Saltwater Tank – Think Before You Buy

by The Aquarium Lady

Buying a saltwater tank is something that should never be rushed and time should be taken over deciding what it is you want and need. This is one decision that you make when keeping tropical fish as a hobby. Fish that live in a saltwater tank have a great number of requirements that need to be met in order for them to thrive, compared to those of freshwater fish.

You may find yourself feeling somewhat confused when trying to select which is actually the right saltwater tank for you to purchase, because there are so many different ones to choose from. However, it is best if you purchase the largest one that your budget constraints allow for.

If you are just about to set up your first tropical fish aquarium, then the smallest size saltwater tank you should be considering buying is one that can hold up to 30 gallons of water. It provides the fish with more than enough space for them to swim around in it comfortably and also can help with getting rid of oxygen from the water as well. If you want to be a success when keeping tropical fish and marine life in a saltwater tank, you need to be able to control the levels of oxygen and temperature within it effectively.

What Type Of Saltwater Tank Should You Buy?

When buying a saltwater tank in which you can keep tropical fish and other marine life, you first need to decide whether you want one made from acrylic or one that is made from glass. As you will soon discover both come with their own particular advantages and disadvantages.

The main advantages you will find to owning a saltwater tank made from glass over acrylic are as follows:

. The cost of a glass saltwater tank is considerably less than that of those made from acrylic. . These kinds of saltwater tanks are much stronger and far less likely to become scratched. . A glass saltwater tank does not need as much support as the acrylic ones, but the stand on which you place them should be able to easily hold the weight of the aquarium when filled with water and other equipment.

Whilst there are advantages to be had from owning an acrylic saltwater tank and these are as follows:-

. These saltwater tanks weigh much less than those made from glass. . You have the chance of actually owing one that is custom made to a particular design or shape you want. . These types of saltwater tanks are far less likely to break. . Such saltwater tanks can readily be purchased online and delivered directly to your home.

Things To Consider Before Putting Fish In Your Saltwater Tank

It is important that you choose the right location into which you can place your saltwater tank. Don’t place it where sunlight will be on it constantly, as this will help in the growth of algae within your aquarium. Plus you should never place it close to a heat source, and keep it away from doors and windows where drafts can occur.

When buying a saltwater tank made from glass with a stand, make sure that the supply company has given you the appropriate protective layer for it as well. This not only keeps the base of the aquarium cushioned on the stand, but helps it to remain level. A glass tank which is unlevel is very prone to cracking.

After you have gotten the saltwater tank set up in your chosen location, now fill it with water and allow it to stand for a couple of days to make sure that it is water tight. After these two days, remove all the water and rinse the tank and all the other equipment, especially the filters and grave,l out with freshwater before putting into the tank. If you don’t then you may well allow contaminants to get into your saltwater tank, which can prove to be extremely harmful to the fish, marine life and plants in it.

About the Author: Don’t forget to view the inexpensive Driftwood Decorations for Aquariums at The Aquarium Lady.