Archive for 'Saltwater & Reef Articles'

by Stan Owens, Division Vice President; Greg Valatka, Director of Operations; Melissa Wright, Quality Engineer, Chemical Products, all from United Pet Group

Since the development of Instant Ocean sea salt in 1964, it has grown to become the standard synthetic sea salt formula, used by more aquariums both large and small around the world. Its beginnings stem from a desire to provide a viable alternative ...

Fintastic’s Salt Water Chemistry Lesson – Calcium

Calcium is used by all salt-water organisms. Some animals use much more than others do; in fact, to some animals, calcium is one of the major components of the diet. Therefore certain types of salt water systems require more attention to the calcium levels. In all salt-water aquariums, calcium must added to replenish the amount consumed by organisms ...

Reef tank parasites such as cryptocarion (Ich) and Amyloodinum (Velvet disease) are ubiquitous and almost impossible to completely eradicate when you are first establishing your tank. Traditional treatments would be fatal to most of the invertebrates you may be trying to raise.

Although there are several methods for controlling these parasites, and fierce differences of opinion as to which method is the best, the most ...

Hermit crabs are probably one of the most popular animals that are kept by marine hobbyists, since there are many different sizes and types available. It is the rare marine aquarium that does not have at least a few hermit crabs, and the larger hermit crabs are ...

The beauty and successful maintenance of a saltwater aquarium requires attention not only to the chemical and temperature balance of the water, but also to the temperamental aspect of the fish themselves. It is essential that you balance their personalities (thereby increasing compatibility) by grouping passive fish with other passive fish and aggressive fish with other aggressive fish. This is the only way to avoid difficulties ...

Easily the most recognizable and popular saltwater fish in the hobby is the clownfish (or anemonefish). They are prized not only for their beauty and hardiness but also for their interesting symbiotic lifestyle with host anemones.

The news about these fish just gets better as they are among a growing number of marine fish being captively bred. Already, several hatcheries and “fish farms” produce an ...

Fish aquariums are capable of providing a bundle of benefits to any room in the house. They can provide an aesthetic focal point to a room setting or a conversation starter for the local viewing audience. In addition, fish aquariums serve as great hobby starters for individuals wanting to develop interest and expertise in a satisfying and rewarding field. Both fresh and saltwater ...