Saltwater Aquariums: Most Popular Articles

10 Easy Aquarium Set Up Steps
Once you have planned out what kind of saltwater system you want and purchased everything needed to put it together, by using these 10 easy steps you can have your new aquarium set up and running in no time at all. Starting with Step 1, here's how to get the aquarium ready.

Reef Safe Fish For Your Saltwater Reef Aquarium
Reef Safe Fish For Your Saltwater Reef Aquarium

Easy Corals for New Reef Tanks – 15 Easy Corals for a New Reef Tank
15 Easy Corals For Your New Reef Tank gives information, photos and links to buy corals which are considered to be easy to keep in a saltwater reef aquarium.

Most Common Mistakes Made
No matter what kind of aquarium keeper you are or may become, basic saltwater, reef, or freshwater, here is a list of what are considered by your About.com Guides to Saltwater Aquariums to be the 10 most common mistakes that are made, which are problems that can be avoided if you are aware of what they are before you start an aquarium.

Saltwater Aquariums 101
Saltwater Aquariums 101 Getting Started is a FREE, easy to follow seven day Email lessons course that guides you through learning about planning, setting up, taking care of, and more about keeping a saltwater aquarium or reef tank system. Sign up and get started today!

DIY Glass Aquarium Plans
Starting with an introduction to building your own tank with tips on working with glass and a materials list, to pre-assembly instructions followed by complete step-by-step directions on how to construct a glass aquarium up to 55 gallons in size with 1/4 inch glass, here is everything you need to know about from Debbie and Stan Hauter your Guides to Saltwater Aquariums it to do-it-yourself.

Top 1 to 50 Gallon Aquariums
Whether you are a beginner looking for your first salwater tank, or an experienced aquarist contemplating creating a quick and easy micro or mini reef tank or a refugium, one of these Guide Top Pick aquariums between 1 to 50 gallons in size might work for you. Includes Seaclear Eclipse, Hexagon, Bowfront aquariums.

Aquarium Maintenance
Once you have completed the first basic maintenance tasks one should perform several weeks after an aquarium has finished cycling, it's time to set up a regular schedule and begin standard maintenance procedures. Find out what these tasks are, and when they are recommended to be done.

Items Needed to Start Aq?
Whether wanting to start a fish-only, fish-only with live rock, or a reef tank system, this list of required and optional pieces of equipment, components and supplies needed to start a saltwater aquarium will help you research the many options you have to choose from when making a decision of what items to buy for the particular type of aquarium you are going to set up.

How to Plan a Saltwater System
If you want to start a saltwater aquarium, but don't know where to begin, this simple step-by-step how to plan a saltwater system outline will help guide you along. The first step in planning a saltwater aquarium is to decide what kind of system you want. Here are the options you can choose from.

Building A Refugium
Building A Refugium - Page 1 - What Is A Refugium? - About Saltwater Aquariums Featured Article by Don Carner About Saltwater Aquariums

TP Mini/Nano Aquarium Kits
Ideal for anyone that would like to set up a mini or nano tank, these Top Pick compact plug 'n play aquarium kits combine technology and inginuity in one small package. From 2.5 up to 34 gallons in size, each unit includes complete built-in filtration and higher output lighting systems, and many more unique features, all of which make starting a new saltwater or reef aquarium a whole lot easier.

Top Automatic Fish Feeders
From simple battery operated, to state-of-the-art electronic devices, automatic aquarium fish feeders come in an array of styles. While some are moisture controlled units designed to prevent flake, pellet and other dried foods from clumping, others not only have the capability of releasing a variety of different fares, but at specific times and intrevals. From small to large capacity feeders with single to multi-purpose functions, here are some units your Guides consider to be the best choices.

What Is Red Slime Algae?
Red Slime Algae (Cyanobacteria) in saltwater aquariums: description, causes and cures.

The Nitrogen Cycling Process
The chain reaction of ammonia being converting into nitrite, then nitrite into nitrate, this is what is called the nitrogen cycling process. Learn all about the 3 components and phases of this biological conversion process that is performed by nitrosoma and nitrobacter bacterias to establish a cycled aquarium, which all fresh or saltwater tanks go through.

DIY Custom Aquarium Glass Thickness Calculator compiled by your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums
This glass calculator compiled by your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums can help you determine what thickness to use when constructing your own small or large custom aquarium.

About Live Rock
About Live Rock - Part 1 - What Is Live Rock and Its Purpose?

