If you’re new to fishkeeping and wondering whether a freshwater or saltwater aquarium is best for you, you’ve come to the right place.
Keep reading to find out.
A freshwater tank is the best option for beginner aquarists. This is because saltwater tanks require more regular maintenance, and saltwater fish are harder to keep alive than freshwater fish. Saltwater aquariums also cost more.
Continue scrolling to find out which type of aquarium is best for you and tips to get started.
Table of Contents
Freshwater vs. Saltwater Aquariums, Which Is Best For Beginners?
Freshwater aquariums are best for beginners because they’re cheaper and easier to take care of. Freshwater tanks require less equipment and fewer maintenance materials.
Freshwater fish are also cheaper to purchase than saltwater fish. This is mostly because marine fish are harder to obtain and require more care to catch and care for before they’re bought.
Saltwater tanks are harder to take care of due to the delicate nature of the fish. There are many more water properties you must keep in check and a lot more equipment that goes along with that.
Difference Between Saltwater And Freshwater Fish Tanks
The fish you keep in a saltwater aquarium are very different from those in a freshwater one.
Saltwater aquariums offer more brightly colored species
Usually, when people want saltwater aquariums, it’s because they offer a wider range of brightly colored species. Which they do. But that’s not the only difference.
Freshwater fish can tolerate a wider range of water parameters than saltwater fish
Saltwater fish are a lot more delicate and sensitive to fluctuating water parameters. Because the ocean is so large, its water properties can regulate themselves well and stay fairly consistent.
Saltwater fish are used to those specific parameters and won’t tolerate even the tiniest fluctuations inside their tank. Which is why they die much easier than freshwater fish.
Freshwater fish come from lakes, rivers, streams, etc. Anywhere but the oceans. These are much smaller bodies of water prone to droughts, floods, rainfall, and more.
Due to these factors, the water parameters in freshwater are constantly changing, and the fish have to adapt to these conditions. This makes them tougher than their salt-dwelling counterparts.
They can handle fluctuations and a few mistakes here or there. Not that you shouldn’t avoid mistakes altogether. But chances are, if you’re a beginner, you’re probably going to make some.
Difference between saltwater and freshwater live plants
Saltwater plants are also quite different from freshwater plants. Saltwater plants are usually more brightly colored with interesting shapes and come in more options.
Algae and different algae variations are the main plants you can put into a saltwater aquarium.
Saltwater tanks have another advantage, corals and other animal varieties. Corals are very beautiful, small marine animals. They’re usually stationary, like plants, and come in vibrant colors and shapes.
Corals can also help maintain water quality, much like plants do, and make your tank more scenic.
Freshwater plants seem more ‘normal’ to us. You can even use some common houseplants in the tank. But there are still some colorful and interesting options out there.
Either way, plants are a great addition to any tank. They have many benefits for you and your fish, including elevating water quality, reducing the stress levels of your fish, and providing you with a beautiful aquarium to view.
Below is a list of some of the plants and animals you can have in a saltwater tank.
Flame Scallop
A bivalve mollusk. It’s typically safe to put with other animals, like fish.
Marine Shrimp
Shrimp are a good addition to any tank as they can help keep it clean. There are many shrimp species, and some can be aggressive, so research before adding them to the tank.
Star Fish
Not only are these creatures fascinating to look at, but they also help keep the tank clean. Some can be predatory, so research before deciding what species to get.
Marine Snails
Marine snails can come in vibrant and beautiful designs. They’re some of the best tank cleaners too.
Marine Crabs
Crabs are scavengers and will eat almost anything. That’s why it’s important to choose a species that won’t eat your fish as well.
Corals
Corals are vibrant and can add to the look of your tank. They have purifying abilities and provide fish with places to hide. Be careful; some species can be poisonous.
Mangrove
Mangroves are hardy plants that help filter your tank’s water. Its leaves need to stay above the water.
Mermaid’s Fan
This plant displays one fan-shaped leaf. The leaf is high in calcium, making it unlikely to be snacked on by your fish.
Dragon’s Tongue
A beautiful, green, leafy plant that aids in water purification.
Halimeda
Also known as the cactus algae, it has distinct oval-shaped leaves.
