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Marine Aquariums

by Lynn Robertson, 

Springhurst Feeders Supply

As salt water aquariums become much easier to manage, they have also become more popular. Setting up a marine fish only tank can be as easy as a fresh water tank. The most difficult part of set up is waiting through the 30 to 45 day cycle needed to establish the tank's bacteria that your fish will need to live on. Feeders trained professionals will be happy to help you through the process of choosing your tank and equipment to fit your needs.

Once the tank is set and is through the bacteria growth cycle, you will decide on the type of fish you are going to keep. Remember that salt water fish come from the ocean where survival of the fittest is the rule of life. Each fish has a unique defense mechanism. Keeping this in mind, make sure you ask a few standard questions about the various types of fish you may be considering:

1. How big will the fish grow? The old saying "the fish only gets as large as the tank" does not always apply. That cute, two-inch black and white spotted fish can grow to be a foot long or more within a year!

2. Will your new fish get along with other fish you have or plan to introduce into your tank? You won't want to add a handsome trigger fish only to find it ate your prized angel fish! The mix of fish in your tank and the order in which the fish are added can be very important.

3. What food does your fish require? Unless you want to feed live food, make sure that carnivorous fish have been weaned from live food and taught to eat freeze-dried or frozen foods. Some fish need to graze on algae or polyps. While these fish may also eat flake foods, they need a vitamin boost. We recommend fortified algae sheet and romaine lettuce for these fish. Adding variety to their diet will result in a more healthy and colorful fish.

If you decide on a reef tank with corals, invertebrates and live rock, Feeders Supply has everything you need for that type marine tank, too. Reef tanks require a little more attention to the tank. Corals are chosen the same way as are fish, because they require special diets, special lighting and many not always get along with a neighboring coral.

Feeders Supply is a member of the Louisville Marine Club and our team of professionals works with this group to stay in tune with the newest trends. Our Springhurst store has an expanded coral selection, and we have added a 180-gallon reef tank and VHO lighting. We're very proud of our new tank and would love to show it to you! If you're setting up a new aquarium or have one already, we will enjoy visiting with you and sharing knowledge about the fascinating hobby of marine tanks.