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Home , Aquarium lighting, Dropsy (fish disease), Hardy fish, Live rock, Live sand, Marine aquarium

Includes simple STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS SALTWATER on how to set up a new  AQUARIUM and keep it looking great fluvalaquatics.com CARE GUIDE ©2013 Fluval is a registered trademark of Rolf C. Hagen Inc. Introduction

Welcome to the wonderful world of saltwater . My name is Mark Callahan (a.k.a. Mr. Saltwater Tank), and I’ve been in love with - keeping ever since my father brought home my first tank when I was 10 years old. Years later, I remain actively involved in the industry, running a popular website (mrsaltwatertank.com), hosting my own Contents YouTube channel (Mr. Saltwater Tank TV) and traveling all over the world to set up and consult on saltwater INTRODUCTION 3 tank projects of all shapes and sizes. CHAPTER 1 BASIC EQUIPMENT TO Most recently, I’ve joined forces with Fluval to create GET STARTED 4 this practical saltwater aquarium guide, which is designed in a simple-to-follow format with useful CHAPTER 2 AQUARIUM LOCATION 6 How-To tips, pitfalls to avoid, stocking suggestions, CHAPTER 3 ROCK AND 7 reference photos, web links and more. While the guide incorporates expert knowledge and CHAPTER 4 SALT AND SUPPLEMENTS 8 explains everything you need to run a successful CHAPTER 5 THE CYCLE 10 saltwater aquarium, my best piece of advice is to remain patient throughout the process and avoid CHAPTER 6 ADDING FISH AND 13 getting lost in the endless pool of Internet opinions.

CHAPTER 7 FISH, AND For now, simply take a deep breath, read on and enjoy! 16

CHAPTER 8 IDENTIFYING AND PREVENTING FISH DISEASE 20

CHAPTER 9 WHAT COMES NEXT? 22 Mark Callahan Mr. Saltwater Tank

fluvalaquatics.com 3 CHAPTER1 CHAPTER1 BASIC EQUIPMENT TO GET STARTED BASIC EQUIPMENT TO GET STARTED

The basic equipment to get started

Setting up a requires an understanding of what livestock you plan to keep, and providing the right the environmental conditions to ensure their proper long term care. There is nothing that beats the raw beauty of a thriving SPS (short polyp stony corals) reef, for example, but it can also be among the most expensive and time-consuming marine aquariums to operate. You can still enjoy reef keeping in a smaller aquarium (5 to 20 gallon range), and with the right livestock choices, your operating costs and maintenance time will be greatly reduced. In short, have a clear picture of what your budget will allow, where you plan to keep the tank and the amount of time you can realistically commit to maintaining it.

The following is a checklist of the most essential equipment required to keep your marine livestock, water and tank looking their best.

AQUARIUM FILTER

Aquariums come in many shapes, sizes and materials. Glass is preferable, Filtration helps to remove harmful elements, trap debris, oxygenate due to its ability to resist scratches. Despite what you may think, larger the water and provide ideal surfaces for beneficial bacteria to cultivate aquariums are not only typically easier to maintain, but also provide a more upon. A combination of mechanical, biological and chemical filtration are stable environment. We recommended going as large as your budget will recommended to help achieve optimal water conditions. allow. BIOLOGICAL FILTRATION: Biological filtration relies on bacteria to process and filter the water in your AQUARIUM STAND tank. Water is extremely heavy – roughly 8.3 lbs per gallon. This means that the MECHANICAL FILTRATION: Mechanical filtration relies on a type of medium water in a 10 gallon tank, for example, will weigh close to 83 lbs, and this (usually a or foam) to physically filter out particles suspended in the doesn’t even factor in rocks and sand. A strong base is therefore vital as any water (i.e. fish excrement, sludge, uneaten food, dust). uneven support across the base of the tank can prove disastrous. Regular CHEMICAL FILTRATION: furniture stands, especially the self-assembly kind, are NOT suitable for use Chemical filtration removes pollutants such as chlorine, discoloration, tap with most aquariums. Using them will also void your warranty. Fortunately, water impurities and other dissolved waste materials through chemical Fluval carries an extensive line of stands designed specifically to support its reactions. aquariums.

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HEATER ROCK, SAND AND DECORATION All fish are cold-blooded, which means their bodies are the same temperature as the water around them. Sudden changes in that temperature can cause It is advisable to buy rocks, ornaments and sand that have been specifically stress, disease and even death, therefore, a heater is necessary to ensure designed for use in a marine aquarium. There is a vast selection to choose the environment remains consistent and set to the ideal range they require. A from, which can make your aquarium truly unique by combining various thermometer, or heater equipped with one built-in, will help you keep a close textures, shapes, colors and arrangements. This topic is covered in greater eye at all times. detail further in the guide.

