Saltwater aquarium maintenance may seem daunting at first, but there are certain things you can do to make get the most out of your special tank!  The allure of a saltwater tank is clear: vibrant colors, exotic fish and an oceanic look. There are, however, a few things to take into account to have a healthy, thriving ecosystem in your home or business. Take note of these helpful bits of knowledge when it comes to setting up and maintaining your own saltwater aquarium.

Get the Right Fish

One of the biggest things that trips up new tank owners is getting the healthy, compatible fish to populate your new tank. Saltwater aquarium maintenance is as dependent on the nature of the fish as much as it is the equipment that houses them. We have our own list of saltwater fish that would make great tank makes but beyond the known behaviors of your fish there are a few other things to take into account. Does the fish you are looking at have erratic swimming behavior? Are there any odd growths on the skin or near their gills? What condition are the fins of your fish? These things can be signs of bigger issues down the line so be sure to curate your fish correctly and bring some lively specimens to your tank!

Get the Right Equipment

Saltwater fish require a little more can than their freshwater counterparts. Depending on what you put in your tank, your equipment needs may be more specialized but there are a few basics that you will need for fresh, functional tank. First, understanding the temperature of your tank is hugely important, so making sure you have the proper heater and thermometer goes a long way in proper saltwater aquarium maintenance. Circulation pumps are also essential, so make sure to get ones suitable for the tank you have chosen. Filters and lighting are both important as well, so make sure to consult your aquarium professional in order to get versions that meet your needs.

Test and Replace Your Water Regularly

All the above equipment, and more, is essential when testing your water parameters. High quality water parameters go a long way in extending the life of your aquatic inhabitants but you also have to make sure to check these stats regularly. Make changing your water a habit! Once a week water changes should do the trick, with a filter change at least every two weeks. Make sure to consult your aquarium expert on what the proper Norma Sea Water (NSW) values are as well as the target water test levels.

There is so much more that goes into achieving proper saltwater aquarium maintenance. It may seem like a lot of work at first, but its rewarding work with beautiful results. Of course, this may not be for everyone but if you want a gorgeous saltwater tank and don’t want the hassle of maintaining it, you can always look to Living Art Aquatic Design, Inc. for your maintenance needs! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram as well for more examples of what your aquarium could look like. Remember to do your research and get the exact tank you want today!