How to Set Up a Ten Gallon Salt Water Aquarium

When setting up a saltwater aquarium, larger is typically better, but you can set up a successful 10-gallon saltwater aquarium with the right steps. Saltwater aquariums require different setup and maintenance than a freshwater aquarium, but they offer greater rewards for those passionate about keeping exotic fish.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon aquarium
  • Sump (optional)
  • Thermometer
  • Heater
  • Filter setup
  • Prepared saltwater solution
  • Substrate (aquarium floor gravel)
  • Decorations
  • Saltwater fish tank test kit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a site for the aquarium tank. Make sure to pick a location away from windows or too much light. Clean the tank with fresh water and a soft sponge or cloth. Check whether the tank is level.

    • 2

      Install the equipment you plan to use for the aquarium in the appropriate locations. If you have elected to install a sump, now is the time to set it up in the stand beneath your aquarium. Install the appropriate heater and a thermometer according to the directions for the brand and style that you have purchased. Install your filter setup as instructed by the manufacturer. Make sure to follow the directions for each piece of equipment that you install, as different pieces of equipment will have requirements depending on brand and type.

    • 3

      Fill the aquarium with prepared saltwater solution and run a wet test for your system to make sure everything is working properly. Start up all the equipment and allow it to run for an entire day so you can check for leaks, adjust the heater, balance out the water salinity and make sure all the equipment is running properly.

    • 4

      Aquascape the aquarium. First, shut off any running equipment and remove any equipment that will get in the way while aquascaping. Half of the water in the tank should be siphoned and set aside, because the water level will rise when decorations are installed in the tank. Put the substrate and other elements of decor in the tank and arrange them attractively.

    • 5

      Pour the saved water back into the tank until it is filled. Turn all the equipment back on. Now is your last chance to make adjustments to the temperature of the water and the salinity level if needed. Use your test kit to check salinity.

    • 6

      Cycle your aquarium to allow the temperature to normalize and the specific gravity of the aquarium to normalize. Sea water has a gravity of approximately 1.024, but when cycling before adding life, 1.020 is fine. The biological cycle in your aquarium is important to make sure that the water has the right chemistry to suit your fish. Using the Right Now Bacteria from Hiatt's Distributors can help you cycle a brand-new tank in approximately 24 hours. Make sure the temperature is correct. Use your test kit to check specific gravity and salinity. Make adjustments according to the instructions.

    • 7

      Add your livestock once the tank has finished cycling. Add only one or two fish or animals at a time, allowing the tank to equalize for 48 to 72 hours before adding more to the bio-load.