The 6 Steps to Starting a Saltwater Aquarium

Setting up a saltwater aquarium requires more time and investment than a freshwater aquarium. In fact, three essential aspects must be taken into account from the start:

• Specific equipment for sea water
• Longer start-up time
• Enhanced monitoring and maintenance

In this detailed guide, we will explain step by step how to choose the type of tank, the essential equipment, the preparation of the water, as well as the gradual introduction of the inhabitants and the regular monitoring of the parameters.

1. Choose the Type of Aquarium

First of all, it is crucial to define the type of aquarium you want to install, because this will influence the choice of equipment and the start-up time.

Configuration options:

• Fish Only : An aquarium exclusively dedicated to fish.
• Reef : A complete ecosystem including corals, fish, invertebrates, starfish and other marine organisms.

Complete aquarium with Nyos OPUS G2 cabinet

Once you have made your choice, select a tank that is suitable for the size and number of inhabitants you wish to accommodate. Find all our aquariums in our complete reef aquariums section.

2. Essential Equipment for a Seawater Aquarium

Marine aquariums require specific technical equipment to recreate and maintain a natural environment. Here are the main elements:

a. Lighting

• Power and Type : Lighting must be powerful for proper coral growth, in fact, corals mainly use light through photosynthesis to obtain their energy.
• Adapted spectra :
  • Soft corals and SPS (Small Polyp Stony) require at least 20% white light.
  • LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals benefit from blue-dominated lighting.
• Fluorescence Effects : To achieve spectacular fluorescence, adjust the light spectrum below a certain intensity threshold.

Red Sea ReefLed 90 LED ramp

Find all our lighting in our “ marine aquarium lighting ” section.

b. The Skimmer

• The skimmer is an essential piece of equipment in a marine aquarium, as it contributes significantly to water quality. Operating by injecting air that creates fine bubbles, it captures dissolved organic particles before they degrade into harmful compounds such as nitrates and phosphates. These bubbles, rising to the surface, form a foam that effectively groups together this waste, which is then eliminated in a dedicated compartment. Thus, the skimmer helps reduce the biological load, stabilize chemical parameters and prevent algae proliferation, thus ensuring a healthy environment for the optimal development of corals, fish and other aquarium inhabitants.

  Some skimmers can be placed directly in the aquarium, fixed to the glass, this is often the case for smaller aquariums without a technical tank. They can also be positioned in a compartment in the technical area under the aquarium for larger aquariums.

Find our selection of skimmers in our “ skimmers for marine aquariums ” section.

c. The Mixing and Lifting Pumps

• Circulation pumps : Circulation pumps play a vital role in a marine aquarium by simulating the natural currents of the oceans. Their operation is based on the continuous movement of water, which creates a constant and uniform flow throughout the tank. This mixing prevents the formation of stagnant areas , promotes oxygenation and ensures an even distribution of nutrients and minerals essential to the life of corals and other marine inhabitants. In addition, good water circulation helps disperse organic waste, thus reducing the risk of accumulation and imbalance of chemical parameters. By choosing pumps adapted to the size of the aquarium, you guarantee a dynamic and healthy environment, conducive to the growth and vitality of your marine ecosystem.

  • Tip : It is better to choose several small pumps depending on the size of your tank rather than one large one to avoid stagnant areas. The power of the circulation pumps must be 20 to 30 times the volume of water. For example, for a 300 liter aquarium, plan on 6000 to 9000 l/h of circulation.

  Find our wide selection of brewing pumps in our “ Brewing Pumps ” section.

• Return pump : The return pump ensures the continuous circulation of water between the technical tank and the main tank . Powered by a powerful motor, it sucks up the filtered water and returns it to the aquarium with an adjustable flow rate, generally between 5 and 10 times the total volume of the aquarium per hour.

  Find our lift pumps in our “ Water pumps for marine aquariums ” section.

d. Heating

• Optimal temperature : Heating in a marine aquarium is essential to maintain a stable and optimal temperature, generally around 25°C, in order to recreate the natural conditions of the oceans. In short, a well-sized and correctly used heater contributes to the stability of the marine ecosystem and the overall success of your installation. For more information, head to our article: How to properly heat your aquarium?

  Find our devices for maintaining a good temperature in our “ aquarium heaters ” section.

3. Watering: Preparing the Seawater

Water quality is the cornerstone of any saltwater aquarium .

a. Recreate Sea Water

• Using Aquarium Salts : Salt is a fundamental element in the success of a marine aquarium, as it recreates the ionic composition and salinity of seawater, essential for the well-being of your tank's inhabitants. To meet the specific needs of each installation, there are several categories of salt: enriched reef salt , formulated with additional minerals and trace elements to stimulate coral growth and support sensitive invertebrates; reef salt , which offers a complete blend adapted to classic reef ecosystems; and "fish only" salt , specially designed for aquariums containing only fish, in order to avoid excess nutrients that could promote the development of algae. In addition, liquid salt is presented as a practical, ready-to-use solution.

