How to Set Up an Acrylic Saltwater Aquarium

Instructions

• 1

  Place the stand where you want the fish tank to be and make sure the stand is level. Put your foam or rubber insert on the stand where the aquarium will rest. This will minimize the pressure points on the tank and reduce the number of cracks that develop. Acrylic tanks are less likely to crack than glass ones because they are welded together rather than fused together with a silicon sealant. Choose the best location for the tank carefully, since it should not be moved after it is filled.

• 2

  Install the tank filtration system. Each filtration system has unique installation instructions, so follow the manual closely.

• 3

  Rinse the substrate with water until the water runs clear, then install the substrate in the base of the aquarium. Add any fish tank decorations, such as a diver, treasure chest or coral, at this point. Secure each decoration in the substrate.

• 4

  Mix the salt water for the tank. For the first time, it is acceptable to put dechlorinated water and a salt mix into the tank and allow the salt to dissolve, however, you should use pre-mixed water for future water changes. Read the directions on the salt mix (which is available at almost any pet shop) and combine the right amount of salt and dechlorinated water. If you do not have access to dechlorinated water, use dechlorinization drops in your water. Use a hydrometer to verify you have the correct water salinity.

• 5

  Install your tank heater by following the instructions that come with the heater. Ideally, your tank should be kept no lower than 76 degrees F and no higher than 84 degrees F. Ask an associate at the pet store what temperature is optimal for your specific fish.

• 6

  Fill the tank with salt water, start the filtration system and look for air or water leaks. Let the filtration system run for 24 hours before you put fish in the tank. This will allow plenty of time for you to observe the tank to make sure there are no problems.

• 7

  Add the saltwater fish to the aquarium one or two at a time. This slow introduction allows the filtration system a chance to keep up with the new inhabitants and reduces the stress on your new fish.