How To Start A Marine Aquarium
If you love the idea of watching colourful exotic fish gliding about an aquarium, you are not alone. The Guardian recently reported that fishkeeping is making a comeback amongst Britons. As more people work from home, they have had extra time to spend with their pets, or acquire new ones.
Fishkeeping is seen as an easier alternative to a cat or dog, and is one of the few pet options available to renters. Many landlords prohibit larger animals for fear of damage to carpets and furniture, and pet odours and allergies, but fish are usually seen as a safe choice.
The beauty of fishkeeping is that is can be as simple or as complex as you choose. It is a peaceful and undemanding hobby, but it can also be taken to a high level of sophistication. To get started, you just need to decide on the type of aquarium and livestock you want.
The first thing to do is choose the size of the aquarium, as this will affect what type of livestock you can keep. The size will depend on your budget, the amount of space available, and whether you want a reef tank, a fish-only tank with live rock, or a species-specific tank. Generally, the bigger the tank you buy, the greater your options.
A reef tank is a saltwater aquarium populated with corals, which are technically classed as animals, although they attach themselves to the floor in a plant-like manner. They contain algae, which produce oxygen, remove wastes, and supply the organic products of photosynthesis. This is the process by which the corals will grow and built up a reef.
Soft corals are easier to start off with than stony corals, as they require less investment in lighting and filtration. For a less time intensive option, choose a fish-only tank with clusters of live rock, which are easier to maintain. You can always add artificial corals for a splash of colour!
Finally, a species-specific tank will let you keep lifeforms together which have similar care requirements. Seahorses, for example, have a sensitive immune system and thrive best in clean sparse tanks.
For further advice on starting a marine aquarium, contact Kraken Corals today.