Skip to content

Hepper is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Saltwater vs Freshwater Aquarium: Pros, Cons & FAQs

salt water aquarium vs salt water aquarium header

Choosing which aquarium type to purchase can be tricky. Both saltwater and freshwater tanks are desirable, each having its unique properties and aquatic inhabitant opportunities. With both so appealing, what are the differences between the two? In this article, we will explain the pros and cons of each aquarium and help you make an informed decision on which aquarium set-up is right for you.

The advantages and disadvantages of either a saltwater tank or a freshwater tank will give you the basis on which aquarium is right for you and meets your level of aquatic skills. The different aquarium environments allow you to keep different fish, invertebrates, and even plants! Use the article as guidance as to what your personal preference is.

wave tropical divider

Visual Differences

salt vs fresh water side by side
Image Credit: Dobermaraner, Shutterstock/ Joan Carles Juarez, Shutterstock

At a Glance

Saltwater Aquarium
  • Average size range: 20 to 150 gallons
  • Additives: Aquarium salt and water conditioner
  • Experience required: Knowledgeable/professional
Freshwater aquarium
  • Average size range: 5 to 120 gallons
  • Additives: Water conditioner
  • Experience required: Beginner

Saltwater Aquarium Overview

saltwater tank clownfish tropical fish coral
Image Credit: Vojce, Shutterstock

What is a Saltwater Aquarium?

A saltwater aquarium (aka a marine or reef aquarium) contains high amounts of pure sodium that is naturally dissolved into the water. This type of aquarium can house salt-tolerant species of fish, invertebrates, and plants that otherwise cannot survive in freshwater. Saltwater fish are generally not easy to come by and you may need to get your stock from a reputable breeder or large chain aquarium store. Saltwater tanks are more expensive to maintain and stock. Saltwater plants are generally hard to come by; therefore, many saltwater aquarists prefer to set up a reef tank.

The Ideal Temperature

Many saltwater fish are better suited to warmer water conditions. Although the temperature for a saltwater tank depends on the type of inhabitants you wish to keep, the general temperature is usually from 75–78 degrees Fahrenheit.

The pH for a Saltwater Aquarium

The alkalinity of the water is important for the health of your aquarium. Each species of saltwater fish or invertebrate requires a certain pH balance for healthy mucous production. An ideal range of 142–125ppm or 8–12dKH is recommended. You must regularly monitor the alkalinity in an aquarium, including the GH and KH (General Hardness, and Carbonate hardness). Marine fish require a high pH; the test results should be from 7.9 to 8.5.

Saltwater Aquarium Essential Equipment

Purchasing the necessary equipment for your tank is recommended before you start adding inhabitants. The standard equipment to maintain a saltwater aquarium may be pricey, but it is required.

Equipment Needed:
  • A large and spacious tank
  • Aquarium salt and hydrometer
  • A powerhead
  • Live substrate and rock
  • Heater
  • Thermometer
  • Air pump
  • A large air stones
  • Filtration equipment that can filter 5 times the water volume
  • Test kit
Saltwater inhabitant ideas:
  • Tangs
  • Anthias
  • Angelfish (Dwarf or Large)
  • Butterflies
  • Clownfish
  • Hamlets
  • Hogfish
  • Rabbitfish
  • Sea horses
  • Lobsters
  • Marine crabs
blue tropical fish saltwater aquarium
Image By: Paul Brennan, Pixabay

Maintenance

The aquarium should be tested regularly to ensure there is enough salt content in the water. Diligent work should be done to ensure the aquarium is kept clean and controlled. Small changes such as a temperature or pH drop can harm sensitive marine fish. You will need to monitor the pH, KH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrates closely. One of the most important things to watch closely is the salinity of the aquarium, as marine fish need an appropriate salt content in the water to function properly.

Suitable for:

Saltwater aquariums are not suitable for novice aquarium owners. The knowledge and experience should be of a professional level. Taking on a saltwater aquarium is a lot of work, something novice aquarists are not yet familiar with. You need to be able to provide the right treatment and be able to house and care for the inhabitants more than freshwater fish.

Marine fish are very sensitive and cannot tolerate most beginner mistakes. A saltwater aquarium is best suited for an experienced aquarist who has done extensive research on saltwater aquariums and has the time and effort to appropriately care for one. You will need to have a pet store close by that sells marine-based fish products, as they are hard to come by.

