Endlessly fascinating patterns of color and motion await the discerning sea life enthusiast who invests in a custom-designed saltwater aquarium. Exotic species dart among living plants in a natural ballet, delighting all who view them. The best saltwater aquariums achieve their effects in a seemingly effortless way. Yet these instant, relaxing focal points are best made through consultation with a professional, and not by trial and error.

Designed to Enhance the Space

From built-in aquariums that cover a wall to freestanding tanks in the center of a room, materials and design must be proportioned to fit their surrounding architecture. Proper support for the weight and size of the tank is another important consideration. Saltwater aquariums can dominate a room with dramatic effect without overwhelming the space or the people passing through. An experienced professional will ensure the tank is properly constructed and supported, leaving the owner to worry-free enjoyment.

A Balanced Environment

Saltwater aquariums are a delicately-balanced marine ecosystem. The proper balance of nutrients and light must be available for plants and corals to thrive. Corals in turn provide nutrients for the fish. The correct stocking of the aquarium prevents nitrates and phosphates passed by the fish from damaging the coral. Pumping and filtration must be installed to ensure the right balance of aeration and water circulation. An aquarium specialist knows the correct way to balance these factors, keeping the environment healthy and the water clean.

Healthy, Compatible Specimens

All saltwater fish are predators to some degree, and can become aggressive and territorial if overcrowded. Some species, such as moray eels, sharks and lion fish are hunters and should be tanked separately, unless hunting behavior is desired. Comparatively sedate species that mate and pair off will attack a newly fish of the same gender. Even certain saltwater invertebrates, such as the colorful sea anemone, will trap and digest small fish. An expert can design a saltwater aquarium with enough space for many species to get along without creating havoc. The price of a healthy specimen makes this consideration worthwhile.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Even the smallest of saltwater aquariums requires regular maintenance. Once an owner is acquainted with the basics of feeding, stocking and caring for the fish and their environment, ongoing checks of filtration, water quality, lighting and awareness of possible diseases lurking in the tank are necessary.

Saltwater aquariums can be a stunning addition to a home, office, lobby or restaurant. Their exotic atmosphere and the soothing energy they provide is more than worth the investment made in proper design, construction and maintenance.

Give us a call at 210.444.2782 to discuss your fine custom Saltwater Aquariums And Cabinetry today.

Freshwater Aquariums

Beautifully designed fresh water aquariums will capture anyone’s attention and inspire awe. People are immediately drawn to animals within a room, and fish are an easy addition to any office or home.

Think of the last time you saw an impressive aquarium. How did it accent the room? Think of the emotions the colors and designs created as you gazed upon the aquatic life within that enclosure.

Think of how adding an aquarium could bring out the elegance in your home or office. Not just any aquarium, but one that’s professionally designed and can turn any room into artwork.

The Beauty of Aquatic Life

Nothing can complete a room quite like an aquarium can. Part of the process is choosing the right composition for the theme you’re going for.

When you add fresh water aquariums as decor, you need to choose the right design and materials. A common fish tank is not impressive; however, custom designed tanks can bring out the allure of any room and accent any arrangement.

Adding fresh water aquariums will instantly bring out the style of any room. An artistic fish tank can draw emotions in people like no other adornments can. Why get a plain fish tank when you can get a piece of art full of colors and life?

Simply using a plain old glass tank will never match the quality custom-designed fresh water aquariums can deliver. When adding a fish tank, you should consider how creating a high quality aquarium is like any other art. Let our artists handle it.

There are so many designs you can come up with when you get a custom aquarium. With special lighting and designs you can create any mood you’re looking for and amaze visitors time and time again.

Quality and Maintenance

We offer quality materials such as marble and finished wood to match the style of any theme. Not only will your design be inspiring, but it will be maintainable to help make sure the fish live in a safe, healthy environment. The healthier the fish, the more beautifully they will shine.

Your custom aquarium can fit into just about any space you designate for it. Amaze your guests with moving colors and brilliant designs featuring corals, reefs and more.

There are so many different sizes, designs, materials and accessories to choose from. There’s no excuse to ever go with a standard fish tank when you need style.

Give us a call at 210.444.2782 to discuss your fine custom fresh water aquariums and cabinetry today.

