would salt in a fish tank improve fish colors?

Question

is it the salt that makes saltwater fish so colorful?

its not like i was going to go dump salt in with my freshwater fish, gosh, i was just wondering people

Answer 1

Many tropical fish benefit from having salt added to their tank. However, I would not expect this to greatly improve their colors. Also, adding low levels of salt can be very hazardous to some fish, so research your fish and see if adding salt will be of any benefit.

The best way to get more from the fish is to have them in a tank that has a dark substrate (gravel) and dark background. Most fish will darken to blend in more with their surroundings. Natural colored tanks will typically have fish that are a little more washed out than a dark tank. Also quality food generally helps bring about stronger colors.

Saltwater fish are so colorful because many have evolved in coral reefs. As a result they have become so colorful through evolution. Where as tropical fish have evolved in lakes which do not have all the colors of the reef.

Answer 2

Sorry the people above are idiots. Depending on the amount of gallons, Generally you want to put a table spoon per 10 gallons. DO NOT use regular salt, it contains iodine and it WILL kill your fish. Go to your local fish shop and pick up "Aquarium salt".

It DOES NOT help the color, BUT it is very healthy. It improves gill function. Lowers chances of disease. Prevents parasites. So if you fish is unhealthy, or you just want to prevent issues consider using Aquarium salt.

ALWAYS REMEMBER TO READ THE BACK FOR DIRECTIONS.

If you want to help the color consider getting High quality food. (like frozen brine shrimp, blood worms) But since I dont know what kind of fish you have I cant tell you which food to get. Also get strong lighing (watch temprature of tank to prevent over heating)

Answer 3

Only certain fish like the salt. The color is usually from pigments on the scales. Salt doesn't really have anything to do with pigments. It is just necessary to get the amount of salt right to make the fish healthy.

Answer 4

Sigh... what answers The yellowish tint to the water is not from algae nor obviously the other frequent suggestion. As algae is not the source of the color no amount of snails, algae killing tablets or plants will help. Complete lack of understanding the problem. Typical yellowing in the water is from an excess of proteins in the tank. Increase the size of your water changes a bit and be sure you are using carbon in the tank. Some will tell you you don't need to change the carbon or don't need to use any, well, this is what can happen if you don't Fresh, quality carbon added to the filter every week or two will keep the water nice and clear. MM

Answer 5

yes i trully dont know what everyone else is talking about
but i use salt with my goldfish and there colors and gill function have in proved just make sure its meant for freshwater fish and you only put in the recommended amount and take in mind the salt dosent evaporate you have to siphon it out and replace the amount you took out when doing your water changes

Answer 6

I dont think salt changes fish color

Answer 7

If they aren't salt water fish, what colors do you like your dead fish to come in?

Answer 8

salt won't improve the color of fish !! it's not good for TROPICAL FISH !! only for saltwater fish or fish that live in brackish water.

Answer 9

you buy fish that is salt water fish yeah...but if this is a fish tank....and it's a gold fish? Do'nt do it!!!!

Talk to someone at PETCO

petco.com

Answer 10

Better quality food and lighting = better colorings