Pros
  • Wide variety of colorful marine fish to choose from
  • The challenges and opportunities that are opened up
  • Provides a new experience for the standard hobbyist
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Marine fish are sensitive to sudden environmental changes
  • Not suitable for beginner aquarists

divider fish plants 2

Freshwater Aquarium Overview

goldfish-aquarium-pixabay
Image Credit: JuanCarlosPalauDiaz, Pixabay

What is a Freshwater Aquarium?

Freshwater aquariums use the standard low salinity water that is rich in ions and minerals. It is one of the most popular types of aquariums to keep. The water only needs to be treated with a quality de-chlorinator; no added salts are required. A freshwater tank can house a wide variety of inhabitants and plants. These are some of the easier aquariums to keep, with the fish being less sensitive than marine fish. These aquariums are less expensive and more affordable to the average hobbyist.

The Ideal Temperature

Freshwater aquariums are categorized into cold-water aquariums, where the ideal temperature is between 68-77 degrees Fahrenheit, and tropical aquariums. A tropical freshwater aquarium requires a heater and a temperature range between 74-86 degrees Fahrenheit.

The pH of a Freshwater Aquarium

Depending on the type of aquatic inhabitant and plants you want to house in the aquarium, you will need a pH balance from 6.0 to 7.8. Freshwater fish can tolerate small fluctuations in pH. It is important to keep an eye on the KH and GH. Some freshwater fish prefer more acidic water whereas some prefer water with a high alkaline balance.

Freshwater Aquarium Essential Equipment

Freshwater aquariums require less equipment than a saltwater tank. The benefit is that some inhabitants do not require a fully kitted aquarium. Betta fish are an example of fish that prefer a smaller environment with a low-flow filter and air stone.

Equipment needed:
  • Tank
  • Filter that filters 10 times the amount of water volume
  • Airstone
  • Test kit
  • Thermometer
  • Heater for tropical fish
Freshwater Inhabitant Ideas:
  • Goldfish
  • Koi
  • Betta/Siamese fighter fish
  • Guppies
  • Mollies
  • Swordtails
  • Tetras
  • Danios
  • African Cichlid
  • Corydoras
  • Rasboras
  • Shrimp
  • Apple snails
goldfishes-pixabay
Image Credit: Hans, Pixabay

Maintenance

Freshwater aquariums are generally low maintenance. Cycling the aquarium is simple and there are many products on the market for freshwater aquariums. Regular water testing for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrates should be conducted. A thermometer should be placed in the aquarium to monitor the temperature; most freshwater fish can handle a mild fluctuation in temperature, but this is not ideal. Gravel vacuuming can be done at least three times a month depending on how big and stocked your aquarium is. Most freshwater fish prefer a lot of decoration in the aquarium for safety.

Suitable for:

Freshwater aquariums are well suited for novice and seasoned aquarists alike. The maintenance is simple, and the inhabitants are hardy. This makes them able to withstand some common beginner mistakes. However, thorough research is vital before you set up and purchase inhabitants for your aquarium. Most pet stores stock a variety of freshwater products.

Pros
  • Low maintenance
  • Inexpensive
  • Suitable for beginner aquarists
Cons
  • Frequent water testing should be conducted
  • Freshwater fish are prone to a variety of diseases

aquarium plant divider

Additional Information

The Main Differences Between Saltwater and Freshwater Aquariums

A tabulated short version of the main differences between these two types of aquariums.

Saltwater Aquarium: Freshwater Aquarium:
Requires aquarium salt and de-chlorinator Only requires de-chlorinator
Aquaria need to be reefed Plastic decorations can be used
Expensive equipment and maintenance Generally inexpensive depending on inhabitants
An interesting variety of inhabitants Cold and tropical water inhabitants

Why Choose a Saltwater Aquarium?

Saltwater aquariums offer a different experience in the aquarium industry. The saltwater hobby is generally something seasoned aquarists see as a welcomed challenge and professional experience. Saltwater tanks are commonly kept to preserve some species of marine inhabitants. Owning a saltwater aquarium gives the aquarists a sense of pride, as maintaining a saltwater aquarium is hard work! A great reward is to see a flourishing saltwater aquarium fully reefed.

Why Choose a Freshwater Aquarium?

