Switch to Saltwater | Easier Than You Think! (Only 3 Steps)

You probably thought a switch to Saltwater Aquarium keeping would be difficult but I'm here to tell you, it's no sweat!
Yes, there is tons to learn about keeping Saltwater tanks but we have to learn things in baby steps! All the available info out there can easily make anyone feel overwhelmed and intimidated...I know cause I felt it!
That's why we're starting with the most basic, 3 things, needed to transition your freshwater aquarium to Saltwater Aquarium for beginners. You'll be amazed at how simple it is!
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📌 BEGINNERS IN THE HOBBY START W/ THIS PLAYLIST 📌
• Aquarium Beginners Sta...
#KaveManAquatics #AquariumHobby

[@KaveManAquatics]

📱Download my brand new FREE Aquarium Keeping App! - Aquabuildr is a one-stop shop designed for beginners to learn and veterans to expand! aquabuildr.com

[@JoseDiaz-nr1qx]

Hey Kev, I’ve watched all your videos from tank cycling, treating different fish sicknesses, using media etc,,, I was ready to startup a cichlid tank but decided to go saltwater at the last minute. I used all the knowledge I gained from your videos and am going on a year with the tank. Welcome to the saltwater side!! Keep up the great work, brother!!!

[@edgoodman01]

You should do a special video on letting people who are starting salt waster send you videos of what they did or record themselves asking questions same with fresh waster you are good at helping and explaining things man

[@Marcoz17]

I’ve used KZbin for 15 years for the hobby….this is the best and most helpful channel out there. Thanks 🙌🏽

[@Bigofft]

This is exactly what i need to finally give it a shot! Kev always coming through with the goods.

[@ArchangelHornet]

Very nice job kev at teaching the potential future saltwater keepers! Thank you for explaining FO, FOWLR and REEF to them! Most saltwater videos in KZbin is so intimidating and such elitists its stupid (imo). We should encourage people to do saltwater not scare them. FO requirements: * container to keep water such as an aquarium ($15) * saltwater mix such as instant ocean sea salt ($10) * some sort of filter ($20) * something to oxygenate water (wave maker and/or air pump) ($15) NOTE: you dont usually see airpumps in saltwater because of salt creep but its an option. Optional: * base or live rock (~$3 per pound) * sand substrate ($15) * light ($10 to $400) seriously for FO, $10 light works! Lastly the fish (clownfish aka nemo) ($20) or invertibrates (like shrimps, crabs) ($2 to $40) itself. ~$60 to start excluding the fish. Lets go!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Love how you detailed that list! And I completely agree with you. Thats the exact approach Im taking in this Saltwater series. To keep it simple and be inviting to encourage others to give it a try. 😁💪

[@lev40123]

That's actually gave me peace of mind and the confidence to start my salt water tank didn't realise how simple it could be

[@KaveManAquatics]

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!! 😁😁💪💪

[@ItsLaurenE]

You are the Man when it comes to non complex tips, set ups, guidelines and so much more. What a great video, and your fish are beautiful ❤

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you so much! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁

[@hobbyflying1357]

Love how you inform people of your knowledge and take us along for the ride! keep up the good work please!!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks, will do! 😁

[@melwingun]

Very good video! Highly educational!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Glad you think so! 😁

[@930terry]

I'm so happy that you're doing salt water, I have followed you and used your advice for my planted aquariums. About 6 months ago I started my first saltwater tank so I'm very excited to follow your journey. I turned my 30 gallon fresh water tank into fowlr saltwater aquarium. I'm using a tidal 35 and a fluval 207.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Awesome to hear this! Thanks for sharing, out of curiosity, are you using regular tap water or RODI water on your FOWLR tank?

[@hydratedrobert1890]

I love this video I started watching ur videos a year ago cause I got gifted a salt water tank and now u starting one too this is awesome

[@aaronh500]

Great way to start off my Saturday morning, thanks kev!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Pleasure is all mine bro! Glad you enjoyed it! 😁💪

[@louay3318]

Omg thank you soooo much. I was just looking for some videos to start a saltwater tank. U are the best

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful. 😊 BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - aquabuildr.com

[@brandonodle7817]

Been wanting to do saltwater my whole life, and this series is giving me the confidence to make the jump.

[@KaveManAquatics]

LETS GOOOO 😁💪

[@rajgill7576]

Thats so cool to see. Ive been in fishkeeping for about 5 years, and jumped into reefing beginning of this year. What a learning curve! Funny to see the guy i learned from aa a noob ve a noob again in a new version of the same hobby

[@padlisaga]

This was literally the most comprehensive and easiest explanation I've ever found in KZbin for starters in salt water tanks. I'm definitively following this series! Greetings from Guatemala!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro! Glad you enjoyed it and found it helpful! 😁💪 BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - aquabuildr.com

[@christophermastino3229]

Kev - one suggestion from a long term reef keeper. Many salts out there have different parameters with mixing and storing the freshly made water. Some suggest that the water be used immediately after mixing and others say that they can be held for longer. I have used the salt you are using and I they suggest that it be used within 24 hours but can be used sooner. Other salts are considered safe for continuous water changes while others are not. Instant Ocean and Reef Crystals once mixed should be used immediately. Moral to the story for people getting started is that once you pick a salt make sure you really understand the manufacturers instructions. Less important with a fish only tank but extra important when you start adding corals.