 WATER TREATMENTS MARINE AQUARIUM AND TEST KITS Understanding the needs of your livestock (specifically corals) will guide Ensure your water quality is optimally maintained by using Fluval water your decision on the type of lighting you need. Hard corals that build reefs treatments to remove and neutralize any chemicals in your tap water in the , for example, generally require high lighting levels of a specific which, although harmless to humans, can be deadly for fish. Fluval Water spectrum and . Many soft corals and LPS (large polyp stony Conditioner aka Aqua-Plus is specifically formulated to condition water as coral), on the other hand, require much less demanding light intensities. soon as it is added to the tank, while Fluval Biological Enhancer aka Cycle Whatever environment you decide to keep, it is preferable to use light units helps prepare the filter for your fish and maintains the aquarium’s natural that are resistant to saltwater as it is very corrosive. Fluval offers several biological balance. Fluval Biological Cleaner aka Waste Control breaks waterproof marine-specific lighting solutions that will meet the needs down organic waste to allow the filter to collect it more easily. As you set up of any budding marine hobbyist. For further information, please visit your tank and even once established, regular testing is required. FluvalAquatics.com

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ACCESSORIES CIRCULATION PUMPS You will need to invest first and foremost in a Hydrometer, which is essential Marine fish originate from water that has great force, therefore, strong water for your aquarium inhabitants and provides specific gravity and movement is key. It not only provides for a more natural environment, but readings in your saltwater (this is covered in further detail later on). Other also washes waste from corals, helps them propagate and more. Circulation key accessories should include feeding devices for your coral (i.e. extra pumps are not expensive and usually very energy efficient. long tweezers, a baster, etc.), a strong glass cleaning magnet, epoxy sticks for affixing your corals, a light lens cleaning kit, a few important marine PUMPS supplements (i.e. , , strontium, trace elements) and a Typically required for larger marine tanks, sump pumps are stronger pumps complete water test kit. with good head capacity (they can deliver water vertically against gravity) that are exposed to very harsh conditions. Please note that only marine-certified PROTEIN SKIMMERS pumps should be used, such as the Fluval SP series. By mixing air and saltwater through the use of a skimmer (there are many different types), you effectively strip organic matter out of the aquarium, mostly before it can break down further and plague your tank with and nitrite issues. The odor from a properly adjusted when removing and cleaning its “collection cup” demonstrates just how toxic the elements this indispensible piece of hardware removes.

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Where to Place Your Aquarium

Deciding where to place your tank can be a big decision and once it is set up, moving it isn’t something that is easy to do. Since your tank will literally become a fixture in your house, here are some tips to help you decide where to place it.

AVOID DIRECT LIVING AREAS Tip While you might think that having sun shining into your Place your tank far enough from your TV. It isn’t much Give yourself easy access to your tank is a good idea, natural sunlight can cause undesired fun to settle down to try to watch a movie and have a aquarium - leave about 2-3” behind growth, or heat up your tank beyond ideal range. brightly lit fish tank distracting your view or casting glare the aquarium to run the wires, and across your screen. Also, every aquarium makes some make sure you have unrestricted If you have no other option but to place your aquarium access to the canopy amount of noise. You’ll likely hear “white noise” (i.e. in sunlight, ensure you close blinds or curtains to reduce pumps running, water gently flowing, etc.), therefore, exposure as much as possible. if the room has to be 100% silent, consider placing the POWER ACCESS tank elsewhere. Make sure you have power outlets nearby. Your aquarium requires numerous pieces of electrical equipment to run. Choose a place where there are at least 2 sets of power outlets nearby. You may also need a power bar for extra sockets. Remember 1 gallon of water weighs just over 8 lbs. AIR VENTS Always use the correct Fluval stand. When desired, air vents can help cool your tank in the Use of any other kind of furniture or base will void your warranty. summer and heat it in the winter. Excess heat, however, is not advisable, so ensure your vents are not blowing air directly onto your tank. If your house has baseboard heaters, giving yourself extra space between your tank and the heater is ideal. Generally speaking, however, you will want to position your aquarium where it is not affected by any heating or cooling source. 10 fluvalaquatics.com fluvalaquatics.com 11 CHAPTER3 CHAPTER3 ROCK AND SAND ROCK AND SAND

Rock and Sand

Rock and sand serve several purposes in a saltwater aquarium.

