How to set up a saltwater aquarium using Live Rock

Saltwater fish farming is a great hobby and entertaining. Starting with the right equipment and information is essential to ensure your success.

1. choose your aquarium– Start with an aquarium that is at least 29 gallons. The bigger the aquarium, the more stable the environment will be.
2. Placement– Choose a location that is out of direct sunlight and away from heating or cooling ducts, as well as doors leading to the outside. Make sure you have an electrical outlet near the aquarium. Finally, choose a room where you spend a lot of time and where you can sit and enjoy your aquarium.
3. Leveling– Use a beam level to level your aquarium. Shim under the support at floor level. Once the shims are placed under the bracket and the tank reads the level, you are ready to start filling your aquarium.
4. preparing– Using a soft cloth or damp paper towel, wipe the inside of the aquarium to remove dirt and dust. NEVER use soap or household cleaning products in or on your aquarium.
5. add background– The bottom attaches to the outside rear of the aquarium to hide the filter and electrical cables. It adds depth to your tank and creates a nice environment.
6. add filtration– There are several types of filters that can be used with a saltwater live rock with fish aquarium. The most commonly used is a power filter that hangs at the back of the aquarium. Since power filters are the most common and cheapest, we will use a power filter in these steps. If you are using another type of filter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Each brand of power filter is slightly different, but these are the general procedures: Hang the filter at the back of the aquarium. Place the inlet tube in the designated slot and position the filter media according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not connect the filter at this time.
7. Install the protein skimmer– Protein skimmers physically remove dissolved organic compounds and other substances from aquarium water. Place the hanging protein skimmer on the opposite side of the aquarium from the feeding filter. Do not plug in at this time!
8. Install a power strip– It is always a safe idea to mount a power strip under the cabinet. Placing a power strip on the ground behind an aquarium stand is risky, as there is a chance of water spilling on it.
9. Add live rock– Living rock is, as its name indicates, rock with living organisms attached to it. Use 1 to 2 pounds of “cured” live rock per gallon of aquarium water. Stack rocks sturdy, but loose enough for water to flow through. Leave ½ to ¾ of your substrate open (no rock covering it) to allow for healthy water changes.
10. add substrate– Aragonite is a beneficial substrate that dissolves slowly and releases buffers to help maintain pH at an ideal level. Add enough substrate to create a 1″ thick layer. Pour aragonite into an open spot on the aquarium floor. Then spread it evenly on the bottom of the aquarium.
11. the heater– Use a submersible heater that allows you to set a specific temperature. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set up and connect your heater. Do not plug in heater at this time. Set the temperature between 80° and 82°F for the first 4 to 6 weeks (until a biological base is established). Once your aquarium is cycled, adjust the temperature to between 74° and 78°F. Add a thermometer to your aquarium to make sure the heater is working properly.
12. the power – Power heads help circulate the water and increase the current in the aquarium. They keep the water flowing through the living rock. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for connecting the power head to your aquarium.
13. add water – Most pet and aquarium stores sell purified premixed saltwater. To make sure your salt level is correct, use a hydrometer to test the specific gravity and make sure it reads between 1.020 and 1.024. Now add a water conditioner. Test the pH and make sure it is between 8.0 and 8.4. To slowly water over one of the live rocks near the bottom of the aquarium. Fill the aquarium until the water level is just above the bottom of the aquarium frame.
14. Equipment start-up– Using an electric hanging filter, fill the filter compartment with at least half a cup of water. Plug the filter into an electrical outlet. The water will rise up the inlet tube and spill back into the aquarium. Now connect the protein skimmer and heater.
15. Placing the top and the light– Place the light strip on the glass covers, plug it in and turn on the light. The lights must remain on between 6 and 10 hours each day.

At this point, your aquarium is fully set up. Now is the time to learn a bit about water quality before you run out and catch some fish.