Saltwater Aquariums For Dummies®

by Gregory Skomal

• ISBN13: 9780764553400
• ISBN10: 0764553402
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-03-01
• Publisher: For Dummies

Summary

The world of saltwater fish is both fascinating and fun. They come in a variety of different colors and sizes, and make for terrific pets. But you've probably been told that saltwater aquariums are complicated, need constant attention, and cost a lot. This couldn't be farther from the truth. With today's technologies and Saltwater Aquariums For Dummies, a saltwater aquarium can easily be mastered by anyone.Whether you know little or nothing about aquariums, filtration, fish, and invertebrates or just want to switch from collecting freshwater fish to saltwater fish, Saltwater Aquariums For Dummies has what you need to get started in this new world.Saltwater Aquariums For Dummies is a fun reference book that walks you through the entire aquarium process, from selecting the proper equipment to choosing the right fish. You'll quickly move from having no aquarium at all to selecting one and setting it up. Once you're aquarium is rea dy for fish, you'll discover the basics of fish biology and select the right tank inhabitants for your aquarium. To help keep your aquarium clean and your fish happy, Saltwater Aquariums For Dummies also covers important elements that may affect your tanks life-sustaining ability. You'll also discover how to: Choose the proper location for your aquarium Figure out what type of filter you need Set the right water temperature in your tank Properly light your tank Pick the right accessories-rock, coral, plants, and ornaments Find the right mix of fish Check your salt level Understand the nitrogen cycle in saltwater aquariums With clear and easy step-by-step instructions on setting up your tank, maintaining proper water conditions, and feeding your saltwater fish, Saltwater Aquariums For Dummies can help you create a well-equipped aquatic ecosystem in your home in no time.

Author Biography

Gregory Skomal is an experienced aquarist and Marine Fisheries Biologist at Martha's Vineyard Fisheries, Department of Game, Massachusetts.

Table of Contents

Introduction	1	(6)
Part I: The Basic Aquarium	7	(104)
Your First Steps to Keeping Fish	9	(14)
Choosing an Aquarium	23	(12)
Figuring Out Filters	35	(22)
Heating Your Aquarium	57	(12)
The Light Choice	69	(8)
Fishy Furnishings	77	(12)
Final Ingredients	89	(14)
Setting Up Your Aquarium Step by Step	103	(8)
Part II: Fish and Invertebrates	111	(76)
Fish Basics	113	(18)
Choosing the Right Fish	131	(30)
Identifying Invertebrates	161	(22)
From the Dealer to Your Home	183	(4)
Part III: Caring for Your Aquarium	187	(42)
The Cycle of Nitrogen	189	(8)
More Chemistry: Salt, Acidity, and Gases	197	(10)
Always Algae	207	(8)
Keeping Your Aquarium Clean	215	(14)
Part IV: Caring for Your Pets	229	(42)
Feeding Your Fish	231	(12)
Preventing Stress	243	(10)
Diseases and Treatments	253	(10)
Observing Your Fish	263	(8)
Part V: The Part of Tens	271	(10)
Ten Fish to Avoid	273	(2)
Ten Invertebrates to Avoid	275	(2)
Ten Simple Metric Conversions	277	(4)
Part VI: Appendixes	281	(12)
Appendix A: Resources	283	(4)
Appendix B: Glossary	287	(6)
Index	293