HOUSING DECORATION While saltwater tanks simply look better with sand inside, the sand bed is When constructing a rock formation inside your tank, build directly on the home to all kinds of critters that perform useful tasks to help the aquatic bottom of the glass as this is ensure a more stable fit than placing on top Tip environment thrive. Rocks are also aesthetically pleasing and provide a of sand. Ensure you leave enough breathing room between your structure FluvalAquatics.com and MrSaltWaterTank. hiding place for fish to feel secure. Use several small pieces of rock, rather and glass on all sides to allow for a circulation pump to push water through. com/Fluval include several helpful than just one or two, to create several caves and crevices. Believe it or Create some open caverns and channels throughout your structure to pro- videos. not, the more places a fish has to hide, the less it actually will. vide additional water flow space and avoid areas where organic waste can accumulate. FILTRATION Since your rock structure serves as a base for various coral, you will also Nitrifying bacteria lives in and on sand and rocks, taking fish waste and want to incorporate some flat areas where possible. Lastly, ensure that your processing it into a less toxic compound called nitrate. Without the surface rock formation is not too close to the water surface as it will not be practical area provided by rock and sand, there will be minimal nitrifying bacteria in for coral placement at a later time. Leave at least 3 - 4” between the top of your tank, which leads to fish loss, algae outbreaks, etc. your structure and the surface. Now that you understand why you need rock and sand for your tank, the question is how much rock and sand do you need? For sand, you’ll need enough to make a bed 1-2” deep, which roughly equates to about ½ to 1lb of sand per gallon. Saltwater aquarium-specific sand is available at your local fish store and comes in 2 varieties: Dry and Live. , containing natural organisms that more quickly establish a safe environment, is always recommended. Regular sand (i.e. playground sand) is never appropriate, nor is colored gravel used in freshwater tanks. Tip If the sand you choose is too fine, it will For rock, approximately 1 to 1.5 lbs of cured (available from your likely get blown around by the water local fish store) per gallon is recommended. For example, you will need movement inside the tank. Ideal sand size about 5 to 7.5lbs of live rock for a 5 gallon aquarium, or 12-18lbs of cured has a diameter of 0.04-0.08” (1-2mm). live rock for a 12 gallon aquarium. Aquacultured cured live rock is best because it is environmentally friendly and does not harm precious coral reefs in the wild.

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Salt The Nitrogen Cycle

It is impossible to overestimate the Understanding the biology and chemistry that makes a saltwater tank tick STEP #1 importance of using a quality marine is vitally important. Here are some key concepts to understand the Nitrogen When you feed your fish, their salt, which should mix to clear water Cycle. bodies process the food and excrete within 5 - 10 minutes. You can have waste in the form of Ammonia (NH4) the best hardware available, but if (i.e. feces and urine). Additionally, your marine salt is not providing The Nitrogen Cycle uneaten food breaks down and values within the ideal ranges At its simplest level, the nitrogen cycle involves taking toxic Ammonia and creates Ammonia as well. mentioned below (which can be processing it into less toxic Nitrates. measured with basic aquarium test STEP #2 kits), it will become a problem. Ammonia is very toxic to your fish • pH: 8.1 to 8.2. Be wary of high and , but is a feast to alkalinity salts, which can bring pH nitrifying bacteria. Nitrifying bacteria values to 8.5 or more and greatly will convert the Ammonia (NH3/4) stress your corals. into Nitrite (NO2), which is also toxic • Alkalinity: 150 to 175 mg/L CREATING YOUR SALTWATER MIX to fish but necessary in the overall • Calcium: Approximately 460 mg/L process. In a separate and clean container (i.e. 5 gallon bucket), add a • Strontium: 8-12 mg/L professional grade saltwater mix, such as Fluval Sea Pro Salt, to either STEP #3 • : 1200 - 1300 mg/L filtered drinking water or water. Make sure to follow Nitrites are then broken down into Supplements the instructions on the package until the salt is fully dissolved. Keep in Nitrates (NO3). While Nitrates aren’t mind the rock and sand in the tank will displace some of your saltwater very toxic to the livestock in your mix, so don’t be surprised if the amount of water you’ve prepared tank, if you let them build up over doesn’t fit in the tank. time they can reach toxic levels. That’s where regular water changes FLUVAL HYDROMETER come in. A water change involves A Hydrometer should be used to measure the salt level in your water. You taking part of the water out of your may elect to use tap water, however, be aware of potential unwanted tank and replacing it with new elements such as chlorine, chloramines, phosphate, silicates, etc. saltwater. You need only change roughly 15-20% of your tank water, Once the tank is filled with saltwater, Why is the Nitrogen Cycle important and how not the whole thing. One water Fluval SEA offers a wide range of plug in your pump, filter and heater. do I apply it? change every two weeks is usually saltwater-specific supplements Leave the tank running for several hours When you first start your tank, it will have limited existing nitrifying bacteria to process fish waste, therefore, ammonia and nitrite levels will raise rapidly. To prevent this ideal. that must be added back into the to allow the water to warm up. Once sudden buildup, you will need to “cycle” your tank. Cycling involves growing enough aquarium over time as corals, the temperature in your aquarium has nitrifying bacteria to quickly process the ammonia into nitrates. One of the quickest and other elements reached between 77-79 Fahrenheit ways to achieve this is by dosing your tank with Fluval Cycle or Biological Enhancer will naturally absorb and deplete (25-26 Celsius) and you get a reading of (see next page). them. 1.025 on your hydrometer, you’re then ready to cycle your tank.

