Aquarium owners worldwide commonly use various types of salt for different purposes in their tanks. Two well-known options are Aquarium salt and Epsom salt.
However, confusion often arises about which salt to use in specific cases. In this article, I have conducted extensive research to clarify this confusion and provide you with the best choice for your aquarium.
Aquarium salt is primarily used to create a brackish environment, which is essential for certain fish species. Additionally, it helps combat bacterial and fungal infections, treats parasites, and aids in healing fish wounds. On the other hand, Epsom salt increases water hardness and can be utilized to address severe conditions like dropsy, swim bladder disease, and constipation.
Aquarium salt vs Epsom salt: Quick Differences
| Comparison Factors | Aquarium Salt | Epsom Salt |
| Basic purpose | To make the water brackish | To make the water high in minerals |
| Hardness | Soft | hard |
| Treatments | To treat parasites, bacterial and fungal infections, etc | To treat dropsy, swim bladder, constipation, etc |
| Recommendation Priority | As the first step | As the last step (in severe cases) |
Before you choose a salt to use, you should have proper knowledge about the salts. This is why I have given the basic introductions of the salts below.
What is Epsom Salt?
It is basically magnesium sulfate [MgSO4] popularly known as Epsom salt. This is also a raw mineral. Though it is used in aquariums for various purposes, it is also used and consumed by humans for bodily treatments.
Now you have a fair and basic knowledge about the salts. So it’s time to look for the differences between these two salts.
Differences Between Aquarium Salt And Epsom Salt
Hardness
Aquarium salt is not hard on the environment of the tank. It is very soft and does not harm the fish and animals in the tank easily.
But the question can too much aquarium salt kill fish? The answer is yes. Overdosed aquarium salt is not good for fish. You should follow the dosages that I have mentioned below. Learn more about aquarium salt overdose symptoms and effects.
On the other hand, Epsom salt is very hard on the environment and on its fish and animals as well. If it is applied without proper understanding of the usage of the salt, it can affect the fish and can even cause their death.
Basic Usage
Aquarium salt is mainly used to make the water brackish. Because it is necessary for certain kinds of species of fish like Mollies, Bumblebee Goby, Colombian Shark Catfish, etc. to be in brackish water.
It also improves gill function, promotes wound healing, protects fish with a healthy slime coat treats infections, disrupts parasites, reduces stress, lowers nitrate uptake, and maintains a balanced aquatic environment.
On the other side, Epsom salt is used to make the water hard. Because some species require the tank water to be very high in minerals for their survival. These fish are Guppies, platies, swordtails, and X-Ray Tetras.
Treatments
Aquarium water can be used to treat bacterial and fungal infections among the fish and animals in the tank. It can also be used to kill dangerous parasites (such as Ich and Velvet) that suck blood and other essential nutrients from the fish body in the tank. It also heals the wound of the fish and helps to ease fin rots as well.
Epsom salt is recommended especially when the fish are suffering from dropsy, swim bladder disease, and constipation. A regulated and well-planned salt bath with Epsom salt can be proved very effective in these cases.
Now you know the differences between the salts. At this stage, normally the question regarding the methods of using the salts arises. I have researched about it as well and here it is.
How To Add Aquarium Salt And Epsom Salt to Fish Tank
The Use of Aquarium Salt
You can do it within 3 levels and in each of them you can directly put salt in the aquarium but this act can sometimes be dangerous. If the salt directly falls upon any of the fish, that fish may develop a skin problem which is another crisis to deal with.
This is why it is better to get a cup of aquarium water, mix the salt in it, and then add the water to the aquarium.
At level 1, you can add 1 spoon of aquarium salt per 3 gallons of water and wait for 5 days to see what happens. If the infections are not that severe, this dose might be helpful. But if it is not, you will have to go for level 2.
At level 2, you have to add 1 spoon of aquarium salt per 2 gallons of water and again wait for 4-5 days to see the result. If the infections are at a medium level, this dose is sufficient to have a good result. If not, then the ultimate weapon is required to be brought into the battlefield and that is the dose of level 3.