[@KaveManAquatics]

This is awesome! I didnt even consider this. I'll definitely dive deeper into this and get more info. Appreciate the knowledge bro! 💪

[@Danish-tk2hu]

Always wanted to start a real tank set up and aft watching you I keep getting my hopes up

[@KaveManAquatics]

I promise I'll do my best to get you there! 😁💪

[@ronfinn]

Like the added video clips.

[@KaveManAquatics]

I'm always torn whether to add those or not, too many or too little..some people like them and some say dont add them lol But glad to hear you liked it!! 😁💪

[@llomax1067]

One thing to add is yes you can use tap water and 80 percent of the questions you get is about having clear water once that tank fully cycles and settles and the diatom phase happens.... It's 10 times worse using tap water try to keep the lights off if you can help it if you have no corals... And yes this hobby is an expense no matter how you look at it..... Its definitely next level... Good to see you come to the darkside brother 👏🏽👏🏽

[@KaveManAquatics]

That’s exactly why FO can be done with tap water. The fish don’t need light at all while diatoms do. Keep light at a minimum and there’s no ugly phase or RODI water to worry about. 😁 Reef keeping is a totally different story. Nice tang!

[@RogueAquariums]

Nice step by step tutorial for new beginners. IMO people should the equipment they can afford regardless of the name brand. Running tap water imo opinion you will have some elements that are harmful to fish & corals but using an rodi (which are fairly inexpensive for a 4stage) to start with a barrel like yours is a great idea. Following your build. 👍

[@codymaly652]

I appreciate that you have an overflow built into your replenishment holding vessel. You never know when your shut-off float is going to fail. Good video, Kev!

[@KaveManAquatics]

That was one of the very first recommendations from my bros at Infinity Aquariums and its already made a world of difference! I would lose my mind watching and waiting for that thing to fill up LMAO! btw Cody, saw your original comment before you deleted it 🤣🤣🤣

[@codymaly652]

@KaveManAquatics Posted it before I saw the whole video! The minute you said it that "comment" got the axe! 🤣

[@KaveManAquatics]

lol, I knew it was pre-mature...and after I typed that exact response it wouldn't post cause the comment was already gone 🤣🤣

[@JerseyBoy5110]

Awesome stuff! Been thinking about converting my 55 gallon into a saltwater sanctuary

[@KaveManAquatics]

Go for it, I got you! 😁

[@lorisheheen2198]

Excellent video Kev! Easy to understand. I like the idea that starting a saltwater tank can be started the "old school" way in the beginning. I definitely will be watching this video a few time's. I saw Cooper!😂 Thanks for putting him in for a quick glimpse!🥰 Enjoyed watching and great job!❤️❤️❤️☺️

[@KaveManAquatics]

lol, I might have to consider adding him in at least 1 b-roll shot per video..just for you! 🤣🤣

[@lorisheheen2198]

@@KaveManAquatics Yes!!!! I would love that!!😂❤️❣️

[@clarence0075]

I’ve been doing freshwater for over 20 years. I just started saltwater two months ago. It’s definitely more money upfront, but it’s worth it.👍🏾👍🏾 .If you listen to every single body on the Internet, you’ll spend way more then you need to.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Very true statement! Thats why I want to start my content slow, simple, and as economical as possible. All the bells and whistles are not needed, ESPECIALLY in the beginning! 😁💪

[@NotSure876]

@@clarence0075 Salt can be as simple or complicated as someone makes it. A FOWLR is the easiest way to go. Just LR and flow is all that’s needed and if you stick lightly, maintaining it is not much work either

[@anthonyalvarez3114]

I started up my first saltwater tank, it’s a 10 gallon with 2 clownfish in it, literally all I needed was any hanging filter, sand, a tank, and you don’t even have to make your own water your local fish store should have already ready to go saltwater 4$ per 5 gallons is how much our local store is. Other than that it’s pretty much simple to have a saltwater tank, of course it will be easier with clownfish and 10 gallons of water, and no corals but just my take on it for anyone interested in what I got

[@austinrebecca]

Never thought of doing a saltwater tank until saw you made the step. Now have a 210 reef tank that’s thriving

[@KaveManAquatics]

Nice!! So glad to hear that!! I'm already itching to make one of my bigger tanks a reef as well 🤣🤣

[@austinrebecca]

Never thought of doing a saltwater tank until saw you made the step. Now have a 210 reef tank thriving

[@simpleaquatics4262]

It really is easy and so satisfying to watch the corals and fish ,Great video my brotha 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you my bro! Cant wait to get going with some coral! 😁💪

[@simpleaquatics4262]

@@KaveManAquatics bro soon enough you will ,try out some soft corals first and see how it goes whenever your ready there’s so many colors out there

[@KaveManAquatics]

That’s exactly what I have incoming, bunch of softies to start with 😁💪

[@simpleaquatics4262]

@@KaveManAquaticslet’s gooo

[@jordanmartin7596]

I’m so glad you knew the differences in the types of tanks. And you’re absolutely correct about the first 3 key steps. Testing the salt and nitrates is pretty much it with fish only. Reef tanks are the most complicated version of the hobby (also the most coveted 😂)

[@KaveManAquatics]

Glad you enjoyed it! Appreciate you following along in the series and checking me when needed 😁💪

[@jordanmartin7596]

@@KaveManAquatics the tank looks beautiful bro!

