Building an aquarium is exciting. There are so many different options, variations, colors, sizes to choose from. When building your aquarium there are factors you will want to consider. The size and shape of the tank, the type of fish, and the budget you have for setting up the tank all play a role in the final design.

When it comes to size, one rule of thumb is that each gallon of water can support one inch of fish. So, for example, a 10-gallon tank could support 10 inches of fish. It’s important to remember that larger tanks are easier to maintain than smaller ones, so it’s worth considering a larger size if you’re able.

Fish you want to keep will also dictate the design of your aquarium. Some fish prefer open spaces, while others like many hiding places. Reviewing the habitat requirements of the fish, you’re interested in keeping will help you determine what type of design will be best for them.

Finally, you’ll need to consider your budget when designing an aquarium. Aquariums can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to know how much you’re willing to spend before you start.

Freshwater Tanks

There are a few things to consider when designing a freshwater aquarium. The initial cost of the tank itself is one factor, but you’ll also need to budget for other essentials like gravel, plants, and fish. Depending on the size and complexity of your setup, the total cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

When designing your aquarium, it’s important to consider the fish you want to keep. The first consideration with the fish you want to keep is the price. Freshwater fish generally range around $7-$12, although they can average $1-$60. Another factor is different species require more space than others, and some prefer different water conditions. Do your research before buying any fish, and make sure they will be compatible with your setup.

Plants are another important consideration when designing a freshwater aquarium. Not only do they add beauty and interest to your tank, but they also help keep the water clean and oxygenated. Many plants are available, so take some time to choose ones that will thrive in your aquarium, or ask one of our professionals for plant suggestions.

Finally, consider the maintenance required for your freshwater aquarium. Keeping the water clean and filtered is essential for the health of your fish, and you’ll also need to perform regular water changes. Depending on the size of your tank, this can be a time-consuming task. Ensure you’re prepared to commit to the necessary upkeep before setting up your aquarium. Generally, it would help if you cleaned your freshwater aquarium at least once a month. This will help keep the water quality high and prevent algae growth. If you have a larger tank or more fish, you may need to clean it more often. And if you notice your fish are acting sick or the water is cloudy, it’s time for a cleaning!

Saltwater Tanks

The cost of running a saltwater aquarium can vary depending on your size and setup. Generally, saltwater aquariums require more expensive equipment and maintenance than freshwater aquariums.

To get started, you’ll need to purchase a saltwater aquarium kit, which can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000. Aquarium kits usually include everything you need to get started, including the tank, filter, lighting, and sometimes the fish.

Once your aquarium is set up, you’ll need to add salt to the water. This can be done by buying a unique salt mix at a pet store or online. A 25-pound bag of salt mix will typically cost around $20. You’ll also need to purchase a powerhead or aquarium pump to circulate the water. Powerheads start at approximately $30.

To keep your fish healthy, you’ll need to perform regular water changes and add fresh water to the tank. You’ll also need to feed your fish regularly. Good quality fish food will cost around $20 for a large container. Saltwater fish can cost around the same as freshwater fish, but with saltwater tanks, many want exotic fish. Know that exotic fish can require more specific care and be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Finally, you’ll need to purchase basic aquarium accessories, such as a gravel vacuum, net, and thermometer. Items can be found at most pet stores or online for around $30.

Setting up and maintaining a saltwater aquarium can range from $300 to $1,000 per year. This cost can be reduced by doing some maintenance yourself and purchasing used equipment. However, even with these savings, saltwater aquariums are still more expensive to set up and maintain than freshwater aquariums.

If you’re considering setting up a saltwater aquarium, research the cost of everything you’ll need before making your final decision. With some planning, you can have a beautiful and healthy saltwater aquarium that will provide years of enjoyment.

With these factors in mind, you’re ready to design your perfect aquarium!

Building an aquarium is something anyone can do. A quality aquarium, however, considers the specific needs of the fish and other aquatic creatures inhabiting it. Quality aquariums factor in the size and shape of the tank, the type of filtration system, the lighting, and even the placement of decorations, creating a comfortable and healthy environment for your fish.

