Care & Maintenance

Protein Skimmer Guide for Saltwater Aquariums (What, Why & How to Choose)

A protein skimmer is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a saltwater aquarium. While many reef tanks can run without one, tanks that thrive long-term almost always use a properly sized and well-tuned skimmer.

This guide explains what a protein skimmer is, how it works, why it matters, the benefits, how to choose the right one, and how it compares to other filtration methods—so you can make a confident, informed decision for your reef system.

Maintaining clear, healthy water in your aquarium or pond can be challenging—but a UV sterilizer makes it much easier. Whether you’re running a saltwater reef tank, a freshwater planted aquarium, or an outdoor koi pond, adding a UV sterilizer can dramatically improve water clarity and overall aquatic health.

Managing phosphate (PO4) levels in a reef aquarium is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a healthy and thriving marine system. Excess phosphate can quickly lead to nuisance algae outbreaks, poor coral coloration, and even the decline of sensitive species like SPS corals and anemones.

PAR, or Photosynthetically Active Radiation, is a critical factor when it comes to reef tank lighting. In scientific terms, PAR refers to the specific range of light wavelengths, from 400 to 700 nanometers, that corals, algae, and plants use for photosynthesis. PAR is essential because it measures the light that is actually usable by corals to produce energy, through the symbiotic relationship they have with zooxanthellae ...

Regular water changes are vital for maintaining the health of both saltwater and freshwater aquariums. This essential task ensures that your tank remains free of harmful chemicals, excess nutrients, and other pollutants that can jeopardize the well-being of your aquatic life.

Maintaining a saltwater reef aquarium without regular water changes is a growing trend among experienced reef aquarists. Traditionally, water changes were the cornerstone of nutrient export and replenishment of essential elements, but newer methods, like the Triton Labs Method or Reef Moonshiners Method (other methods below) allow hobbyists to maintain healthy, thriving reef systems without frequent water changes.

Power outages can be a nightmare for aquarium enthusiasts. Without electricity, essential systems like filtration, heating, and oxygenation come to a halt, endangering the life of your aquatic inhabitants. However, with proper preparation and backup solutions, you can minimize the risk to your aquarium. This guide will explore different options to keep your tank alive during power failures.

Coral aquariums are a beautiful and rewarding addition to any home and most businesses that have walk-in traffic but they require careful attention and knowledge to maintain. If you're new to the world of corals, this guide will help you understand the basics of coral care, including the types of corals that are easiest for beginners to keep.

Phosphate (PO4) is an essential element in reef aquariums, playing a critical role in the health of corals and other marine life. However, maintaining the correct phosphate levels is crucial, as both low and high phosphate concentrations can have detrimental effects on your reef ecosystem. This article will discuss safe phosphate levels, how to manage them, and how phosphate impacts different coral types like SPS, LPS, and soft corals.

We are featuring a series of articles for beginner aquarists within our learning center and the focus of these articles is designed to help aquarium hobbyists who are entering into the hobby for the 1st time or they are setting up a saltwater aquarium for the 1st time...