The best thing about exotic salt water fish for the home aquarist is the fascinating appearance of these many species, and the eye catching effects they have on all visitors to the home. Most beginner salt water fish tank owners want to start small, though, since setting up a huge 200 gallon tank and buying all the high-tech gadgets can take up a lot of time and money. There are salt water fish tanks for beginners, though, and several tricks and tips that can help make the process as easy as possible in the beginning stages when they hobbyist is still learning the ropes.
When setting up a beginner salt water fish tank, the best way to start is with the basic tank, cover, light, power filter, aeration system, heater and thermometer that might be used for a typical fresh water setup. The only additional items required to house those exotic salt water fish are crushed coral gravel, a quality marine salt mix, and a hydrometer to check the salt level. Salt water fish tanks aren't so horribly different from fresh water tanks, at least not when it comes to setting them up.
Most people want to decorate their salt water fish tanks as well, and many artificial decorations, including plastic plants and other ornaments, are safe for use in either fresh or salt water. Beginner salt water fish tank owners can also find items meant specifically for salt water fish, like dried or artificial corals, sea horse trees, and live rock to provide shelter and make the aquarium more interesting.
Hobbyists should not go on to add any exotic salt water fish until they have completed the tank cycling, though. After the setup salt water fish tanks have been running for a day or two, hobbyists should add a few hardy, inexpensive fish or invertebrates, and care for them for the four to six weeks needed to establish the bacteria culture.
