Freshwater Home Aquariums

Freshwater Home Aquariums

Freshwater Home Aquariums

Most people express confusion when they are told to put salt in their freshwater aquarium. Salt has numerous uses and more often than not will improve the overall health of fish. Not all freshwater fish are tolerant of salt, however, so be sure to perform the appropriate research before introducing salt to the aquarium. It should also be noted that only certain types of salt are safe for aquariums. Never use table salt. Instead, purchase aquarium salt or sterile rock salt, often sold as water softening salt. With some species of fish marine salt can be used to treat the water.

Using Salt to Treat Sickness, Injuries, and Infections

One inescapable aspect of the fish keeping hobby is the fact that fish will become sick or injured at some point. For most fish, salt is an excellent initial treatment. Salt is essentially a natural fish medicine. Aquarium salt helps fight off bacterial infections that result from sickness or injury. It is also quite useful for treating fungal outbreaks.

Salt also acts as a natural anti-parasitic. Treating water regularly with aquarium salt is an effective preventative measure against parasites, especially Ich.

In extreme cases of parasitic outbreak or sickness, a salt bath can be prepared for the fish. For Goldfish and Koi, prepare a solution of one to two pounds of salt per five gallons of water. Using a net, submerge the fish in the solution for about 15-20 seconds. Submerging the fish for longer periods runs the risk of osmotic shock, respiratory failure, and death. For other non-brackish freshwater fish, use a solution of one-half to one pound of salt per five gallons.

Salt in the aquarium also acts as a general stress reliever for freshwater fish. One to two tablespoons of aquarium salt per five gallons is usually sufficient. This is especially useful for introducing new fish to an aquarium or dealing with fish that have recently been shipped, transported, or injured.

Using Aquarium Salt for Algae Control

Algae is a nuisance that all aquarium owners must deal with. Algae can also be notoriously difficult to get rid of. A generous dose of salt can help kill off algae and stunt its growth. Just be cautious not to overdose the fish. Just as salt kills algae, so too can it kill plants in the aquarium. Some plants have a higher tolerance to salt than others. Exercise caution and perform the necessary research before adding salt to planted aquariums.