Bubble Clip Art Images - Debbie and Stan's Saltwater Clip Art Collection
A collection of FREE animated and non-anmiated bubble clip art images in several sizes that were created by Debbie and Stan Hauter for their Saltwater Clip Art Collection.

Green Hair Algae
Curing Green Hair Algae in your Saltwater Aquarium. A fast, easy way to get rid of Green Hair Algae.

Protein Skimmers - Part 1
An Introduction to Protein Skimmers, what protein skimming is and how it works.

Nitrate Control
Nitrate or NO3 what this element in a saltwater aquarium is, where it comes from, what the acceptable level of nitrate is for fish-only and reef tank systems, and how setting up a regular aquarium maintenance routine relates to decreasing nitrates In Saltwater Aquariums Reefs Tanks.

Top Nitrate Absorbing Products
Although not normally a major problem for most fish, excess nitrate (NO3) in a reef aquarium can be very detrimental the health of corals and many other invertebrates. Aside from using a denitrator unit, a number of methods and materials can be utilized to absorb or convert nitrate to a harmless substance. Here are some nitrate absorbing products your Guides consider to be the best to help resolve high nitrate problems in saltwater aquarium and reef tank systems.

Reef System Lighting
Saltwater Aquarium Lighting - Reef System Lighting - What To Buy and Why - Lights lighting reef fixtures wattage CRI Saltwater Aquarium Lighting - Reef System Lighting - What To Buy and Why - Lights lighting reef fixtures wattage CRI Saltwater Aquarium Lighting - Reef System Lighting - What To Buy and Why - Lights lighting reef fixtures wattage CRI

Not All Skimmers Are Right For
The Introduction to Protein Skimmers-Part 2, Important Tips and Tricks on various Styles of Skimmers, and Choosing the Right One for your System

Top Skimmer Picks: H-O-T
Read product reviews and compare prices on Hang-On-Tank Protein Skimmers your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums consider to be some of the best choices on the market skimmers, and an essential piece of equipment to have in saltwater reef tank systems.

What is a Sump
A discussion on what a sump is, the benefits one can provide your saltwater aquairum, and if you really need one.

Clownfish & Anemone Matches - Preferred Host Relationships Chart
Clownfish and Anemone Matches: This cross-reference chart can help with choosing a preferred host sea anemone for your clownfishes, and vice versa, which is based on the natural symbiotic relationships between them in the wild.

A Cure For Brown Algae
Curing Brown Algae in your Saltwater Aquarium. An easy, inexpensive method of getting rid of Brown Algae in your saltwater aquarium.

What is New Tank Syndrome?
Whether you have a new or established saltwater aquarium, find out what new tank syndrome is, what causes it, and get solutions to avoiding this problem

An Instant Nitrate Reduction Method - A Multiple Step Water Change Procedure
An Instant Nitrate Reduction Method - A Multiple Step Water Change Procedure.

Mantis Shrimp: Pet or Pest?
What are Mantis Shrimp, and are Mantis Shrimp good as a pet, or are Mantis Shrimp a pest in a saltwater aquarium?

DIY Glass Aq. Building Tips
DIY Custom Glass Aquarium Building Tips - Page 1 - An Introduction from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums on how to calculate the correct thickness of glass to use when building your own DIY glass aquarium, which includes considerations on the quality and characteristics of the choice of material as well.

Tank Is Cycled - What's Next?
Once your new saltwater aquarium has reached the third and final phase of the nitrogen cycling process and completing its task of establishing the beginning of your tank's biological filter base, it's important to be patient, and move slowly! Here's why.

What Is A Berlin Filter?
What Is A Berlin Filtration System? Berlin filters have been used for years in reef tank systems. What a Berlin filter is and how it works is explained.

Snowflake Eel Profile
Although considered to be less-aggressive than other saltwater morays, the Snowflake Eel can become very pugnacious at feeding time. Here can view a picture of the Zebra Eel, read identification, characteristics, compatibility, diet, feeding and more aquarium care profile information about the Echidna nebulosa species true saltwater moray eel.

pH Control For Dummies
pH Control For Dummies - A simplified explanation about saltwater aquarium fish only and reef tank pH and alkalinity.

Cheap, Easy DIY Sumps
Cheap, Easy DIY Sumps are everywhere. Why pay a fortune for a custom made one if you don't have to?

Top Canister Filter Picks
Although canister filters may appear small, compact units that provide complete 3-stage mechanical, chemical, and biological aquarium filtration are mighty systems. For maximum efficiency, choose one with media chamber holding capacities that exceed your aquarium's bio-load filtering requirements. Here are our top pick choices that can be hung on the rim, placed along-side or behind an aquarium as well as under a cabinet out of sight.