[@cichlidman5598]

Keep it simple I love it 😁

[@KaveManAquatics]

😁

[@oswal1853]

I learned from kev many tips for my freshwater tank,,why not for salt water 😂 thanks man..great videos

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks bro! Glad you've been enjoying the channel! 😁💪 BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - aquabuildr.com

[@acuatruco2294]

Excelente guía de inicio. Voy siguiendo tus pasos jjjjj. Saludos

[@KaveManAquatics]

Gracias! 😁

[@Semper.Reefing]

Tank looks good! I made the move from fresh to salt and never looking back

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks bro! I’m loving it already too 😁

[@76honda76]

It’s very dangerous. I switched over in 2021 and not going back lmao

[@MadFamMyco52117]

I want to so bad when I move but the wave makers you really want to have for reef tanks are crazy expensive tho and you typically want to run 2 in a reef tank , almost a k for that alone cost is the only thing stopping me 😂 someday tho! Love the content hopefully it will be in my near future , what size tank are you using 60gal?

[@brandonodle7817]

@@MadFamMyco52117 sicce wave makers are 50-100 dollars

[@lamontmajor9801]

Love saltwater tank being doing it for three yrs

[@johnjr47]

Thank you, A. Awesome tank and you explain it very well. How many gallons is your saltwater tank?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro! This tank is 150G. Looks smaller than that because its size is in the width, 30" 😁💪

[@johnjr47]

@@KaveManAquatics wow 😮 I would not guess that size it looked like a small tank a 36 x 20

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yea, I've been getting that a lot. lol

[@edgoodman01]

You got me again lol I am doing it

[@KaveManAquatics]

😁

[@rounakroy4447]

Hey Kev, can I use my canister filter, instead of the SUMP in fish only tank ?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely!

[@bradb3245]

I nearly went broke paying for ocean salt and doing minimal water changes. Then I started getting hard crusty red algae that covered everything and no one could advise me on how to get rid of it. After going broke and crying, I gave up. Been happy ever sense.

[@notjeff3466]

Unc Ive seen you have a frame on the wall that has some discus as the pic. Mind sharing where you got it from? it's sick!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks bro! My guys from OM_Discuscenter blessed me with it 😁

[@notjeff3466]

@@KaveManAquatics Tell them to make it a sellable item so I can buy it 😭

[@terezaveis2270]

I started my saltwater journey 12 months ago and used my fresh water 60 litre tank and my Oase therm canister filter, I upgraded to a 160 litre tank with a bigger canister and had no issues, you can 100% do salt water with a canister or HOB. I 7 weeks ago I upgraded to a 326 litre tank with a sump, is sump better? Yes absolutely but there is nothing wrong with what I was using previously.

[@isiheisenberg4784]

I plan on doing a tank with 5 Fishes and the only corals i want to keep Are xenia, green star polyp and bubletip anemones. I dont want to dose anything, just want to make waterchanges with good salt… do you guys think it Can work out?

[@Danish-tk2hu]

HELLO BIG FANNN

[@KaveManAquatics]

😁

[@bdinkler]

Love seeing a new video posted to get the morning started, what water parameters did you wait to get before doing the very first water change and not using the prime and stability daily? I mean the nitrite levels since the ammonia and nitrate should be 0

[@KaveManAquatics]

Pleasure is mine bro! After 1 week I hit 0 ammonia and 0 nitrite so I stopped the daily dose. Then it took about 3 weeks for my nitrates to reach 15ppm. Did a small 10% water change to bring them down to about 10. I'm currently "practicing" how often and what level of water change to stay between 5-10ppm which is what I hear most coral prefer in preparation for their arrival next week! 😁💪

[@bdinkler]

@@KaveManAquatics thank you so much! your videos got me started in the hobby so after doing freshwater for awhile I decided to do saltwater around the same time as you so every video you post is amazing to help on the journey!

[@codymaly652]

@KaveManAquatics Next week?!?!?!? Getting real really quick 'round here!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Should have been this week but got delayed due to the holiday lol next week Tank is 6 weeks old 😁

[@kekoa6]

Yes please 🎉

[@KaveManAquatics]

😁💪

[@Incubyss]

Hey brother! so for the water changes at these preliminary stages - I saw through several sources that you top off with RODI water in between water changes to account for evaporation. I'm assuming in this stage, you would top off with tap water, then dose with Prime/Stability - then your water changes are with your reserve bucket supply - which would be the reality until you obtain the RODI filter? EDIT: I typed this before the last 30 seconds of your video lol - so if you want to address this on the new video - feel free but would love to know prior! I have an AIO from waterbox that I bought for my wife - we are taking the journey together!

