The items on this list are ones that might be considered optional by some aquarists, but ones that we highly recommended as somewhat important components to have when getting started, as they greatly contribute to a healthy aquarium environment.
Powerhead
Depending on the size of your aquarium, the use one or several powerheads is an excellent way to provide good water circulation throughout the system.
Protein Skimmer
Quite beneficial for a fish-only tank, but should definately be used in a reef system.
- What Protein Skimming Is, and How it Works
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Protein Skimmer Poll
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Top Pick Hang-On-Tank Skimmers
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Top Pick In-Tank Skimmers
- Top Pick In-Sump Skimmers
Air Pump & Air Stones
Only needed if you are going to run a piece of equipment that requires these items, such as a counter-current protein skimmer.
Tap Water Filter
If you are planning to use fresh tap water to mix or make-up saltwater solutions with, it is strongly advised to filter the water before using it.
Quarantine Tank (QT)
Quarantining new livestock before introducing it into the main aquarium is a personal choice, but is a very smart precaution to take in our opinion.
Dechlorinator/Ammonia Destroyer
AmQuel by Kordon is our top product of choice.
RightNow Bacteria
An excellent biological bacteria starter by Hiatt Distributors, Ltd. that can be used to cycle a new aquarium in 24-72 hours.
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Optional Items
Although you can choose to add any of these items when starting a new saltwater aquarium, they are not considered to be absolutely necessary, and may be added at any time after the system is up and running if you desire to do do.
Automatic Doser/Water Top-Off Units
Using an automatic dosing unit to add calcium (a.k.a. limewater/kalkwasser) as well as other liquid additives and supplements to the tank is optional and can be added at a later date. However, this type of unit does make the job a much easier task to perform and regulate, and auto dosers are often used as top-off units to replace tank water that occurs from evaporation, and does so without a hassle.
Wavemaker/Surge Device
Wavemakers and surge devices are designed to give an aquarium the simulated effect of the wave motion that occurs in nature.
Emergency First-Aid Kit
In our opinion there are many important supplies and items one should have on hand in case of an emergency arises with your aquarium.
UV Sterilizer
Definately a personal choice decision piece of equipment.
Chiller
A beneficial piece of equipment to have for those that have constant aquarium water temperature fluctuation problems.
There it is! You now have all of the information you need to chose your saltwater aquarium equipment and set up a successful tank.