Black Spot Disease/Black Ich
Typically a disease that is most commonly associated with Tangs and Surgeonfishes, Black Spot Disease or Black Ich is actually caused by an infestation of tiny Genus Paravortex member turbellarian flatworms, which take up residence in the aquarium substrate. Although parasitic organisms that are much less dangerous and life-threatening, as well as rather easy to get rid of compared to other ich diseases, nonetheless it is a problem that needs to be treated upon recognition.

Brown/Golden Diatom Algae Photos
Find out what brown or golden diatom algae looks like with these photos taken by your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums.

Ich Diagnosis &Treatment
Saltwater Ich Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention - Page 1

Brown Algae
About Brown, Diatom or Golden Diatom Algae in Saltwater Aquariums - What makes it grow and solutions for eliminating this problem.

Luiz Brunner's 12g Nano-Reef
As you can see from Luiz Brunner's 12g nano-reef aquarium picture, although it may be small, it's amazing what variety of soft and stony corals one can choose to put into a reef tank of this size.

What is a Reef Tank System
What is a Reef Tank? describes exactly what a reef tank is and how it differs from a Fish Only or Fish Only With Live Rock aquarium.

DIY Basic Aquarium Canopy Plan - Saltwater Aquariums Guides' Extra
DIY Basic Aquarium Canopy Plan, from your About.com Guides

Choosing a Filtration System
Choosing A Filtration System For Your Saltwater Aquarium discusses what type or kind of filtration is best for you. Not all filters are suitable for reef, fish only FO or Fish Only With Live Rock FOWLR systems tanks

Liz's 5g Nano-Reef Tank
As you can see from Liz's 5g nano-reef aquarium picture, her beautiful live rock formation is nicely populated with a variety of blue, red, and green soft mushrooms, along with a few other types of corals and a feather duster (tube worm).

Wet/Dry Trickle Filters
What is a wet/dry trickle filter and how does it work? These questions and others are answered by your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums.

Nitrogen Cycling Process
Methods on how to speed up the nitrogen cycling process by seeding a new saltwater aquarium with some mature bacteria from various sources.

Picasso Triggerfish Profile
Picasso Triggerfish Guide Saltwater Fish Profile - An identification, characteristics, compatibility, diet and feeding profile with other notes from your Saltwater Aquariums Guides about the Rhinecanthus aculeatus. This is a beautiful, very hardy and popular aquarium trigger species that adapts well to tank life that is a good choice for beginners.

White Spot Disease/Marine Ich
Cryptocaryoniasis, Marine Ich, or White Spot Disease is caused by an infestation of the ciliated protozoan Cryptocaryon irritans. Although Cryptocaryon becomes a parasitic organism at one stage in its life cycle like Oodinium and Brooklynella do, and it progesses less rapidly, in a closed aquarium system it can reach overwhelming and disasterous numbers just the same if it is not diagnosed and treated upon recognition.

Coral Lighting
The opening Introduction to Chapter 4, Coral Lighting - How Corals Grow, by Don Carner

Clint Cummings' 12g Mini-Reef
Clint Cummings' 12g mini-reef aquarium photo really shows off his stony Frogspawn, Torch, Hammer and Red Brain Corals, soft Green Hairy Mushrooms, colony of Zoanthids, Red Linkia Starfish, Pom Pom Crab, Percula Clownfish and Flame Angel.

Reef Tank Janitors
Learn what reef tank janitors are, what beneficial tasks they perform, and what types of salwater Hermit Crabs and Snails make the best algae eaters.

DIY Aquarium Stand Project
Are you looking for a stand to put your aquarium on that doesn't cost and arm and a leg? It's easy to make this inexpensive wood and cinder block stand we designed and built to hold one of the many 48" x 16" DIY 55 glass aquariums we have built over the years. This stand is both sturdy and economical. Preparation time is short, assembly only taking a few minutes, it can be constructed to fit just about any aquarium, and it's a do-it-yourself project that most anyone can do. Here's how.

Denkigroove's 15g Nano-Reef
Stacked to the brim, Denkigroove's (Tien Nguyen) 15 gallon nano-reef tank photo shows there are no limits on how much live rock can be added to an aquarium, and his corals are pretty impressive as well!