Saltwater Aquariums

If you own a saltwater aquarium, then you know the importance of using quality equipment and attention to detail. If you are thinking of owning a saltwater aquarium, then it’s important to realize that the use of quality equipment is essential to successfully maintaining an aquarium.

Saltwater fish are generally more expensive than freshwater fish with prices for average fish at more than $40 each. More expensive fish can cost hundreds of dollars. Coral are also expensive and require specific pieces of equipment to keep them alive.

With the expenses involved in stocking your tank, the last thing you want is to purchase equipment at the cheapest rate possible. Quality equipment costs money, but quality equipment will last much longer and will keep your expensive fish alive.

You will need to purchase different types of equipment depending on the design of your tank. If you wish to have a fish only tank, then you will need equipment like a protein skimmer, low spectrum lighting and water heaters. If you want to own a saltwater aquarium with only coral, then you will need to purchase items like UV sterilizers, chillers, pumps for water flow and specialized UV lighting. A fish and coral combination tank will require a combination of some of these pieces of equipment.

A protein skimmer is one piece of equipment that is needed for both types of tanks. Protein skimmers will collect waste material through a process called skimming, where aeration is used to lift and collect waste material from the water. A good protein skimmer with the appropriate sized pump will cost an average of $300 depending on what size tank you have.

UV sterilizers are needed for killing protein, bacteria and other foreign material that is harmful to coral. A pump pushes water into the sterilizing chamber where a UV light will kill any unwanted material. An average price for a good UV sterilizer will cost around $100.

Lighting is essential in any tank. Although your lights are “on,” it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is putting out the UV rays needed to be effective. Good lighting will cost an average of $25 or more per “bulb” depending on the purpose it serves. Lights will need to be replaced every 6-12 months even though they may appear to be “working.”

Protein skimmers, UV sterilizers and lighting are just a few of the necessary pieces of equipment needed for maintaining a saltwater aquarium. Keep in mind that these types of aquariums are expensive to maintain, but they are one of the most beautiful additions to your home or business.

Give us a call at 210.444.2782 to discuss your fine custom saltwater aquarium and cabinetry today.

An aquarium is like a constantly changing and evolving piece of artwork for the home. Every time the fish move or the owner swaps out the fish inside, it changes the overall look of the piece. Those that think of ordinary fish tanks with one or two goldfish swimming around are sometimes shocked when they see the different types of custom aquariums available. The aquariums serve multiple purposes around the home and come in a wide range of styles. An aquarium might act as a focal point in a family room or as the centerpiece of a bar.

The foundation of the customized aquarium is the tank itself. Most homeowners prefer the square or rectangle design, but others like the look and feel or a curved tank. The type of tank chose often depends on the space. Some homeowners pick a tank with three exposed sides and a fourth side that sits against the wall. This gives viewers multiple ways to see inside the tank. Some prefer a completely rounded design, which can take the place of a pillar in the room. The best way to build custom aquariums is with professional level materials.

Custom Aquariums not Fish Tanks

An aquarium is not just a fish tank, but an extension of the home. Whenever a homeowner adds a construction element to their home, they must use professional materials. No one would use ordinary notebook paper as a roofing material, and they should not use plywood or another inferior material when creating custom aquariums. Professionals use high-quality materials because they know that without the best products, the aquarium will not last very long. Using the best materials keeps customers happy, which helps build customer loyalty. Those customers might share their experiences with friends and family, turning those people into future customers.

Working with a professional designer can make the process of building custom aquariums much easier. Most homeowners have little experience with load-bearing walls and other facets of home construction. If they attempt to cut into the wrong wall to build the aquarium, they might damage the roof or other areas of the house. The designer can examine the house and decide on the best placement of the aquarium. The designer can even help the homeowner decide on the type of aquarium. He can show the homeowner some potential designs and offer suggestions on what designs will work best in that home. Working with a designer can help the homeowner wade through the different available designs.

If you’re in San Antonio and want to discuss custom aquariums or possibly installing one give us a call at 210.444.2782 today.

Setting up a saltwater aquarium is a more complicated process than setting up a fresh water aquarium and certainly more involved than filling a goldfish bowl with tap water, but the rewards are worth it. Saltwater or marine fish tend to be far more colorful and diverse than fresh water fish. More, an experienced saltwater aquarium aficionado can add other living things like coral, colorful mollusks, sponges and other invertebrates so that their aquarium eventually comes to mimic a miniature reef.

