Saltwater Aquarium Stocking Calculator
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing key information for stocking a saltwater aquarium:
Aspect | Guidelines |
---|---|
Stocking Rule | 1 inch of fish per 5 gallons of water for most fish |
Compatibility | Use compatibility charts to ensure fish get along; add least aggressive species first |
Tank Size | Minimum 30 gallons recommended for most marine setups |
Fish Types | Mix of community fish, cleaners, and centerpiece fish |
Popular Beginner Fish | Clownfish, Royal Gramma, Firefish, Gobies, Blennies |
Cleaners | Cleaner Wrasses, Shrimp, Snails, Hermit Crabs |
Centerpiece Fish | Angelfish, Tangs, Butterflyfish (need larger tanks) |
Acclimation | Drip acclimation recommended; quarantine new fish |
Feeding | Varied diet of frozen, freeze-dried, and pellet foods |
Water Parameters | Salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4, Temperature 72-78°F (22-26°C) |
Filtration | Protein skimmer, mechanical, and biological filtration |
Live Rock | 1-2 lbs per gallon provides biological filtration and habitat |
Maintenance | Regular water changes (10-20% weekly/biweekly) |
Lighting | Appropriate for corals if keeping a reef tank |
Quarantine | 2-4 weeks for new fish to prevent disease spread |
Aggression Management | Provide hiding spots and break up line of sight |
Maximum Bioload | Don’t exceed 80% of tank’s carrying capacity |
Remember to research each species’ specific needs and compatibility before adding them to your aquarium. Proper planning and gradual stocking will help ensure a healthy, thriving saltwater ecosystem.