[@dazsboxofwater]

You could even save more money but running a lower salinity at 1.018/20 fish I’m sure benefit from a slightly lower salinity unlike corals which need/ prefer the 1.024/6 . @parkersreef just showed a cracking nano fully stocked reef running a hob seachem filer , worth a watch. Salt water fish ain’t really any harder than fresh water , just add an Ato , I’d defo Qt saltwater fish more than I ever did freshwater , tank transfer method a great/ safe choice & less harsh. Corals can/ will process ammonia as a food source & possibly easier to process than nitrate , maybe even safer to cycle with corals than fish. Look forward to seeing this progress & all the best with new fish & your first corals, I’ll keep a look out for future salt water episodes 👏🏼👏🏼👍🏻.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Great info right there! Appreciate you sharing! 😁💪

[@EvansWS6]

Are those big stalks of real bamboo in the tank behind you???? Im new to your channel. Im going to look through your videos to see because that has me super curious!

[@KaveManAquatics]

No they're not. All my backgrounds and decor are from aquadecorbackgrounds.com Use code Kaveman10 at checkout for a 10% discount 😊

[@josephschembri]

Man you are going to make me go into salt water.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Sorry, not sorry 🤣🤣

[@KelJohn]

What size is the new tank, Kev?

[@KaveManAquatics]

150G…looks deceiving cause it’s 30” deep 😁

[@brooklynbrooklyn3995]

I have a hard time with my wave maker moving my sand out of one side of my tank any suggestions

[@jordanmartin7596]

For anyone wondering, you don’t exactly have to put a sump in for a full blown reef tank. You can get away with a HOB filter. But you probably shouldn’t do it with anything larger than a 30 gallon.

[@juncer8733]

Hello new subscriber

[@KaveManAquatics]

Welcome bro! Thanks for the Sub!

[@narendramishra114]

Love from India 🇮🇳

[@KaveManAquatics]

😁

[@Black_sand_reef_man]

I like how you keep things basic - my 2 cents. It's probably beneficial to encourage people to use RO water from the beginning for best long term practice. It can be a pain, but it helps people start off doing things in a way that can help them long term. Side note - my tap water that was dosed with prime still upset my fish.

[@KaveManAquatics]

In my opinion, RODI scares freshwater guys away. I want to first show them they can transition over without it…but will definitely explain the benefits and importance of eventually using RODI 👍

[@Black_sand_reef_man]

@@KaveManAquatics fair point. I remember when I made the switch a few years ago, it was intimidating with all the information I "had to know". Smart move man.by the way, you don't know me, but your info helped A LOT when I had a freshwater tank!

[@jorgebaltazar7]

Aquascape !!!

[@reggie2803]

Bro, you mean to tell me I don’t have to use distilled water. I had no idea I could use regular tap water. Weekly trip to the grocery store includes purchasing at least 15 - 1 gallon jugs of distilled water. Kev, you bring the facts 👍🏾.

[@KaveManAquatics]

If you're doing fish only, Correct! 😁💪

[@reggie2803]

@@KaveManAquatics I have two clown, one shrimp, and a couple of hermit crabs.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yup, no problem! Remember not to blast your light (just like you wouldnt on a freshwater setup) to avoid algae blooms and/or diatoms 😁💪

[@76honda76]

Oh Kev….. salt is extremely addictive. You will see lmao. Great videos, cheers !

[@KaveManAquatics]

I’ve been bit by the bug for sure 🤣

[@user-ez9rf3jd4n]

😍😍😍 I have read many documents about starting one and kept coming to the same conclusion … way too difficult. You have just busted that thought now and really make me feel confident i can do this whilst keeping fish safe during transition. Love these tutorials very much. 😃

[@KaveManAquatics]

So glad to hear that bro! Mission Accomplished! 😁

[@miguelromero2627]

Good basic info but what do you do when you finally decide to start adding coral but the whole time you’ve been using tap water. Yes you can do 100% water change but what about all the metals that have now leeched on to the rocks? They will continue to leach for a while into your corals.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Prime removes heavy metals. Thats why I made a pretty big point about dosing your tap water with prime every time you water change.

[@miguelromero2627]

@@KaveManAquatics really interested to see the end product, keep us posted👍🏻

[@mrb6100]

Love your rocks they look like live rock. Be careful of bristle worms if get live rocks 😅

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks! These are Carbsea "life rock" looks live but they arent 😁

[@NotSure876]

Salt is very easy IMO. I’ve done several salt tanks and I currently have a basic pico reef. 5.8g Waterbox AC50 with chemipure blue Fluval heater Kessil a80 blue That’s it. Aside from topping off and doing 1g water changes bi-monthly, it’s maintenance free. Actually, many corals are not effected by ammonia and will consume it

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I agree!! And I read that corals arent affected by ammonia at certain trace levels. In high amounts its deadly, but didnt want to add confusing info in a video like this...Thise deeper details will be further down the line. 😁

[@Yourowner]

Salt water tanks look like Hospitals ..... I Hate Hospitals LOL

[@KaveManAquatics]

LOL

[@Coral-reef.]

Hey kevin. RO water is actually extremely important specially if you want to start off your journey on the right path. If you dont use RO water then you will have diatoms and alot of algae issues. You can buy RO and natural sea water from you local fish store.

