Marine Aquarium Water Parameters Guide

A to Z Marines Care Guide

Marine Aquarium Water Parameters

Stability is one of the most important parts of successful marine fishkeeping. Test regularly and make corrections gradually rather than chasing exact numbers.

Mixed reef starting guide

Temperature: 24–26°C
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: approximately 7.9–8.3
Alkalinity: 7–12 dKH
Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Calcium: approximately 380–450 ppm
Magnesium: approximately 1200–1400 ppm

Top-up water

Evaporation leaves salt behind, so replace evaporated water with fresh RO/DI water rather than saltwater. Match temperature and salinity carefully during water changes.

Targets vary by livestock and system. Stability and species-specific research are essential.