Saltwater Aquarium Articles

Choosing the Right Butterflyfish for Your Reef Tank
Cultivating a reef tank is a unique challenge, not only because caring for corals is tricky but because it can be difficult to find reef-safe fish. Keep reading to learn about reef-safe species of butterflyfish.
When you think of some of the most colorful fish in the world, you probably picture a thriving reef environment. It is true that many of the world’s most beautiful fish live in coral reefs and that is part of what draws many aquarium hobbyists in. Cultivating and maintaining a reef tank comes with its challenges, however, so it is not a task you should enter into lightly.
 
A reef tank is an aquarium that supports corals and which may or may not also support saltwater fish and/or invertebrates. Corals come in all shapes, sizes, and colors with some of them being very easy to maintain and other being quite challenging. Outside the challenge of keeping corals, it can also be difficult to find saltwater fish that are reef-safe – many saltwater fish will feed on corals.
 
One type of fish that is particularly popular for reef tanks is the butterflyfish. You must understand, however, that not all butterflyfish are considered reef-safe. Keep reading to learn more about the dos and don’ts of keeping butterflyfish in a reef tank.
 
The Basics of Butterflyfish

Known for their bright colors and distinct shape, butterflyfish are some of the most beautiful saltwater fish you’ll ever come across. These fish tend to inhabit tropical regions, though they can also be found in cooler waters in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. For the most part, however, they are found in the Indo-West Pacific region.
 

 
Butterflyfish are very elegant...
What Are the Biggest Saltwater Aquarium Mistakes and How Do You Fix Them?
Cultivating a saltwater aquarium is a hobby full of exciting challenges, but sometimes those challenges can get the better of you. Keep reading to learn about the top ten mistakes made by novice saltwater aquarists so you can avoid making them yourself.
Saltwater fish, particularly tropical fish, are some of the most colorful species in the world. Unfortunately, they are also some of the most challenging fish to keep in the home aquarium. The beauty and uniqueness of these fish is what draws many to the saltwater aquarium hobby and, in many cases, it is the challenge that makes them stay.
 
As tricky as it can be sometimes to cultivate and maintain a thriving saltwater aquarium, it is also incredibly rewarding – you get to see colorful living things blossom right before your eyes. But this isn’t to say that things are always going to go your way. In fact, most experienced saltwater aquarium hobbyists have at least one disaster story to share.
 

 
So, how do you improve your chances for success in keeping a marine tank in your own home? It all starts with research – the more you know going in, the better off you (and your tank inhabitants) are going to be. It takes more than just background research, however. You need to know what mistakes other aquarium hobbyists have made and how to avoid them – that’s where this article comes into play.
 
Here you will find a wealth of in-depth information about navigating the challenges of a saltwater aquarium including insight into some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them for yourself. If you’re ready to learn how to be the best saltwater aquarium hobbyist you can...
Tips for Keeping Nocturnal Fish in the Marine Aquarium
When the sun sets and the moon rises, the reef doesn't go silent - a whole new group of inhabitants comes out to play. Keep reading to learn more about nocturnal marine life and how to cultivate a nocturnal aquarium at home.
Marine fish are some of the most colorful creatures on the planet, though many of them cannot be seen by the light of day. Tropical reefs are a hustle and bustle of activity during the day but that activity doesn’t completely stop at night – it just changes. When the sun sets and the moon rises, a whole separate group of marine inhabitants comes out to play.
 
If you want to take your marine aquarium to the next level, think about adding some nocturnal fish or other tank inhabitants. Keep reading to learn more about nocturnal aquarium fish and how to simulate nocturnal lighting in your home aquarium.


Understanding Nocturnal Aquarium Fish
 
Aquarium fish are generally divided into two categories – freshwater or saltwater. Within each category, however, there are different subcategories. One way to further divide the category of saltwater fish is by the time of day during which they are most active. Diurnal marine fish are those species that are most active during daylight hours while nocturnal fish are most active during the night. There are also crepuscular species which tend to be active around the hours at dawn and dusk. Some species of fish can adapt to becoming more active during another time of day while others remain consistent.




In order to thrive during the night, nocturnal species of marine fish have developed certain adaptations. Here is a quick overview:
  • They generally don’t swim as quickly as daytime fish due to reduced visibility
  • They tend to have...