Things to consider if you’re getting a saltwater aquarium

First Steps
The aquarium owner should first choose where the tank and stand will be. The space were the tank is put should not only be roomy enough for the stand and the tank, but for the accouterments needed to maintain it. There should be at least a half a foot of clearance between the back of the tank and the wall.

The aquarium should also be in a place where it can be drained and refilled easily. It shouldn’t be put in direct sunlight because this will not only heat up the water to the point where it’s unlivable for the fish, but will cause algae to proliferate. The tank also shouldn’t be put in an area that’s subject to drafts.

Filters and Lights
The aquarium will then need a filter to get rid of the waste material and an aerator to boost the level of oxygen in the water. It’s also a good idea to have an emergency backup source in case the main power goes out.

Different fish have different lighting requirements. Some like bright light and others like the light to be a bit muted. Before, fluorescent lights were used to light tanks, but now LEDs are being used more and more. Though initially expensive, they pay for themselves eventually.

Substrate and Salt
The saltwater aquarium owner will also have to carefully pick the substrate they use for the aquarium, so once again, different fish like different substrates. The substrate can be part of the filter system and can be home for some invertebrates like mole crabs.

The aquarium owner will also need to be careful about the sort of salt mix to put in their tank. Going down to the beach and scooping up buckets of ocean water isn’t advisable, given the bacteria and pollutants that are in the ocean! The professional at the pet supply store will advise the owner on the best type of sea salt mix to use.

After all of these necessities have been taken care of, it’ll then be time to add the fish. The aquarium owner should make sure the fish are compatible. Some fish are not only aggressive with fish of other species, but are aggressive with their own species and can only be kept one to a tank. Other fish are happiest in schools. Now, the aquarium owner is ready to enjoy their saltwater aquarium!

If you’re in San Antonio and want to discuss your saltwater aquarium or possibly installing one give us a call at 210.444.2782 today.

If you’re a fish lover and plan on installing an aquarium in your home or office, you will want to be sure that you get the aquarium that is right for you as well as the right cabinetry for your aquarium to rest upon. There are many aquarium designs that you can choose from. You may choose from an aquarium that is rectangle, hexagon, cylinder, bow or many more. You can even get your aquarium L shaped if you want. You will have no problem finding a custom aquarium design that is just right for you.

When choosing a fine custom aquarium and cabinetry design…

Remember that you will also have to choose a cabinet for your aquarium to rest upon.Aquatic Interiors Unlimited can help you choose a fine custom aquarium and cabinetry to fit your needs. They will help to insure that once you pick your custom aquarium design that you have just the right cabinet to keep all of your aquatic life safe and secure. You don’t want to risk buying a large aquarium only to have it crash to the floor after you have filled it up with your beautiful fish. Water filled aquariums are very heavy, so they need to be placed on cabinetry that is going to be able to withstand the weight. Aquatic Interiors Unlimited makes sure that you have all of the proper items needed to enjoy your fine custom aquarium and cabinetry for many years to come.

Aquatic Interiors Unlimited takes pride in helping all of their customers to achieve satisfaction. They are the “go to” people for all of your fine custom aquarium and cabinetry needs. They are going to help you to have the most beautiful aquarium you’ve ever seen. You’ll enjoy having such a wonderful piece in your home. The fish and aquatic life that you put in the aquarium will love it too. Watching the fish will become a new chance for bonding with the whole family.

Let Aquatic Interiors Unlimited help you take care of all of your aquarium and cabinetry needs. You’ll love all of the knowledge and tips that they will be able to help you with and you will love the way that they stand behind their work. They want you to have a wonderful experience and enjoy the adventure that a new aquarium can bring. You won’t find more knowledge or help anywhere else. You also won’t find better selections of fine custom aquarium and cabinetry to choose from anywhere else.

Give us a call at 210.444.2782 to discuss your fine custom aquarium and cabinetry today.

Video Bonus

Bow front aquarium cabinets are built into an aquarium stand that’s made for holding a bow front aquarium. A bow front aquarium is different from the typical aquarium because the front panel of the tank is convex. Most bow front designs are created by carpenters and aquarists that specialize in custom aquariums and cabinetry.  This is thought by many to create a more interesting custom aquarium design. However, in addition, it creates a unique footprint that will require an aquarium stand built specifically for the bow front tank. Hence, bow front aquarium cabinets.