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How To Cycle Your Tank Tip What to Avoid When Never add fish to a new aquarium without Your tank should be up and running ammonia and nitrites to create a Cycling Your Tank treating the water first. Please visit for at least 24 hours. The water temp safe and biologically well-balanced MrSaltwaterTank.com to view a video on how should be between 77-79 Fahrenheit aquarium for healthy fish to thrive. to properly introduce fish into a tank. : Damsels are , and are often recommended to (25-26 Celsius) and your specific It also establishes safe conditions help cycle tanks since they can tolerate reduced water quality during this process. Once cycling is complete, however, they can make poor tank Hydrometer reading should be so that you can introduce fish to Damselfish 1.023-1.025. your new aquarium once you have STEP # 4: mates since they are also known to be territorial, often nipping at other completed the set up instructions Start Testing Your Water fish or even killing them. STEP # 1: outlined in this guide. While your tank is cycling, you are Realize it takes time Table Shrimp: The theory behind placing table shrimp (those for human going to want to test your ammonia, Cycling your tank can happen Dosing Fluval Cycle or Biological consumption) in your tank is that you are providing food that will break nitrite and nitrate levels a couple of quickly, but it can also take days Enhancer for New Aquariums: down into ammonia, which will incite the cycle process. In reality, this times a week. Nutrafin provides a or at most, weeks. So take a deep Follow the dosage instructions below adds an unnecessary step as the shrimp must first rot, and then get full range of test kits for these and breath and don’t be in a rush to when you add your first fish to the converted into ammonia, before your tank will cycle. several other parameters. put fish in the tank. One of the best aquarium. Using Fluval Cycle or Biological Enhancer, in combination with the fish things you can do here is take it Using Fluval Cycle or Biological Table Shrimp New Aquariums: in your aquarium, will provide all the ammonia required to complete the slow. Enhancer will result in a small rise Day 1: 25ml per 10 gallons cycle process. No shrimp needed! in ammonia levels, nitrite levels STEP # 2: Day 2: 10ml per 10 gallons followed by a gradual rise in nitrate Add Fluval Cycle or Fluval Day 3: 10ml per 10 gallons levels. Don’t panic, this is normal the A Word Biological Enhancer Tip When adding additional fish: levels will stabilize once cycling is Never cycle your tank with fish UNLESS you apply Fluval Cycle or Biological Enhancer. About 10ml per 10 gallons complete. Forcing your fish to swim in a toxic pool of ammonia and nitrite can be lethal. Weekly Maintenance Dose: Nitrates 5ml per 10 gallons When do you know when Nitrates are a bit of a moving target STEP # 3: as they are a less toxic compound to Introducing Fish Cycling is complete? fish than ammonia or nitrite, but you Add new fish SLOWLY! We still don’t want high levels of them in recommend no more than 1 fish The title is a bit misleading. Your tank is constantly converting ammonia your tank (above 20 ppm). every 1-2 weeks when your tank to nitrite to nitrate, you just don’t see it as you have enough bacteria to Many saltwater tank hobbyists is new (the first months of its life). quickly convert any ammonia or nitrite before the levels get high enough become concerned whenever their Fluval Cycle or Biological Enhancer The reason is that you want your to detect. As a guide, Cycling is achieved when the following levels are nitrate levels aren’t at 0 ppm. A is a responsive biological aquarium tank’s biological filter to build up reached: little bit of nitrate here and there supplement that immediately enough beneficial bacteria, and that Ammonia: 0 ppm (especially for fish only tanks) won’t innoculates your aquarium water takes time. If you add too many fish Tip Nitrite: 0 ppm hurt anything. with a powerful team of beneficial too fast, you will have a build up of If at any time you see the ammonia or nitrite levels Nitrate: 5-10 ppm nitrifying bacteria. ammonia and nitrite, which can kill rise again, something is probably wrong. Potential Tip: The best way to control nitrate causes include dead, overstocked or overfed fish. It goes to work fast, eliminating toxic your fish. levels is with regular water changes.

