reefaquaria

Reefaquaria, or reef aquaria, refers to an artificial marine environment maintained to resemble a natural coral reef. The term describes both the physical tank and the hobby of keeping reef-building corals, fish, and invertebrates in captivity. These systems aim to provide stable water chemistry, intense lighting, and robust water flow to support photosynthetic corals and diverse reef life.

A typical reef aquaria relies on several core components: a saltwater reservoir, a reliable filtration setup, and adequate lighting and water movement. Common equipment includes a protein skimmer, circulation pumps, a refugium or macroalgae, automatic top-off, and often a calcium reactor or daily dosing to maintain calcium and alkalinity. Many hobbyists use RO/DI water and salt mixes designed for reef systems. Lighting is usually high-output LED or metal halide to support coral growth.

Water chemistry is tightly managed: salinity around 1.025–1.027 specific gravity; temperature about 24–26 C; pH 8.1–8.4; alkalinity 7–12 dKH; calcium 400–450 mg/L; magnesium 1250–1350 mg/L. Nutrients are kept low to prevent nuisance algae, while deliberate feedings support certain taxa. Inhabitants include hard and soft corals, soft-bodied invertebrates, reef-safe fishes, and crustaceans, selected for compatibility and feeding needs. Quarantine of new livestock helps limit pests and disease.

Maintenance focuses on regular water changes, parameter testing, equipment cleaning, and monitoring for pests or outbreaks. The hobby emphasizes patience and reef-specific husbandry, with community resources sharing techniques and safety precautions.