FAQ

Freshwater and saltwater aquariums are different in many ways, including the design, equipment, and maintenance required.

Some of the main differences between freshwater and saltwater aquariums include:

Water chemistry. The water chemistry in a saltwater aquarium is much more complex than in a freshwater aquarium. Saltwater aquariums require a specific pH, salinity, and alkalinity level, which need to be closely monitored and adjusted as necessary. In contrast, freshwater aquariums are less demanding in terms of water chemistry, but still need to be within a safe range for the fish and plants inside.

• Filtration. Saltwater aquariums require more advanced filtration systems than freshwater aquariums, such as protein skimmers and UV sterilizers, to remove harmful waste products and microorganisms from the water. Freshwater aquariums, on the other hand, typically use simpler filtration systems such as mechanical or biological filters.
• Lighting. The lighting requirements for saltwater aquariums are typically higher than for freshwater aquariums. Saltwater aquariums require high levels of light in order to support the growth of coral and other photosynthetic organisms. Freshwater aquariums can make do with lower lighting levels.
• Decor. Freshwater aquariums usually use natural materials like rocks, wood and plants, while Saltwater aquariums often use artificial materials such as live rocks, reef structures and sands.
• Stock. Freshwater aquariums have a wide variety of fish, plants and other animals to choose from, while Saltwater aquariums are more limited and often require more specialized knowledge to be able to pick the right fish and invertebrates that are compatible.
• Maintenance. Saltwater aquariums tend to be more complex and demanding than freshwater aquariums, requiring more frequent water changes and chemical testing, as well as attention to the specific needs of the fish and other organisms in the tank. Freshwater aquariums, on the other hand, are less demanding in terms of maintenance and can be easier to manage.
• Cost. Setting up and maintaining a saltwater aquarium is usually more expensive than a freshwater aquarium. Saltwater tanks require more advanced equipment and specialized additives, not to mention the costs of the fish and coral themselves.

While freshwater aquariums are generally easier to manage, they still require a significant amount of work and commitment to maintain. Saltwater aquariums are much more demanding, but they can also provide a unique and rewarding experience.

There are several different types of filtration that can be used to filter a freshwater aquarium, and the best method will depend on the size of the aquarium, the type of fish and plants that you have, and your personal preferences.

Some common methods of filtration for freshwater aquariums include:

• Mechanical filtration: This involves using a filter that physically removes particles and debris from the water, such as a sponge or a foam filter. These filters are effective at trapping larger particles, but they may require more frequent cleaning.
• Chemical filtration: This involves using a filter that uses chemical agents such as activated carbon or zeolite to remove dissolved substances and impurities from the water. Chemical filters can help to remove dissolved toxins, color, and odors from the water.
• Biological filtration: This involves using a filter that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria that break down harmful substances such as ammonia and nitrite. Biological filters can be in the form of media, such as bio-balls or ceramic noodles, or the use of a wet/dry filter, that use the bacteria that colonize these media to convert the harmful substances into less harmful nitrate.
• Protein skimmer: Protein skimmers are often used in marine aquariums but they can also be used in freshwater. They work by creating bubbles that pull proteins, oils and other dissolved organics out of the water.
• UV sterilizer: This is an electronic device that uses UV radiation to kill microorganisms, parasites and other harmful pathogens in the water. UV sterilizers are effective at controlling harmful microorganisms, but may not be necessary for all freshwater aquariums.

It is important to note that not all filters are created equal, and it's important to choose one that is the right size and type for your aquarium and its inhabitants. In most cases, a combination of different filtration methods can be used.

An aquarium bioreactor is a specialized device that is used in aquariums to promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms in order to maintain water quality and the overall health of the aquarium environment. Bioreactors can be used in both saltwater and freshwater aquariums, and they can play an important role in managing the nitrogen cycle, reducing the accumulation of harmful compounds, and promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms.

One of the most common types of bioreactors is the denitrification bioreactor, which is designed to remove nitrate and nitrite from the water. Denitrification bioreactors typically consist of a chamber filled with a substrate, such as bio-balls or ceramic media, on which denitrifying bacteria can grow. The water from the aquarium is pumped into the bioreactor, where the bacteria consume the nitrate and nitrite as a food source, reducing their concentration in the water.