Kerry Kirk's 12g NeoCube Reef
The nice growth of green macroalgae pictured here in Kerry's 12 gallon NeoCube reef aquarium makes a nice hiding place for his Percula Clownfish, Blue Yellowtail and Blue Damsel. His colony of Blue Mushroom Corals, the Feather Duster and Turbo Snail look right at home as well.

Brian B.'s 12g Nano-Cube Reef
With a wide variety of soft corals keeping them company, Brian Blackthorne's two Percula Clownfish look right at home in this picture of his 12 gallon nano-cube reef aquarium.

Simple DIY Tap Water Filter
If you are using fresh tap water as the source to make-up aquarium saltwater or top-off your system with, here are easy to follow instructions for making a simple PVC constructed tap water filter that can achieve about the same purification results as with a more costly commerical TWP (Tap Water Purifier).

Bad Bristleworms Control
When it comes to the control of bad type errant Bristleworm infestations in saltwater aquariums, primarily it is the large toxic and voracious Pherecardia (Pacific), Hermodice(Caribbean), and other related Fireworm species of the Polychaete class in the Amphinomidae family that an aquarist needs to be concerned about. Preventing these destructive worms from accidentally getting into, or removing them if found in a saltwater aquarium is recommended. Here is what you can do.

Growing Coralline Algae
How to Grow Coralline Algae in a Saltwater Aquarium explains what Coralline Algae requires to grow well in a saltwater aquarium

DIY Saltwater Aquarium Chiller
DIY Do It Yourself Chiller by Don Carner

John Hakim's 5.5g Mini-Reef
This photo of John Hakim's 5.5 gallon mini-reef aquarium shows a great close-up shot of his White Stripe Maroon Clownfish and Cleaner Shrimp pictured with Xenia, Leather Mushroom, Green Mushroom, and Plate Corals.

Leafy Seadragon Photo 1
1 of 5 Leafy Seadragon (Phycodurus eques) photos taken by your Guides to Saltwater Aquariums Debbie and Stan at the Waikiki Aquarium with exhibit information included.

Debbie and Stan's Saltwater Clip Art Collection Index
This saltwater clipart collection by Debbie and Stan not only has FREE to copy fish and other sealife images, but scenic ocean sunset photos, tropical theme Christmas holiday creations, as well as other stuff to use on your personal Web pages.

What is a FOWLR System?
What Is a Fish-Only With Live Rock System? A fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) saltwater system is much like a fish-only system. Just the same no corals are present, but here are the basic differences between these two systems.

Reef Tank Safe Janitors - Saltwater Aquariums Guides' Extra
Reef Tank Safe Janitors, clean the algae, uneaten food and detritus in your tank, without damaging corals or other tank inhabitants.

Luis Contesini's 6g Nano-Reef
Luis Contesini's 6g Nano Reef Tank

What Is A Biological Filter?
An article which explains exactly what a biological filter is.

Zach Lunsford's 10g Mini-Reef
Zach Lunsford's 10 gallon mini-reef aquarium is home to a Percula Clownfish, Four Stripe Damsel, Serpent Starfish, Coral Banded Shrimp, Emerald Crab, Curlycue Anemone, Red Tree Sponge and two Atlantic Condy Anemones, all snuggled into 15 pounds of live rock.

Top Skimmer Picks: In-Sump
Read product reviews and compare prices on In-Sump Protein Skimmers your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums consider to be some of the best on choices on the market.

Saltwater Aquarium
Your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums discuss the first step in setting up an aquarium - deciding on a location for the aquarium and choosing a tank size, material and style.

Repair Small Leaks in Glass...
With a few inexpensive items and a little time you can easily repair small or minor leaks in a glass aquarium using these simple instructions from your Guides.

Solving Leaky Tank Problems
Solving Leaky Glass Aquarium Problems - An introduction to why leaks occur in glass aquariums, and a list of common mistakes to avoid making repairs to a leaky fresh or saltwater glass aquarium, whether it be a minor or a major problem.

Copepods & Amphipods
Copepods and Amphipods Profiled - Page 1 - Classification information and facts about those little white bugs in your saltwater aquarium

Live Sand
An introduction from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums on what live sand is, and what types to use.

Top Wet/Dry Aquarium Filters
From a basic wet/dry only, to a wet/dry with sump, to a wet/dry with sump and built-in skimmer included, trickle filters are available in an array of styles and sizes to fit your particular fresh or saltwater aquarium's filtration needs. Designed to utilize biological, mechanical and chemical mediums, and a place to put a heater, skimmer or other additional aquarium equipment, installing an under cabinet oveflow unit such as these Top Picks can make keeping a tank clean and tidy much easier.

