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.