I have read many articles regarding saltwater versus freshwater and found that some of them contained inaccurate information. I hope you find my information addresses the question at hand and will provide you with some helpful and accurate information.
Many people love the look of exotic saltwater fish, but fear that a saltwater aquarium will be too difficult to keep afloat. I have had several different types of aquariums over the years, everything from a small 2 1/2 gallon tank to a larger 90+ gallon salt water/marine aquarium. I have found that all types of aquariums bring much joy and relaxation to me. Personally, I would encourage anyone who is interested in investing in a hobby of this type to give it a shot.
What's the Difference?
Fresh water fish come from streams, rivers, & lakes. These fish are accustomed to their environment changing. All of the natural changes/fluctuations that take place in their habitat have made fresh water fish quite adaptable. Fresh water fish can adapt to change in their aquarium environment quite well.
Saltwater/marine fish, on the other hand, do not adjust to change very well. The ocean reef is very stable and there is not much change or fluctuations in the conditions. Saltwater fish are therefore not as flexible when it comes to changes in their environment. The greatest challenge for the marine aquariast is to keep their 'reef' system as stable as possible. This includes everything from the temperature to the salinity levels.
Equipment
All aquariums require adequate heating and filtration. If you are going to have a reef tank that includes not only fish but also live rock, you will need to add a protein skimmer for best results. A protein skimmer is not needed with a fresh water aquarium. Excellent filtration systems are needed no matter what type of aquarium you choose to have. Power heads are also used in both types of systems for water flow and filtration purposes.
Marine aquariums usually run more expensive than a fresh water system. If you choose to have a fish-only tank, the cost is a little less expensive. I would say most marine aquariasts like to have a complete reef system as the fish do thrive much better in this type of environment and you are able to have all different kinds of marine life.
