How to Care for a Saltwater Aquarium

Fish aquariums are not only beautiful but relaxing and a popular hobby for many people. Caring for a salt water aquarium may be daunting at first glance but with regular maintenance and attention, the bright and colorful salt water fish are well worth the time it takes. Here are the basics of caring for a saltwater aquarium.

Things You'll Need

• Aquarium scrubber or scraper
• Aquarium vacuum or siphon

Instructions

1. Unplug all equipment and remove it from the tank.

2. Wipe the inside of the glass in slow, steady motions with the scrubber. Be careful to avoid touching or frightening the fish.

3. Mix up the gravel on the bottom and move most of it to the back of the tank creating a low spot in the front. Much of the fish waste will be stirred up into the water. Let the waste settle naturally. Most of it should fall to the front.

4. Vacuum or siphon the waste from the low spot taking about 1/3 of the water with it. Once the waste and water have been removed, spread the gravel back to be aesthetically pleasing and rearrange any decorations and anchor plants.

5. Refill the aquarium with fresh water that has been treated with chemicals and salt accordingly, ensuring that it is close to the temperature of the current water in the aquarium. Remember to only add salt and chemicals for the amount of water added, not for the entire volume of the tank.

6. Wipe down all the equipment and reassemble it in the aquarium. Plug the equipment in and check to be sure it's operating properly.

7. Wipe the outside of the tank with a clean, dry cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Daily maintenance should always consist of feeding and observing fish as well as doing a quick check of the equipment in your aquarium to ensure that everything is working properly.

• Rather than changing aquarium water completely, which can be harmful and even kill your fish, change the water frequently in small intervals to ensure that good bacteria still survives, yet harmful waste build-up is removed. Rule of thumb is to change 1/3 of the water every week or two.

• Lights should not be left on for longer than 6 to 10 hours per day as it may cause algae to grow rapidly. If needed, use a timer to turn the aquarium light on and off at regular cycles.