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Tips for Protecting Your Aquarium Against High Summer Temperatures
TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR AQUARIUM AGAINST HIGH SUMMER TEMPERATURES
During the summer months, it may become more of a challenge to keep your aquarium temperature stable.
The Best Barbs for a Large Home Aquarium
THE BEST BARBS FOR A LARGE HOME AQUARIUM
There are many different species of barbs but some of them are better than others for the larger home aquarium.
How to Solve Common Saltwater Tank Problems
HOW TO SOLVE COMMON SALTWATER TANK PROBLEMS
Cultivating a thriving saltwater tank can be a challenge but it is also incredibly rewarding.

SALTWATER AQUARIUM ARTICLES

AQUARIUM SETUP

If you want to maintain a healthy, thriving aquarium you must be sure to set up your tank properly the first time. The articles in this category will help you set up your tank correctly.

Types of Saltwater Tanks: Fish-Only, FOWLR and Reef Tanks
Types of Saltwater Tanks: Fish-Only, FOWLR and Reef Tanks
There are several different types of saltwater aquariums to choose from and each has its benefits and drawbacks.
Saltwater versus Freshwater Aquariums
Saltwater versus Freshwater Aquariums
Learn the arguments for choosing to set-up either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium.
Preparing Saltwater for your Marine Tank
Preparing Saltwater for your Marine Tank
Setting up and maintaining a marine tank can be a challenging experience and preparing your saltwater correctly is one of the most important tasks.
Handy Aquarium Accessories and Devices
Handy Aquarium Accessories and Devices
There are many accessories and handy devices which can make your life as an aquarium hobbyist easier.
Stocking a Brackish Aquarium
Stocking a Brackish Aquarium
A brackish aquarium is an exciting challenge for the aquarium hobbyist.
Tips for Keeping Nocturnal Fish in the Marine Aquarium
Tips for Keeping Nocturnal Fish in the Marine Aquarium
When the sun sets and the moon rises, the reef doesn't go silent - a whole new group of inhabitants comes out to play.
What Are the Biggest Saltwater Aquarium Mistakes and How Do You Fix Them?
What Are the Biggest Saltwater Aquarium Mistakes and How Do You Fix Them?
Cultivating a saltwater aquarium is a hobby full of exciting challenges, but sometimes those challenges can get the better of you.
Setting Up A Saltwater Tank System
Setting Up A Saltwater Tank System
What to Consider before Starting.
How to Start a Brackish Tank
How to Start a Brackish Tank
If you are looking for a new challenge as an aquarium hobbyist, try cultivating a brackish tank.
Saltwater Aquariums
Saltwater Aquariums
A brief introduction to saltwater aquariums.
Getting The Tank Ready
Getting The Tank Ready
Creating an ecosystem.
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AQUARIUM MAINTENANCE

Aquarium maintenance is the key to keeping your tank healthy. The articles in this category will help you learn how to maintain your tank properly.

Salinity Requirements in a Saltwater Aquarium
Salinity Requirements in a Saltwater Aquarium
The key to maintaining a healthy saltwater aquarium is to strike the right balance in the salinity of your tank water.
Choosing the Correct Temperature for a Marine Aquarium
Choosing the Correct Temperature for a Marine Aquarium
One of the most important things you must to do ensure the health of your marine tank is to achieve and maintain the ideal temperature.
How to Deal with Marine Fungus in the Saltwater Aquarium
How to Deal with Marine Fungus in the Saltwater Aquarium
Fungal spores are present in all aquariums but, if you are not careful, they can become a problem in the saltwater tank.
How to Modify PH in a Saltwater Tank
How to Modify PH in a Saltwater Tank
The pH level in your saltwater tank is incredibly important for the health and vitality of your tank.
The Benefits of Algae in Saltwater Tanks
The Benefits of Algae in Saltwater Tanks
Many aquarium hobbyists assume that algae in the aquarium can only be bad.
How to Solve Common Saltwater Tank Problems
How to Solve Common Saltwater Tank Problems
Cultivating a thriving saltwater tank can be a challenge but it is also incredibly rewarding.
Why Do Fish Disappear from the Saltwater Tank?
Why Do Fish Disappear from the Saltwater Tank?
There is nothing as heart-breaking as losing a fish but it can be even more devastating when the fish simply disappears.
What You Need to Know About pH in Marine Aquariums
What You Need to Know About pH in Marine Aquariums
Maintaining proper water quality in your tank is essential but many aquarium hobbyists overlook one important aspect - pH.
Dealing with Hard Water in the Saltwater Tank
Dealing with Hard Water in the Saltwater Tank
When it comes to maintaining a healthy saltwater tank, water quality is extremely important.
The Dangers of High Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate
The Dangers of High Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate
Water quality is extremely important in maintaining a saltwater tank.
Maintenance Schedule for Reef Tanks
Maintenance Schedule for Reef Tanks
Maintaining a reef tank can be a challenge but as long as you keep up with your routine maintenance tasks, you should have no problem.
Getting Rid of Aiptasia in Your Reef Aquarium
Getting Rid of Aiptasia in Your Reef Aquarium
Learn about aiptasia in the reef aquarium and how to get rid of it.
How to Remove a Mantis Shrimp From a Saltwater Aquarium
How to Remove a Mantis Shrimp From a Saltwater Aquarium
In this article you will receive an overview of what mantis shrimp are, how they can impact your saltwater aquarium, and how to remove them properly.
Why is Water Flow So Important in a Reef Tank?
Why is Water Flow So Important in a Reef Tank?
Cultivating a thriving reef tank can be a challenge with all of the requirements you must meet.
Saltwater and Reef Tank Cycling
Saltwater and Reef Tank Cycling
Tips on cycling your fishtank.
Maintaining Your Saltwater Tank
Maintaining Your Saltwater Tank
Tips for maintaining a saltwater fish tank.
Kalkwasser for the Marine Tank
Kalkwasser for the Marine Tank
Maintaining proper calcium levels is an important part of keeping your marine tank healthy.
What NOT to do with a Saltwater Tank
What NOT to do with a Saltwater Tank
Learn what "not" to do when starting out with your saltwater fish or reef tank.
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REEF TANKS