Freshwater aquariums provide an opportunity to house different inhabitants in a variety of setups and environments. Freshwater aquariums are suited for aquarists who do not have a lot of time in the day to maintain a tank. Keeping a freshwater aquarium provides the visual aspect an aquarium brings to an environment with a bonus of low maintenance.

The Different Size of Inhabitants

Marine fish are generally larger than freshwater species of fish. Therefore, marine fish require larger aquariums to be healthy and thrive. If you are looking for brightly colored and large inhabitants, a saltwater aquarium is your best choice.

The Amount of Equipment Used in a Saltwater and Freshwater Aquarium

Freshwater aquariums require less equipment than saltwater aquariums do. Freshwater tanks require a heater if the aquarium is for tropical fish species. The equipment is cheaper and more available than saltwater equipment.

Saltwater aquariums require a hefty amount of equipment to ensure the balance and ecosystem mimics a marine fish’s natural habitat as closely as possible.

Placement

Small freshwater aquariums can be situated on desks and small spaces depending on the size. Small 2.5 to 10-gallon tanks can be comfortably fitted in a bedroom or office. Saltwater tanks are larger and should be placed in an area that receives moderate lighting for at least 6 hours. The overall size makes them less suitable to be placed on a small office desk.

seashell dividers

Which Aquarium Setup is Right for You?

If you are prepared to dive into the upkeep and opportunities a saltwater aquarium can provide, while having extensive knowledge of the care of marine fish and their environment, a saltwater aquarium may be just right for you!

If you are a novice aquarist searching for the perfect aquarium type to start with, a freshwater aquarium is a good choice. If you manage a busy lifestyle alongside being part of the aquarium hobby, freshwater aquariums provide you with the opportunity to enjoy the hobby while having beautiful inhabitants and decoration options to choose from.

We hope this article has outlined the basis of both freshwater and saltwater tanks and provided you with the necessary information to persuade you to purchase an ideal aquarium.

  • See Also:  10 Easy Types of Anemones for Saltwater Aquariums (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: Jumpstory

Contents

  • Visual Differences
  • At a Glance
  • Saltwater Aquarium Overview
    • What is a Saltwater Aquarium?
    • The Ideal Temperature
    • The pH for a Saltwater Aquarium
    • Saltwater Aquarium Essential Equipment
    • Maintenance
    • Suitable for:
  • Freshwater Aquarium Overview
    • What is a Freshwater Aquarium?
    • The Ideal Temperature
    • The pH of a Freshwater Aquarium
    • Freshwater Aquarium Essential Equipment
    • Maintenance
    • Suitable for:
  • Additional Information
    • The Main Differences Between Saltwater and Freshwater Aquariums
    • Why Choose a Saltwater Aquarium?
    • Why Choose a Freshwater Aquarium?
    • The Different Size of Inhabitants
    • The Amount of Equipment Used in a Saltwater and Freshwater Aquarium
    • Placement
  • Which Aquarium Setup is Right for You?
Lindsey Stanton Profile Picture

Authored by

Lindsey Stanton

Lindsey discovered her passion for fish keeping after a junior high school field trip to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. Prior to becoming Editor-in-Chief of It's a Fish Thing, Lindsey studied marine biology at the University of California-Santa Cruz. She loves goldfish, tetras, and mystery snails, and recently began experimenting with a saltwater aquarium.

Trending Posts

Related Articles

Further Reading

man-pruning-the-plants

Aquarium Plant Problems: Signs & Diagnosis

Lindsey Stanton Profile Picture

By Lindsey

Aug 9, 2024 - 3 min read

aquarium with filter

10 Best Aquarium Filters 2024 – Top Picks & Reviews

Brooke Billingsley

By Brooke

Aug 21, 2024 - 9 min read

Clown fish in aquarium tank

How To Stop Fish From Breeding: 4 Easy Steps

Lindsey Stanton Profile Picture

By Lindsey

Aug 8, 2024 - 5 min read

Vet Articles

Latest Vet Answers

The latest veterinarians' answers to questions from our database

Giant forest scorpion at the back of a french bulldog

Dog Stung by a Scorpion? Our Vet Explains What to Do

Answered by Dr. Maria Zayas

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon standing on water

10 Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Facts (Explained By Our Vet)

Answered by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet)

beagle dog lying in the cage

Beagle Pain Syndrome: Causes, Signs & Care Guide

Answered by Dr. Rachel Ellison

veterinarian with a syringe euthanizes a pet

Can a Dog Take Metronidazole Without Food?