Top Submersible Heaters
Too often an aquarium heater is thought of as a simple and inexpensive device. An aquarium heater should be considered a critical piece of equipment, just like a filter that is essential to the livelihood of your tank inhabitants. One of the most efficient and popular types with aquarists are submersible, and here is our list of top pick units that have some of the best features one should look for when buying a heater for your aquarium.

VHO Fluorescent Lighting
VHO Fluorescent Lighting Saltwater Aquariums

Saltwater Aquarium Reef Safe Invertebrates Including Crabs, Hermit Crabs, Snails, Starfish, Cucumbers and Shrimp
Saltwater Aquarium Reef Safe Invertebrates Including Crabs, Hermit Crabs, Snails, Starfish, Cucumbers and Shrimp

Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial Diseases in Saltwater Aquarium Fish - Indentification, Causes & Treatments. About Saltwater Aquariums

Saltwater Aquarium Lighting
Saltwater Aquarium Lighting - Chapter 1 - Page 1 - Introduction - How Not to Drive Yourself Insane Broke or Both.

Trouble Shooter
Saltwater Aquarium Fish Disease Trouble Shooter from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums

DIY Oak Aquarium Cabinet
Complete plans for a DIY Oak Aquarium Cabinet, including material and tool lists, photos and graphics. This cabinet looks terrific and is not difficult to build.

Green Hair Algae Photo - Saltwater Aquariums Guides' Extra
Green Hair Algae Photo<, from your About.com Guides

About Live Rock
Your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums give an explanation of what curing live rock means, and how to identify various types of live rock by the names given it.

Dragon Moray Eel Profile
A saltwater fish profile and captive aquarium care rating on the Dragon Moray Eel (Enchelycore or Muraena pardalis) of the Family Muraenidae from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums.

Banded Bamboo Shark Profile
It is because the barbels at the mouth that look like a cat's whiskers the Brownbanded Bamboo Shark is known as a Cat Shark, also named a Brown-Banded, Banded, Brown-Spotted, Black Banded, and Blackbanded Bamboo Cat Shark. View a photo and read identification, characteristics, diet, feeding and more captive aquarium care profile information about the popular saltwater Brownbanded Bamboo Cat Shark (Chiloscyllium punctatum).

Red Slime Algae Photos
Find out what red slime algae looks like with these photos taken by your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums.

11 Primary Food Groups of Marine Fishes Table and Major Fish Families List - What Saltwater Fish Eat in Nature
To better understand the eating habits of saltwater fishes in nature and what principle foods they require in their aquarium diets, here is a table of what may be considered the 11 Primary Food Groups of Marine Fishes with descriptions on each group that is cross matched to a list of Major Saltwater Fish Families to learn about what each type eats.

N. Dobbin's Longhorn Cowfish
A photo by Nigel Dobbin of his Longhorn Cowfish (Lactoria cornuta) submitted for display at About Saltwater Aquariums, as well as chosen as an entry in the July 2006 Reef Fish Photo Contest.

About Phosphates (PO4)
Learn all about what phosphates (PO4) are - where they come from - solutions for reducing high concentrations in saltwater aquariums

Using Mangroves
Find out how to use Mangrove Plants for natural filtration to remove nitrates, phosphates and other organics in your saltwater aquarium.

What Is a Fish-Only SW System?
What is a fish-only saltwater system? What kind of fish are good for this type of set up? What are the fundamental requirements of a FO system set up? For anyone that is planning to start this type of saltwater aquarium, here are the answers to these and other questions about setting up a fish-only system.

Clownfish Disease/Brooklynella
A type of saltwater ich caused by an infestation of the ciliated protozoan Brooklynella hostilis, this disease is most closely and commonly associated with Clownfishes, and therefore is typically referred to as Clownfish Disease. Although this parasitic scourge requires a fish host to survive, it is not particular in its quest to find one. These protozoa multiply rapdily, which is why they can kill fish within a few days and even hours upon recognition.

Fundmentals of Fluorescent Tub
The Introduction to Chapter 2 in Saltwater Aquarium Lighting by Don Carner, Learning the Basics about Fluorescent Tubes.

How to Preclean Live Rock
When uncured and even "so-called" cured live rock is first placed into an established saltwater system, is being cured or used to cycle a new aquarium with, some degree from light to heavy die-off of the organisms that reside on and inside the rocks will occur. The build-up of this dead or dying organic matter creates ammonia, so to help lessen excessive ammonia spiking problems, as well as shorten the curing time of the live rock, here is a simple way to preclean the rocks before using them.

