Ecosystems Determine How to Set Up a Salt Water Aquarium

How to set up a salt water aquarium very muchseems trivial when considering the added filtration
depends on the type of ecosystem that you arebenefits that live rock adds to an aquarium's
planning to house. Different aquarium environmentsenvironment.
need different equipment and species. This article willMake no mistake though; live rock aquariums do
give you a bit of guidance in showing you somerequire maintenance. Healthy water is dependent on
options for your home.many things including the following: calcium,
A very affordable saltwater aquarium is a fish onlymagnesium, iodine, strontium, and other minerals.
aquarium. One of the main savings in cost involvesArguably, the best rock that you can acquire is the
the basic lighting system. However, inexpensiveFiji rock. However, this rock is expensive. Once again,
doesn't necessarily mean that this type of tank isan owner has to determine if an enhanced live rock
easy to maintain. Excessive nitrates must constantlyenvironment, which naturally provides filtration and
be monitored and frequent water changes are quitefood, is worth the expense.
the necessity, due to the lack of live rock.A third option is a reef tank, perfect for housing
Hermit crabs and snails are a possibility in fish onlycorals, invertebrates and anemones. In this type of
tanks. They are quite compatible and are also great inenvironment, fish are often not the main attraction!
cleaning off algae. Aesthetically, they are pleasing toReef tanks require first rate water conditions and
the eye and quite entertaining. However, snails dueexpensive lighting. They also use reverse osmosis as
reproduce rapidly, so ask your pet store for technicalwell as de-ionized water. Corals and other marine life
support and advice before making any snailmust have all of these devices working well in order
purchases.to thrive to their fullest potential.
A second aquarium option is a fish only with live rockThese are the three types of saltwater aquariums.
aquarium. Live rock does require superior lighting, thusSo, before you purchase a saltwater aquarium, realize
generating a cost for you, the pet owner. However,that each type of tank has requires a different setup
live rock is a natural filter and aids immensely in thewith respect to lighting, filtration and chemical levels.
nitrogen cycle. To many, the expense of the lighting