How To Set Up A Saltwater Aquarium The Right Way

Sometimes people assume that setting up a saltwater aquarium requires an advanced degree in chemistry, but that is simply not true. While it's true that making sure that you have a good environment for saltwater species does take some effort, it is actually much simpler than many people think. If you are a beginning aquarist, then read on for some simple step-by-step instructions regarding how to set up a saltwater aquarium.

The Equipment

For a beginning tank, it's best to stick to the basics. Though certain products like a Tunze Nanostream certainly have their place in an aquarium environment, for the time being, go for equipment that is easy to manage. Here's what you'll need:

-Tank (remember that the bigger the tank is, the easier it is to maintain)

-Sea salt mix

-Water conditioner

-Light

-Heater

-Substrate such as sand or crushed coral (about one pound per gallon of the tank)

-Filtration system

-Thermometer and hydrometer

-Protein skimmer

Getting Set Up

1.Clean everything. After checking the tank for leaks, mix 1 teaspoon of pure bleach to 5 gallons of water and scrub the tank, substrate, decorations, and anything else that goes in the aquarium. Rinse thoroughly and be sure not to use any kind of soap.

2.Set up the aquarium stand. Place it near an outlet and away from windows if at all possible.

3.Install the filtration system and the protein skimmer. Do this according to the manufacturer's instructions. Add the substrate and any plants to the tank after you finish.

4.Fill the tank. Fill a five gallon bucket with clean, non-chlorinated water. Use the water conditioner to make sure that the water is suitable for the tank. Add the sea salt according to the instructions on the package and measure the salt level with a hydrometer. Keep the gravity level between 1.020 and 1.023. Add the premixed saltwater to the tank.

5.Turn on the filter and the protein skimmer. Ensure that everything is working properly.

6.Add the light, heater, and thermometer. Most tanks should be kept between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

7.Let everything run for at least 72 hours. Do this to ensure that everything is stable. A new aquarium lacks the bacteria needed to form a steady biological cycle.

8.If everything looks good, add fish two at a time. Start with a few hearty varieties like damsels and clownfish. These species are more tolerant of beginner mistakes.

9.Add more fish as needed. Once you have gotten the hang of maintaining a tank, it's time to add more fish.
That's it. In fewer than ten steps, you can set up your own saltwater aquarium. Be sure to have a thorough understanding of what it takes to keep a saltwater aquarium going, and most importantly, have fun.