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Saltwater Aquarium Guide Reef-keeping magazine

Editorial Standards & Review Methodology

What the guides and equipment write-ups on Saltwater Aquarium Guide are based on, and the rules the site holds itself to.

Equipment write-ups

Equipment articles explain what a product is for, the kind of tank it suits and what to check before buying. Unless an article states otherwise and shows its evidence, it is a research summary drawn from manufacturer documentation and widely reported hobbyist experience, not a laboratory test.

  • No star ratings or scores are published unless there is a documented method behind them.
  • Prices and availability are not quoted, because they change constantly. Follow the link to see the current listing.
  • Performance figures quoted in articles are indicative. Always confirm specifications with the manufacturer for the exact model you are buying.
  • Limitations and compatibility notes are part of every recommendation, not an afterthought.

Livestock advice

Stocking advice is framed around the animal’s long-term needs.

  • Minimum tank size reflects adult size and behaviour, not the size at purchase.
  • Temperament and reef-safety are stated so conflicts can be ruled out before buying.
  • Species with a poor record in home aquariums are flagged rather than promoted.
  • Captive-bred animals are preferred where they are available.

Nothing on this site replaces advice from an aquatic vet. Disease and treatment articles describe common practice so you can have an informed conversation; they are not a diagnosis.

Independence and affiliate links

Saltwater Aquarium Guide earns commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. Affiliate links are labelled, marked as sponsored for search engines and open in a new tab. A commission does not decide whether a product is recommended. See the affiliate disclosure.

Planning tools

The calculators and planners give estimates from general rules of thumb. They are a planning aid; check equipment sizing against the manufacturer’s guidance for your tank.

Updates and corrections

Articles show the date they were published and, where they have changed, the date they were updated. If you spot an error or out-of-date advice, please report it so it can be checked and corrected.