Another type of bioreactor used in aquariums is a bio-pellet reactor, which utilizes bio-pellets, a medium to house beneficial bacteria cultures that convert fish waste, urine and uneaten food, into less harmful substances. The reactor provides an oxygen-rich environment where the bacteria can multiply and thrive, breaking down organic compounds and reduce the buildup of harmful chemicals.

Both types of bioreactors can help to maintain the overall health of the aquarium environment by providing a natural way to reduce the build-up of harmful compounds and promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms. They can be a valuable tool for aquarium hobbyists and professionals who want to keep their aquarium water clean and healthy for the inhabitants.

An aquarium canister filter is a type of external filtration system for aquariums. It's typically a sealed canister with several compartments or trays inside, filled with various types of filtration media, such as mechanical, chemical, and biological media. The water is pumped into the canister, flows through the media, and is then returned to the aquarium.

The main advantage of a canister filter is that it allows for a large amount of filtration media to be used, which results in more thorough filtration of the water in the aquarium. Canister filters are also very versatile and can be customized with different types of media to suit the needs of the specific aquarium.

Canister filters are typically designed to be placed under the aquarium, drawing in water from the aquarium and returning it back after filtering. They are also suitable for larger aquariums due to the high flow rates and high head pressure of the pumps that power them.

In terms of the process, a typical canister filter will first go through mechanical filtration, where larger debris and particles are trapped by a filter pad, then the water will flow through biological filtration media, where beneficial bacteria will grow, breaking down harmful ammonia and nitrite to less toxic nitrate, and lastly chemical filtration, where substances such as activated carbon can be used to remove dissolved impurities and discoloration in the water.

A frag aquarium is a type of reef aquarium that is focused on growing coral frags, or small cuttings of coral.

What are the key features of a frag aquarium?

Shallow depth. The aquarium is typically only a few inches deep, which allows for easy viewing of the coral frags and also makes it easier to maintain the proper lighting and water parameters for coral growth.

High lighting. Coral frags require high levels of light in order to grow and thrive, so shallow frag aquariums typically have powerful LED lights or metal halide lights to provide the necessary light.

Strong water flow. Coral frags also require strong water flow in order to receive the nutrients and oxygen they need to grow. This can be achieved with powerheads or wavemakers.

Compact size. Due to the shallow depth and focus on coral frags, these aquariums are often quite small and can be placed on a desk or tabletop.

What are the benefits of a shallow frag aquarium>

Easy maintenance. Due to the shallow depth, it is easy to access all parts of the aquarium for cleaning and maintenance.

Low cost. Due to the small size and simple design, a shallow frag aquarium can be relatively inexpensive to set up and maintain.

High aesthetic appeal. With the shallow depth, the coral frags can be easily viewed and admired, making these aquariums a striking addition to any room.

Great for coral propagating. the shallow depth and strong water flow makes it an ideal environment for coral growth and breeding.

A protein skimmer, also known as a foam fractionator, is a device used in marine aquaria, and particularly in saltwater aquaria, to remove dissolved organic compounds (DOCs) from the water.

Protein skimmers work by creating small bubbles which are introduced into the water. As these bubbles rise through the water, they come into contact with dissolved organics, and the organic molecules attach to the surface of the bubbles. As the bubbles rise to the top of the skimmer, they become trapped in a collection cup, and the organics that have attached to the bubbles are removed from the water.

There are several different types of protein skimmers, but the most common types are air-driven and venturi-driven skimmers.

The air-driven skimmers are the simplest and most basic type of skimmer. They use an air pump to create a stream of bubbles, which rise through the water in the skimmer.

Venturi-driven skimmers, on the other hand, use a venturi injector to create a high-speed stream of bubbles. This stream of bubbles is introduced into the water in the skimmer, and as the bubbles rise through the water, they create a turbulent flow that helps to strip the dissolved organics from the water.

Protein skimmers are considered essential equipment for a saltwater aquarium because they help to keep the water clean and clear, and they remove dissolved organics that can contribute to the growth of undesirable microorganisms like bacteria, algae and also lower the pH levels. They also have the ability to decrease the load on filtration and biological system, which ensures a healthy and stress-free environment for the inhabitants of the aquarium.

