Mad Hatter's Reef - Saltwater Reef Tank Basics
Setting up a Saltwater Reef Aquarium is an exciting venture. With some preparation and basic information you will enjoy this very rewarding hobby. Despite the fact that there are more steps to setting up a Saltwater Reef Aquarium than setting up a freshwater aquarium, much of the tactics and equipment used are the same. Although, not a necessary for success, some experience keeping a freshwater aquarium can prove it's self useful when considering starting your own saltwater reef aquarium.More often than not... when someone embarks on setting up a freshwater aquarium it's done on a whim. Leaving the Pet Store with everything need to start their new aquarium venture, including: Aquarium, Gravel, Filter and Fish(with little chance of Success). With a Saltwater Reef Aquarium this demeanor would lead the fledgling Hobbyist to failure and undoubtedly discouraged, with the hobby.
To be a successful Saltwater Aquarium Hobby you need to take it upon yourself to become educated, and make a plan of action for your aquarium build. It is very important to avoid making any "whim decisions" at any point in your Saltwater Aquarium Keeping career. You should spend some time thinking and making a plan about what you want to achieve with your Saltwater Aquarium before purchasing anything for your aquarium. For more information, visit our Saltwater Aquarium Setup Section.
What you need to know before starting a Reef Tank.
Coming up with a "Plan of Action" is the best starting point for a new Saltwater Reef Aquarium build. It best to consider what type of livestock (Fish, Invertebrates and Coral) you would like to keep and make a wish list. Then take some time a research what kind of equipment you will need to meet the needs of the livestock on your wish list. Most of all... at all stages of your "Plan of Action" you will need to consider your budget. To come up with your Wish List visit our Marine Fish section.
The Perfect Saltwater Reef Aquarium Setup For You.
There are many types of Saltwater Reef Aquarium setups and some are easier for beginners than others. Your success as a Hobbyist starts with finding the right Setup for you. One of the best places to start looking for the best setup for you is at your Local Reef Shop and online as well.
Types of Saltwater Aquariums.
- Fish Only Aquarium
- Fish with Live Rock Aquarium
- Reef Aquarium
- Coral Only Aquarium (New)
Choosing the Right Marine Aquarium Fish.
I can't tell you how many times I've herd "I do not know what happen... The guy at the store said the Fish would do fine in my Aquarium." As a Beginner you need to learn what fish can go with other fish and what are the fish's needs to live. This Informed decisions will help you make the right choices when it comes to adding fish to your Aquarium.
Maintaining A Saltwater Aquarium is simple.
There is a lot of stigma that surrounds the Saltwater Aquarium Hobby. We have heard it all... "It's too much work to maintain a saltwater aquarium", "It cost too much money to Set up a Saltwater Reef Aquarium" ...and Our favorite "You can not go on vacation if you own a saltwater reef aquarium." The truth is, that the Maintenance of a Saltwater Reef Aquarium is fairly simple. A Degree in Marine Biology is not needed... As long as the Aquarium's Water Parameters are tested on a regular basis, Complete a weekly Water Change and have a good understanding of the Livestock, anyone can enjoy this Hobby.
Hobbyist's Responsibility and a Word of Caution.
Before Starting a Saltwater Reef Aquarium it's important to Inform yourself about everything that goes along with Reef aquariums and the Livestock that you would like to keep within them. Some of these common animals are Poisonous and can harm you or even worse, someone you love. Informing yourself about proper care and handling of these animals is your responsibility as a Reef Hobbyist.
How to Frag Corals.
Weather you call it Coral Fragging or Coral Propagation. Every hobbyist at some point will ask themselves "To Cut... or Not to Cut?" Coral Propagation is a Hobby with in The Hobby and it's a great way to make some extra Cash or Trades... to get some New Corals in the display Tank.
Do It Yourself Projects for the Reef Aquarium hobby.
DIY Projects are a fun way to make your Saltwater Aquarium Setup unique to you and it can also save you a lot of money. We are always working to bring you more ideas with our DIY project section, and we always welcome your ideas as well. Contact Us, if you have a project you would like to share with us.
Welcome To Mad Hatter's Reef
Again, Thanks for visiting Mad Hatter's Reef and enjoy your Reef! ~Jeff
Reef Showcase
Photo Submitted By: Aash Khatri
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Other Great Websites
Mr. Saltwater Tank - Taking the Confusion out of Keeping a Saltwater Aquarium.
