Aquarium Maintenance Palm Beach

The typical daily routine of saltwater aquarium maintenance will include:

• Cleaning/tank maintenance
• Feeding fish and other creatures
• A brief observation of fish and corals: Does the system look like it is doing well? Do the fish appear healthy?
• Water temperature check
• A quick inspection of filtration, heating, lighting and protein-skimming equipment to make sure everything is plugged in and functioning

You’ll need a weekly aquarium water test to monitor the levels of various chemicals in your tank. You can do this using an aquarium water test kit. Here are some parameters you’ll want to keep an eye on:

• Salinity
• pH level
• Water hardness
• Levels of ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates
• Phosphate levels
• Test alkalinity and calcium levels

It is also good to perform a weekly clean of aquarium glass panes with an algae magnet and rinse prefilter sponges to catch any debris before they decompose and cause the water quality to deteriorate.

Twice a month, the saltwater aquarium will need a partial water change. The amount of changed water should be 35% of the tank volume or less, as large-volume changes may result in a traumatic upheaval to the tank inhabitants.

Saltwater must be ready at least 24 hours before the water change, and the salinity must match the salinity level in the tank. Ideally, water temperature should also match so that the tank doesn’t undergo any drastic temperature fluctuations.

Monthly upkeep of the saltwater aquarium will include tasks such as:

• Testing chemical levels
• Replacing filter media
• A thorough clean of the filter and protein skimmer, taking care to remove salt buildup
• Cleaning tank glass
• Thinning out corals as needed

Once every six months or so, it’s good to restock as needed. While proper upkeep will maximize the longevity of your fish, some reef invertebrate species have shorter lifespans. Other bi-yearly tasks may include:

• Replacing aquarium light bulbs
• Cleaning up calcium or salt deposits from tank equipment