An aquarium sump is at its simplest, a water vessel usually smaller than the main display aquarium it is attached to. Sumps can be plumbed in a variety of configurations. The most common method is direct plumbing to the aquarium by way of an overflow box or hang on the back (HOB) skimmer. In this setup, the water will flow by gravity to the sump. The filtered water is returned back to the aquarium by means of a pump. Sump pumps can be submersible and sit inside the sump itself or external.

Sumps are extremely customizable. Heaters, protein skimmers, and other equipment can be placed inside the sump instead of cluttering up the main tank.

Sumps are suitable for both fresh and saltwater.

Saltwater sumps are are a proven way to filtration method and are widely adopted. Freshwater applications are simpler since much of the equipment in saltwater setups is not necessary. Freshwater sumps also improve the health and stability of the aquarium since more water in circulation is greater.

The advantages of sump filtration.

Sumps have several advantages compared to power and canister filters. As mentioned above, the biggest advantage is the increase in water volume in circulation. Accidental overfeeding or a dead fish will not cause waste levels to rise as high. Larger water volumes are also more thermally stable. Brief power outages will not be as fatal. Water chemistries also will be more stable because of the greater volume.

Sizing your sump.

There is no set rule for the correct sump size. Sump sizes depend on what are the important objectives. Simple sumps with biological filtration and a pump are enough for many setups. Larger sumps with multiple chambers can be used for running additional equipment such as protein skimmers, reactors and UV sterilizers.

Sump capacity also needs to be large enough to handle the volume of water that will drain to the sump in the event of a power outage. This includes the water in the plumbing as well as the any water that would continue to drain from the tank itself.

A refugium sump is a compartment within a marine or reef aquarium filtration system that contains a separate area for growing marine macro-algae and other organisms.

The idea behind a refugium sump is to create a habitat that supports beneficial organisms that can help to maintain the overall health of the aquarium by consuming excess nutrients and competing with harmful algae. The water in the refugium sump is typically connected to the main tank and flows through the refugium compartment before returning to the main tank. This allows for a continuous exchange of organisms and nutrients between the two areas.

A UV sterilizer, also known as a UV clarifier, is a device that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to sterilize aquarium water. It works by passing the water through a chamber that contains a UV lamp, which emits UV light at a specific wavelength. As the water passes through the chamber, the UV light kills or inactivates microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and algae spores, which are present in the water.

UV sterilizers are used in aquariums as a way to improve water quality, control algae growth and reduce the overall bioload in the aquarium. They are typically used in conjunction with other filtration methods, such as mechanical and biological filters, and can provide an additional level of filtration and water purification.

There are two main types of UV sterilizers: low-pressure and high-pressure sterilizers. Low-pressure sterilizers use a low-pressure UV lamp that emits UV light at a lower intensity, making them suitable for smaller aquariums or for use as a supplementary filtration method in larger aquariums. High-pressure sterilizers use a high-pressure UV lamp that emits UV light at a higher intensity and have a higher efficacy rate, making them more suitable for larger aquariums or for more demanding applications like commercial use or large ponds.

UV sterilizers are not a substitute for regular water changes and maintenance, they are an additional tool to help maintain the water quality in an aquarium. It is also important to regularly replace UV bulbs, as they lose their effectiveness over time. Also, proper installation and use of UV sterilizers are crucial for their effectiveness, proper flow rate and duration of exposure to the UV light is important for the sterilization process.

An aquarium Automatic Top-Off (ATO) system is a device or set of devices used to automatically add water to an aquarium to compensate for evaporation and/or water loss due to other factors such as splashout, or water being removed during maintenance tasks. The purpose of an ATO system is to maintain the proper water level in the aquarium, which can be crucial for the health of the inhabitants and the stability of the ecosystem.

A typical ATO system consist of a water reservoir, a float switch, a pump, and tubing. The float switch is installed in the aquarium and is connected to the water reservoir. When the water level in the aquarium drops, the float switch activates the pump, which draws water from the reservoir and adds it to the aquarium. When the water level in the aquarium reaches the desired level, the float switch turns off the pump.

Some ATO systems also include sensors and controllers that can monitor the water temperature, pH, and conductivity to ensure the water is within the correct range for the specific inhabitants of the aquarium, and make adjustments accordingly.

ATO systems can be particularly useful for reef tanks, where water levels need to be maintained within a specific range and sudden changes in water level can be dangerous for delicate coral and other inhabitants. They can also be useful for planted tanks and other aquariums where the water level needs to be kept consistent.