[@KaveManAquatics]

This is a common myth that has been regurgitated in the saltwater world. I’ve already seen and spoken to many FO tap water users. Remember that FO tanks don’t require the light that Reef tanks do. What I’m beginning to learn is how difficult it will be to share this info. Appreciate the concern though 👍

[@Coral-reef.]

@@KaveManAquatics if you want your viewers to start on the right path get them used to using RO water right away. They can get it from the local fish store like i do. you dont have to have an RO/DI system at home although its obviously more convenient.

[@KaveManAquatics]

While thats true eventually they will need RO if they go the coral route, imo, the best way to get them into Saltwater keeping is by informing them they dont need it to start. I'm doing baby steps in this series because I know personally how intimidating saltwater and RODI filter systems have always been for me. While now learning the fear was all in my head.

[@Whaleydavey]

One common thing that maybe makes salt harder than freshwater that has caused some people to give up are the pests that come in with live rock and corals. Once Majono and Aiptasia anemones get in, also hydra and bristle worms, they can be extremely difficult to get rid of and/or manage. They can multiply uncontrollably if you are unlucky. That’s why some people don’t use live rock and prefer to build the bacteria up with artificial rock. And only put in tiny coral plugs (that they scrape clean thoroughly and quarantine) instead of giant “grown” corals. Even if it takes months or years to grow the coral.

[@KaveManAquatics]

This is great info bro! Thanks for sharing your experiences! 😁💪 I plan to QT everything for sure

[@Whaleydavey]

@@KaveManAquatics 👍 Speaking from my own experiences. I gave up on corals and now only keep fish, because the Aiptasia killed and stung most of the corals. The bristle worms were like a blanket when I tore down the tank and lifted up the rock. They can get large enough to even prey on some fish. The bobbit worms can grow to 6 feet and 1 inch in thickness with sharp mandibles on the mouth. Some (most) aquarists are able to deal with these pests - I wasn’t smart enough to know how to kill them off. But knowing you bud, you’ll be among the ones that manage it.

[@JerseyBoy5110]

I got an empty 55 gallon that you are convincing me to do

[@KaveManAquatics]

Do it bro! I got you! 😁💪

[@Flowshow88]

Holy cow I thought it was Sinbad in the thumbnail 😅

[@lamontmajor9801]

I have a FO tank

[@KaveManAquatics]

Nice! Do you use RO water or tap water?

[@daltonwiedow5802]

i would love a salt water tank but geez cant wrap my head around the idea. super scary!!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Follow this series, I plan to keep it simple and easy for anyone to do it! 😁💪

[@user-ws7bv7mg8e]

What abt ro water dont you have to top off the tank with that and not tap water?

[@KaveManAquatics]

In a Fish Only tank you can top off with tap water.

[@user-ws7bv7mg8e]

@@KaveManAquatics ohh thx for the info

[@austinrebecca]

If you start with non RODI water and then want to switch over to RODI system for coral, how do you switch out your water? 100% water change 😂 but for real, how?

[@KaveManAquatics]

That might shock the fish lol I would do multiple 30-50% water changes over the course of a few weeks, 😁💪

[@healthfoodsguy]

Had saltwater fish for 20 years. I was in the retail business. Over the last 6 years the price of fish has tripled due to shipping and other factors. A 40 dollar fish is now 75.00 to 100.00 salt has also gone sky high. Used to pay 30.00 for a 200 gallon box. When buying the fish wholesale transhipment a 8 inch emerator angel was 40.00 then add 180 to 200 to ship it. Now it's 300 to 400 retail. I had to get out

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yea Im sure prices on fish and equipment have gone up...but nothing costs what it did 20 years ago 🤷‍♂️

[@healthfoodsguy]

@KaveManAquatics in not talking bout 20 years ago. I'm talking about 2020. Fish and salt prices have gone crazy. True freshwater has also gone up but many species especially cichlids which I have are bred here in the United States.

[@edgoodman01]

Ok ok

[@evh347]

Setting up a saltwater tank is even easier when your sponsors come in and set it up for you.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Could you be any more mad about it?

[@codymaly652]

@evh347 Salty much? Don't hate. Kev is fortunate but this all comes from all the hard work and dedication that he's put into the hobby for the last nine years. Hell, if I could have my entire setup sponsored I would be dumb not to take it.

[@scarletfire9812]

Kev just drained my cichlid tank and flushed all of them down the toilet, saltwater here we come!! JK

[@KaveManAquatics]

🤣🤣🤣

[@anniemarie-5150]

there are also those elite salt water keepers that never do water change because the corals eat all the fish waste nutrients up like plants do.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yup, Im pretty sure I mentioned them in this video lol

[@anniemarie-5150]

@@KaveManAquatics youre correct about using prime and stability to cycle the tank, we deep cleanse the fx6 and the overstocked fish die when we dont use seachem stability + pristine. pristine has other beneficial bacteria also.

[@ar0d422]

I love ya man, but I think the videos are better without the cheesy edits. Just my opinion. Still appreciate you either way.

