| Starting a saltwater aquarium is a process with many | | | | -Traffic: Although you want people to be able to see |
| steps. It can, ultimately be fulfilling, and a beautiful | | | | and enjoy the aquarium, you don't want people |
| addition to your home. Making sure to stabilize the | | | | running into it constantly. The aquarium should be |
| ecosystem for these delicate fish is an undertaking | | | | located in a somewhat neutral, out of the way |
| that needs the proper study and research, not only | | | | location. |
| for the well-being of the fish, but because some | | | | -Temperature fluctuations: Placing the aquarium near |
| exotic saltwater fish can be very expensive. | | | | a door, a heat vent or a window might pose |
| For the beginner, it is suggested to start with a larger | | | | problems because exotic fish need a constant aquatic |
| tank. A larger tank equals a more chemically stable | | | | temperature. |
| environment for the fish. A 55-gallon tank is | | | | Its a good idea to decide permanently on a location |
| recommended for beginners. Once the larger tank is | | | | before adding any water, decorations or fish to the |
| populated and maintained, it will be easier for the | | | | tank. Once the tank is full, it might be virtually |
| novice to then set up smaller freshwater aquariums | | | | impossible to move. This is also a good time to check |
| throughout the home. | | | | and see if the equipment necessary to run the tank |
| The choice of tank is usually between glass and | | | | (any hoses, stands, etc) fit well within this space (and |
| acrylic. There are pros and cons to both, depending | | | | behind the aquarium). |
| on your lifestyle and preferences. Glass is less costly, | | | | Never use any harsh cleaners before filling the tank. |
| but is also more likely to break. Glass is also going to | | | | Sure, its a good idea to clean it, but be gentle with |
| remain clearer over the years than acrylic. Acrylic, on | | | | the solvents as your new fish will need to live in the |
| the other hand, insulates better so the tank may | | | | environment and it might be impossible to scour |
| require a smaller heater than a glass tank will. Also, | | | | every bit of cleaner away. Always rinse thoroughly |
| acrylic scratches much more easily. | | | | after cleaning. |
| Starting a saltwater aquarium in your home will prove | | | | Starting a saltwater aquarium requires deciding what |
| to be a lovely addition for everyone; even the other | | | | type of environment you would like to create. Do |
| pets will enjoy it! So the next step is to decide | | | | you want just fish swimming around? Or would you |
| where inside the home it should be located. To settle | | | | rather have fish and live rocks together? You might |
| on the ideal location consider the following: | | | | even be thinking large and feel confident in going for |
| -Amount of sunlight: The aquarium should not be | | | | the full reef system. Beginners are suggested to |
| subjected to large amounts of sunshine throughout | | | | start with simply the fish or fish and live rock. Reef |
| the day. This will cause increased algae growth and | | | | systems can be obtained as confidence with |
| will be harmful to the fish. | | | | maintaining the aquarium grows. |