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Acclimating Your Fish Acclimating your fish is an important yet often overlooked subject. Many fish that seemed fine at the store have met unfortunate fates when brought home due to improper acclimation, so please follow these steps carefully. 1. Place the bag containing the fish discard about 1/2 the water in the 5. Discard 1/2 of the water in the in your tank. Do NOT open the bag bag. Make sure you don’t pour out bag and repeat steps 3-4. yet. The bagged fish should float the fish! 6. Pour out as much water as in your tank for 15 minutes so that 3. Place the opened bag back in possible while keeping your fish the temperature of the water in your tank, then increase the bag’s inside. This can help prevent the bag matches the temperature water volume 25% by using water potential disease issues. of the water in your tank. from the tank. 7. Finally, gently introduce your fish 2. After 15 minutes, take the bag 4. Wait 10 minutes and repeat step 3 into the tank. out of your tank, cut it open and so that the bag is now full again.

Adding Fish and Corals Once your tank is stable and cycled, it’s time to add fish and/or coral. HOW TO PICK FISH FOR YOUR TANK 1. Know the characteristics of the its side, breathing hard, etc.), then livestock, not quantity. species you’re interested in (i.e. avoid it. As it is likely sick. 5. Start Slow. You might be tempted feeding habits, compatibility with 3. Ask to see the fish eat. Once you to add several fish at once. Please other fish, etc.) and only select have picked a fish, ask the clerk resist this urge and go slowly. those species that are intended at the store to feed it, even if they One fish is fine to start, then add for beginners. Later in this guide, advise that it has already been no more than 1 fish every 1-2 you will find several recommended fed. A healthy fish will nearly weeks. Remember, the biological options. always go after food filter of nitrifying bacteria needs 2. Observe the fish’s behavior at to establish, and every time you 4. Remember that fish and corals the pet store. A healthy fish will introduce a new fish you are grow. Most store fish are display normal behavior for its adding bioload (waste) to your purchased as juveniles, and corals breed. For example, Clownfish tank. The nitrifying bacteria needs sold in small fragments or “frags.” and Chromis will be constantly to multiply to process the waste Your aquarium may look sparse swimming, while Blennies will from the new fish, so adding too at first, but this is preferable largely perch and swim only some many at once can cause your tank since everything will grow in due of the time. If the fish seems like to re-cycle, which is bad. time. Remember that it’s all about it is acting strange (i.e. lying on quality when it comes to keeping

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How to Choose and Place Coral

The goal when bringing coral home is not to stress them, while providing sufficient water flow and light spectrum exposure for their specific needs. Don’t be shy to ask your coral supplier (i.e. aquatic store, online retailer, etc.) about these particular areas of interest as not all corals are created the same. Fluval SEA Epoxy Stick Also, understand that a reef is a competitive place, and certain corals can actually be considered aggressive. Some grow quite substantially and can block light for those beneath them, while others can use their ‘sweepers’ to attack neighboring corals. With that said, don’t crowd your corals and make sure they always have access to the aquarium light above. Feeding Your Fish You will also want to ensure that your place your corals securely to avoid getting knocked over by water movement, , , urchins, etc. Corals Fish should ideally be fed 2-3 times a day. clam, spinach, kelp and an assortment of frozen foods must be bonded using a marine water-safe adhesive such as the Fluval Sea (which consists of a mixture of various and Don’t be concerned if your new fish doesn’t eat for a day Epoxy Stick. vegetables) are all excellent choices. Including some or two after you introduce it to your tank as travelling flake and pellet food is always recommended to ensure from the retailer to a new home tank environment additional nutrients are provided. can sometimes be stressful. Certainly do feed it, but Feeding Your Corals sparingly. Don’t be surprised if it takes a couple of days Remember that certain species may have a stronger to begin eating again. need for plant matter than others (surgeon fish, for Many corals that photosynthesize also require feeding. For corals with very example), so ensure you do your research carefully and Variety is key when feeding fish, so a mixture of frozen small polyps, there are a variety of powdered and liquid commercial diets give them exactly what they need. and dry foods can form the basis of a balanced and available. When feeding short polyp stony corals, err on the side of less food nutritious diet. Frozen shrimp, krill, mysis, mussel, since they are already strongly supported by light and photosynthetic process. The same can be applied to anemones. LPS (large polyp stony) corals, on the other hand, need foods such as chopped clam or krill, and require that water movement is stopped (or at least reduced) about 15-30 minutes so they can properly ingest. Feeding usually twice a week is fine.

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Fish, Invertebrate and Coral Species

When considering what livestock to place in your tank, choose wisely as this is another area where mistakes can easily be made. As a responsible saltwater aquarium owner, it is your duty to keep livestock that is not only suited to your skill level, but also well-matched to the environment you place them in (i.e. compatible tank mates, size of tank, lighting needs, etc.).

