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Decorated with coral and saltwater fish, reef tanks can be some of the most visually-interesting aquariums to maintain. But while they are incredibly rewarding, reef tanks can be more intensive to set up than a freshwater aquarium. Providing complete aquarium solutions to Dayton and Cincinnati, OH, customers, Gerber’s Tropical Fish explains what steps you should expect to follow when setting up your tank.  

5 Steps to Follow When Setting Up Your Reef Tank

1. Research & Shop

Before you buy a fish tank and any equipment, you should carefully research the type of coral and fish that you’d like to keep. To keep things simple, start by choosing species that require similar conditions and can cohabitate peacefully. Find out what tank size, filtration, lighting, and other features are best for your choice of inhabitants. Form a checklist of everything you’ll need and seek help from an aquarium shop to make sure you’re getting the right materials.

2. Add Saltwater & Live Rock

Once you’ve purchased a tank and have it placed, add sand to the bottom and prepare saltwater according to the product instructions. Next, cure the live rock by rinsing it in a bucket of the mixed saltwater. Once the rocks are clean, arrange them as desired in the tank.

3. Install Equipment

reef tankWhile there may not be any living material in your aquarium just yet, you’ll need to spend a few weeks conditioning the water. Make sure the skimmer and filtration systems are set up to ensure consistent water movement. Perform water testing and changes regularly and adjust the pH to hit the target range of 8.1 to 8.4.   

4. Add Coral in Stages

When the water is conditioned, add any creatures that can help combat algae—such as crabs and snails. In the next two weeks, you can introduce your beginner corals to the live rock and allow them to acclimate. When another two weeks have passed, you can place aquacultured corals and adjust them according to the instructions.  

5. Welcome New Fish

After all the coral has been established for about two weeks, you can introduce desired saltwater fish in stages. Work with a trusted fish store to make sure you understand the right water change, feeding, and introduction timelines for the intended species.

While reef tank setup involves many steps, there are many resources available to streamline the project. Residents in Dayton and Cincinnati, OH, can turn to Gerber’s Tropical Fish for complete reef tank assistance. In addition to providing an ever-changing selection of reef-compatible fish, this shop sells coral, aquarium plants, and equipment to complete your experience. They also offer comprehensive water testing services to ensure that your aquarium is maintained correctly to support marine life. Check them out on Facebook for more information about their services or call (937) 297-0515 for inquiries about available fish and equipment.

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