Fresh vs Salt Water: Choosing the Best Tank for You

Some people are dog people and some are cat people. But for others, the brilliance and tranquility of a fish tank is the best choice. One of the best things about having a fish tank is the incredible variety that comes with it. You can choose from colorful tropical fish, a minimalistic betta tank, exciting crustaceans, beautiful live plants, and so much more. In fact, there are so many options when creating a fish tank, it can become overwhelming. One of the first decisions you should make can also be one of the hardest: fresh or salt water?

To help you make this decision and craft the best tank for you, here are some things you should consider when creating your aquarium.

1. Cost. Since there are many different factors that go into the cost of a fish tank, it should be one of the first things you consider when starting yours. Saltwater tanks will almost always be quite a bit more expensive than freshwater. Without even considering the tank itself and the upkeep, the fish in general will run you about more than double those of a freshwater tank. While there are some common types for less money, an average saltwater fish, say a tang or an angelfish, will run you about $50-60. At the higher end, saltwater fish can be priced all the way up in the hundreds. For the most part, besides a couple exceptions like cichlids, you can find many pretty, interesting freshwater fish for less than $10. Saltwater tanks have higher equipment costs as well, needing additional hardware such as stronger filters and protein skimmers, both of which could cost a few hundred dollars depending on the quality. Think about what you’re willing to spend on a tank before making your final decision.

2. Your skill level. Undoubtedly, saltwater tanks require much more upkeep and maintenance than a freshwater tank. With freshwater, besides general cleanings, most of your upkeep will be partial water changes once a week. Typically, you’ll replace 10-20% of water each week to control waste levels. With a saltwater tank, water changes are usually doubled. On top of that, you have to maintain a certain salt gravity, so during these partial water changes, you’ll also have to add aquarium salt (that is, if you’re not keeping corals in your saltwater tank). With corals, on top of everything else, you must constantly be checking the levels of calcium and zinc in your tank, as these are essential for corals to sustain life. Corals also require a special lighting system to photosynthesize. Keep in mind that all this extra upkeep also adds to the cost of your tank as well. If you aren’t comfortable with the amount of maintenance a salt water tank requires, it may be a good idea to start with freshwater until you get the hang of things. Saltwater is difficult, but not impossible. Ask a pet care specialist at your local store for extra tips and pointers to make managing a saltwater tank easier.

3. Your vision. Though saltwater tanks may be costlier and more delicate, the reward is in the impressive variety of fish, crustaceans, and coral reefs that you can choose from. Your options with saltwater are going to be more vibrant, colorful, and generally more exciting than what you’ll find in freshwater. You’ll get a bigger variety of fish, as well as more specialized creatures like seahorses, starfish, and octopi, if that’s something you’re interested in. That’s not to say that freshwater tanks can’t still be interesting, though. If recreating an ocean scene isn’t for you, many people craft ponds, lakes, and even iconic river environments like the Amazon in a freshwater tank. There are also some cool creatures, like a breeds of freshwater stingray, if you’re more adventurous. It all just comes down to personal taste interests. Some people are well-equipped for the project of a saltwater tank, but still choose the freshwater route simply over matter of preference. Check out some examples of aquariums and see what tickles your fancy. There are so many options to be explored!

With so much variety and so many choices, take your time before deciding which type of fish tank is best for you. Ask pet care specialists as well as people who have owned each type of tank. With some studying and patience, you can create your own underwater masterpiece.

What’s do you think is the coolest type of tank? Let us know in the comments!