The Difference Between Salt Water and Fresh Water?

Freshwater fish are found in rivers, streams and lakes, which are subject to daily or seasonal changes in temperature and water chemistry, whereas saltwater fish are collected from oceans and seas containing vast amounts of water. As such, the natural environment of saltwater fish is very stable and they can be sensitive to major changes in water chemistry or temperature.

Most saltwater fish and invertebrates are wild-caught and need to adapt to aquarium life, whereas most freshwater fish are bred in captivity and are easy to keep in aquariums. The difficulties in acquiring extra care needed to safely transport marines from reef to pet store also makes them more expensive to buy than freshwater fish.

Keeping the water conditions right

The temperature, salinity and water chemistry of a marine tank must be monitored regularly with reliable test kits to maintain the best conditions, particularly during the cycling process, when ammonia and nitrite levels are high. In a freshwater tank slight changes in water conditions are acceptable, and the fish will adapt to the changing water conditions, but marines will often suffer if there's a change from the water conditions they are used to. Basically if you look after the water, the fish are very easy to keep, and a tank containing around 200 litres of water or more is recommended to maintain a stable environment.

PH of a Marine Tank

The pH of a marine tank is one of the most important factors. Marine fish and invertebrates are especially sensitive to rapid changes in their pH and a pH of 8.3 is ideal for most marines.

Nitrates

Most marine tanks have very low levels of nitrate. It can cause excessive algae growth, which will smother rocks and corals if left un-checked and can also change the pH of a marine aquarium. Nitrate isn't generally a danger to marine fish, but high levels in a tank are often a sign of poor maintenance and can indicate other problems in the aquarium.

Salinity or Specific Gravity

These two measurements tell us about the salt level in the tank. Salinity is the total amount of salt in the water, and Specific Gravity is the density of the water at a certain temperature. It is therefore very important to mix salt water for your tank and  measure specific gravity at the temperature of the tank or you will find the specific gravity changes with water temperature.

Temperature

Finally, the temperature of a saltwater tank is basically the same as a freshwater tank. Anywhere between 24C - 27C is good. Temperature variations increase fish stress and invariably lead to disease, so a good heater (or chiller) is a must.

Disclaimer:  This article is supplied for informative purposes only. Seapets Ltd has done its very best to make sure that the above information is up-to-date and correct, but takes no responsibility for any consequences resulting from the following of this advice. As always, it is recommended that you consult with your local vet regarding any concerns that you may have for your pet.

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