[@KaveManAquatics]

I get that, some like it, some dont...trying to find a happy medium.

[@mattphillips6714]

Kev you can’t preach about setting up a saltwater tank and saying most of the saltwater equipment isn’t necessary to start when you have a custom setup.. 1 some salt has its own mineral content and is only compatible with RODI water which is why so many aquatic stores sell RODI water as well as the salt. 2 A Skimmer is a very important part of running a saltwater tank, it was designed in the 1960s and really found it’s ground in the 1990s when the sump trickle towers came out, if skimmers were not a very necessary feature then why would Fluval make one specifically designed for the EVO tank range.. 3 Your tank isn’t even matured yet to fully stock your system, don’t say something is easy till your a seasoned keeper of saltwater. Lots of people have come unstuck 6 months in when something goes out of whack and you lose 80% of your livestock, it will happen as it always happens and it’s how you bounce back as some people do and a lot of people don’t. Don’t get me wrong I wish you every success as we dread hearing a mistake has happened and there has been a mortality issue, I just like being realistic. I hope you’re going to be really honest and talk about evaporation and salt creep in the filter cabinet as these are very often hidden topics that are even more often not discussed. People need to be told about the Cons just as much as how easy certain things are. Also how important it is to store unused Salt as it is excellent at drawing moisture from your home and potentially damaging or polluting the supply and harming your tank.. Take care Kev and best of luck.

[@scottgordin9709]

Did the saltwater thing for a lil over a year, it was not for me. Don't be discouraged to trying it out, it was fun just wasn't for me.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks for sharing! Thats the beauty of this hobby is there are so many forms to try until you land on one that works well for you 😁

[@PanRybka22]

Like 133

[@KaveManAquatics]

133?

[@Nathan-hb3pu]

A skimmer isn t needed but will cut your water changes down by 70 percent, and salt water is expensive, and if your fish only and carbon dose skimmer is worth it's weight in gold 👍

[@KaveManAquatics]

Not there yet bro. Keep in mind what this video is about. A skimmer is not needed at this point.

[@Tommy.8951]

Bro u gona go through velvet flukes snd your tank is gona go through an ugly stage that could last for over a year! Turn them lights off for a couple of months😅

[@KaveManAquatics]

Lights are only on for the video bro, come on. Have a little more faith! Went 4 weeks with lights out, now started light at only 20% for the coraline algae growth. Also added many species of pods to combat the ugly. Tank is now 6 weeks old with no uglies in sight. I know you’re new here but I promise I research what I do here.

[@Tommy.8951]

Bro I'm just trying to look out for you. Your first mistake was putting them fish in without qt. I ain't trying to be disrespectful saltwater a whole new gang, if you get velvet or brooklynella you'll go 45 days no fish to get it out the system. You giving these people wrong information. Because during that time no nutrients will be in water column and dinoflagellates could take over and wipe out what biome you have left😢 New here?? I've been following you since my fresh water days you trippin

[@nandhubt90]

Everyime I want to start my saltwater tank. My bank account stops me.

[@jordanmartin7596]

You can do a nano tank! They’re affordable 😊

[@KaveManAquatics]

Tell that account to shut up!!! 🤣🤣

[@lukebiba4015]

Based on the results, it is evident that tap water can pose a threat to your tank and should not be used to mix saltwater in 99% of cases. Not only do you run the risk of creating an imbalance of major elements, but there is also the constant risk of contaminants such as ammonia and phosphate poisoning your tank water.Mar 1, 2022

[@KaveManAquatics]

Ammonia poisoning? If you’re worried about that tap water is the least of your concerns. Copying and pasting a statement with no context is not only unhelpful, but also misleading. Is that tank full of Coral? Any Live rock? Fish Only? No context helps no one.

[@lukebiba4015]

@@KaveManAquatics considering you been putting your toe in this water for a whole 3 days and all Is great but I’ve had successful reef tanks for years. It’s not just ammonia but also high levels of metals, phosphates , and ammonias or did you not learn that from the stingrays. I understand that seachem pays you and buys all of your gear but don’t mislead the new fish people that won’t have experts there to solve issues when they have them

[@KaveManAquatics]

@@lukebiba4015 Ahh, A Seachem hater…the true colors are visible now. 🤣 Such a hater that you have no idea that Prime removes 99% of exactly what you mentioned. See this is what happens when you HATE! You get blinded to new information. Even when there are successful tap water tanks living and breathing in your face you still let the HATE consume you! Keep watching buddy, you’ll be hating my successful saltwater tank and all the beginners I bring with me for years to come! Beginners that will one day tell you that your information is ANCIENT and OUTDATED. While you continue hating that this 3 day old saltwater guy is sponsored by the BEST company in the game and your hateful self is still troop’n it to your local haters club🤣🤣🤣

[@lukebiba4015]

@@KaveManAquatics I actually have no issue with seachem at all ., I do use their products .. but I think telling people that just put this in your tank and all will be good is wrong. Saltwater is a big chemistry game that can get very expensive if you don’t understand the logic behind it. Also it does not immediately remove it the water needs to sit for 24 hours to gas off. Therefore putting it directly in your tank can cause a spike and kill everything.