Blue Hypnea
A vibrant blue plant that can add a pop of color and still help purify the water.
Below is a list of some plants and animals you can have in a freshwater tank.
Dwarf Hairgrass
A green grass-looking plant that helps to oxygenate and clean the water.
Java Fern
Has long green leaves in a bushy shape. Provides a great place for fish to hide.
Pogostemon Helferi
A green plant with a unique zig-zag shape.
Anubias Nana
Helps to filter and oxygenate the water. Has broad, dark green leaves.
Freshwater Shrimp
Most are easy to care for and help keep the tank clean.
Freshwater Snails
Come in different colors and keep the tank clean.
Freshwater Crabs
These can help clean up the tank, but some species may also go for your fish. Make sure you research what species will work well with your fish.
Overall, a saltwater aquarium offers more options for plants and animals.
Why Freshwater Aquariums Are Better For Beginners Than Saltwater Aquariums
There are a few reasons why freshwater aquariums are better for beginners than saltwater aquariums
Freshwater fish can tolerate wider ranges of water parameters
When it comes to maintaining a healthy aquarium, one of the most critical things is to maintain the water parameters within the ideal range that the fish need naturally.
Freshwater fish that you keep in a freshwater aquarium comes from rivers and lakes where water parameters like temperature fluctuate. So freshwater fish are used to water parameter fluctuations and they can tolerate a wider ranges of water parameters.
On the other hand, saltwater aquarium fish that you keep in a saltwater tank comes from the ocean. As oceans are massive, the water parameters don’t fluctuate as much as they do in lakes or rivers. That’s why saltwater fish are not very used to water fluctuations.
To maintain healthy water quality in a saltwater aquarium, compared to a freshwater aquarium, you’ll need to do more water testing and water changes.
All the above things make it very difficult for a beginner aquarist to maintain a saltwater fish tank.
Freshwater aquariums are cheaper than saltwater aquariums
Saltwater fish are harder to catch and keep, which is why they are more expensive than freshwater fish.
Compared to a saltwater aquarium, freshwater aquariums require less equipment to run and maintain.
Besides, you’ll usually need a larger tank for a saltwater aquarium compared to a freshwater aquarium.
Because of all the above reasons, saltwater aquariums are more expensive to set up and maintain than freshwater aquariums. Which makes a freshwater aquarium a better choice for someone whos just starting to get into the hobby and doesn’t want to spend a lot of money.
The Pros and Cons of a Freshwater aquarium
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easier to maintain | Fewer plants and animals to choose from |
| Cheaper | Plants and animals aren’t as vibrantly colored |
| Fish are harder to kill |
The Pros and Cons of a Saltwater aquarium
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Have an array of colorful and unique animal/plant options | Can’t have small tanks |
| Greater satisfaction | More expensive |
| More work to maintain | |
| Fish are more sensitive and easier to kill |
Is Freshwater or Saltwater Easier to Maintain?
Freshwater aquariums are easier to care for and maintain than saltwater aquariums.
Saltwater tanks take more work to maintain for a few reasons.
Saltwater fish are more sensitive.
Because saltwater fish are used to living in large bodies of water with specific properties, they’re not very flexible or resilient. Freshwater fish are used to fluctuating environments.
Saltwater tanks need to be bigger than freshwater ones.
They need to be bigger to keep water fluctuations as slow as possible for the fish, as they can’t handle change.
Saltwater tanks already need more maintenance, but a smaller one would entail even more.
Saltwater tanks have more water parameters that must be tracked and maintained.
In addition to ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites, you must also watch the temperature, salinity, and phosphates. If you plan to grow coral or other organisms in the tank, you may also need to maintain calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels.
Costs For freshwater aquarium and saltwater aquarium
Freshwater aquariums are the cheapest. Mainly because less equipment is needed, and you can have smaller tank sizes.
Equipment needed for Freshwater tanks:
Tank
The home for your fish, holds the water. Tanks go anywhere from $15 for a 3-gallon to $170 for a 60-gallon.
Filter
Keeps the water free from harmful chemicals and toxins. There are many different filters, so be sure to do your research. Filters can be as cheap as $5 and go up from there. Make sure you get the right size filter for your tank size.