CLOWNFISH Clownfish are hardy and great for both beginners and advanced hobbyists. They are easy to come by, fun to watch swim and are can even pair up and breed in your tank. Clownfish are also often captive bred, which supports the sustainability of the hobby. We cannot expect to harvest wild-caught fish BLENNIES CARDINALFISH GOBIES from the ocean forever, therefore, this supports the longevity of the species for future generations to enjoy. Blennies are also great for beginners. These are another commonly The Pink Spot Shrimp Goby and They’re colorful, hardy and rarely captive-bred species that usually Orange Spot Diamond Goby are Tip: Gold Stripe Maroon and Tomato Clownfish are examples of species that aggressive. They are fun to watch, hover in one area of the tank. They hardy and will sometimes eat can be aggressive and large in size. Opt for Ocellaris or Percula Clownfish often perching on rocks and waiting also have big eyes, making them mouthfuls of sand, which will get instead. They are hardy, much more friendly and smaller in size. for food to drift by. Blennies also viewable even at night. The Bangaii sifted through their gills. eat algae, which will help keep your Cardinals particularly do great in CHROMIS The Yellow Watchman Goby is a aquarium clean. saltwater tanks. resilient starter fish and fun to watch. Chromis make great starter fish as they can better withstand environmental Avoid Scooter Blennies and stresses. They are in the same family as damselfish, but are not aggressive. The Randall’s Goby is also interesting Mandrins. They eat small Chromis are also very colorful, so they’ll add interest to your aquarium. to observe as it has a nicely shaped invertebrates in your tank, called dorsal fin. Tip: Stick to buying one Chromis. People often buy several in the hopes they coppepods, and nearly all saltwater will school in the tank. Over time, however, they always disappear, leaving tanks can’t produce enough pods to the remaining few to fight with one another. keep them alive.

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Popular Fish with Special Considerations:

MANDARIN GOBIES DAMSELFISH TANGS ANTHIAS LARGE ANGELFISH EELS, LIONFISH, GROUPERS (FRENCH, EMPEROR ANGELS) Despite their beautiful coloration and As mentioned previously, damselfish Tangs are a delicate species and These beautiful fish are readily These fish are for predator-only notorious fluttering fins, Mandarin are often recommended for saltwater require a well established aquarium available, but can be delicate. They These fish can grow over a foot in tanks. They don’t play well with Gobies often only eat coppepods aquariums as they are considered to thrive. They are best suited for require frequent feeding and should length and require lots of swimming others and certainly aren’t ideal for such as Scooter Blennies. Most to be a great starter fish. When larger tanks (55 gallons and above) be paired appropriately with the room. They are best suited for larger beginners. saltwater tanks can’t produce selecting Damsels, choose species as they need lots of swimming room, opposite sex so they don’t fight. aquariums, which you likely won’t be enough pods to keep the Mandarins carefully as some are less aggressive despite what others may say. starting with. alive, therefore, their life expectancy than others. is short lived.

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CORALS CORALS

CANDY CANE CORAL DUNCAN CORAL GREEN STAR POLYPS (, YELLOW POLYPS ZOANTHIDS (CAULASTREA FURCATA): (DUNCANOPSAMMIA AXIFUGA): (BRIAREUM VIRIDIS): ): (PARAZOANTHUS SPP.): (ZOANTHUS SPP.): Max size: 12” / Min. aquarium size: Max size: 2” per polyp / Min Max size of polyps: Less than Max. size: 2.5” / Min. aquarium Max.size: 2” (can spread rapidly) / Max size: 0.5” / Min. aquarium size: 10 gallons. They are hardy and aquarium size: 2 gallons. These are 0.5” (which spread rapidly) / Min. size: 1 gallon. Yet another mostly Min. aquarium size: 2 gallons. They 2 gallons. Zoanthids are mostly fast growing, with short sweeper a passive, non-aggressive coral that aquariums size: 10 gallons. This is photosynthetic species that benefits can be aggressive, so some removal photosynthetic, but we suggest tentacles that will need occasional are also hardy and grow fast. They another great passive coral choice, from micro plankton feedings. They from time to time may be necessary feeding them a couple of times per trimming. They eat a typical small- are carnivorous, and prosper from which is mostly photosynthetic are generally passive, however, can as they can easily multiply. They week with a typical carnivorous diet. minced carnivore diet. some target feeding. (feeding not necessary). sting encroaching corals. are also mostly photosynthetic, but They do need room as the colony can ingest typical carnivorous diets. can spread rapidly.

