Salt water fish have been popular for pets since the 1950s, although back in those days people used to visit their local beaches and pick the fish themselves with the aquarium ready and waiting. The old tanks didn't have live coral and complex filtration, but in the old days people just used compressors and whatever pebbles and things they found at the beach. Nowadays people can find saltwater fish on sale at local stores and on the Internet, as well as electric filters, pumps, heaters and substances such as salt mixes that are available to add to the water to ensure the correct environment. Saltwater fish owners have now found that it is best to keep their beloved pets in the biggest tanks possible, and experts say that at least a 55 gallon tank is the best option for anyone who wants to keep numerous fish. Before people even look at saltwater fish on sale, they must first make up their mind about how much money they have to spend, how much room they have and what other life forms they want in the tank. Some people like to have live coral in addition to their fish, and others just want fish alone. The survival of saltwater fish in the modern hobbyist's tank depends on the maintenance of the water to ensure that it is as close to actual ocean water as humanly possible. The same places that have saltwater fish on sale will typically have salt mixes that conveniently keep the water clean and safe for healthy fish. Live coral and fish typically do well with a salt mix of chlorine, sodium, calcium, potassium, silicon, sulfur, magnesium and bromine. Saltwater fish also need small amounts of iron, copper, iodine, cobalt, chromium and manganese. The store owners or online experts can explain the quantities needed. Gone are the days of the saltwater hobbyist running down to the ocean to start their own tank - now hobbyists can create a clean and sustainable environment even if they live hundreds of miles from the sea.
