Before you even decide for certain that you want a saltwater aquarium in your living room, you need a
clear understanding of the time, effort, and expense involved in maintaining it properly. Although
this book emphasizes design over technique, once the design is executed, maintenance becomes
all-important.
Coral reefs shelter their diverse inhabitants in one of the most stable environments on Earth. In fact, environmental stability may well explain a substantial portion of that diversity. When you can count on tomorrow being pretty much like today for thousands of years at a stretch, adaptations necessary for coping with, or preparing for, environmental change can be redirected into specialization of lifestyle. In turn, most coral reef organisms have, as a result of that specialization, sacrificed adaptability to change.
To provide the stability necessary for your organisms to thrive in your saltwater aquarium, you need to:
● Regularly monitor and maintain proper water conditions
● Feed the fish
● Keep records
● Perform water changes
● Be alert to potential problems
Sources of Saltwater / Marine Specimens
Saltwater aquarium enthusiasts have a plethora of choices for purchasing both supplies and livestock, from
local specialty dealers to big-box pet retail chains to mail-order suppliers. Finding the right combination of
these for your aquarium needs will facilitate the creation of the tank you want at a cost you can afford
Choosing a Dealer or Source for your Marine Specimens
Look for a store with a large saltwater dry goods section and a varied inventory of healthy marine fishes and invertebrates living in well-maintained holding tanks. A dirty, unkempt, poorly lighted store should be an immediate signal to look elsewhere. If you live in or near a reasonably large city, look for a store that sells only saltwater aquariums. It is likely to have a better selection, more knowledgeable personnel, and better pricesthan a store where saltwater is a sideline.
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