Cultivating a saltwater reef tank can be a rewarding experience but it can also be a challenge. The articles in this section will provide you with the information you need to set up your reef tank and to make sure that it thrives.

Beginner Coral Species: Low-Light Corals
Beginner Coral Species: Low-Light Corals
Keeping corals in a saltwater aquarium can be challenging but these low-light species are perfect for beginners.
Types of Coral for Reef Tanks
Types of Coral for Reef Tanks
Stocking a reef tank can be a challenge because there are so many different types of coral to choose from.
The Top 5 Most Colorful Corals for a Saltwater Tank
The Top 5 Most Colorful Corals for a Saltwater Tank
With more than 2,000 different species of coral out there, how do you choose the right option for your tank?
Reef Aquariums
Reef Aquariums
An overview of the reef aquarium along with a short history.
Tips for Using Rockwork in Saltwater and Reef Aquariums
Tips for Using Rockwork in Saltwater and Reef Aquariums
Building a beautiful saltwater tank landscape out of rock is a challenge but with some helpful tips you can make it work.
Common Myths and Problems Regarding Nano Reef Tanks
Common Myths and Problems Regarding Nano Reef Tanks
Cultivating a nano reef tank can be an exciting challenge.
How to Care for Marine Blue Sponges
How to Care for Marine Blue Sponges
The blue sponge makes a great addition to the marine tank.
Recommended Species for Nano Tanks
Recommended Species for Nano Tanks
Cultivating a nano tank can be an exciting challenge but unless you choose the right fish for your tank, you may be in trouble.
Reef Aquariums: Is Bigger Really Better?
Reef Aquariums: Is Bigger Really Better?
Cultivating a reef tank is an exciting but challenging task - learn more about choosing the right size for your reef tank.
Bristle Worms in the Marine Tank
Bristle Worms in the Marine Tank
Dealing with pests is an inescapable part of cultivating a marine tank.
Feeding Corals -  Keeping Your Saltwater Invertebrates Healthy
Feeding Corals - Keeping Your Saltwater Invertebrates Healthy
If you want to keep your saltwater or reef tank healthy, you need to learn the basics of feeding corals.
What is a Nano Reef?
What is a Nano Reef?
Whether you are looking for a new challenge as a saltwater aquarium enthusiast or you are trying your hand at a reef tank for the first time, a nano reef is a great way to go.
Set-up Guide for a Reef Tank
Set-up Guide for a Reef Tank
If you have ever considered starting a reef tank, read this setup guide to make sure you start your reef tank off right.
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AQUARIUM LIGHTING

The aquarium lighting system you choose for your tank will not only affect your tanks appearance but its performance as well. The articles in this category will help you choose the right system for your tank and will provide you with the information you need to make the most of your aquarium lighting.

UV Sterilizers for Reef Aquariums
UV Sterilizers for Reef Aquariums
A UV sterilizer is a valuable piece of equipment to add to your reef tank or fish-only saltwater aquarium.
Tips for Lighting a Reef Tank
Tips for Lighting a Reef Tank
When it comes to maintaining a thriving reef tank the type of lighting system you choose is incredibly important.

HEATING AND FILTRATION

Heating and filtration are two key elements in keeping your aquarium running properly. The articles in this category will help you choose the right heating and filtration system for your tank.

