Keys to maintaining a saltwater aquarium

The intense colors and beauty of saltwater marine life compel many people to consider setting up saltwater aquariums in their homes or places of business. Many people find maintaining aquariums to be a rewarding hobby that provides a way to relax and show one’s appreciation for marine life. And while modern technology has revolutionized the way personal saltwater aquariums are kept, maintaining them can still be time-consuming because the aquariums require consistent care to ensure that the delicate marine life can thrive.

Saltwater fish are native to vast ocean environments, which can make it challenging to replicate the same conditions in a tank — more so than with freshwater aquariums. But there are ways to maintain such environments and reap the rewards of such maintenance.

• Set a consistent schedule: According to saltwater-aquarium expert Timothy Hovanec, Ph.D., proprietor of Dr. Tim’s Aquatics, putting off the work in a saltwater aquarium will cause fish to suffer and die sooner than procrastinating with regard to maintaining freshwater tanks. That is because saltwater environments in nature do not change much in terms of salt concentration, pH, temperature or other chemical composition. Saltwater fish are less capable of adapting than freshwater fish, unless the saltwater fish can swim away to another environment that is more conducive. That is not possible in a contained environment. That narrows the range of water chemicals in which saltwater fish can survive, further emphasizing the need for near-daily water checks and tank upkeep.

• Larger size: Saltwater aquariums are generally larger than freshwater ones in order to have the best chances at maintaining proper temperature and chemistry over time. Also, many saltwater fish tend to be larger than their freshwater cousins. Naturally, a larger aquarium comes with increased cost and upkeep, which may deter some people from having saltwater aquariums.

• Expert advice: It is a good idea to consult with a saltwater-fish expert and read as much as possible on the subject prior to purchasing any equipment. The For Dummies resource states that testing for saltwater aquariums is essential, and fish-only or reef tanks may require different pH and chemical testing. An expert can also help prospective owners choose the right fish so that aquarium habitats will be successful.

• Patience needed: It can take weeks to months to properly set up saltwater aquariums. That is because even after the hardware and mechanisms are in place, the aquarium needs to stabilize. Allow time for helpful bacteria growth and to ensure correct ammonia levels and salinity. Plants and natural coral can offer natural filtration, in addition to mechanical filters. Fish should be added gradually so they can acclimate to the environment and contribute to the overall balance in the aquarium.