It was probably 4 years old when Santa Claus brought me my very own salt water fish tank.
I don't remember what size it was, but I'm sure it wasn't very big.
The first experience led to a fascination that has become my life long hobby, passion and livelihood.
For those of you that have wanted to get into the hobby, I'm going to explain the "do's and don'ts" which will help you be successful.
Hopefully, I can assist you in avoiding some of the frustrations that you may encounter as you begin in this hobby.
The first goal is to find a good salt water fish store.
Here are the first "do's" to consider: do the background research required and secondly, do consider if you have the time and financial resources to maintain a healthy marine system.
The first frustration that you will experience is finding a trusted source of educated advice and quality products.
As you start out on what should be a lifetime of enjoyment, it will only become an expensive disaster if you don't do it properly.
This can be avoided by finding the staff of an aquarium store that will take time to teach you the basics.
How do you determine the quality of the store? The best advice I can give you is to find a clean store with no evidence of dead fish.
Look for nice clean, clear water but most importantly, look for well-educated employees that exhibit a passion for what they do and are willing to take time to explain any questions or choices that you may have.
Remember, you are the customer, and simple mistakes can be expensive.
The aquarium sections of "big box stores" are managed by great people that know very little about the specifics of being successful with salt water aquariums.
With the complexity and prices of salt water aquariums and livestock, the choices can be intimidating to beginners.
Although they are comparably low maintenance pets, keeping fish, in general, requires some basic knowledge and patience.
The sensitivity of salt water marine life can be higher than their freshwater counterparts.
When you experience a team of individuals who have a common passion about their business, you will get the same advice no matter what you ask.
You can leave with comfort that have done your research well and have made a good decision.
With a trusted source for your aquarium and livestock and some basic knowledge, you can start and adventure with living beauty that will last a lifetime.