The Ultimate Checklist for Setting Up a Saltwater Aquarium

Bryce Meave

12 Mar 2025 — 2 min read

Setting up a saltwater aquarium is a rewarding but intricate process that requires careful planning. This ultimate checklist will guide you through every essential step, ensuring a healthy and thriving marine environment.

1. Planning Your Saltwater Aquarium

Determine the type of tank you want: Fish-only, Fish-Only with Live Rock (FOWLR), or Reef Tank
Choose the right tank size (larger tanks are generally more stable)
Research the types of fish and corals you want to keep
Decide on the placement of your tank (away from direct sunlight and high-traffic areas)

2. Purchasing Equipment

Tank – Choose a high-quality glass or acrylic aquarium
Stand – Ensure it can support the weight of the filled tank
Filtration System – Includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration
Protein Skimmer – Helps remove organic waste before it breaks down
Heater and Thermometer – Maintain a stable water temperature (typically 76-80°F)
Lighting System – LED or T5 lighting suitable for fish and corals
Powerhead or Wave Maker – Provides necessary water circulation
Test Kits – Measure ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, pH, salinity, calcium, and alkalinity
Refractometer or Hydrometer – Checks salinity levels
Live Rock and Substrate – Provides biological filtration and aesthetic appeal
RO/DI Water Filtration System – Ensures pure water free of contaminants

3. Setting Up Your Aquarium

Place and level your aquarium stand
Set up the tank and ensure it's clean before adding water
Install the filtration system and protein skimmer
Add live rock and substrate
Fill the tank with properly mixed saltwater
Install the heater, thermometer, and powerheads
Turn on all equipment and check for proper function

4. Cycling the Aquarium

Introduce a source of ammonia to start the nitrogen cycle
Monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels with test kits
Allow beneficial bacteria to establish in the biological filter
Perform water changes as needed to maintain stability
Cycle completion typically takes 4-6 weeks

5. Selecting and Adding Livestock

Choose hardy fish and invertebrates for the initial stocking
Quarantine new arrivals before adding them to the main tank
Introduce livestock gradually to prevent ammonia spikes
Research compatibility to avoid aggression and territorial disputes

6. Maintaining Water Quality

Perform regular water changes (10-20% every two weeks)
Monitor water parameters frequently
Top off evaporated water with fresh RO/DI water
Clean protein skimmer and filter media as needed
Maintain stable temperature and salinity levels

7. Managing Tank Health and Preventing Issues

Watch for signs of disease and stress in fish and corals
Quarantine sick or new fish to prevent tank contamination
Control algae growth by managing nutrient levels and using cleanup crews
Adjust lighting schedules to mimic natural conditions

8. Long-Term Aquarium Care

Keep a maintenance schedule for routine tasks
Replace test kits, bulbs, and filter media as needed
Consider upgrading equipment as your tank matures
Continue learning about saltwater aquariums to optimize care

By following this ultimate checklist, you'll ensure your saltwater aquarium is set up for long-term success. Patience and consistency are key to maintaining a thriving marine ecosystem.