Switching a Tank From Fresh to Saltwater:
-Some of the most important principles relating to freshwater tanks actually apply to marine tanks as well:
-Same idea of cycling the tank.
-Proper stocking of fish and feeding rates are just as important
-Three basic forms of filtration are the same: mechanical, chemical, and biological
-Water changes are still required to maintain water quality
-Much of the equipment can simply be switched over!
-Items that can be used for either salt or fresh:
-Tank, stand, fluorescent bulbs (if fish-only)
-Canister or power filter and media (upgrade if necessary)
-Wet/dry filter and media
-Siphon, algae magnets and pads, tongs, etc
-Power heads
-Items to purchase specifically for saltwater:
-High wattage bulbs or metal halides, power compact, T5 or combo fixtures (reef tanks, not necessary for fish-only)
-Protein skimmer hang-on, in sump or in tank
-Sea salt mix Brands to consider: Kent, Coralife, Instant Ocean, Crystal Sea, Reef Cystals
-Hydrometer to test the salinity level, floating hydrometers, guage hydrometers, refractometers, or salinity monitors.
-Live sand, crushed coral, or aragonite
-Live rock (can be used in conjunction with live sand)
-Test kits for saltwater (Ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH; calcium/magnesium for corals); many test kits already come with saltwater versions.
-Calcium and trace element supplements (reef only)
-UV sterilizer (optional), but highly recommended
-Reverse Osmosis unit (optional)
So why even consider saltwater tanks?
-Saltwater setups turn out to be very educational and allow people to witness a habitat that can only otherwise be seen with the use of expensive scuba equipment or submarines.
-Saltwater fish have vastly differing behaviors than freshwater fish, many of which are unique to only marine fish. You can witness these personalities and behaviors in the tranquility of a saltwater tank
-The beauty of saltwater tanks offer aesthetic appeal to the viewer- a few minutes in front of a marine aquarium is relaxing and can help restore tranquility after a hard day’s work.
- IT'S FUN !!!