[@KaveManAquatics]

OMG! You shouldn’t be allowed on the internet guy…you couldn’t be more incorrect!!!!

[@kusuko..scla..213]

To much work !! I stay with my FRESHWATER TANKS 😂😂😂😂

[@KaveManAquatics]

lol...If ever you're ready I'll be here for you bro 😁💪

[@davidleach4689]

Yeah he is going to want to switch to a rodi system I promise you on that

[@jordanmartin7596]

In his setup video, it looked like he installed a 4 part rodi system.

[@KaveManAquatics]

I have an RODI system, you obviously didnt watch the video and couldnt wait to tell me Im wrong. Btw, I promise you there are tons of successful FO tap water saltwater tanks, you just have to look further than your nose.

[@religionlol7323]

Yeah saltwater is super easy and cheap to set up just call your personal Seachem team to come to your house and drill you a custom sump and set everything up for you. No problem.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Hate much 🤣

[@religionlol7323]

@@KaveManAquatics Dude you said that last comment and I reminded you that I was a subscriber and a former Marine. I'm not at all jealous of you. I am saying these videos you are uploading talking about things being easy are clearly not for most people. Just be straight up instead of pushing Seachem bs.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Do you think Im supposed to accept sarcastic and condescending comments from you just cause you're a former Marine? You think that gives you a pass? If anything you should have more respect for the work and dedication I do here to provide the content that I do! Easy and hard are subjective adjectives! If you dont do any research or get bad info on any topic everything will be hard for you! Whats hard FOR YOU might not be hard for others which is literally the point of this video. You obviously missed that! And BTW, I know plenty of Sh1t Bag Marines...1 more aint surprising.

[@religionlol7323]

@@KaveManAquatics You know, I think I will unsubscribe and to think I used to recommend your videos to people. I even set my FX6 up like you did. I see why people have said the things they have said about you. I think it is YOU that missed the point thinking that salt water tank is easy to set up with a team from Seachem in your house doing it. I know plenty of $hit bag Marines too, one more ain't surprising.

[@frankvaughn605]

@kaveman I have to tell you I love your videos straight and to the point.. But most of all you use the Kiss system.. Keep It Simple Stupid philosophy.. Thanks for all you do.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Always my goal! 😁💪 Glad you're enjoying the content!

[@edgoodman01]

You is nothing but trouble for me lol mannn

[@KaveManAquatics]

Sorry, not sorry 🤣🤣

[@lukebiba4015]

This video is so dangerous. Using tap water will cause so many issues .. if you don’t have and RODI unit buy it at a lfs. And I have an issue with pushing chemicals ..

[@KaveManAquatics]

Tell that to all the successful tap water saltwater tanks 🙄

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yea big issue with pushing chemicals, like all the Alkalinity, Calcium, Magnesium you dose daily, lol Those chemicals are cool 👍🙄🙄🙄

[@lukebiba4015]

@@KaveManAquatics those aren’t chemicals .. those are vital trace elements that feed your corals. You seem to have a lot to learn

[@KaveManAquatics]

Those aren’t chemicals? 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@KaveManAquatics]

Next you’re gonna say water isn’t a chemical either…🤣🤣🤣

[@Knottykid]

Saltwater are super easy until you start dealing with green hair algae , diatom , cyano bacteria, dinoflagellates and the list goes on 🤣

[@KaveManAquatics]

That’s why I plan to teach beginners how to avoid all that. Also, freshwater has algae and diatoms and plenty of unwanted slimes to avoid too. You Saltwater guys really think you’re something special. lol

[@ddaquarium3531]

But talk about the cost of the fish $200 $300 for one fish especially the fish that you are going to like .plus the fishes are real fragile you are going to get ick especially if you get tangs . I don't care what no one say It is not Close To be as easy As fresh water. I live it on it was a stress. Do you know how it feel to spen $300 an a fish and you come home to see it dead .there is reasons why bigbox store well take back dead freshwater fish but not dead saltwater fish

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thats upfront cost bro. You wont care that your fish cost 300 when hes 2 years old. Saltwater being easy is completely subjective I agree. If you dont do any research or get bad info im sure it wont be easy for anyone.

[@carlsmith3817]

Problem with your setups is you use the most expensive items on the market. Which many of us will never be able to afford. How about doing a "Affordable setup: Where you are not using high end equipment!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Did you even watch the video? Thats what this video is literally about

[@austinrebecca]

3 things… 😂 come on bro. Don’t be hating

[@lev40123]

Yeah im sure kev said you don't need the things he is using you can use HOB filters or a canister filter and what not and as your knowledge expands so will the equipment you need but it's entirely on the individual on how far they want to take it

[@itsyaboy1198]

First off everyone knows this hobby is expensive regardless how you do it.

[@Rat_Queen86]

@@itsyaboy1198it’s very true! I have a 100 litre tank with black neons, shrimp, a pleco and Congo frogs It’s pricey! But they are so pretty! I’m setting up a mini aquarium in the living room, which is exciting 😊

[@4pd759]

Sorry but it is a bit more to it. You should use rodi water no matter what. Even though using seachem products to help the water, it can leech unknown nutrients into the water and onto the sand/rock. Before you know it you will be adding corals and testing is a huge factor. Its better to practice the correct methods from the start rather than waste money and potentially kill your inhabitants. Saltwaterfish youtube goes through everything that you will encounter in starting saltwater.