An overflow aquarium is a type of aquarium that has an overflow box built into it, which allows water to overflow from the main tank into a separate compartment, called a sump. The sump is usually located under the aquarium, and it serves as a place to house equipment such as a protein skimmer, a heater, a chiller and other filtration methods. 

The overflow box is designed to allow water to flow over the top of the tank and into the sump. This happens when the water level in the tank reaches the top of the overflow box, the water flows through the box and into the sump where it is then pumped back into the tank. This allows for a constant water flow and circulation, promoting better water quality and oxygenation.

The use of a sump allows for a more efficient and effective filtration system, as well as more stable water level in the main tank, which can be useful when the equipment in the tank, such as protein skimmer and heater, use up a small amount of water and cause the water level in the main tank to drop.

The main benefit of an overflow aquarium is the increase in water movement and oxygenation, which helps to keep the water in the aquarium clean and clear, reduce the fish waste and other organic matter, and improve the overall health and well-being of the fish and other aquatic life in the tank. The use of a sump allows for more equipment and filtration options, which also improves the water quality.

Overflow aquariums can be more complex than other types of aquariums, as they require a little more maintenance, such as keeping the overflow box and the sump clean, and sometimes require a certain level of skill to properly set it up and maintain it.

An aquarium ozone generator is a device that produces ozone, which is a highly reactive form of oxygen (O3) that can be used to treat aquarium water. Ozone is used in aquariums as a way to improve water quality and reduce the buildup of harmful compounds such as bacteria, viruses, and dissolved organics.

The ozone generator typically consists of a high-voltage power supply that is connected to an ozone cell, which produces the ozone by passing an electrical current through a stream of oxygen. The ozone produced by the generator is then introduced into the water through an injection point, and it can be used to sterilize the water and eliminate harmful microorganisms.

Ozone can be used in different ways to treat aquarium water, such as:

• Direct injection into the main water flow
• Using a reactor to contact water and ozone longer
• Using a venturi-injector to add ozone into the water

Ozone has the ability to neutralize bacteria and viruses, and remove dissolved organics, leading to a reduction of the overall bioload in the aquarium, which in turn can reduce the need for water changes and filter maintenance. Additionally, ozone can also add oxygen to the water, helping to maintain the overall health of the aquarium environment.

Ozone generators should be used with caution as over-dosing ozone can be harmful to the inhabitants of the aquarium as well as the aquarist, also too much ozone can lead to stinging eyes and respiratory issues for aquarists. Properly setting up, using and maintaining an ozone generator is crucial for the health of the aquarium inhabitants and the aquarist.

New tank syndrome is a term used to describe the condition that can occur in newly set up aquariums. It is caused by the accumulation of harmful toxins, such as ammonia and nitrite, which can build up in the water before the tank's filtration system has had a chance to establish beneficial bacteria colonies that can break down these toxins. This can lead to stress or death of fish, shellfish and other aquatic life in the tank.

It is generally advise to follow cycle process to mature the tank before introducing any aquatic life. This process involve adding small amount of fish feed or ammonia source to tank to establish the beneficial bacteria colonies in the filter and substrate. Monitoring the water parameters and make adjustments accordingly.

How to Prevent New Tank Syndrome

There are several steps you can take to prevent new tank syndrome in a newly set up aquarium:

Cycle the tank. Before introducing any fish or other aquatic life, it is important to cycle the tank. This process involves adding a small amount of fish food or an ammonia source to the tank to establish beneficial bacteria colonies in the filter and substrate. Monitoring the water parameters and making adjustments accordingly. This process can take several weeks.

Use a high-quality filter. A high-quality filter is essential in keeping the water in your tank clean and healthy. A good filter should be able to handle the size of your tank, and have adequate space for beneficial bacteria to grow.

Add live plants. Live plants can help absorb harmful toxins and also provide oxygen to the tank.

Do regular water changes. Water changes can help remove harmful toxins and replenish essential minerals. It is generally recommended to change 10-15% of water every 2-4 weeks.

Be patient. It can take several weeks or even months for a tank's ecosystem to fully establish. Be patient and give the beneficial bacteria colonies time to grow.

Research the fish species you want to keep. Some fish species are more sensitive than others. Researching and selecting hardier fish species can help avoid unnecessary fish loss in the early stages of tank cycling.

