How to Choose Starter Fish For Saltwater Aquariums

Saltwater aquariums have to cycle through a biological process before you can add certain sensitive fish. Choosing starter fish to add to a saltwater aquarium when you first set it up is very important. The fish you choose have to be strong and inexpensive fish that can help the biological process to cycle so you can add some of the more expensive and sensitive fish.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Think about the tank size so you know how many fish to buy. Smaller tanks require fewer fish to help the biological cycle.

2. Consider the eventual theme you want in the saltwater aquarium. Be sure that the starter fish will be able to live with the fish you want in the tank later.

3. Decide how much money you are willing to risk. Some fish, even if they are durable and healthy, may die.

4. Ask a sales associate for help narrowing down the available choices. The associate can help you pick compatible fish.

5. Pick inexpensive and hearty fish such as damsel fish. Damsel fish have many different types and colors.

6. Determine the color of fish you want for the tank.

7. Check the fish for diseases before purchase. One sick fish can cause problems for all of the fish in a saltwater aquarium.

Tips & Warnings

• Using live sand as the base for the saltwater aquarium will help to speed up the biological process. Live rock can also help to speed up the cycle.
• Test the water weekly for nitrate and nitrite levels to determine when the level is safe for other fish.