Here a Tank, There a Tank – So Which Is Right For Me?

You have decided that you want to invest in an aquarium either for your own pleasure or for another family member. Let’s see – Saltwater? Freshwater? Let me see if I can give you some ideas to help you out.

Fish Only Tank

You may decide to have a ‘fish only’ saltwater tank. Fish only tanks are the easiest to care for because that is all there is. You can now decide on either tropical or coldwater fish to put into your tank. Tropical fish, like the Angel or Clownfish, have vivid colors and tend to be more appealing to a tank lover.  Coldwater fish, like Bloodfin Tetras, Guppies, or goldfish, are easy to care for, hardy and can tolerate lower water temps.

Invertebrate Only Tank

You may also think about starting an ‘invertebrate only’ tank. This means your tank would be made up of shrimp, hermit crabs, gobies, and maybe starfish. Most of these are ‘tank cleaners’ so they will ‘naturally’ help clean your tank.  Yes, you still need to worry about filters, food, and water quality, but they are not as delicate as other types of fish.  If you do select any type of crab, you need to provide them with some sort of resting place that is ‘above’ water.  They are not fully aquatic, and do need to come out of the water from time to time. Just remember to keep the tank lid in place, as they are quick to play the ‘escape artist’ in favor of running wild on your floors.

Fish and Invertebrate Tank

You can combine tanks to create a ‘fish and invertebrate’ saltwater tank. If you go with this type of aquarium, you will need to be very careful when you begin mixing species. Some fish use invertebrates for food, and some invertebrates like fish for dinner!  You will also need to step up your tank maintenance plans because diseases are easily spread, and are harder to prevent and cure when there is co-existence in a tank.

Saltwater Coral Reef Tank

If you have the room and space, you may decide on a saltwater ‘coral reef’ tank.  Once again, reef tanks need a stepped up care plan, and you must research your dwellers very carefully. If you remember my blog on corals, certain corals thrive in saltwater, so make sure you ask before you buy or transplant.

Single Dweller Tank

There is another type of tank that I call a ‘single dweller’ tank. By that I mean, if you are really fond of one certain fish or sea creature, you can make that the focal point of your tank. Take Sea Apples for example. Sea Apples have a defense system that emits toxic chemicals when threatened.  They really prefer to be left alone, but would be ok in a tank where the other dwellers were more interested in each other than the Sea Apple.  Another single dweller would be the Lionfish. They have been known to eat prey half their size, as well as devouring devour marine fish and invertebrates.  They are aggressive, predatory, and really should be by themselves.

Brackish Tank

Lastly, there is a ‘brackish’ tank which is a mixture of both waters – salt and fresh.  Salt levels are key to both your brackish tank and its dwellers.  This type of tank recreates an aquatic network similar to that of coastal streams and saltwater swamps. Like tropical freshwater tanks, they need filters, a heater and proper lighting.  What makes them different is the dark substrate-like sand, live plants, driftwood, and of course – levels of salt. Dwellers for this type of tank would be mollies and gobies, with plants like the Carolina Fanwort. Brackish tanks are a challenge, but well worth the effort.

Seatech Aquariums Makes ‘Deciding’ Easy!

There are many options to select from and when you need a great place to start, Seatech Aquariums has everything you need. With over 50 years of aquarium experience, the Seatech Team will be able to help you go from start to finish, with results that are stunning and impressive to your guests, as well as provide you with a tank that you will always love and care for.

So if you are ready to start – pick up the phone and call Seatech today! Don’t just dream about that special aquatic tank – begin to make that ‘dream’ happen with the Seatech Aquarium Dream Team!