 to 1.010. Research your particular species to see the most appropriate level.

    • 5

      Maintain your fish tank with weekly water changes. Occasionally stir the sand slightly to aerate it.