Salinity

[Capt. Nemo]

What is the recommended salinity range for a FOWLR? Thanks!

 

[Amphiprion]

I would keep it around the same salinity as a reef tank. Any suggestions otherwise are based on anecdotal information at best. Shoot for 1.025-1.027. I have NEVER had an issue with fish within this range (oxygen issues, etc).

 

[lvpd186]

I think you will probably get a few different answers to your question. Most people say that higher salinity (1.025) is best for reef type tanks while lower salinity (1.023) is better for FO type tanks. If I had a FOWLR type tank I think I would still keep it about 1.025. It isn't bad for the fish and if you do start getting in to corals (like we all did) you won't have to adjust anything.

 

[poppin_fresh]

I think anything between 1.023 - 1.026 +/- .001 is acceptable. Just make sure you aren't using one of those junk plastic hydrometers to check salinty with. If so, have your LFS check your water regularly with a refractometer.

 

[Capt. Nemo]

Thanks everyone! Your advice is much appreciated. Actually, I must confess. I do have one of those plastic hydrometers. Could you please recommend a decent refractometer. Thanks!

 

[Amphiprion]

Any refractometer can work well. I would use Randy's homemade calibration standards to make sure that it is accurate enough.

 

[IPowderBlueTang]

I keep my reef, Nano and Fowlr at the same salinity so there is no confusion and can switch fish around in my tanks , if the need arises without adjusting the salinity too much and spend a couple hours dripping.

I hate when I buy a fish from my Lfs they keep their salinity at 1.018 and takes 3-4 hours to bring the salinity in the new fish to 1.025.