By following these steps, you can prevent new tank syndrome and ensure that your aquarium is a healthy and happy home for your fish and other aquatic life.

T-slot aluminum profile is a type of extruded aluminum material that is used in a variety of industrial and construction applications. It is called "T-slot" because it has a T-shaped cross-section with a slot running the length of the profile.

T-slot aluminum profile is made by extruding aluminum through a die, creating a long, straight piece of aluminum with a T-shaped cross-section. This T-shaped profile allows for a wide range of different accessories and components to be attached to it, such as brackets, connectors, and other hardware.

The slot running the length of the profile allows for the attachment of these components using a variety of different methods, such as slide-in connectors, bolt-on connectors, and other specialized hardware. This allows for a wide range of different configurations and possibilities, making T-slot aluminum profile a versatile and flexible building material.

T-slot aluminum profile is popular in industrial and construction applications because of its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. It is also lightweight and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for many different types of projects, including:

• Automation and machinery construction
• Framing for industrial equipment
• Guardrails and enclosures
• Safety barriers and machine guards
• Custom workstations and workbenches
• Robot construction
• CNC machines frames
• Trade show displays
• Signage and retail fixtures
• And many other applications.

T-slot aluminum profile is a cost-effective, versatile and durable option for industrial and construction use. It provides a lot of freedom for designers to create their projects and allows for easy assembly and disassembly of the structures.

Wet/dry trickle filtration, also known as a "trickle filter," is a type of biological filtration system that is commonly used in saltwater aquariums and some freshwater aquariums.

In a wet/dry trickle filter, water is pumped from the aquarium into a separate compartment, known as a "sump," that contains a bed of bio-media, such as plastic bio-balls or ceramic noodles. The water then trickles over the bio-media, where beneficial bacteria colonies form on the surface and convert harmful ammonia and nitrite to nitrate, through a process called Nitrification.

The bio-media provides a large surface area for these bacteria to colonize and grow, which greatly increases the overall efficiency of the biological filtration. The water then flows through a "skimmer" compartment where bubbles are created by a venturi pump and micro bubbles are formed, the water flow through the bubbles and the skimmer removes dissolved organics, and proteins.

Once the water has flowed through the bio-media and skimmer, it is then returned to the aquarium. Because the bio-media is in a separate compartment and is not submerged, it is exposed to air, which helps to keep the beneficial bacteria colonies healthy and active.

The main benefit of using a wet/dry filter is the increase in biological filtration and oxygenation, which helps to keep the water in the aquarium clean and clear, reduce the fish waste and other organic matter, and improve the overall health and well-being of the fish and other aquatic life in the tank.

It's worth mentioning that the wet/dry filter is not the only filtration method to use, it can be combined with other types of filtration such as chemical or mechanical filters to enhance the overall water quality, and also protein skimmers to increase the removal of dissolved organics.

Protein skimmers are typically used in saltwater aquariums, as they are designed to remove dissolved organic compounds (such as proteins) from the water. These types of compounds can be a problem in saltwater aquariums because they can contribute to the buildup of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and algae.

Protein skimmers can technically work in freshwater tanks, but their efficiency and effectiveness will be greatly reduced. In freshwater aquariums, dissolved organic compounds are typically not much of an issue, so a protein skimmer may not be necessary. Some aquarists who keep heavily stocked or sensitive freshwater species may use a protein skimmer as a way to keep water conditions optimal, but it may not be as effective as in a saltwater tank.

It would be less common to use protein skimmer in freshwater tank because it's not as necessary, there are other ways to maintain good water quality such as mechanical, chemical and biological filtration.

Standard Tenecor® aquariums are kitted with world class SICCE® pumps. We chose SICCE® because their well earned reputation of performance and reliability ensures worry free aquariums. The SICCE® pumps we use can be grouped into two broad categories - line voltage AC current and Variable Flow DC Current.

It's all about the flow.

Aquariums with AC current pumps need output valves to regulate water flow since AC pumps essentially have two states of operation - on and off. For smaller and value priced aquariums AC pumps are not only acceptable, they may be desirable for their simplicity.

DC current pumps regulate water flow by varying the speed of the pump itself. Properly installed DC pumps will not need flow control valves although we still add them as a convenience. Below are examples of the SICCE® pumps used in our aquariums.