I was wondering how can you convert fresh water into salt water? Thnx for answering!! :]
You add salt, but not just any old salt. Salt water fish need a special mix of salts that imitate seawater and contain all the right trace elements. My favorite is Instant Ocean, available at all kinds of aquarium and pet stores. Just follow the instructions on the bag.
CAREFUL! DON'T LISTEN TO THESE OTHER GUYS! Regular kitchen salt is the WORST THING YOU COULD DO TO MAKE SALT WATER FOR SALT WATER FISH! I suggest going to a pet store, say, PetSmart. Just ask any guy there where they keep the salt for saltwater fish. THERE! Sorry I got so mad, It's just that you will not believe how bad it is for a saltwater fish to be living in water with regular table salt.
It isn't that difficult really. First you need to remove your gravel and your carbon from your filter. (of course all your fish need to be gone) Second you need to do a 25% water change. At that time either replace your gravel with sand or your washed dolomite. When replacing the water, you want to use a dechlor designed for salt water. Mix your replacement water at 4 x the salt amount needed for your tank. You will need a reef salt either synthetic like Instant ocean or a real one like red sea salt. Once you have replaced the water let it run. You should still have enough beneficial bacteria to continue the salt cycle. You will need to get a hydrometer as well as a salt water test kit. Allow your tank to run test as you go. you should not experience the heavy ammonia spikes like you would starting from scratch. A skimmer isnice but isn't needed so if you don't have one, don't worry. You have pretty much started a salt tank. remember your tank can cycle quickly but it will not mature for atleast 5-6 months so watch which fish you choose. Also, do not add too many fish too quickly.
