A reef aquarium is a magnificent alternative to the traditional saltwater aquarium. Nothing can compare to the beauty and serenity that the reef aquarium can offer. Despite their beauty though, they can be quite difficult to start up and maintain. In this article, we will discuss four corals that are great for the beginner. These corals offer an array of colors and beauty and are easy to maintain. Let’s get started.

· Mushrooms – As far as beginner corals go, mushrooms hands down are the easiest coral to maintain in your aquarium reef. In addition, mushrooms do not require a large amount of light so you do not need to buy expensive lighting equipment to get started with this aquarium reef. Mushrooms also come in an assortment of colors and grow quite quickly with minimal maintenance.

· Bubble Corals – A bubble coral is a large polyped stony. They are easy to maintain and again can grow in low levels of light so no expensive lighting equipment is needed in order to make these reefs thrive. They also eat solid foods making them easier to care for. They come in three colors, white, tan and green.

· Soft Corals – Soft corals are another family of reefs that are easy to care for. Soft coral aquarium reef require medium light, grow quickly and are easy to take care of. In addition, they offer slow rhythmic movement so they help to keep the water moving.

· Green Star Polyps – As you may have guessed, green stat polyps are green, neon green to be exact. They require moving water to keep them clean so they work well with the soft coral and pump system and require medium light levels. They grow very quickly and can easily cover the back of your aquarium reef tank in time adding to its natural beauty.

Aquarium tanks are a great way to display your fish and other livestock and plant life. These tanks usually consist of one transparent side that allows you to easily enjoy the beauty of your own ecosystem creation. They come in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and styles sure to please your décor and needs. Several components make up an aquarium tank.

A typical aquarium tank will usually include the following components:

· Filtration system – Most aquarium tanks require some type of filtration system so that the livestock and plant life can thrive. These filtration systems are designed to regulate the ammonia and nitrate levels in the artificial ecosystem.

· Artificial lighting system – Many aquarium tanks are equipped with artificial lighting systems as well as many plant life and livestock require specific levels of light in order to thrive. Depending on the plant life and livestock you will be placing in your aquarium tank will depend on the type and intensity of the lighting system that is required. Be sure to do your research prior to purchasing a lighting system to ensure you are using the proper system.

· Heater – Most aquarium heaters combine a heating element and a thermostat this allows you to regulate the water temperature at a level above the ambient room temperature.

· Hood – Adding a hood to your aquarium tank helps to prevent excess evaporation, protect the fish from escaping from the aquarium, prevents other things from entering the aquarium and helps to hold light in as well.

· Aquarium Stand – An aquarium stand needs to be strong, sturdy and level as it will be holding a lot of weight. If the tank is not level it may leak, crack or distort the tank.

So you have decided that you want your own aquarium. You have researched the fish, plant life and other livestock that you would like to include in your aquarium and you have decided that its about time that you move forward with actually setting up your own aquarium. Listed below are some safety tips to keep in mind that will ensure a safe aquarium set up.

1· If you are using a stand for your aquarium make sure the stand can withhold the weight of the tank.

2· Fill up your aquarium with water a few days prior to adding any livestock, plants or fish this way you can check for leaks and cracks in the tank.

3· Take caution when assembling and moving aquarium equipment, as it is quite delicate and small, also make sure to keep small items away from little children as they can easily choke on the small parts.

4· Ask for help when its time to move or clean you aquarium. Also, take caution that most tanks are slippery when wet be sure to wipe down the sides and bottom of the tank before you attempt to move them.

5· Be cautious of electrical parts, as there is a danger of electrical shock, especially when water is present. Before you plug in your equipment and turn it on be sure to check for any open wires or broken lamps, etc, this will help to avoid unnecessary electrical shock.

6· Store aquarium chemicals and water stabilizers in a safe place where small children cannot get their hands on them.

7· Do not put your hands in the tank if you have open cuts or broken skin on them as you run the risk of bacterial, fungal or chemical infection. Always use rubber gloves as a precaution to avoid any possible danger from exposure to the aquariums water.

8· Always properly dispose of all chemicals and waste from your aquarium so that they do not pollute or contaminate any waterways.

That’s all there is to it. If you keep the above safety tips in mind for your aquarium set up you should be in great shape for enjoying years of viewing pleasure of your aquarium.