At level 3, add 1 spoon of salt per 1 gallon of water and observe the impact patiently for 4-5 days. Hopefully, this dose will help you to get rid of the problem that you are facing.
But be careful while acting level 3. Some species of fish and animals in your tank may not be able to tolerate the excessive presence of salt in the water. Have a good knowledge about it and then go for level 3.
The Use of Epsom Salt
It is very strong and hard. This is why it requires special caution while performing the process.
Epsom salt is used to provide the fish with a salt bath. First of all, pour half of the aquarium water into a well-cleaned pot or container. Measure the amount of water you are pouring into the container and then add 1 spoon of Epsom salt per 1 gallon of water. After that, put the infected fish in that salty water and keep it there for 20 to 30 minutes.
But get the fish out of the salty water immediately if it is seen as stressful and uncomfortable.
The mentioned process will hopefully be effective in treating the diseases of the fish.
Types of Salt for Aquarium and Fish Health
| Salt Type | Chemical Composition | Main Purpose in Aquarium | Fish Health Benefits | Fish Types Suitable | Impact on Plants | Impact on Water Quality | Recommended Usage Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aquarium Salt | Pure Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Creates brackish environment, treats infections | Provides essential electrolytes, heals wounds | Brackish water species, livebearers, some catfish | Generally well-tolerated by most plants | Usually harmless in proper dosage | When needed for specific issues |
| Epsom Salt | Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO4) | Treats constipation, swim bladder disease, dropsy | Relieves constipation, reduces swelling | Freshwater fish suffering from specific issues | Usually harmless to most plants | May increase water hardness temporarily | Occasional salt baths or treatments |
| Sea Salt | Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Creates marine environment, establishes correct salinity | Promotes osmoregulation, enhances slime coat | Marine fish, coral, invertebrates | May harm some freshwater plants | Adjusts water parameters for marine fish | For marine aquariums |
| Table Salt | Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Not recommended for aquarium use | Harmful to fish and plants in aquariums | Not recommended for aquariums | Harmful to most plants and aquatic life | May increase water salinity, causing harm | Not suitable for aquariums |
| Rock Salt | Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not suitable for aquariums |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Aquarium Salt Is Used In Aquariums?
To deal with bacterial and fungal infections of the fish in the tank. It also kills parasites like ich and velvet. It heals the wound of fish and eases the fin rot of fish as well.
Why Epsom Salt Is Used In Aquariums?
It is popularly used to provide the fish with a salt bath. The salt bath helps the fish to get rid of some diseases like dropsy, swim bladder disorder, and constipation as well.
Is There Any Alternative To Aquarium Salt?
Yes. kosher salt and rock salt are excellent alternatives to aquarium salt. Just like aquarium salt, they do not have any other additives in them. These salts are also pure sodium chloride. You can use them in your aquarium without any worries.
What Are Aquarium Salt And Epsom Salt Actually?
Aquarium salt is actually sodium chloride [NaCl] and Epsom salt is actually magnesium sulfate [MgSO4].
Is Iodine Harmful To Fish In Aquariums?
Yes, iodine is extremely harmful to aquarium fish. When you are about to add salt to your aquarium, you must make sure that the salt is free of iodine.
Can Aquarium Salt Be Added To The Aquarium Regularly?
No, salt does not get evaporated. This is why, if salt is added on a regular basis, it will get the concentration of the tank water high. Salt should be added when you conduct a large water change.
is aquarium salt the same as Epsom salt?
No, Aquarium salt and Epsom salt are not the same. Aquarium salt is designed for freshwater aquariums and contains sodium chloride, while Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate.
Does Epsom salt help fish swim bladder?
Yes, Epsom salt can help fish swim bladder by reducing swelling, acting as a laxative, and aiding in waste expulsion. However, you should be careful, and avoid it for scaleless fish.
How much Epsom salt is to cure the swim bladder?
To cure swim bladder issues, add one tablespoon of Epsom salt per gallon of water in a quarantine tank. Dissolve it completely and transfer the fish for treatment. Monitor closely and move to a revival tank afterward. Avoid overexposure, consult a veterinarian for guidance.
does Epsom salt lower pH in Aquarium?