Heater
Keeps your tank at the best temperature for the animals inside it. There are substrate heaters, immersible heaters, filter heaters, and submersible heaters. Depending on your tank size or how heated you need it, heaters can be cheap at just $2 and go up from there.
Substrate
The material that covers the bottom of the tank. There is a plethora of different options for substrate. Substrate can affect the water chemistry and the creatures living with it. Substrate can be as cheap as $5 and goes up depending on how much you need.
Water Conditioner/Dechlorinator
Removes chlorine and other harmful materials from water to make it safe for your fish. You can get a good water conditioner for $10-$15.
Aquarium Cover
A cover or lid that goes over the top of the tank. It keeps dust and other debris from getting into the water and also stops fish from jumping out when they occasionally attempt to do so. A basic cover runs around $15. But the bigger you need it, the more it will cost.
Lights
Aquarium lights not only make it more visible, but they also support the well-being of your fish and plants. You don’t need to, and shouldn’t, leave it on all the time. Unless you have a particular plant or animal that needs it. Most fish like some dark time and too much light can cause algae to grow faster. A standard aquarium light is $20-$30.
Gravel Vacuum
Used to suck up any tank debris and perform water changes. For a good one, you’ll be paying $15-$30.
Bucket
A bucket is used for transporting old and new water to and from the tank during water changes. 5-gallon buckets go for around $5.
Algae Scrubber
This is used to scrub algae off the walls of the tank. It can be a handheld one or one that stays on the side of the tank. A simple, hand-held scrubber can be very cheap at $2. Mechanical ones can be hundreds of dollars.
Small Cleaning Brush
Use this to clean off any decorations or other items within the tank when dirty. Cleaning brushes can be a couple of bucks or even less. If you have any old or unused toothbrushes, you can even use one of those.
Water Test Kits
Used for testing important water qualities that pertain to the health of your fish. You can get a 3-in-1 test kit for ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites for $35 or individual tests for as little as $5-$10 apiece.
You can check out my recommended equipments and supplies for freshwater fish tank here
Equipment needed for Saltwater tanks:
Tank
The home for your fish, holds the water. Tanks go anywhere from $15 for a 3-gallon to $170 for a 60-gallon. It’s recommended that saltwater tanks be no less than 20 gallons.
Heater
Keeps your tank at the best temperature for the animals inside it. There are substrate heaters, immersible heaters, filter heaters, and submersible heaters. Depending on how big your tank is or how heated you need it, heaters can be very cheap at just $2 and go up from there. You’ll probably need more intense heating for a saltwater tank, as many saltwater fish need precise warmer temperatures.
Powerhead
This is a water pump that creates water circulation within the tank. It prevents debris and particles from settling on the bottom so they can be picked up by the filter.
Return Pump
Returns water to the aquarium after it’s been properly filtered.
Lights
Aquarium lights not only make it more visible, but they also support the well-being of your fish and plants. Saltwater fish are more sensitive to lighting, and you should research the lighting needs of your particular fish before getting any. A standard aquarium light is $20-$30.
Protein Skimmer
Removes organic waste from the water and aids in oxygenation.
Filter
Keeps the water free from harmful chemicals and toxins. There are many different filters, so be sure to do your research. Filters can be as cheap as $5 and go up from there. Make sure you get the right size filter for your tank size.
Aquarium Cover
A cover or lid that goes over the top of the tank. It keeps dust and other debris from getting into the water and also stops fish from jumping out when they occasionally attempt to do so. A basic cover runs around $15. But the bigger you need it, the more it will cost.
Water Conditioner/Dechlorinator
Removes chlorine and other harmful materials from water to make it safe for your fish. You can get a good water conditioner for $10-$15.
Substrate
The material that covers the bottom of the tank. There is a plethora of different options for substrate. Substrate can affect the water chemistry and the creatures living with it. Substrate can be as cheap as $5 and goes up depending on how much you need.
Water Test Kits
Used for testing important water qualities that pertain to the health of your fish. You can get a 3-in-1 test kit for ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites for $35 or individual tests for as little as $5-$10 a piece. A phosphate test can be as cheap as $10.
Salt Mixes
Added to the water to make it safe for saltwater fish. 1.7 gallons of salt mix can cost about $15, and 160 gallons of salt mix can cost around $40.
