How to Maintain a Saltwater Tank

By Rachael Gerkensmeyer

Instructions

Step 1:
Observe the tank frequently. This simply means that you should observe it on a daily basis for just a couple of minutes to make sure the fish are behaving normal and the water in the tank looks OK.
Step 2:
Perform a number of safety checks at least once a week. These safety checks should include the cleaning of the protein skimmer receptacle, and observing the water temperature as well as monitoring the aquarium’s equipment. An example of equipment to monitor is the pump. It is important to listen for any variations in sounds that may deviate from the norm. This could be an indicator that the pump may be breaking down.
Step 3:
Monitor the water levels once a week. It is important to understand that the tendency of water is to evaporate. Therefore, at least once a week it’s important to replace any lost water by replacing it to the recommended level.
Step 4:
Remove any build up of algae everyday, or as needed. It's also important to keep the aquarium free from salt buildup, so the build should be removed on a consistent basis as well.
Step 5:
Finally, make sure that a partial water exchange is routinely accomplished on a weekly basis. A partial water exchange helps to make sure that the level of salinity is maintained within the tank. It’s important to monitor the process and make sure that the exchange between fresh water and the salt water are functioning at the proper level. Generally, this level is at 10 to 25 of the tank’s capacity.

Tips & Warnings

Routinely check for fish that may have died.
Replace bulbs every six months.

More Puppy Pages

How to Change Water in a Saltwater Aquarium

One of the most important maintenance tasks in aquarium ownership is the water change. It is necessary to change the water in fish tanks in order to remove nitrates from the water and keep your aquarium occupants healthy. Changing the water in a...

Fish are great pets. They are relatively easy to care for, don’t require a lot of room, don’t make a lot of noise and are fairly inexpensive. You can get plain ol' goldfish or mollies to fill your tank but if you love the bright colors and...

The variety of fish and other aquatic creatures you can keep in an aquarium is limitless. Unusual fish and other exotic water dwellers can seem like a challenge to the novice, but actually the basic approach to caring for unusual fish aquariums is not...

Tropical salt water fish are the most vivid colored fish you can have in an aquarium. These fish come in a variety of sizes and colors and will make a vibrant addition to any household.

How to Build an Artificial Reef Aquarium

Marine life on a reef is very colorful and diverse. Building an artificial reef in your aquarium will take some time. An artificial reef is more than just a collection of colorful marine life. Conditions have to mimic a natural reef in order for your...