Saltwater Aquarium Filtration
Saltwater Aquarium Filtration
The type of filtration system you choose for your saltwater aquarium is incredibly important.
Foam Build-up on Saltwater Tank Surface
Foam Build-up on Saltwater Tank Surface
Foam build-up is a common problem in the saltwater tank.
Reverse Osmosis for the Saltwater Tank
Reverse Osmosis for the Saltwater Tank
If you want to keep a healthy and thriving saltwater tank, you need to start with high-quality water.
How to Keep Your Saltwater Aquarium from Overheating
How to Keep Your Saltwater Aquarium from Overheating
Learn how to keep your saltwater aquarium from overheating.
Common Problems with Heating in Saltwater Tanks
Common Problems with Heating in Saltwater Tanks
Maintaining a stable water temperature in your saltwater tank is important for the health and well-being of your fish.
Wavemakers for Saltwater Tanks
Wavemakers for Saltwater Tanks
If you want to keep your saltwater tank healthy, you need to consider the ideal level of water flow.
What is Protein Skimming?
What is Protein Skimming?
Learn about protein skimming, why it's important, and which aquarists should use it.
What is an Aquarium Sump?
What is an Aquarium Sump?
If you are new to the aquarium hobby you may not be familiar with the term "sump".
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NUTRITION AND FEEDING

What you choose to feed your fish will have a direct impact on their health and vitality. The articles in this category will help you understand the nutritional needs of your aquarium fish and will also provide the information you need to create a healthy, balanced diet for your fish.

How to Raise Brine Shrimp
How to Raise Brine Shrimp
Brine shrimp are an excellent source of protein for aquarium fish and they are very easy to raise at home.
Tips for Feeding Saltwater Aquarium Fish
Tips for Feeding Saltwater Aquarium Fish
What you feed your fish will determine whether or not their reach their full potential.
Live Foods for Marine Fish
Live Foods for Marine Fish
Feeding your fish a proper diet is the key to keeping them healthy.
Nutritional Needs of Saltwater Aquarium Fish
Nutritional Needs of Saltwater Aquarium Fish
In order to keep your saltwater aquarium fish healthy you need to understand and meet their basic nutritional needs.
Tips for Getting Fussy Fish to Eat
Tips for Getting Fussy Fish to Eat
Feeding saltwater aquarium fish can be tricky, especially when your fish refuse to eat.
Top Commercial Foods for Saltwater Fish
Top Commercial Foods for Saltwater Fish
What you feed your saltwater aquarium fish will play a major role in determining their health and vitality.
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SALTWATER FISH DISEASES

Understanding saltwater fish diseases is the key to treating and preventing them. The articles in this category will help you deal with saltwater fish diseases and they will also teach you how to prevent them.

How to Deal with Marine Ich in the Saltwater Aquarium
How to Deal with Marine Ich in the Saltwater Aquarium
Marine Ich is a common disease affecting saltwater aquarium fish and, unless you know how to deal with it, it can spread quickly throughout your tank.
Common Saltwater Aquarium Fish Diseases
Common Saltwater Aquarium Fish Diseases
No matter how hard you try, you cannot completely protect your fish from falling ill.
Good Medications to Keep on Hand
Good Medications to Keep on Hand
In the event that your fish become ill it is important that you take action to begin a treatment regimen as soon as possible.

AQUARIUM DECORATIONS

One of the most exciting parts about having an aquarium is choosing the decorations. The articles in this category will provide you with the information you need to make your tank look its best.

Creating Your Own Live Rock for Saltwater Tanks
Creating Your Own Live Rock for Saltwater Tanks
Live rock is the foundation for any thriving saltwater tank and it is the base for saltwater aquarium decor.
How to Cure Your Live Rock Before Placing it in Your Aquarium
How to Cure Your Live Rock Before Placing it in Your Aquarium
Learn how to properly cure live rock before placing it in your tank.

STOCKING THE TANK

The fish you choose to stock your tank is not a decision that should be made lightly. The articles in this category will help you understand the basics of fish compatibility and will provide you with other information you need to make an informed decision when stocking your tank.