Thermometer
Tells you the temperature of the water. Temperature is important to keep an eye on, so getting a thermometer that will constantly read temperatures is preferable. You can get one for as low as $3 or a heavy-duty one for up to $20.
Gravel Vacuum
Used to suck up any tank debris and perform water changes. For a good one, you’ll be paying $15-$30.
Bucket
A bucket is used for transporting old and new water to and from the tank during water changes. 5-gallon buckets go for around $5.
Algae Scrubber
This is used to scrub algae off the wells of the tank. It can be a handheld one or one that stays on the side of the tank. A simple, hand-held scrubber can be very cheap at $2. Mechanical ones can be hundreds of dollars.
Small Cleaning Brush
Use this to clean off any decorations or other items within the tank when dirty. Cleaning brushes can be a couple of bucks or even less. If you have any old or unused toothbrushes, you can even use one of those.
Salinity Meter
Used to test the salinity or gravity of the water, which is very important for saltwater fish. It’s best to get one that measures both salinity and gravity. A simple meter will cost about $15, but they can go up into the hundreds.
Overall, Freshwater Aquariums Are A Better Option For Beginners
Freshwater aquariums are cheaper, easier to maintain, and cost less overall. Saltwater fish can die easily if their environments aren’t upheld strictly; freshwater aquariums are better for beginners.
Best freshwater fish for beginners:
- Betta Fish
- Guppies
- Bristlenose Pleco
- Neon Tetras
- Zebra Danios
13 Easy to Care Freshwater Fish (That Look Cool!)
Best freshwater plants for beginners:
- Amazon Sword
- Aponogeton Crispus
- Marimo Moss Ball
- Java Fern
- Hornwort
52 Best Freshwater Aquarium Plants For Beginners (And Care Guide)
Here are some tips for beginners wanting to start a freshwater aquarium:
Feed Your Fish Daily
To ensure leftover food doesn’t contribute to an unclean tank, only feed your fish what it will eat in 2-3 minutes. You only need to feed your fish once a day.
Make sure you research what your particular fish’s dietary needs are.
Weekly Cleanings
Once a week, you should clean your fish tank. Vacuum up loose debris or particles, trim dead plant parts and remove them, and clean any gunk buildup. Scrub any algae off the walls.
Bi-Weekly/Weekly Water Changes
You should change 20-30% of your tank’s water at least once weekly. How often you need to do this depends on how quickly nitrites, nitrates, and ammonia build up inside the tank.
You can use a water test to determine this.
Use the gravel vacuum to suck up about 25% of the water and transfer it into the bucket. Doing a water change and your weekly cleaning simultaneously would be easiest.
Clean the tank before throwing the old water away. Clean the bucket and fill it with clean water. You should add any conditioners now. Then slowly place the water into the tank.
Regular Water Testing
Every other week or so, you should be testing your water for nitrites, nitrates, and ammonia. This ensures everything is running smoothly and that your water change schedule doesn’t need to be altered.
Can A Beginner Have A Saltwater Tank?
Yes, a beginner can have a saltwater tank. If you have the money, time, and patience to learn about and properly take care of a saltwater environment, then nothing is stopping you! It’ll feel very rewarding to look at the colorful aquascape after all the hard work you’ll put in.
Best saltwater fish for beginners:
- Blue Green Reef Chromis
- Clownfish
- Clown Goby
- Royal Gramma
- Bicolor Blenny
Best saltwater plants for beginners:
- Spaghetti Algae
- Sea Grass
- Red Gracilaria Algae
- Sea Lettuce
- Red Mangrove
Here are some tips for beginners wanting to start a saltwater aquarium:
Feed Your Fish Daily
To ensure leftover food doesn’t contribute to an unclean tank, only feed your fish what it will eat in 2-3 minutes. You only need to feed your fish once a day.
Make sure you research what your particular fish’s dietary needs are.
Top Off With Fresh Water Every Day, As Heated Water Evaporates
Marine fish need to be kept at higher temperatures than freshwater fish. This causes water to evaporate regularly.
Every day you should add fresh water to the tank to make up for any that was evaporated. The amount of water will vary.