When choosing an aquarium, the first thing to do is be sure to pick the appropriate size for the number and type of fish you plan to keep. A small tank might be cute, but your fish will be cramped and unhappy if it’s too small. Likewise, a large tank might be impressive, but your fish will suffer if it needs to be appropriately filtered and lit.

Your filtration system is one of the most critical aspects of aquarium health. It will keep the water clear and clean, and it will also help to oxygenate the water. Be sure to choose a filter that is sized appropriately for your tank and easy to maintain.

Lighting is another important element of your aquarium design. The light you use will determine how well your fish can see and affect their mood and behavior. Be sure to choose a bright light for your fish to see but not so bright that it bothers them.

Finally, when considering your aquarium design, be sure to think about the placement of decorations. While putting all of your rocks and plants in one corner might be tempting, this can stress out your fish. Instead, create a natural-looking environment by placing decorations in different areas of the tank. This will give your fish plenty of places to hide and explore and help keep them healthy and happy.

Dont’s When Building a Tank.

When setting up an aquarium, you’ll want to avoid a few things if you want your fish to stay healthy and happy. Here are four of the most common mistakes people make when designing their aquariums:

1. Not Planning Ahead

Common mistakes people make when setting up an aquarium is not planning. Before you go out and buy all the fish, equipment, and decorations for your new tank, take some time to plan what you want your aquarium to look like and what type of fish you want to keep. This will help you avoid impulsive purchases that could cost you more money in the long run.

2. Not Cycling Your Tank

Another mistake that novice aquarium owners make is not cycling their tank before adding fish. Cycling your tank means allowing the beneficial bacteria in your filter to build up so they can break down the waste produced by your fish. This process can take several weeks, so it’s important to be patient and wait to add fish until your tank is fully cycled.

3. Overfeeding Your Fish

Overfeeding your fish is the quickest ways to create a dirty, unhealthy aquarium. Fish only need a small amount of food each day, so be sure to give them only what they can eat in a few minutes. It’s also important to remove any uneaten food from the tank, so it doesn’t decompose and pollute the water.

4. Not Cleaning Your Tank Regularly

Another mistake leading to a dirty, unhealthy aquarium is not cleaning your tank regularly. It would be best to do a partial water change (about 20%) once a week and a complete gravel vacuum at least once a month. According to the manufacturer’s directions, it would be best if you also cleaned any equipment, such as filters and pumps. Following these simple tips can avoid common mistakes leading to an unhealthy aquarium.

If you already have an aquarium that is not functioning correctly, we can help you troubleshoot the problem and get your tank back up and running. We offer advice on choosing the right fish for your tank or keeping your tank clean.

OCD Reefs provides a clean and professional environment where saltwater enthusiasts can feed their obsession. We offer high-quality saltwater aquarium installation and maintenance at a competitive price. Our store in Salt Lake City provides saltwater fish, coral, and aquarium supplies. With over 25 years of combined industry experience, we have built our business on honesty, reliability, and passion. We’re not here to make the sale. We are here to create a long-term relationship and earn your business. We believe in the value of customer relationships and will not stop working until the job is done. We are here to help you fuel your passion; stop by our store in Salt Lake City or give us a call to learn more.

   Owning and maintaining an aquarium is an art style: pristine waters, vibrant and lively coral, and beautiful marine life. The masterpiece of every hobbyist’s imagination, coming to life from an empty tank, sand, and rock. The hobby is not as common, but it becomes an obsession for the extremely passionate hobbyist. The goal is to own top-of-the-line equipment and the most exotic and rare fish. Here are some of the most exotic and expensive fish for any aquarium.

1. Candy Basslet – $1,000

Considered to be one of the most colorful fish, this little guy gets his name from its vibrant candy-like colors of bright orange and fluorescent blue stripes. Candy Basslets are generally disease resistant, easy to feed, and remain small, only capable of reaching a final length of six inches. They are rarely found in the Caribbean and are extremely hard to catch, so the Candy Basslet is priced at around $1,000.