Aquatic Interiors Unlimited Makes Fine Custom Aquariums And Cabinetry

A bow front aquarium cabinet has a matching canopy sitting on top of the tank. The canopy holds lighting fixtures and gives the tank a finished look.

Typically when one acquires a bow front aquarium, the stand and canopy will be purchased simultaneously. Bow front aquarium stands come in a number of designs, but practically all have front cabinet doors to allow access into the stand where filters along with other equipment are kept. Some stands are fashioned with removable doors for optimum access to the inside of the stand.

Stands may be manufactured from pine, maple, oak, cherry or other woods. Wood stands with natural finishes are the most expensive choice for bow front aquarium cabinets. Stands may also be manufactured from acrylic with various painted finishes in black, white, or ivory. Medium density fiberboard (MDF) stands are also available in a number of colors.

Fine Custom Aquariums And Cabinetry Will Add An Incredible Look To Your Home

Many manufacturers of aquariums and stands also offer specialty finishes that mimic natural materials. Fauxstone, marble, brick, and granite are just a few examples.  At www.Aquatic-Interiors.com we offer all the specialty materials and any custom feature you could imagine.

Fine Custom Aquariums and Cabinetry

When choosing bow front aquarium cabinets many people naturally want something that complements their décor. Bear in mind décor can change over time and the cost of the stand and canopy is a considerable investment. Therefore consider carefully prior to making a final decision.

Bow front aquarium cabinets are a rich improvement to any home and luckily, no matter what your décor or tastes, there is sure to be a bow front aquarium cabinet perfect for you.

Give us a call at 210.444.2782 to discuss you fine custom aquariums And Cabinetry today.

Being an industry authority in aquarium technology and design, Aquatic Interiors Unlimited is one of the most experienced in the Texas area. If you want the best professional service in quality custom aquariums, you need people like Jeff and Pamela Sebern in your corner.  These business owners know the importance of being on top of the latest technology and this will benefit everyone of their customers.

Enjoy The LED Light Technology Video

Fine Custom Aquarium And Cabinetry – The LED Light Technology

The information below is direct response Jeff Sebern had with a big tank manufacturer on why he does not use glass tops on reef aquariums.  If you are a real technical person and like details, keep reading and watch the video from one of Aquatic Interior’s installs.

Manufacturer:

Thanks for your nice comments Jeff. No we did not need to modify the PVC top for the Sea-Swirl. Although, it would be nice to extend the area in the middle just under the Sea-Swirl  out a bit to allow the Sea-Swirl’s rotating shaft to penetrate through the PVC so we could support the device without the bracket that sits in the water.

Aquatic Interiors:

The only modifications I made were to the overflow box. Next time I will go with  larger 2″ bulk heads for the the drains in order to flood the suction ends of the pump since we needed to valve down the Dart pump to 3/4 of it’s power.  I also added a few clear Acrylic pieces(see attached) in order to support the 1/4″ clear screen net tops that we hand fabricate here.

The reasoning behind not using the glass tops is threefold:  First, the screen tops keep the fish (wrasses, darts,reef fish etc.) in the aquarium. Secondly, the glass tops inhibit light penetration, which are needed for photosynthetic corals, as photosynthesis is halted by the absence of light.  I know some might say, “Wait up. Shouldn’t you need the glass to protect the corals and fish from UV burns?” I would agree…maybe five years ago; however, there are very few metal halide lights still on the market that don’t shield UV. Besides that…aquarium industry speaking… metal halides are on the endangered list. Everything we (professionals) are recommending and doing light-wise now revolves around the proven results and energy savings of using LEDs.  

Okay, back to the glass tops. The glass tops are very effective in controlling evaporation and heat. The trapped gas and water  that accumulates to form condensation which in turn leaves hard water stains, salt creep, and green algae etc. Lastly, the screen allows the aquarium to exhaust or off-gas Co2 and temperature . Think- (ocean acidification.)

The off-gassing for most aquarium systems (except possibly planted tanks due to plants use of Co2) is very important  because the build up of trapped Co2 gas readily dissolves into water where it becomes carbonic acid; the aqueous solution of Co2. When the concentration of carbonic acid rises an inverse reaction takes place concerning the pH (which decreases). This reaction combined with the trapped in heat increases the toxicity of ammonia exponentially leading to stress; then disease, and lastly fatalities.  I better stop here. I can go on, and on, and on…

Well, I guess this will be the last time you ask for some input.