You May Need To Add Buffering Agents Or Calcium To The Water Daily If You Have Other Types Of Animals In The Tank
There are many different animals you can have in a saltwater tank with your fish. Depending on what it is, it probably has special needs.
Corals intake a lot of calcium, so you must continuously add calcium to your tank daily if you have any.
Make sure you research the needs of any animals you decide to put in your tank.
Check The Water’s Temperature And Gravity Daily
Saltwater species are very sensitive to temperature and gravity fluctuations. If temperatures get too low or high, they can go into shock and worse.
Check the thermometer inside the tank if you have a stationary one. Or you can dip the thermometer into the tank until you get an accurate reading. Ensure your tank is at the proper temperature for its inhabitants to thrive.
A salinity or gravity meter is used to measure gravity. You hold it in the water until the results appear.
Inspect All Animals Kept In The Tank And All Equipment Associated With The Tank Daily
Since a lot of different components go into a saltwater aquarium, it’s best to check them often and make sure everything is running smoothly. Saltwater fish are quickly susceptible to fluctuations, so it’s good to keep an eye on things.
Empty And Rinse The Protein Skimmer’s Collection Cup Daily
The protein skimmer constantly collects organic waste that builds up over time. You should dump and rinse its collection cup daily to keep it running well.
Test Water Quality Weekly
Every week, you should test your tank’s water for nitrites, nitrates, ammonia, and phosphates.
Water tests are very accessible and include precise instructions.
Clean Algae From Walls Weekly
Use your algae scrubber to clean all the walls of any algae buildup. This keeps your tank looking pristine and your fish healthy.
A Partial Water Change Bi-Weekly
You should do a partial water change every other week. A 25% water change is a good amount.
Use the gravel vacuum to siphon 25% of the water into a bucket. Discard the water and then clean the bucket.
Refill it with fresh water and add any conditioners.
Then, slowly replace the water in the tank.
Something to note, performing 10% water changes on a more frequent basis would be better for your fish as it causes less disruption. But, of course, that’s not always an option.
Replace Disposable Mechanical Filtration Once A Month
Disposable filter media needs to be replaced once a month to keep filtration within the tank optimal.
It’s best not to do this on the same day you clean other parts of the tank so that the nitrifying bacteria can repopulate.
Nitrifying bacteria are good for your aquarium as it breaks down ammonia and nitrates.
Clean Lighting Fixtures And Aquarium Cover Glass Once A Month
Cleaning these monthly keeps light exposure inside the tank optimal. Wipe them down with a cloth and remove anything that’s not supposed to be there.
Soak And Scrub Air Intake Hose And Valves Once A Month
Calcium tends to build up in saltwater tank equipment and sometimes can even get clogged.
Soak the air intake hose and valves in white vinegar to remedy this. You should also use a small brush to dislodge any interior buildup if needed.
Remove Any Buildup From Submerged Aquarium Equipment Atleast Once A Month
Algae accumulate on submerged equipment over time. Use a small brush to remove it.
Always Make Sure Aquarium Lighting Is Working And Running Smoothly, As The Health Of Some Species Depends On It
Lighting fixtures tend to lose intensity or brightness over time. Making sure that bulbs or tubes don’t need to be replaced is important.
Many marine animals have specific and necessary lighting requirements that need to be upheld for their well-being.
FAQ
Can I Use A Freshwater Tank For A Saltwater Aquarium?
Fish tanks aren’t specific to saltwater or freshwater; they’re interchangeable. So yes, you can.
The setup and equipment that goes with it determine what kind of tank it is.
Make sure you thoroughly clean any tank before reusing it.
Saltwater tanks should never be smaller than 20 gallons.
What Size Saltwater Tank Should A Beginner Get?
A good saltwater tank size for beginners is 55-75 gallons. The bigger a tank is, the easier it will be to maintain water properties and have fewer fluctuations.
This size isn’t too large and will be easier to stock and afford.
Conclusion
Freshwater aquariums are the best option for beginner aquarists as they are easier to keep and have more adaptable fish.
However, if you know you’re up for the challenge, I encourage you to go for it!
Read the beginner tips and the pricing differences mentioned above and consider your budget before making a final decision.
Happy fishkeeping!
