The Difference Between Freshwater And Saltwater Aquariums

Should you buy a fresh or saltwater aquarium? Ask most
aquarists, and you will hear a persuasive argument on their
tanks’ merits and the other’s shortcomings. Yet, there are many
enthusiasts who find both tanks to be praiseworthy. There is no
litmus test for choosing between the two. Your preference for
what goes into the aquarium and your budget is what will make
the decision easier.

Aquarium Life Fresh water fish originate from lakes, rivers and
streams. Naturally occurring fluctuations in their environment
make these creatures remarkably adaptable. As such, they are
more likely to adjust to variances in the aquarium. Pet stores
carry an abundance of plant life of the freshwater variety. The
same cannot be said for invertebrates, which fare better in salt
water.

Saltwater/Marine fish and invertebrates propose a challenge, as
they are sensitive to environmental changes. The temperature,
salinity, ammonia, nitrate, nitrate, and most importantly – the
pH – must be kept at appropriate levels. Despite the care
required, the vast array of colorful saltwater fish more than
compensates for the extra effort required and their higher price
tag. They can have a lot of company in the tank. Salt water
offers a host of invertebrates such as eels, clams, crabs,
corals, and starfish. Marine plants, conversely, are difficult
to harvest and are also pricier than their freshwater equivalent.

The Necessities The differences between freshwater and saltwater
systems aren’t limited to tank’s inhabitants. The equipment
needed for their survival varies as well. Marine aquariums are
generally more expensive than freshwater tanks, but your costs
drop slightly if you opt for a fish-only system.

Substrate lies on the bottom of the aquarium, and it must be
near the top of your list of considerations. Gravel typically
lines the bed of freshwater aquariums. It is inexpensive and
comes in a variety of vibrant colors. Marine aquarists, on the
other hand, swear by live rock. Most attest that saltwater fish
and invertebrates thrive in a reef environment with live rock.
It costs considerably more than gravel, but it lends to the
aquarium’s natural beauty.

Lighting is a necessity to illuminate the beauty and preserve
the health of aquatic life in fresh and saltwater aquariums.
Lighting for marine tanks comes at a higher price. Fish-only
tanks usually require a single full spectrum tube. If your heart
is set on saltwater invertebrates, be mindful that they require
very intense full spectrum lighting, augmented with actinic
blue.

Keeping water at the appropriate temperature and having proper
filtration is a must in all aquariums. Full reef systems require
additional filtration through protein skimming. This process
strips any organic particles that form in the water before they
can be converted to nitrates. It is important to keep the water
in either tank moving, especially saltwater aquariums.

You will also need a testing kit for your aquarium. There are
more levels to monitor in a marine environment, but there is not
a stark difference in price between the freshwater kits. Since
salinity is a factor in saltwater tanks, an inexpensive
hydrometer is necessary to ensure a proper balance.

Either system you choose will require an investment of your
time. While the freshwater versus saltwater debate will
undoubtedly persist, no one can dispute the joy of putting your
patience and creativity into an aquarium.

Copyright 2006 Reef Saltwateraquarium