SAND ANEMONE Another passive, non aggressive MUSHROOMS (DISCOSOMA SPP. (PHYMANTHUS SPP): species, Pineapple coral thrives RHODACTIS SPP.): INVERTEBRATES with a typical carnivorous diet fed Max size: 5” / Min. aquarium Max. size: 4” (can spread rapidly at night. CAMELBACK SHRIMP size: 10 gallons. Nematocysts are and encroach on other coral) / (RHYNCOCINETES DURBANENSIS): mild and best suited to smaller CLOVE POLYPS Min. aquarium size: 2 gallons. aquariums. They eat a typical (CLAVULARIA SPP): These are also passive and mostly Max size: 2” / Min. aquarium size: 2 carnivore diet (shrimp, mussel, photosynthetic, but can benefit from gallons. They eat a carnivorous diet Max size of polyp: Less than 1” krill, etc.). micro plankton feedings. Keep them and are good scavengers. Although / Min. aquarium size: 10 gallons. at the bottom of the tank as they typically peaceful, they are capable PINEAPPLE CORAL Clove polyps are not aggressive, CLEANER SHRIMP RED LEG HERMIT prefer lower light. of attacking some polyps in rare (BLASTOMUSSA WELLSI): and be warned that Pygmy angelfish instances. Keep them in groups. (LYSMATA AMBOINENSIS): (PAGURISTES CADENATI): may eat or pick at them. They Max size of colony: 18” / Min. Max.size: 2” / Min. aquarium size: 10 Max. size: 1.5” / Min. aquarium size: benefit from night feedings of a aquarium size: 10 gallons. They gallons. They make a great addition 2 gallons. These nocturnal crabs are typical carnivorous diet. will need to be pruned, but handle to your tank as they are hardy, scavengers that also help to clean carefully as the skeletons are fragile. peaceful carnivores that help to clean your tank as they require algae in parasites from fish hosts. their diet. They are peaceful, but may kill a to obtain a bigger shell for their own growth.

26 fluvalaquatics.com fluvalaquatics.com 27 CHAPTER8 Fin and Tail Rot CHAPTER8 Torn ragged fins, Eye Cloud or Pop Eye IDENTIFYING AND PREVENTING FISH DISEASE possibly stuck IDENTIFYING AND PREVENTING FISH DISEASE Protruding or cloudy eyes together

Identifying and LOOK FOR THESE Preventing SYMPTOMS OF SOME COMMON Fish Disease FISH DISEASES

Velvet Disease Most living organisms can suffer Infected fish have a dusty look, the illness at one time or another. treatment is similar to White Spot. The most effective way to deal Body Slime and with this reality is to prevent Ich Mouth Fungus it from happening in the first White spots White viscous film on lips and mouth place. Having to treat a stocked aquarium with medication can be stressful in itself. You need to get to know your fish well if you are going to spot diseases or illnesses preventative treatments before 9. If a medication has been used, COMMON FISH DISEASES exposing new fish to established after the treatment is complete, before they become untreatable, so White Spot Disease (aka “Ich”) Slimy Skin Fungus aquarium inhabitants. perform additional water changes spend time observing our fish and A common ailment that responds to A thin grey film that covers their Usually only attacks fish weakened and use Fluval Carbon filter media how they normally interact within the 4. Follow proper acclimatization of treatment well, although it is best to body, usually in response to by other poor conditions, disease or to remove residual traces. Test environment. If you see any variation, new specimens. treat the whole tank. parasites. parasites. Healthy fish will not be the first thing to do is to check water and dose with Fluval Cycle affected. water quality as it may be a sign of 5. Always condition new water with or Biological Enhancer and Fluval Tailrot/Finrot Pox pollution or poor conditions. If this Fluval Water Conditioner before Aqua Plus or Water Conditioner. Look for torn, ragged or fins stuck White spots that join to form patches. is not the problem, you should then adding to the aquarium. Chlorine, (Note: Carbon should always be together. Try to treat at early stage. Fish become emaciated and twisted, seek advice from an authority chloramines, and metals are removed from the filter during If the rot reaches the body, cure is often caused by poor condition and (i.e. your local fish store or supplier). damaging to aquarium inhabitants. medication and replaced only unlikely. food. 6. Perform basic water tests and when treatment is complete. Skin/Gill Flukes Mouth Fungus maintenance on a regular basis. Please note that many corals are Watch for fish scratching themselves Unlike body fungus, this requires TOP 10 TIPS FOR PREVENTING affected by fish medications, so on rocks or plants, this nasty parasite specific treatment. 7. After power failures, ensure FISH DISEASE: caution is advised). causes colour to fade and fish to that all equipment is working Eye Infections Highly contagious and difficult to become feeble. They may rest near 1. Choose only healthy fish, avoid properly. Observe fish carefully, 10. Supply regular feedings of Cloudy, protruding eyes could be the cure, the fish’s body can become so the surface. The good news is that purchases from aquariums temperature variations will stress various quality foods. sign of fungus, bacteria, parasites or bloated that the scales protrude. Sick this disease usually responds well to containing sick fish. them. even fish tuberculosis. fish must be removed at once. treatment. 2. Purchase fish in limited groups, 8. Regular illumination periods are Hemorrhagic Septicemia slowly build fish populations. important for fish and plants. A bacterial disease that is visible by 3. Consider a quarantine aquarium. Switch lights on and off at the reddish patches and streaks on the This will allow observation and same time every day or use an mouth, fins and body. automatic timer.

