Changing Saltwater Aquarium Water - Simple Rules To Do It Safely

In an aquarium, you are trying to recreate a fish's natural environment whatever that may be. It could be a freshwater fish that enjoys cool water. Or it could be a tropical saltwater fish that will only thrive in warm conditions. That's why there are is so much equipment for aquariums because people are trying to recreate the natural environment for the fish.

In the wild, fish live in constant changing environments. The water is always moving in ocean, rivers and even lakes that it never gets overloaded with fish waste or residue. In an aquarium that is not the case. The water needs to be changed. However, you can't just put new water into the tank when the fish were living in the older water. The new water could be a shock to their system and, with any living creature, a rapid change could be detrimental.

Changing a saltwater tank could be tricky. A lot of it depends on the water you initially used. Did you get pre-made saltwater? Did you make your own? Whatever you used to start the tank should be the same type of water you are using when replacing it, even it was ocean water that you transplanted into the tank. Your fish have adapted to this new environment so try to keep it as close as possible.

The water should be changed every few weeks and sooner if you notice it getting murky. You don't want the fish to swim in contaminated water or with water with too much residue because there won't be enough oxygen for the fish to thrive. Change only one-third to half of the water every time you change it. If you change the entire tank, your fish might not adapt to new, extra clean water in it. During the process of changing the water, clean the inside of the tank as well. You don't want to put good water into a dirty tank. It would defeat the purpose of the new water.

The water should be within two degrees of the aquarium water. This is extremely important because any drastic change in temperature will harm the fish. You don't want it to get too cold and you don't want it to be too warm either. But it's always better to be warm than cold.

Once you have finished changing the water check the condition of the temperature, pH and nitrates. You might have to make some adjustments to get the water to its right condition.

One thing to note is if you are just replacing evaporated water, only add freshwater. The water that evaporated was only freshwater. If you add more salt water you will change the salinity in the water, which could harm the fish.

It's important to keep the tank and the water clean for the fish to thrive. They are living in an artificial environment and rely on your for all of their needs. By maintaining the aquarium you are ensuring many years with your saltwater fish.

Abhishek is an avid Fish Lover and he has got some great Aquarium Care Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 105 Pages Ebook, "Aquarium Care Made Easy!" from his website http://www.Wonder-Homes.com/636/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.