Saltwater Aquarium Supplies

Whether you are starting a new aquarium or maintaining your present one, it is wise to keep a good inventory of salt water aquarium supplies. The beauty of a saltwater aquarium is unmatched, and it takes a healthy supply of additives, filter media, salt water and many other provisions and gadgets to keep it working efficiently.

Food

Depending on your type of fish, you can use flakes or feeders. There is an array of tropical flakes, chunks and crisps that are enjoyed by all fish and some of the best are made by Tetra, San Francisco Bay and Ocean Star International. You can supplement flakes with live food such as brine shrimp or little feeder fish, depending on the size of your fish.

Filters

Choose from an array of wet/dry filters, power filters or bio-wheel filters, each with their own unique media. There is an extensive range in price from a smaller bio-wheel filter that costs only $14.95 for a 20 gallon aquarium to canister filters for hundreds of gallons that cost hundreds of dollars. The cartridges are priced accordingly, and you should clean or change them monthly.

Instruments

Every saltwater aquarium needs additives to keep the PH and the salt at the right levels. To measure the amount of salt, you need a hydrometer or a refractometer. The hydrometer measures the salinity or gravity caused by the salt in the water. The hydrometer is simpler and more economical for the novice owner while the refractometer is more accurate and difficult to use. When the salt level falls below or above average, use new water and dilute it with either salt or fresh water.

A saltwater aquarium is a pleasure that offers hours of entertainment for children and grown-ups alike. Although it is a world of beauty and intrigue, it also comes with the need for many supplies.