Personally, I don't have a saltwater tank, nor have I ever, but I do know from talking with people that a saltwater tank requires more knowledge of water parameters and how to alter them accordingly. I will not get a saltwater tank until I know everything there is to know about freshwater systems and the various factors that go along with them. That's just my feelings.

Saltwater fish are much more sensitive to water parameter changes (so like your temperature, pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, salinity, hardness, etc.). So since you have little experience with freshwater fish (which are less sensitive to water parameter changes, at least the hardier fish), I strongly suggest you stick with a freshwater aquarium even though you don't mind spending the money and have the time. I can understand your wanting a saltwater aquarium because I want one too, but my first concern is the well being of the animals so I won't get one until I know that I can provide the best possible home. There are more water parameters with saltwater aquariums than in freshwater aquariums, and they (SW aquariums) require more filtration equipment that the FW aquariums.

A 75 gallon is a very nice sized tank. A happy home for most fish. I've included an article from Drs. Foster and Smith, they have several articles. Here's another link for you: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?c=3578&articleid=613&d=158&category=266

I'll let you make your decision because I've given you my opinion, but I can help you as much as I can. If you do want a saltwater aquarium, you will not be able to start off with sharks or rays, pretty much you can check out liveaquaria.com and they have a section called marine fish for beginners. There is one fish on that section that I strongly disagree with for most hobbyists, but you have venomous snakes, so perhaps you may be ok with it.... the lionfish. They are venomous as well. There have been many reports of hobbyists getting stung, so I usually tell people to avoid them unless they are experienced. Just be sure to do a lot of research on the fish (regardless of fresh or salt water preference).

While you're on liveaquaria.com, you should really check out the african cichlids. They are quite colorful, and hardy fish for beginners. Like I said they are either semi-aggressive or aggressive and they are entertaining. If you want a bigger fish, Jack Dempseys are also quite colorful and hardy. I do have a preference for both of these options. Check out both sections on liveaquaria.com. I really would like to know what you think about the cichlids. They will allow you to have color and get into the water parameters (as they like harder water).
Thinking about a saltwater aquarium?


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Phishie
Site Coordinator

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

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