If you’re considering a saltwater fish tank, congrats! These tanks can provide you with so much beauty, peace and entertainment! Saltwater fish come in so many colors and varieties, plus you can add all sorts of fun starfish, crabs and other creatures too!

Start with this saltwater aquarium checklist and come in and see us. Our fish experts would LOVE to help you get started on the right track with your new Saltwater Aquarium set up.

🐠 Saltwater Aquarium Setup Checklist

1. Tank & Stand

  • Aquarium tank – Glass or acrylic; 20–55 gallons is a good starter size.
  • Sturdy stand – Rated to hold the full weight of your tank when filled.

2. Water & Filtration

  • Marine salt mix – Formulated for saltwater tanks (never use table salt).
  • RO/DI water filter – Or buy purified water from a trusted source.
  • Hydrometer or refractometer – For measuring salinity.
  • Protein skimmer – Removes dissolved waste before it breaks down.
  • Filter system – Canister, hang-on-back, or sump with return pump.
  • Powerheads/wavemakers – Create water flow like the ocean.

3. Temperature & Lighting

  • Aquarium heater – Adjustable, rated for your tank size.
  • Thermometer – Digital or stick-on for quick checks.
  • Lighting – LED or T5; stronger lighting for reef tanks with corals.

4. Substrate & Décor

  • Live sand or aragonite substrate – Supports healthy bacteria.
  • Live rock – Biological filtration and natural habitat.
  • Aquarium-safe décor – No metals or unsafe materials.

5. Testing & Maintenance

  • Marine water test kits – pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate (plus calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium if you keep corals).
  • Algae scraper or magnet cleaner – For keeping glass clear.
  • Siphon/gravel vacuum – Makes water changes easy.
  • Buckets – Clearly marked for aquarium use only.
  • Fish net – For safe fish transfers.

6. Optional but Helpful

  • Auto top-off system – Keeps salinity steady by replacing evaporated water.
  • Quarantine tank – Safely observe new fish before adding them to your main tank.
  • Aquarium controller – Monitors temperature, pH, and equipment.