Aquarium Pet Supplies

The type of supplies you need for an aquarium depend on the type of aquarium you are installing. Common aquariums include those for freshwater fish, brackish fish, saltwater fish and saltwater reef. Some supplies are necessary for all of these, but there are also specialized supplies specific to each.

Common supplies

Supplies that you need regardless of what kind of aquarium you are setting up includes an aquarium, filter system, gravel, fish net, and fish food. If you plan to have both large and small fish then get nets in both sizes. Make sure you purchase the right food for the type of fish you have.

Freshwater

When setting up a freshwater fish aquarium you may wish to add decoration. Decorative rocks and aquarium decor of all types are available. You also need a heater for most types of fish and an underwater thermometer to monitor the water temperature. You can use a standard hood light for freshwater fish.

Brackish

For a brackish fish aquarium you need the same supplies as you would with a freshwater aquarium with the addition of salt. Brackish fish thrive in water that has some salinity, so though you need to add salt to the water you do not need to add much.

Saltwater fish and reef

Saltwater fish and reef aquariums are higher maintenance, and you need several more supplies. There are a number of ways to set up a saltwater aquarium, but a few supplies are necessary regardless of how you install it. You need salt, bottled water (using tap water in saltwater aquariums is wise), protein skimmer and water pump in addition to the basic aquarium supplies. You also need salinity and ph testers and lights designed for saltwater fish and reef aquariums.

When setting up your aquarium it is important to have the right supplies. Without the proper supplies your fish can get sick and even die. Make sure you have all the supplies you need before purchasing or adopting fish.