Yes, Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) can lower the pH of the water in your aquarium. According to several research, ‘When you add Epsom salt, it releases magnesium and sulfate ions into the water. The presence of these ions can slightly increase the acidity of the water, which, in turn, lowers the pH”
is aquarium salt safe for shrimp
No, aquarium salt is generally not safe for freshwater shrimp. Shrimp are sensitive to changes in water parameters, and aquarium salt can have adverse effects on their health. Salt can stress and dehydrate shrimp, leading to potential harm or even death.
can I use sea salt instead of aquarium salt?
No! It is not recommended because it has a different chemical composition and could potentially harm freshwater fish and other aquatic creatures.
Conclusion
So, here are the things and pieces of information that I have collected through my research regarding Aquarium Salt vs. Epsom Salt
To summarize the whole thing, I would say if you have bacterial and fungal infections or parasites in your fish, go for aquarium salt.
And if you find your fish suffering from dropsy, swim bladder disorder, or constipation, then you can go for a salt bath with Epsom salt.
Hopefully, you have proper knowledge about both salts and their usage.
I hope this article will have an effective contribution to choosing the right salt for your aquarium.
What is Aquarium Salt?
It is basically sodium chloride [NaCl] in its raw form. The salt that we use in our kitchens is also sodium chloride but contains some minerals like iodine which are essential for humans but extremely harmful to the fish in your tank.
Aquarium salt is the raw and unmixed version of sodium chloride that is popularly used in aquariums for various purposes. It basically provides the fish with essential electrolytes that help the fish body to conduct its internal function efficiently.
What is Epsom Salt?
It is basically magnesium sulfate [MgSO4] popularly known as Epsom salt. This is also a raw mineral. Though it is used in aquariums for various purposes, it is also used and consumed by humans for bodily treatments.
Now you have a fair and basic knowledge about the salts. So it’s time to look for the differences between these two salts.
Differences Between Aquarium Salt And Epsom Salt
Hardness
Aquarium salt is not hard on the environment of the tank. It is very soft and does not harm the fish and animals in the tank easily.
But the question can too much aquarium salt kill fish? The answer is yes. Overdosed aquarium salt is not good for fish. You should follow the dosages that I have mentioned below. Learn more about aquarium salt overdose symptoms and effects.
On the other hand, Epsom salt is very hard on the environment and on its fish and animals as well. If it is applied without proper understanding of the usage of the salt, it can affect the fish and can even cause their death.
Basic Usage
Aquarium salt is mainly used to make the water brackish. Because it is necessary for certain kinds of species of fish like Mollies, Bumblebee Goby, Colombian Shark Catfish, etc. to be in brackish water.
It also improves gill function, promotes wound healing, protects fish with a healthy slime coat treats infections, disrupts parasites, reduces stress, lowers nitrate uptake, and maintains a balanced aquatic environment.
On the other side, Epsom salt is used to make the water hard. Because some species require the tank water to be very high in minerals for their survival. These fish are Guppies, platies, swordtails, and X-Ray Tetras.
Treatments
Aquarium water can be used to treat bacterial and fungal infections among the fish and animals in the tank. It can also be used to kill dangerous parasites (such as Ich and Velvet) that suck blood and other essential nutrients from the fish body in the tank. It also heals the wound of the fish and helps to ease fin rots as well.
Epsom salt is recommended especially when the fish are suffering from dropsy, swim bladder disease, and constipation. A regulated and well-planned salt bath with Epsom salt can be proved very effective in these cases.
Now you know the differences between the salts. At this stage, normally the question regarding the methods of using the salts arises. I have researched about it as well and here it is.
How To Add Aquarium Salt And Epsom Salt to Fish Tank
The Use of Aquarium Salt
You can do it within 3 levels and in each of them you can directly put salt in the aquarium but this act can sometimes be dangerous. If the salt directly falls upon any of the fish, that fish may develop a skin problem which is another crisis to deal with.
This is why it is better to get a cup of aquarium water, mix the salt in it, and then add the water to the aquarium.
