The first thing that we should review before setting up your saltwater aquarium is the size of the tank you will be using. It is always a good idea to make a list of the species of saltwater fish that you intend on keeping in your aquarium before you purchase your tank. The species of saltwater fish can vary dramatically in size, ranging from a small two inches to as big as eighteen inches in length. The recommended size for a starter saltwater aquarium is forty gallons but you can start with a smaller tank if you wish, however this might pose a few more challenges as you will have to perform water tests a lot more frequently with a smaller tank. Once you have all of your items then you are ready to begin the set up. Read this quick saltwater fish guide to learn how you can successfully set up your aquarium.
Ensure that you place your aquarium in a part of the home or the office where it is not going to be subjected to direct sunlight because the heat from the sun can change the temperatures of the water, this is also true if you place the aquarium close to a heater so make sure you find a nice, quite spot away from direct light and heat. You will also need a stand that will be strong enough to hold the aquarium, when working out what kind of stand you will need you should take into consideration the amount of water the tank will hold, the fish that will be placed in it as well as the weight of the tank on its own. Always over compensate for these things.
Your next task is to consider the type of filtration you will be requiring when you set up your tank as well as the type of protein skimmer you will be using. Live rock acts as a natural filter so you will not need a very strong filter if you are planning to add live rock, a modest filter for mechanical and chemical filtration will be sufficient. When it comes to protein skimmer, never skimp on the price because if you buy cheap protein skimmer then you might be subjecting your fish to harm. Your next step is to wash your new aquarium making sure that you only use clean tap water and no soap or detergents. You should then test your tank for any leaks by filling it right up and then once it has passed its test, drain the tank again.
Add your background next by either painting on a background (make sure you paint the outside of the glass and leave it to dry for at least a day before continuing) or you can add a faux background by taping it against the glass ensuring that there are no gaps for salt to get in. afterwards, install the heater and hook up the filter and any other items you are using for your tank but make sure that you do not plug anything in yet. Next, add pre mixed saltwater by using a large clean bucket until the tank is full. Then turn on the aquarium and allow it to circulate for at least a few days before adding any live fish.
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