Various Aquarium Meters
If you go online and browse through all the aquarium supplies, you’ll certainly find a lot of measuring devices. Aquarium meters come in a variety of forms. There’s the usual thermometer. There are also other items like hydrometer and refractometer.
All these aquarium supplies wouldn’t be put up for sale if they’re not needed. They must have specific functions that can make the life of the aquarium hobbyist a lot easier. But what exactly do they do? Let’s take a closer look at all these items.
Thermometers are used to monitor the correct water temperature in the aquarium. This is important because different varieties of fish prefer different water temperatures. Fish are also sensitive to changes and sudden fluctuations in water temperature and it can give them undue stress. If unmonitored with thermometers, a huge drop or increase in temperature can even result to fish death. Consequently, it is important to maintain a stable temperature in the tank.
Hydrometers and refractometers are used to measure the salinity and specific gravity of aquarium water. Salinity is the measure of the dissolve salt concentration in the tank water. Salinity and specific gravity are almost treated the same except that specific gravity is temperature dependent while salinity is not. They are measured especially in marine and reef aquariums to maintain appropriate salt concentrations which are essential to the health of the fish. Hydrometers are good and easy to use. However, serious aquarium hobbyists prefer refractometers. The refractometer devices provide accurate and reliable readings of salt levels.