Water Purification Methods
Methods for how to purify fresh tap water before using it in saltwater aquarium systems to avoid the potenial problems that can arise from doing so

DIY Acrylic Refugium - Saltwater Aquariums Guides' Extra
DIY Acrylic Refugium plans, photos, parts list and instructions, from your About.com Guides

Mangrove Plants
About Mangrove Plants - Page 1 - Introduction to Species, and Mangrove Characteristics

Purple/Pink Coralline Algae Photo - Saltwater Aquariums Guides' Extra
Purple/Pink Coralline Algae Photo, from your About.com Guides

Moorish Idol Fish Profile
Moorish Idol Fish Profile | A photo with identification, characteristics, compatibility, diet, feeding, other saltwater aquarium care and profile information about the delicate and difficult to keep in captivity Moorish Idol (Zanclus cornutus, or Z. canescens).

Clean Dirty Bio-Balls
It is NOT the bio-balls in a wet/dry trickle or other type of biological filter that go BAD! Just like with an undergravel filter, it is the "lack of proper maintenance" that turns them into a nitrate factory. If you periodically rinse them off and keep them clean, nitrate and bio-balls woes should decrease, as long as this is the sole source that is generating the nitrate problem in the aquarium.

Popeye In Saltwater Fish
From your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums, learn what Popeye is, how to identify it, what causes this condition and how to treat it in saltwater fish.

Saltwater Aquarium Lighting - Chapter 2 - Page 2 - The Reef System Wattage Rule of Thumb
Figure out how much light Wattage you need for a reef tank system using the simple Wattage Rule Of Thumb Formula.

How To Treat Ich w/Formalin
Formaldehype is most effective at ridding fish of common parasitic protozoan Black Spot, Clownfish, and White Spot marine ich infestations, as well as flukes, lice, and fungal diseases that both fresh and saltwater fishes can contract. Although a toxic chemical that is hazardous in its pure form, by purchasing and using a standard over-the-counter formalin product, typically a 37% solution of formaldehype diluted with water, it's rather easy to treat ich diseased fish. Here's How:

Rock Arranging Help Tips
The rocks you put into an aquarium are not only decorative, but they provide housing for the fish and other animals in the tank, shelter against agression that may occur from other tankmates, and are an important biological filtration source. Here are some helpful tips on what you can do to arrange either non-living or live rocks in a saltwater system for maximum efficiency when you are aquascaping or arranging rocks in your aquarium.

HT Give Fish a FW Dip or Bath
One of the simplest and fastest ways to reduce and eliminate the numbers of all types of ich organisms, as well as flukes and lice that are parasitici on saltwater fishes is to give them a quick freshwater dip or bath. This method of hyposalinity is very effective, takes little time to prepare for, and is strongly recommended as the first step in treating ich diseased fish prior to placing them into a QT for long term treatment with the proper medication for what ails them. Here's How:

Top Aquarium Test Kits
Read the reviews and compare prices on these standard and advanced reef aquarium, as well as pond and freshwater aquarium version water testing kits that your About.com Guides to Saltwater Aquariums consider to be top choices when it comes to buying water test kits.

Metal Halide Fixtures
Metal Halide lights have rapidly become the fixture of choice for many SW reefers. Their relatively small size for the amount of light provided has made these fixtures very popular. Many of these new fixtures are well designed, add a stylish look to any aquarium and even include Lunar Lights.

Eliminate Aiptasia
How to perform an effective and easy lemon juice injection procedure to eliminate pesky Aiptasia Anemones from saltwater aquarium reef tank systems.

Tang and Surgeonfish Family Acanthuridae Profile - About Saltwater Aquariums Guides Fish Profile
An identification, characteristics, compatibility, diet, feeding, and overall aquarium care profile on Tangs and Surgeonfishes of the Acanthuridae Family from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums.

Ways to Eliminate Aiptasia
Ways to Eliminate Aiptasia Anemones | Chemical and Liquid Solution Injections: One way to kill and get rid of prolific and pesky aiptasia sea anemones in a saltwater aquarium is by means of injecting them with any of the following chemical or liquid solutions. When using this method, for the best results you should inject the solution of choice directly into the stem of the anemone with a needle and syringe.

