Difference Between Marine And Freshwater Aquarium
Are you planning to set up an aquarium? Whether you're new to the hobby or an experienced aquarist, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to go for a marine or freshwater aquarium. Both have their unique advantages and challenges, and it's crucial to understand the difference between them before you make a choice.
The Water
One of the most apparent differences between marine and freshwater aquariums is the water they contain. As their names suggest, marine aquariums contain saltwater, while freshwater aquariums contain freshwater. The water's composition plays a critical role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of the fish and other aquatic creatures living in the aquarium.
Marine aquariums require more attention to water quality, salinity, and pH levels than freshwater aquariums. The specific gravity (salt content) of the water in a marine aquarium should be between 1.020 and 1.025, while the pH level should range from 8.1 to 8.4. In contrast, freshwater aquariums require a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5.
The Fish and Aquatic Creatures
The type of fish and other aquatic creatures you can keep in your aquarium depends on whether it's a marine or freshwater setup. Marine aquariums are home to a vast array of colorful, exotic fish and invertebrates, such as clownfish, tangs, corals, and anemones. In contrast, freshwater aquariums are better suited for fish and creatures that live in freshwater streams, lakes, and rivers, such as tetras, guppies, goldfish, and shrimp.
It's essential to choose fish and other aquatic creatures that are compatible with the water's salinity, pH level, and other parameters in your aquarium. Mixing freshwater and marine fish or creatures is a big no-no, as it can lead to stress, disease, and death.
The Setup and Equipment
The setup and equipment required for a marine aquarium are generally more complex and expensive than those needed for a freshwater aquarium. Marine fish and creatures are more sensitive to changes in water quality, temperature, and lighting, and require specialized equipment to maintain optimal conditions.
For example, marine aquariums require a protein skimmer to remove organic waste and debris from the water, a heater to maintain a stable temperature, and a high-output lighting system to support the growth of corals and other photosynthetic invertebrates. In contrast, freshwater aquariums typically require a filter, heater, and lighting system, but not a protein skimmer or high-output lighting.
The Cost
The cost of setting up and maintaining a marine aquarium is generally higher than that of a freshwater aquarium. A marine setup requires more specialized equipment, such as a protein skimmer, high-output lighting, and a chiller to maintain a stable temperature. In addition, marine fish and creatures are often more expensive to purchase than freshwater fish and creatures.
However, the cost of a marine aquarium can be offset by the beauty and diversity of the fish and creatures that can be kept in it. Marine aquariums are breathtakingly beautiful, with vibrant colors and fascinating behaviors that can captivate even the most jaded observers.
The Maintenance
Maintaining an aquarium is not a one-time affair but rather a continuous process that requires time, effort, and attention. Both marine and freshwater aquariums require regular maintenance, such as water changes, filter cleaning, and equipment checks, to ensure the water quality remains optimal for the fish and creatures living in it.
Marine aquariums require more frequent and extensive maintenance than freshwater aquariums due to the higher sensitivity of marine fish and creatures to changes in water quality. For example, marine aquariums require weekly water changes of around 10% to 20% of the tank volume, while freshwater aquariums typically require water changes of around 20% to 25% per month.
Conclusion
Choosing between a marine and freshwater aquarium depends on various factors, such as personal preference, budget, and experience. Both types of aquariums have their unique advantages and challenges, and it's essential to research and understand the difference between them before making a choice. Whatever type of aquarium you choose, remember that it's a long-term commitment that requires time, effort, and dedication to maintain the health and wellbeing of the fish and aquatic creatures living in it.
