Maintenance

Created by Hal using Microsoft Word

Maintenance is very important in a contained ecosystem in the aquarium. We have to make sure the ecosystem stays in balance. Tests are done weekly to make sure the salinity is within the normal range. Chemical tests are done to check for pH, ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites. Calcium levels have to be regulated and sometimes calcium has to be added. Water evaporates every day at a rate of about 2 gallons a day, so we have to add water back to the system. This is done from our reverse osmosis system to get pure water. Some algae build up occurs every day, so we have to scrape the sides of the aquarium to keep it really clear. We feed our fish once a day but it is easy to overfeed. Fish also need to scavenge for food on the rock to help keep the system clean. We add micro-nutrients such as Iodine, Strontium, Molybdenum, and Micro-Vert for filter feeders and corals. Saltwater aquariums require time and attention, but a balanced ecosystem is a joy to watch. Every day there is something new!