Fish Compatibility
Saltwater Aquariums Fish Compatibility - Part One - Types of Aggressive Behavior About Saltwater Aquariums

Reef Tank Temperatures
What is the best temperature for your reef tank? How High is Too High? It may be higher than you think.

DIY 2 X 4 Cabinet Frame - Saltwater Aquariums Guides' Extra
DIY 2 X 4 Cabinet Frame, from your About.com Guides

Curing Cloudy Aquarium Water
Curing Cloudy Aquarium Water - Determining the causes of cloudy aquarium water and taking the required steps to clear it.

About Saltwater Aquarium Guides Fish Pick - Yellow Tang - Zebrasoma flavescens
About Saltwater Aquarium Guides Fish Pick - Yellow Tang - Zebrasoma flavescens Fish & Critter Foods Fish & Invert Care Photo used by courtesy of Kona Coast Divers

HT Cure LR in Separate Set Up
The breakdown of the organisms that reside on uncured and even cured live rock contributes to the accumulation of excess organic matter in any saltwater aquarium system. In turn this will cause a build-up or spike in ammonia, which you do not want. To help avoid this and other problems that can arise, here is a standard method for curing live rock BEFORE placing it into an established or a newly set up aquarium for use. It's easy to do, beneficial, and takes just a few items to set it all up.

Canister Filters
Information about canister filters and what they are used for in a saltwater aquarium systems - before you buy considerations and maintenance tips.

What SW Fish Eat in Nature
What Saltwater Fish Eat in Nature - To better understand the natural eating habits of saltwater fish and what primary foods they require when kept in an aquarium, here is a list of the major fish families cross matched to the code number(s) of what may be considered the 11 principle food groups of marine fishes in nature.

When Do Corals Eat?
Corals in Saltwater Aquariums require more food than they derive from light alone in order to grow and propagate, from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums

Table of New Tank Syndrome Causes in Saltwater Aquariums and Solutions For Avoiding Them - Compiled by Debbie and Stan Hauter
A table of new tank syndrome causes and solutions for avoiding them to prevent this problem from happening in saltwater aquariums.

DIY Oak Aquarium Canopy
Complete plans, tool list, material list, instructions, graphics and photos for building a DIY Oak Aquarium Canopy.

Brian Whitico's 20g Reef Tank
Brian Whitico's photo of his 20g Reef Tank, which contains an amazing Percula Clown pair Yellow Citron Goby, Yellow Watchman Goby, Pistol Shrimp, Purple Firefish, 2 Yellow Striped Clingfish, 6 Sexy Shrimp and 1 Skunk Shrimp.

Ich Diagnosis &Treatment
Saltwater Ich Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention (Continued)

HT Cure LR in New SW Aquarium
Curing live rock in a separate curing setup is the best way to handle it before placing it into a new saltwater system you are just starting. Unfortunately this is not always practical for everyone, as you may not have the extra room or equipment to do so. If the only container you have to work with to cure live rock in is the tank you are setting up as your main aquarium, here is a simple way to cure it inside the aquarium, preferably before you add substrate and start aquascaping the rocks.

Coral Beauty Angelfish Profile
A Profile on the Coral Beauty Angelfish which includes Diet & Feeding, Reef Tank Compatibility, Scientific Name, Size limits, Distribution, Habitat, and more.

Fish Disease
Saltwater Aquarium Fish Disease Trouble Shooter from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums.

The 4 Basic Needs of Corals
All corals have 4 basic needs. Water quality, food, light, and water movement. Although each coral species has its own specific requirements, the basics are, well, still basic. Corals can be finicky though. Species within a genus can have widely varied light, current, water quality and other chemistry requirements, which makes it essential that the specific needs of a coral species be researched before purchasing it.

Using Powerheads
Using Powerheads For Water Circulation In A Saltwater Aquarium.

About Saltwater Aquarium Guides FAQs - Shark and/or Octopus in 100g Tank?
Your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums give their answer to the question of having a shark and/or octopus in a 100 gallon tank.

Testing Your Aquarium Water
Can you answer these questions about the water in your aquarium in less than 30 minutes? What is the pH level? Is ammonia present? If so, how much? Is nitrate high, or within the acceptable range? If you said yes, that's great. You already know the answers to these important water quality awareness issues. For those that said no, why? An essential part of being a successful saltwater or reef aquarium keeper is taking the time and responsibility to learn how to test the water in it. Here's why.