• Salinity Check : Use a hydrometer to accurately measure salinity.

b. Watering Process

1. Filling the tank : Start by filling your tank with fresh water filtered by a reverse osmosis system .
2. Agitation and Aeration : Aerate vigorously for at least 24 hours to promote oxygenation.
3. Adding salts : Calculate the amount of salt needed with the instructions for your salt (generally around 35g per litre), dissolve it in water and stir for 1 to 2 additional days.
4. Control : Check the concentration with a hydrometer and adjust if necessary.

Practical advice : Start up all technical equipment as soon as the water is filled to check that it is working properly.
Note : After adding the first inhabitants, monthly water changes should be approximately 10% of the total aquarium volume .

4. Rocks and Decor

a. Installation of Living Rocks

• Importance of live rocks : They provide a natural habitat for a multitude of beneficial microorganisms (nitrifying bacteria, small invertebrates) which participate in the purification of water.
• Ecological advice : You can opt for environmentally friendly ceramic stones, but the waiting time before the biological balance is achieved will be longer.
• Positioning : Place these rocks at the bottom of the aquarium to allow fish and crustaceans to burrow safely.

Observation : A temporary increase in nitrites and nitrates is normal during ecosystem stabilization (wait 5-6 weeks).

b. The Decor

• Layout : The elements of the decor must be arranged in such a way as to offer hiding places and swimming spaces for the inhabitants. You can try to create arches, overhangs using quick-setting cement. Aquarium sand , although not essential, will have a beautiful effect. It can be placed after the decoration is finalized or after a good month if live rocks are used.
• Period : You can start the arrangement once the salt is well dissolved in the water.

Example of Staxx rock assembly with prompt Stone fix cement

5. Progressive Introduction of Inhabitants

The introduction of the inhabitants must be done gradually to allow the ecosystem to balance itself. Before introducing these first animals, nitrites must be tested and undetectable and the nitrate level around 5. We offer you simple analyses to test nitrates and test nitrites .

a. Detritivores

• Role : They begin to purify water by consuming organic waste.
• Introduction : Introduce first scavengers and crustaceans, ensuring nitrate levels are safe.
• Timeframe : Wait approximately 3 weeks before introducing other species.

b. Invertebrates

• Examples : Snails, shrimp, hermit crabs, etc.
• Prerequisites : Ensure water parameters are stable before introduction.
• Deadline : Wait another 3 weeks after the detritivores for their integration.

c. Corals

• Soft corals : They can be introduced from the end of the first month.
  • Method : Add them gradually to check their adaptation.
• Hard corals (especially SPS): They are more sensitive to chemical imbalances and require a period of 3 months before their introduction.

Tip : Each coral has specific needs. Inform yourself carefully before any purchase to avoid costly mistakes.

d. Fish

• Final step : Fish are introduced last, once the nitrogen cycle is well established and all water parameters are optimal (approximately 1 month after the invertebrates are installed).

6. Control and Monitoring of Parameters

Maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem relies on regular monitoring of water parameters:

• Temperature : Check daily .
• Nitrates , phosphates : Measured 1 to 2 times per week .
• pH : Check 1 to 2 times per week .
• Density (salinity) : Checked once a week .
• Calcium , KH and Magnesium : Analyze these parameters once a week to ensure an optimal environment, especially for corals.

To analyze water, there are several tools:

• Colorimetric tests

  • Simple and fast method that offers a wide range of tested parameters
  • Allows the measurement of parameters such as nitrates and phosphates thanks to the appearance of specific colors during chemical reactions

• Photometers

  • Improve measurement accuracy, but not all parameters can be analyzed with these devices
  • Quantify light absorption to provide reliable and reproducible results

• Thermometers

  • Classic glass or with an electronic probe, they are used to monitor the water temperature
  • Ensure that the environment remains constant and adapted to the requirements of marine species

• Densimeters and refractometers

  • Measure the density of water
  • Essential for controlling salinity, a crucial parameter for the health of corals and fish

• Laboratory ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) analyses

  • Provide in-depth and precise analysis
  • Allows the detection of trace metals and trace elements, providing a complete overview of water quality

These combined tools help you maintain rigorous monitoring of your marine ecosystem, ensuring a healthy and balanced environment for all your inhabitants.

Conclusion

Setting up a saltwater aquarium is an exciting project that requires dedication, patience, and an investment of time and materials. By following this step-by-step guide and closely monitoring water parameters, you will put all the chances on your side to create a balanced and sustainable marine ecosystem.

Remember that every step, from preparing the water to gradually introducing the inhabitants, is crucial to the success of your aquarium. Take the time to observe, adjust and enjoy the beauty of this underwater environment recreated at home!

To discover our complete range of products dedicated to the saltwater aquarium, click on the corresponding links in each section.