28 fluvalaquatics.com fluvalaquatics.com 29 CHAPTER9 CHAPTER9 WHAT COMES NEXT? WHAT COMES NEXT?

10 BASIC RULES FOR Essential EVERY DAY: What Comes Next? RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL FEED FISH twice daily in small amount, taking care not to MARINE AQUARIUM Schedule Congratulations, you now have a saltwater tank set-up in your house! overfeed. So what comes next? 1. Research the livestock you wish The best formula for CHECK ALL INHABITANTS for disease, liveliness and normal to keep before purchase. Think success is to keep a regular behavior. • Add more fish, slowly! Remember that your aquarium’s biological filter is young and needs time to develop. Adding 1 fish every 1-2 weeks is plenty. As long-term and know their specific CHECK TEMPERATURE and make sure pumps, filters and lights needs (i.e. lighting, diet, etc.) and maintenance schedule. Here always, make sure you understand the species you are placing in your tank by are running smoothly. compatibility with other species. is a quick guide you can researching them and asking questions to the experts at your local fish store. REMOVE ANY DEBRIS like accumulated waste sitting between 2. Provide appropriate, regular and refer back to at any time for • During the 2nd week of your tank’s life, perform a water change. A water coral polyps or rock structure, uneaten food, etc. varied feeding 2-3 times a day. your future reference. change involves taking out a percentage of your tank’s water, then adding in freshly mixed saltwater. Replacing 15-20% of your aquarium water volume is 3. Avoid overpopulating your tank with EVERY 1-2 WEEKS: recommended. You will want to perform a subsequent water change about every too many fish or corals. Remember 2 weeks to maintain ideal conditions. that they will eventually grow. PERFORM A PARTIAL WATER CHANGE. Change out about 15-20% of your water to ensure cleanliness • Consider adding a few small reef hermits or a small group of snails. These 4. Remember that some species of and reduce build up of unwanted chemical waste. Be sure to invertebrates act as a natural clean-up crew, actively eating algae and leftover coral are more aggressive than replace any water you remove with newly mixed saltwater at the food while helping to dislodge waste in small nooks and crannies. You do not others, so don’t crowd them same specific gravity and temperature as the aquarium (Your need many - a few of each will do the trick. hydrometer will be needed here). Also, measure basic water 5. Understand the nitrogen cycle, parameters (pH, Magnesium, Alkalinity, Calcium, etc.) using a especially when starting a new proper test kit, and supplement where necessary. Remember, aquarium. Fluval SEA offers a full range of saltwater supplements. CLEANING INSIDE AND OUT. 6. Remember that water movement is Remove visible waste and siphon off water. Clean your lighting essential. Always leave adequate unit with a proper lens cleaning kit to ensure a consistent light space when adding rock for proper source reaches your livestock. Clean glass surfaces (inside and circulation. out) with specially designed algae scrapers, whether or not you see any algae growth. 7. Ensure you mix a quality marine salt. Fluval SEA salt dissolves quickly and consistently provides accurate pH levels.

EVERY 1-2 MONTHS: 8. Keep water stable (consistent MAINTAIN FILTER Check your filter impeller and change out any salinity level) and supplement as expired filter media by referring to your specific filter instruction necessary. Use test kits to check manual. Also, remove any circulation pumps or return pumps and , KH, calcium, etc. parameters clean them thoroughly as accumulated carbonate and calcium regularly. deposits need to be removed. Use 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water to your pumps in the solution. You can use the same solution to 9. Maintenance is crucial – ensure you clean out your protein skimmer. If you are using a sump, this is a follow the daily, weekly and monthly good time to remove the foam bubble trap and thoroughly rinse schedule mentioned previously. it out. 10. Enjoy your aquarium - it’s a CHECK YOUR SUPPLIES Food, supplements, test kits, filter media fascinating underwater world! and other regularly used items.

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