Choosing Your Biological Filter Material - How To Choose the Right Bio-Material For a Wet/Dry Trickle or Other Type of Saltwater Aquarium Biological Filter
Choosing Your Biological Filter Material - How To Choose the Right Bio-Material For a Wet/Dry Trickle or Other Type of Saltwater Aquarium Biological Filter

Magnum 350 Canister Filter
A full product review and 4.5 star rating from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums on the Marineland Magnum 350 Canister Filter, an along side tank unit that is a true aquarium filtration workhorse. Suitable for mechanical and chemical filtration, its versatile systems design also allows you to connect the output to a BIO-Wheel PRO for wet/dry biological filtration if desired, and can be use with other accessories like the easily attachable Power Kleen Gravel Washer.

Protein Skimming
Protein Skimming - What Is It and How Does It Work in a Saltwater or Reef Aquarium? About Saltwater Aquariums

Japansese Swallowtail Angel
View pictures and read male and female identification, characteristics, compatibility, diet, feeding and more saltwater aquarium Angel fish care profile information about the reef safe Japanese Swallowtail Angelfish (Genicanthus melanospilos). Other Common Names: Swallowtail, Blackspot, Blackspot Lyretail, Spotbreast, and Zebra (Male) Angelfish.

Preventing Sump Overflows
How To Prevent Aquarium Sump Overflows during power outages or sump pump failures. Simple step by step instructions for preventing your sump from overflowing.

Wes Hayden's 29g Bio Cube Reef
Wes Hayden's photo of his 29g Bio Cube Reef Tank. It contains a Percula Clownfish, Foxface, Volitans Lionfish and multiple corals.

How To Repair Major Leaks
Making Glass Aquarium Repairs - How To Repair Major Leaks or Replace a Broken Pane of Aquarium Glass - Here are step-by-step instructions from your About Guides to Saltwater Aquariums on how to repair major leaks or replace a broken pane of aquarium glass.

True VS False Percula Clownfishes - How Can You Tell Which is Which?
True VS False Percula Clownfishes - How Can You Tell Which is Which? Find out what distinquishing differences set the True (Amphiprion percula) and False (Amphiprion ocellaris) Percula Clown or Anemonefish apart from one another, which is more than just being tank-raised or not.

Cladiella Coral Profile
A coral profile on the Cladiella (C. australis, C. humesi, C. hunisi, C. aphaerophoro) coral, a soft species that is commonly named Finger Leather Coral, Colt Coral.

Top Saltwater Aquarium Myths - Saltwater Aquariums Guides' Extra
Saltwater Aquarium Myths, Myths about saltwater aquariums which have continued for years from your About.com Guides

Velvet/Coral Fish Disease
Oodinium, Velvet or Coral Fish Disease is a type of saltwater ich caused from an infestation of the dinoflagellate Amyloodinium ocellatum, a flagellate protist member of the same group of single-cell alga organisms that cause red tides in marine waters. Although it does not cause red tides, it is parasitic to fish at one stage in its life cycle. If not properly diagnosed and quicly treated, in a closed aquarium system it can reach overwhelming and disasterous numbers in a short period of time.

Same Equipment ?
What pieces of equipment and other components can be used for converting a freshwater aquarium over to a saltwater system.

Nuisance Green Macroalgae
Blue Green Macroalgae in Saltwater Aquariums: Indentification and Control. My clean up crew is selectively not eating a burst of hair algae, any recommendations for natural predators?

Ghaleb AL Amad's 75g FOWLR Tan
Ghaleb AL Amad's photo of his 75g FOWLR which contains: a Clown Trigger (Balistoides conspicillum), Niger Trigger, Regal Blue Tang, Valentini Puffer, 3 Percula Clowns, 2 Zebra Damsels, 4 Yellow Tail Damsels, Banded Pipe Fish (Doryrhamphus dactyliophorus) and a Mandarin Goby.

Top RO/DI Water Filter Picks
Aquarists have found that using an individual reverse osmosis, deionization, or a combination RO/DI water filter unit to purify fresh tap water before use in aquariums provides far superior water quality by removing nitrate, phosphate and other chemical elements found in tap water that can lead to algae blooms and other problems. Read product reviews and compare prices on RO/DI water filters that your Guides to Saltwater Aquariums consider to be some of the best on the market to buy.

Cycling A Tank With Fish
Cycling a New Saltwater Aquarium With Fish - Tips From Your About Guides For Making Good Tank Starter Fish Choices

DIY Reef Type Fluorescent Light Hood Plans For Saltwater Aquariums
DIY Reef Type Fluorescent LightHood Plans, from your About.com Guides