Basic Equipment:
- Aquarium/Tank: Depending on the desired size and type (fish-only, FOWLR, or reef).
- Stand: Sturdy enough to support the weight of a full aquarium.
- Lid or Canopy: To prevent fish from jumping out and reduce evaporation.
- Lighting: Specialized lighting for marine tanks, more advanced if you’re keeping corals.
- Heater: To maintain the required temperature.
- Thermometer: To monitor the water temperature.
Filtration & Circulation:
- Protein Skimmer: Removes organic compounds.
- Live Rock: Provides natural filtration, beneficial bacteria, and aesthetics.
- Live Sand: A substrate that contains beneficial bacteria.
- Powerheads or Wave Makers: To ensure proper water circulation.
- Filter: Canister, hang-on-back, or sump filter system, depending on tank size and type.
- UV Sterilizer: Optional; helps control parasites and algae.
Water Quality:
- Salt Mix: Special mix for creating saltwater.
- Refractometer or Hydrometer: To measure the specific gravity or salinity of the water.
- RO/DI System (Reverse Osmosis/Deionization): For purifying tap water.
- Water Testing Kits: To measure parameters such as ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, pH, alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium.
- Supplements & Additives: Like calcium, magnesium, strontium, and iodine (especially important in reef tanks).
Maintenance Tools:
- Algae Scrapers or Pads: For cleaning the glass/acrylic.
- Siphon & Gravel Vacuum: For water changes and cleaning the substrate.
- Buckets: For water changes (used only for the aquarium).
- Nets: For moving or catching fish.
- Tongs or Forceps: Useful for placing or moving items without disturbing the environment.
Aquascaping:
- Decor: Corals, artificial decorations, caves, or tunnels.
- Substrate: Live sand, crushed coral, or aragonite sand.
Feeding:
- Food: Depending on your fish/invertebrates. Options include flakes, pellets, frozen, or live food.
- Feeding Tools: Such as clips for seaweed or feeding tongs.
Safety and Backup:
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): Protects against electrical shocks.
- Battery-operated Air Pump: Useful during power outages
Quarantine/Hospital Tank:
- Separate Tank: Ideally with its heater and filter, used for quarantining new arrivals or treating sick fish.
Miscellaneous:
- Aquarium Safe Sealant: For repairs or adjustments.
- Aquarium Gloves: To protect both the tank and the hobbyist.
- Books & Guides: On marine fish, corals, and invertebrates for reference.