Guide for Keeping Anemones in a Reef Tank
Guide for Keeping Anemones in a Reef Tank
Keeping anemones in a reef tank can be a challenge if you are not fully prepared.
Establishing up a Clean-up Crew in Your Saltwater Aquarium
Establishing up a Clean-up Crew in Your Saltwater Aquarium
Learn how to properly select and establish a clean-up crew in a saltwater or reef aquarium.
Sea Urchins in the Saltwater Tank
Sea Urchins in the Saltwater Tank
If you are looking for a unique invertebrate to add to your saltwater tank, consider the sea urchin.
Choosing the Right Butterflyfish for Your Reef Tank
Choosing the Right Butterflyfish for Your Reef Tank
Cultivating a reef tank is a unique challenge, not only because caring for corals is tricky but because it can be difficult to find reef-safe fish.
Stocking Salt Water Reef Tanks
Stocking Salt Water Reef Tanks
Learn how to select the right quantity and combination of fish for your saltwater aquarium.
Keeping and Breeding Mandarinfish
Keeping and Breeding Mandarinfish
Mandarinfish are a small, colorful species of saltwater aquarium fish.
Keeping Lionfish in the Home Aquarium
Keeping Lionfish in the Home Aquarium
The lionfish is a beautiful but deadly fish that makes a unique addition to the saltwater aquarium.
Hermit Crabs in Saltwater Tanks
Hermit Crabs in Saltwater Tanks
Hermit crabs do more than just add decoration to the saltwater tank -- they can also help to keep your tank clean.
Marine Shrimp for the Saltwater or Reef Tank
Marine Shrimp for the Saltwater or Reef Tank
Marine shrimp can be a useful addition to the saltwater tank - just be sure to pick the right species.
Keeping Moray Eels in the Marine Tank
Keeping Moray Eels in the Marine Tank
Moray eels can be a challenge to keep in the home aquarium but they are well worth it.
What's That? The Top 10 Strangest Looking Saltwater Fish
What's That? The Top 10 Strangest Looking Saltwater Fish
There are some odd=looking animals out there but these ten saltwater fish are among the strangest.
Commonly Available Reef-Safe Fish & Invertebrates
Commonly Available Reef-Safe Fish & Invertebrates
Learn about commonly available reef-safe fish and invertebrates that are good candidates for your reef aquarium.
Selecting and Caring for Saltwater Angelfish
Selecting and Caring for Saltwater Angelfish
Saltwater angelfish are some of the most colorful saltwater fish available.
Sea Cucumbers for Reef Tanks
Sea Cucumbers for Reef Tanks
Sea cucumbers are found throughout the ocean but they are a popular addition to saltwater reef tanks.
Clownfish in the Reef Aquarium
Clownfish in the Reef Aquarium
Clownfish are one of the most recognizable types of saltwater aquarium fish.
What Are Good Saltwater Fish For Beginners
What Are Good Saltwater Fish For Beginners
What makes a saltwater fish a good candidate for beginners?
Why Are Tangs Some of the Best Fish for Reef Tanks?
Why Are Tangs Some of the Best Fish for Reef Tanks?
Tangs are not just some of the most brightly colored species of tropical saltwater fish - they are also great additions to the reef tank.
Tips for Caring for Tangs Properly
Tips for Caring for Tangs Properly
Tangs are a group of fish that make excellent additions to the saltwater tank.
Tank-Raised Fish for Saltwater Aquariums
Tank-Raised Fish for Saltwater Aquariums
Stocking the saltwater aquarium can be an exciting challenge, especially when you have so many options to choose from.
The Benefits of Snails in the Saltwater Tank
The Benefits of Snails in the Saltwater Tank
While snails are often viewed as a nuisance in the freshwater tank, they can serve a valuable purpose in the saltwater aquarium.
Saltwater Species That Should Not be Kept by Beginners (and Sometimes not Even by the Experienced)
Saltwater Species That Should Not be Kept by Beginners (and Sometimes not Even by the Experienced)
Learn about saltwater animals that beginners (and sometimes experts) should avoid keeping.
Understanding the Coloration of Saltwater Fish
Understanding the Coloration of Saltwater Fish
Have you ever been dazzled by the bright colors and bold patterns of a school of saltwater fish?
The Secret to Keeping Seahorses
The Secret to Keeping Seahorses
If you are looking for a unique inhabitant to add to your saltwater tank, consider the seahorse.
The Benefits of Purchasing Saltwater Fish Online
The Benefits of Purchasing Saltwater Fish Online
If you are thinking about buying some new fish for your saltwater tank, think about purchasing them online!
Top Recommendations for Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish
Top Recommendations for Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish
When purchasing saltwater aquarium fish, you need to think about whether the fish are tank-raised or captive-bred.
Caring for Saltwater Gobies
Caring for Saltwater Gobies
The Goby family is one of the largest families of marine fishes, having over 2,000 unique species.
Saltwater Fish Article Database
Saltwater Fish Article Database
Articles on dozens of saltwater fish and appropriate care.
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