How to Stock a Saltwater Aquarium

By eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Select your first fish carefully choosing beginner species that are hearty enough to survive the mistakes a first time aquarium owner are likely to make. Clownfish and chromis are a great option for your first fish and are able to live happily in tanks as small as 10 gallons.
Step 2:
Move up to intermediate fish once you know your skills at maintaining the tank have become routine and consistent. Grammas and Wrasses are popular intermediate level fish that work well in most tank environments. Wrasses are renowned for their ability to jump so ensure the aquarium has a top or there is adequate room above water level to keep them safe.
Step 3:
Introduce corrals and starfish to add color and life to your aquarium. Plants are also a good way to add variety without adding to your tank upkeep time. Anemones will make fast friends with your clownfish, helping your saltwater family continue to grow.
Step 4:
Relocate your saltwater world to a larger advanced tank. Large tanks, over 180 gallons allow you to introduce predators such as sharks, lionfish and morays. Advanced tanks and predator fish require much more time in upkeep and attention. Their environment must be closely controlled and maintained as even small changes in water or temperature can be fatal.
Step 5:
Research the benefits and pitfalls of the fish you are considering. Join a local fish club or online community for ideas and tips offered from those with years of experience.

Tips & Warnings

Always consult a professional when adding fish to ensure they will be good companions for your current tank.

More Puppy Pages

How to Raise Damselfish

Damselfish come in an array of colors from black and white to bright yellow and sky blue. They are closely related to the clownfish but with several distinguishing features. The damselfish is easy to raise when young. As they age, though, they tend to...

The clownfish is a brightly colored fish also referred to as an Anemonefish because it often lives alongside the anemone. The clownfish also has great character and can even change from a male to a female. Clownfish are said to be one of the easiest fish...

So you saw "Finding Nemo" and you want to own him, or you're sick of guppies and tetras and you want to take care of the much brighter, arguably more interesting looking saltwater fish. Fair enough. Please bear in mind that if starting a salt-water...

Do you want to capture your own piece of the ocean? Setting up a saltwater fish tank in your home or office can help you do just that. The bright-colored tropical fish, the gentle swaying of the marine plant life and the soothing buzz of the filter are...