Setting up a saltwater aquarium may seem like a complicated endeavor, but with a simple game plan, the process is smooth and straightforward. This handy guide walks you through the general steps involved in setting up and maintaining a saltwater aquarium, so you can enjoy an established aquarium display with greater ease.
First 48 hours: Set up the Aquarium and Stand
Place your fully assembled stand and aquarium in a location out of direct sunlight.
Prepare saltwater in a mixing container so that the specific gravity measures 1.025. If using tap water or chlorinated water, use a dechlorinator before mixing/preparing saltwater.
Carefully fill aquarium 75% full with prepared saltwater.
Rinse aquarium decorations in a bucket of clean, fresh water. Remove loose debris. Arrange decorations in your aquarium to your liking.
Fill remainder of aquarium with prepared saltwater and add a bacterial additive.
Install aquarium equipment, including heater, and plug into power supply per manufacturer's instructions.
After 48 hours, if aquarium water is clear and temperature is 76-78ºF, your aquarium is ready for fish!
Monitor and test water parameters regularly to provide a healthy marine environment.
Perform 25% water changes biweekly and perform regular filter maintenance as per manufacturer’s recommendation.
Feed small amounts of thawed frozen food, twice daily. Your fish should be able to finish the given portion of frozen food within a few minutes. For a nutritionally balanced diet, feed a variety of foods to your fish, including a staple flake or pellet diet, sinking foods, and frozen foods, as well as herbivore fare.
This general guideline provides a broad overview of what it takes to set up and maintain a successful saltwater aquarium. As you set up your first saltwater aquarium, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the increasing amount of knowledge and skills you gain as you develop firsthand experience.
