Freshwater aquarium systems are extremely common and you may even own one yourself.

While both freshwater and saltwater aquarium systems are similar and use much of the same fish tank equipment, the most significant difference is the chemical composition of the water.

Saltwater aquariums are often referred to as marine aquariums, reef tanks or seawater aquariums.

The most basic differences between fresh water and salt water aquariums include:

There are many easy to follow tropical fish and aquarium care videos tutorial available on the internet.

Browsing through some of the videos is as easy as using the arrows on the video player below to skip forward to the next fish care video or back to the previous one.

Enjoy!

Here are a few videos offering helpful advice on caring for tropical and saltwater aquarium fish.

The following list was compiled from online surveys from fish lovers across the nation. These fish are only ten of the millions of tropical fish that make our oceans home. For details on these fish species or other tropical saltwater fish you can search online or visit your local library.

•Angel fish-colorful bodies with a heavenly name

•Blenny- a blenny might not be striking physically but it keeps your tank looking breathtaking

•Butterfly fish-they float like a butterfly and swim like a fish

•Cardinal fish-Not the pope but just as respected by the fish community

For proper setup of a saltwater aquarium you can find the step-by-step details in three locations. First is a local pet store. Knowledgeable representatives can help guide you in your process.

Some locations will even have experienced individuals make a house visit for assistance with installation.

Second are online resources. There are numerous sites that can help you with installation as well as maintenance tips.

Third is your local library. You can find numerous books on saltwater aquarium set up, aquarium care and fish care all in one location.

There is something beautiful and majestic about tropical fish. The striking colors and unique design that only nature can provide draw us in. The peace and tranquility you feel from watching these creatures of the sea bob along in the water are intoxicating. This is the exact reasoning behind the placement of an aquarium in places that cause stress.

Dentist and doctor offices often have a lovely tank with colorful fish. When watching the fish you can ease away any anxiety. This same feeling or experience can be found in installing a home aquarium. There are many fish to choose from as well as aquarium styles. You can visit a pet store or search online for helpful hints in choosing your setup plan, along with fish care and materials needed.

Setting up a saltwater aquarium does not take a lot of effort other than preparation. Choose your tank material, size and style. Choose system set up such as filtration, lighting and power. Choose your substrate nitrogen cycling process. Choose the fish species and learn how to care for each type.

Choose care items, reef, plant life etc. Learn about fish disease, care and treatment. Learn about water PH and temperatures needed. Once these areas are completed you can begin the true set up process. You will first want to clean your aquarium with freshwater and a sponge.

A well-planned and cared for saltwater aquarium is comparable to a work of art. The splashes of color from each tropical fish add a vibrant touch to any room. The tranquil bobbing of fish can soothe away a days worth of stress. Corals and plant life bring nature indoors for a breath of fresh air under water.