~Jeff

Fine Custom Aquarium And Cabinetry – The LED Light Technology

Fine Custom Aquarium And Cabinetry

This is just one example of the expertise you can expect from Aquatic-Interiors Unlimited.  You can rest assured that the job will be done right for the long term health of your aquarium.

Why don’t you give Jeff & Pamela a call at 210.444.2782 for your fine custom aquarium and cabinetry.

This is a great job for anyone who enjoys working with aquariums, their inhabitants and their owners (our

clientele).

This position consists of a variety of jobs including cleaning aquariums, maintaining, installing and repairing aquarium

equipment and taking care of aquatic life.

We provide training, all equipment, paid time off and employee discounts.

Primary Job Duties Include:

1. Cleaning and maintenance of aquariums in both residential and commercial settings

2. Identifying and treating fish disease

3. Identifying problems or potential problems with aquariums and taking the necessary steps to resolve

those issues.

4. Applying preventive measures to maintain healthy aquatic environments

5. Installation, maintenance and repair of aquariums and aquarium components (lights, skimmers, pumps,

etc)

6. Moving aquariums

7. Water testing

8. Delivery of fish and fish products to customers.

9. Recording daily activities, including detailed time logs and product delivery.

10. Other tasks as assigned

Minimal Job Requirements:

1. Knowledge of aquarium systems (salt water, fresh water and reef tanks) and their components

2. Knowledge of aquarium environments and their chemical and biological structures

3. Professional or personal experience with aquarium maintenance

4. Good driving record-(subject to approval by Aquatic Interiors Unlimited Insurance Provider)

5. Ability to lift repetitively a minimum of (80#)-(2) 5-gallon buckets of water simultaneously

6. Good oral communication and customer service skills

7. Must enjoy working with people, be self motivated and organized. Employee must provide own reliable transportation

8. Must be responsible and able to work independently

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist (Aquarist) Overview For San Antonio Job Position

Other:

A condition of hire requires signing a non-compete/non-disclosure contract.

Position consists of a combination of Aquarium Maintenance related tasks and Other Tasks

Job may require trips to various markets outside of the employee’s assigned area

Position requires employee to be available for work outside of scheduled hours on an ‘on call’ basis as

determined by management

Applicant will be required to provide a copy of valid driver’s license, current copy of driving record, current

registration, and proof of insurance.**

Please email your resume to aquaticinteriors@gmail.com as the job position will be filled soon.

Video Bonus:

Are you thinking of putting in or upgrading a tropical aquarium?

Tropical Aquariums in San Antonio Fish Series – The Hawk Fish

SIT AND WAIT: THE HAWKFISH

They are very comical. Sitting perched amongst the rocks waiting for food to pass as they move their eyes in all directions. Members of the Hawkfish family are a welcome addition to almost any aquarium.

They Travel a Long Way From the Indo Pacific to Tropical Aquariums in San Antonio

They usually come from deep water (which explains their high price and red coloration), and almost always thrive in captivity. Only one species per tank and feed them high protein foods such as shrimp and small fishes (incidentally, do not under estimate what they stuff in their mouth!) They lack a swim bladder so they sink when they stop swimming, and have reinforced fin rays to help prop them up when at rest. The most common cause of death among Hawkfish is (in captivity) jumping out an aquarium with too large an opening in the lid.

There are about 35 species in 10 genera, but only four commonly make it into the hobby.

Cirrhitichthys: These Hawkfish come from shallower waters and have a blunt head. Their dorsal fin spines have 3-5 small rays coming off of them, and they attain a maximum length of 3 inches.

Neocirrhitus: This is the familiar red hawk, and it is in a class by itself. They lack the rays on their dorsal fin spines and attain a length of about 3 inches. They are commonly found at depths of greater than 100 feet!

Paracirrhites: These are the Hawaiian hawks (although they are found through out the Indo Pacific) and they lack the dorsal fin rays and come in a variety of colors and with some species attaining a length of 12 inches!

Oxycirrhites typus: The long nosed hawk is unmistakable with its long draw out snout. They have similar care and feeding as the other hawks and grow to reach about three inches in length.

Call Aquatic Interiors, the experts in Tropical Aquariums in San Antonio at 210-444-2782.