[@KaveManAquatics]

I disagree! Everyone doesnt want coral. There are other preferences in this hobby than your own. And for those, RODI is not necessary. And for those that upgrade to coral keeping there will be future videos on the importance of RODI when doing so.

[@Csintra]

I have learned a lot with you about African cichlids, and I thank you for that. But give advice on salt water that RO is not needed because you only have fish?!?! You should research a little more, I am sorry. No RO water brings all kinds of trace elements not necessary for salt water and going to feed algea. Before advising that, stop using your RO, turn off your UV and wait 4-6 months, and then make a new video with more base. Like I told you, I thank you for what I learned. Now, on salt water, please don't give bad info. If the store you working told you that, you should find a new one and dare them to do that themselves.

[@KaveManAquatics]

I've done plenty of research bro. If you've been following me for a while I don't know why you think I wouldn't have. TONS of successful FO Saltwater tanks using regular tap water out there. I've seen them and spoken to them myself! If using tap water didn't work for you, that doesn't mean it doesn't work for everyone. (which is a big problem in this hobby when someone thinks that what worked or didn't work for them goes for everyone and all tanks) Even if you did have high trace elements and high TDS in your tap water, it's excess light that will feed algae...light that you don't even need at all in FO tank. I'm glad you trusted me for your African Cichlid info, but please also trust that on this channel what I do and say may be different from what you've always done, but it's always researched!

[@Csintra]

@@KaveManAquaticsI follow your channel for 3 or 4 years at least. I'm on salt water for some time. I have at the moment 3 aquariums set up, 60g have 9 years, 160g have 4 years and 240g 1 year. Those few persons that don't use RO, forgot to mention they have a bunch of corals eating those nutrients and refugium/algea scrubber to control the algea on display tank. I know what you trying to do, and that's good, trying to explain and teach others a new hobby and the process, I encourage that. But don't use RO for newbies it's not good advice. To avoid majority of the problems on salt water, that it's one of the most important equipments you need. Notice I haven't talk about add fish day 1, 100% on that, Light's on day 1, have mix feelings with that, but you can do it regardless that the fish don't need light, we do to see them and the benefits of have them turn off for 1-2 months are better then doesn't. I will keep a eye on the channel and keep follow without comment, dont want to be annoying. But you shouldn't advice what you not doing, that's just me... And you still a few months away from the ugly stage, remember on that point you using RO and UV, imagine if you weren't.

[@KaveManAquatics]

So first, the people I spoke to and the tanks I've seen are FO and FOWLR tanks. NO, they don't have coral consuming anything. This is also why they don't need light blasting in the tank, which is also why they dont have any algae issues. No, they don't have refugiums, no they don't have algae scrubbers. These are very basic, very beginner FO tanks, which is why they're using tap water. They chose to keep things basic and easy. Which is exactly the premise of this video. Second, I also did no light for the first 4 weeks of the tank, added pods, have a UV but haven't turned it on even once...All of this info will be released in future videos, Like I mentioned in this video. I suggest you don't assume you know what's going on with my tanks if you don't have the full context. I also suggest you join my membership, come on my bi-weekly members-only live streams where my members get detailed and up-to-date info about what's going on with all my tanks in real time. Then you'd have more context to leave feedback and advice. Which I always welcome when it's in context. Ask my members!

[@Csintra]

@KaveManAquatics It's ok. You told you we're going to add corals as soon as possible, so no, it is not out of context. Don't take this as an attack to you or your channel. Nothing even close to that. What I was pointing out is, your target audience is new to the salt water viewers, and advise that RO is not needed it's a dangerous statement that will give a bunch of headache and disappointment to the hobby to alot of member's. No RO users are less than 10% if so word wise, and from those 10%, probably only 4 or 5% have success. I have friends with mixed reef aquariums with 0 filtration and high success. Would I recommend that to new to the hobby? No! But it's fine, sorry for bothering you. I was more concerned about the viewers that will take that as RO is not needed, so let's do it. Good luck on the new challenge, and welcome to salt water.

[@corrieharris774]

Eehhh...salts nice. But ill stick to freshwater

[@KaveManAquatics]

That’s the beauty of the hobby, plenty of lanes to chose from 😁💪

[@Austintyler5]

Not using rodi water on any saltwater tank is easily the worst advice I have ever witnessed on KZbin. You’re asking for algae, Dino’s, and worst of all…..CYANO.

[@KaveManAquatics]

🙄 Said the guy that doesn’t know how to control light.

[@skarol420]

Just made the leap to the salty world. It's easy! Don't be scurrred!!! At LAX Aquarium, I just pick up sanitized Pacific Ocean water for .99 cents a gallon. An Auto top off system is very helpful too (less than $100). I pieced my kit together over a couple of months... A little bit more expensive, but you can get slowly get what you need over time.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Love to hear this feedback!! Thanks for sharing your experience! I'm having a similar one myself 😁💪