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Saltwater Tanks: Best Fish, Tanks and Décor
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Are you looking to add a saltwater fish to your family? Then you need to get all of the right pet fish supplies. With the right set up, you’ll create the perfect home for your new friend so they can live a long and happy life with their new family.
How to Set Up Your Saltwater Fish Tank
Follow these steps when setting up your saltwater fish tank.
- **Pick the Perfect Spot -**You don’t want to stick your pet fish somewhere in the sunlight, under a vent or in a cold area of your home. Sudden changes in temperatures don’t feel good to fish. Pick an area that has consistent light and heat so that your fish is comfortable.
- Get an Aquarium - Next, get an aquarium that is the right size for your fish. The size you’ll end up getting will depend on the type of fish you adopt. So do plenty of research on your pet to see what they need. A good rule of thumb, if you have multiple fish, is to increase the size of your tank with every fish you introduce into the aquarium.
- Set Up Aquarium Stand - A good idea for your saltwater fish tank is to buy an aquarium stand. A fish tank stand is a way to make sure your aquarium has a stable base to live on.
- Set Up Fish Tank Filters - Your saltwater tank will need a filtration system to keep the water clean. Once you have your aquarium setup, then set up your filter. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for what size filter you’ll need for a tank of that size.
- **Rinse/**Add Substrate - Insert an appropriate amount of aquarium substrate at the bottom of the tank. Depending on the type of saltwater aquarium pets you have, you might have to use different substrates. A huge difference between saltwater and freshwater fish is that saltwater fish are used to sandier environments.
- Fill the Tank Halfway - Once you have the substrate and filter ready, fill the tank with some water, making sure to never use tapwater. Check for leaks.
- Insert Décor/Plants - If there are no leaks, it’s time to decorate. Insert aquarium décor and artificial aquarium plants, designing the tank to look like you want it to. Rinse everything before inserting it into the tank.
- Fill the Remainder of the Tank and Add Salt- Fill the rest of the tank with dechlorinated water. Use a water conditioner if necessary. Then add the marine salt to the tank. Start with a small amount and work your way up. Use a hydrometer to measure the gravity of the tank until it’s just right for the type of fish you have. Check again after 24 hours and make adjustments if necessary.
- Complete The Nitrogen Cycle - The nitrogen cycle is the process of cycling the water in your tank to remove toxins, including ammonia and nitrites, keeping their water clean and in healthy condition. Use water testing kits to monitor the condition of the water, making sure to not introduce fish until it is just right.
- Insert the Aquarium Heater - The heater is what will help keep your fish’s tank at the temperature they need to thrive. This will protect them, even if there’s a sudden change in temperature outside of their tank.
- Insert Thermometer - To monitor the temperature of your pet’s tank, you should insert an aquarium thermometer. Make sure to look up what temperature your saltwater fish will thrive in.
- Let Filter/Heater Run - After inserting all of the décor, plants, filter, thermometer and heater, let the tank run for several days. After this time has passed, check the temperature and test the water to see if you need to make any adjustments. Make sure the tank is stable for several days before introducing your fish.
The Best Fish for Saltwater Fish Tank
There are hundreds of saltwater fish that can be pets in your aquarium. Some of the most popular options include:
- Clownfish
- Angelfish
- Butterflyfish
- Goby Fish
- Lionfish
- Tang Fish
The options don’t stop there. The best saltwater fish for tanks are the ones that make you the happiest and live well in those conditions!
How to Introduce Your Saltwater Fish to Their Tank
Once you have your fish tank set up and your pet fish all picked out, then you’re ready to introduce them to their new home!
- Make Sure All Your Fish Will Get Along - There are actually a lot of different fish that don’t do well together. Make sure the fish you’re putting in the same home are well suited for one another.
- Keep Them in the Sealed Bag - You should have brought your fish home in a plastic baggy. Keep them in this sealed bag and let them float on the surface of your aquarium’s water. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before adding some of the tank water into the bag.
- Add Them to The Tank - After doing this a few times, you can use a fish net to transfer your fish into their tank. Don’t pour the water from the bag into the tank. The old water can disrupt the habitat you’ve created in the new tank.
You’re going to make a great pet parent! Just make sure you have all of the right fish supplies and the perfect home setup to give them the best life possible.
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