Q) I have limited lighting over my aquarium, although the water quality is high. Is it possible to keep invertebrates that do not require high intensity lighting?A) Mention invertebrates to most aquarists and they will immediately associate them with high intensity lighting such as metal halides. In truth, there is a vast selection of invertebrates…
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Water Circulation In The Marine Aquarium
Q) How much importance should be given to water circulation in the marine aquarium?A) The 'big' topics such as filtration, lighting, feeding and stocking nearly always overshadow water circulation to such an extent that it is almost dismissed as unimportant. This a pity because good water movement within any aquarium is vital to the health…
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Replacing Evaporated Water
Q) Why does my marine aquarium appear to 'lose' water? Is it likely to be harmful to the fish and invertebrates? How can I replace it safely? A) Any body of water left open to the atmosphere will evaporate if not replaced. This can be demonstrated by wetting the back of your hand. Within a…
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Looking For Healthy Livestock
Q) What points should I bear in mind when looking for healthy livestock?R. Messina, Florence, Italy.A) Apart from a bargain, everyone is looking for livestock in the peak of health. By purchasing strong and vibrant animals, the marinist gains a distinct advantage in that his/her charges will already be ready to survive the rigours of…
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Livestock Euthanasia – A Taboo Subject?
Q) I have never been sure of the best way to dispatch ailing livestock. There seem to be many differing opinions on the subject. Which techniques are best? David Wallace, Surrey, United Kingdom. A) The whole subject of livestock euthanasia has always been a sensitive one, creating very little regular and open discussion but nevertheless…
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Cure Nuisance Algae
Q) My marine aquarium has been plagued by slime and hair algae almost from the day I started stocking up. What steps can I take to get rid of it? It spoils the whole appearance of the showtank. C. Crawford, Washington DC, USA. A) I have long since lost count of the number of marine…
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Calcium Reactors
Q) Is it absolutely necessary to have a calcium reactor in my reef aquarium?John Sullivan, Maldon, Essex. England.A) It really depends on what type of livestock predominates. Soft corals and anemones for example do not have a calcareous skeleton and have little need for high calcium levels. Consequently, they tend to do very well in…
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Marine Hobbyist Beginner FAQs
Q1) Is marine fishkeeping difficult? A) There is no straight yes or no to this question but It need not be difficult if approached in the right way. As with other pet hobbies, a certain amount of preparation is required before investing in costly hardware and livestock. Read books on the subject. Go to your…
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