1. Clarion Angelfish – $2,500

The lifespan of this fish will amaze you! With being able to live up to 40 years, the Clarion Angelfish brightens up your aquarium with its beautiful colors for the long run. Inhabiting the Revillagigedo Islands on Mexico’s Pacific coast, it is a complete abundance of almost 99% of the island’s marine population. However, being located in a marine protected area and generally not traded as an aquarium fish, the Clarion Angelfish is priced at around $2,500.

1. Wrought Iron Butterfly – $2,700

The Japanese Bolt would be a better name for this fish. This black-and-white beauty will zip through your tank effortlessly because of its contrasting colors and aggressive swimming. It is native to the Pacific islands of Japan, and like the Clarion Angelfish, the Wrought Iron Butterly is rarely traded as an aquarium fish, which is why it is priced at $2,700.

1. Australian Flathead Perch – $5,000

A scarce fish in the Basslet family inhabits Western Australia and Queensland. This fish is unique, with its flat head traits and slim torpedo shape. It is still considered a really rare sight and hard to catch. This is why this rare exotic fish is priced at around $5,000.

1. Neptune Grouper – $6,000

These fish are bright and fluorescent orange as juveniles, but when mature, they lose the fluorescence and gain a pink hue. Neptune Groupers are deep-sea dwellers. Living under 250ft-800ft underwater makes the Neptune Grouper extremely hard to catch. Deep sea nets could capture these beauties, but the fish would die without decompression. So, it’s up to the fortunate divers to go deeper than they usually do to get a glimpse of the ultra-rare fish. Catching is a feat in and of itself. Then, the diver must proceed to the surface and decompress for himself and the Neptune Grouper. This requires special equipment. Because of this, the Neptune Grouper is ultra rare in the aquarium trade and priced at $6,000.

1. Golden Basslet – $8,000

One of the smallest in the grouper family, the Golden Basslet is usually found in the Atlantic and Pacific. These fish live deeper than the Neptune Grouper, only being able to be reached by submersible craft around 800ft below water. Deep-sea dwellers, and because of the decompression process, are priced around $8,000.

1. Bladefin Basslet – $10,000

The Bladefin Basslet is a rather exquisite fish with beautiful transitions from glistening white to vibrant oranges. Only able to grow up to 1.5 inches and more challenging to catch than the Neptune Grouper and Golden Basslet, this fish is priced at $10,000.

1. Peppermint Angelfish – $30,000

Reminiscing about a traditional holiday cane, the Peppermint Angelfish is a deep-dwelling beauty. The Peppermint Angelfish inhabits the Caribbean deep sea reef and has yet to be caught often. With such an ultra-rare tropical fish with vibrant colors, the collectors are at the edge of their seats, bidding on this fish for more than $30,000.

1. Freshwater Polka Dot Stingray – $100,000

This particular fish is known for its rare genetic mutation that causes its head to be U-shaped rather than the usual round shape of every other stingray. This stingray is extremely rare and not so easy to take care of. Because of its U-shaped head, it cannot hunt and eat like its normal round shape counterpart. This means that it must be fed by hand in captivity for survival. Taiwan displays this stingray and prices it at $100,000.

1. Platinum Arowana – $400,000

Able to live 50 years and grow up to 3 feet long, this haunting white beauty remains the single most expensive exotic saltwater fish. Its color is the result of a very rare genetic mutation. They are brilliant, as they can learn to recognize individuals, making them great pets to own. But, because they grow so long, they require a massive tank of at least 300 gallons, which is not a luxury for most hobbyists. Due to their rarity, they are implanted with a micro ID chip as juveniles to identify and authenticate it.

When browsing for exotic fish, trust your local fish stores to carry the right selection for you. Visit OCD Reefs to get your own exotic beauty today, and browse through our fantastic selection of coral and high-tech saltwater tank equipment.