At level 1, you can add 1 spoon of aquarium salt per 3 gallons of water and wait for 5 days to see what happens. If the infections are not that severe, this dose might be helpful. But if it is not, you will have to go for level 2.
At level 2, you have to add 1 spoon of aquarium salt per 2 gallons of water and again wait for 4-5 days to see the result. If the infections are at a medium level, this dose is sufficient to have a good result. If not, then the ultimate weapon is required to be brought into the battlefield and that is the dose of level 3.
At level 3, add 1 spoon of salt per 1 gallon of water and observe the impact patiently for 4-5 days. Hopefully, this dose will help you to get rid of the problem that you are facing.
But be careful while acting level 3. Some species of fish and animals in your tank may not be able to tolerate the excessive presence of salt in the water. Have a good knowledge about it and then go for level 3.
The Use of Epsom Salt
It is very strong and hard. This is why it requires special caution while performing the process.
Epsom salt is used to provide the fish with a salt bath. First of all, pour half of the aquarium water into a well-cleaned pot or container. Measure the amount of water you are pouring into the container and then add 1 spoon of Epsom salt per 1 gallon of water. After that, put the infected fish in that salty water and keep it there for 20 to 30 minutes.
But get the fish out of the salty water immediately if it is seen as stressful and uncomfortable.
The mentioned process will hopefully be effective in treating the diseases of the fish.
Types of Salt for Aquarium and Fish Health
| Salt Type | Chemical Composition | Main Purpose in Aquarium | Fish Health Benefits | Fish Types Suitable | Impact on Plants | Impact on Water Quality | Recommended Usage Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aquarium Salt | Pure Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Creates brackish environment, treats infections | Provides essential electrolytes, heals wounds | Brackish water species, livebearers, some catfish | Generally well-tolerated by most plants | Usually harmless in proper dosage | When needed for specific issues |
| Epsom Salt | Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO4) | Treats constipation, swim bladder disease, dropsy | Relieves constipation, reduces swelling | Freshwater fish suffering from specific issues | Usually harmless to most plants | May increase water hardness temporarily | Occasional salt baths or treatments |
| Sea Salt | Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Creates marine environment, establishes correct salinity | Promotes osmoregulation, enhances slime coat | Marine fish, coral, invertebrates | May harm some freshwater plants | Adjusts water parameters for marine fish | For marine aquariums |
| Table Salt | Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Not recommended for aquarium use | Harmful to fish and plants in aquariums | Not recommended for aquariums | Harmful to most plants and aquatic life | May increase water salinity, causing harm | Not suitable for aquariums |
| Rock Salt | Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not used in aquariums | Not suitable for aquariums |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Aquarium Salt Is Used In Aquariums?
Why Epsom Salt Is Used In Aquariums?
Is There Any Alternative To Aquarium Salt?
What Are Aquarium Salt And Epsom Salt Actually?
Is Iodine Harmful To Fish In Aquariums?
Can Aquarium Salt Be Added To The Aquarium Regularly?
is aquarium salt the same as Epsom salt?
Does Epsom salt help fish swim bladder?
How much Epsom salt is to cure the swim bladder?
does Epsom salt lower pH in the Aquarium?
is aquarium salt safe for shrimp
can I use sea salt instead of aquarium salt?
Conclusion
So, here are the things and pieces of information that I have collected through my research regarding Aquarium Salt vs. Epsom Salt
To summarize the whole thing, I would say if you have bacterial and fungal infections or parasites in your fish, go for aquarium salt.
And if you find your fish suffering from dropsy, swim bladder disorder, or constipation, then you can go for a salt bath with Epsom salt.
Hopefully, you have proper knowledge about both salts and their usage.
I hope this article will have an effective contribution to choosing the right salt for your aquarium.
- Top 10 Fastest Growing Aquarium Plants for a Thriving Tank - September 22, 2024
- 13 Freshwater Aquarium Ideas for Every Enthusiast - September 20, 2024
- Top 12 Red Aquarium Plants to Add Vibrancy to Your Tank - September 18, 2024