Answered by Dr. Kim Podlecki, DVM (Vet)

a couple of Black moor goldfish in a tank

Why You Should Never Buy a One-Gallon Fish Tank: Our Vet Explains

Answered by Dr. Paola Cuevas, MVZ (Vet)

Red-cap-oranda-goldfish

What Size Tank Should I Use for 2 Goldfish? Our Vet Answers

Answered by Dr. Luqman Javed, DVM (Vet)

Cat food recalls

Have a cat? Stay on top of cat food recalls here

Dog food recalls

Have a dog? Stay on top of dog food recalls here

Ask a vet

Have a question? talk to a vet online for advice

Shopping cart0
There are no products in the cart!

玻璃钢生产厂家玻璃钢孔子雕塑工厂店苏州商场中秋美陈长沙玻璃钢彩绘雕塑定制郑州玻璃钢造型雕塑四川大型主题商场美陈售价延吉玻璃钢雕塑制造厂家芜湖玻璃钢雕塑设计厂家郸城玻璃钢雕塑定制宿迁商场圣诞美陈常州玻璃钢雕塑定制价格商场开业大门口美陈玻璃钢雕塑今日行情上海铭将玻璃钢雕塑厂浙江玻璃钢雕塑设计郑州玻璃钢瓜果雕塑浙江玻璃钢花盆报价常州商场美陈布展常见商场美陈厂家供应九江大型玻璃钢雕塑上海特色玻璃钢雕塑哪家便宜玻璃钢雕塑漆效果广州玻璃钢人物雕塑价格普兰店玻璃钢雕塑江苏城市玻璃钢雕塑个旧市玻璃钢雕塑价格表苏州玻璃钢雕塑制作厂家耒阳玻璃钢动物雕塑辉县玻璃钢雕塑加工厂家玻璃钢太空舱造型雕塑马鞍山玻璃钢仿铜骆驼雕塑香港通过《维护国家安全条例》两大学生合买彩票中奖一人不认账让美丽中国“从细节出发”19岁小伙救下5人后溺亡 多方发声单亲妈妈陷入热恋 14岁儿子报警汪小菲曝离婚始末遭遇山火的松茸之乡雅江山火三名扑火人员牺牲系谣言何赛飞追着代拍打萧美琴窜访捷克 外交部回应卫健委通报少年有偿捐血浆16次猝死手机成瘾是影响睡眠质量重要因素高校汽车撞人致3死16伤 司机系学生315晚会后胖东来又人满为患了小米汽车超级工厂正式揭幕中国拥有亿元资产的家庭达13.3万户周杰伦一审败诉网易男孩8年未见母亲被告知被遗忘许家印被限制高消费饲养员用铁锨驱打大熊猫被辞退男子被猫抓伤后确诊“猫抓病”特朗普无法缴纳4.54亿美元罚金倪萍分享减重40斤方法联合利华开始重组张家界的山上“长”满了韩国人?张立群任西安交通大学校长杨倩无缘巴黎奥运“重生之我在北大当嫡校长”黑马情侣提车了专访95后高颜值猪保姆考生莫言也上北大硕士复试名单了网友洛杉矶偶遇贾玲专家建议不必谈骨泥色变沉迷短剧的人就像掉进了杀猪盘奥巴马现身唐宁街 黑色着装引猜测七年后宇文玥被薅头发捞上岸事业单位女子向同事水杯投不明物质凯特王妃现身!外出购物视频曝光河南驻马店通报西平中学跳楼事件王树国卸任西安交大校长 师生送别恒大被罚41.75亿到底怎么缴男子被流浪猫绊倒 投喂者赔24万房客欠租失踪 房东直发愁西双版纳热带植物园回应蜉蝣大爆发钱人豪晒法院裁定实锤抄袭外国人感慨凌晨的中国很安全胖东来员工每周单休无小长假白宫:哈马斯三号人物被杀测试车高速逃费 小米:已补缴老人退休金被冒领16年 金额超20万

玻璃钢生产厂家 XML地图 TXT地图 虚拟主机 SEO 网站制作 网站优化