The aquarium industry is a large and diverse sector that includes both freshwater and saltwater fish, as well as other aquatic animals and plants. According to some sources, the global aquarium market was valued at $13.17 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.2% between 2020 and 2026. The global reef aquarium market, which focuses on coral reefs and marine life, was valued at $4.89 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.7% between 2021 and 2028. The aquarium industry is driven by various factors, such as the increasing popularity of aquariums as a hobby, the rising demand for exotic and rare species, the technological advancements in aquarium equipment and maintenance, and the growing awareness of the environmental and conservation benefits of aquariums.
The popularity of freshwater and saltwater fish and coral may depend on various factors, such as personal preference, availability, cost, and ease of care. However, based on some sources¹²³⁴, freshwater fish are generally more popular than saltwater fish and coral for the following reasons:
- Freshwater fish are more readily available and cheaper to buy than saltwater fish and coral.
- Freshwater fish are more adaptable to changing water conditions than saltwater fish and coral, which are more sensitive and require more stable and precise parameters.
- Freshwater aquariums are easier to set up and maintain than saltwater aquariums, as they require less equipment, less water testing, and less frequent water changes.
- Freshwater aquariums offer a wider variety of fish species, sizes, shapes, and colors than saltwater aquariums, as well as a range of aquatic plants.
However, this does not mean that saltwater fish and coral are not worth keeping. Saltwater aquariums have their own advantages and attractions, such as:
- Saltwater fish and coral are more vibrant and diverse than freshwater fish and plants, offering a stunning display of colors, patterns, and forms.
- Saltwater aquariums can create a mini-reef ecosystem that mimics the natural environment of the ocean, with corals, anemones, sponges, invertebrates, and other organisms.
- Saltwater aquariums can be more rewarding and satisfying than freshwater aquariums, as they pose more challenges and require more skills and knowledge to keep successfully.
Ultimately, the choice between freshwater and saltwater aquariums depends on your personal goals, budget, time, space, and interest. Both types of aquariums can provide you with hours of enjoyment and relaxation, as well as a sense of accomplishment and responsibility.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 6/20/2023
Here we are in the age of AI! The results from my questions are rather good, so no need for a blog on LFS of Colorado, right? What is a blog though if not the writers own POV and opinion? This is what I offer. My over 50 years of visiting LFS and experience in the marketplace as a hobbyist and consumer. On the business side of things my studies include BSBA and a Masters in Ed., so while I have never had my own store, I have explored the possibility from many angles. This is not my strength though, writing, research, and observation are. A risk taker I am not. My hat’s off to all those who are able to maintain a successful LFS! Or any business long term. By success I mean making a profit enough to support a family and to stay in business long term. My list of LFS demonstrates this at the bottom with a list of LFS that have closed their doors.
I invite you to peruse my many blogs starting with the list of the Best LFS in Colorado. If you have interest in a particular store, just use the search feature on the website to find it. Most of the LFS have been featured more than once. The LFS on the western front are difficult for me to reach as Grand Junction is more than a day's journey for me. Actually, the LFS in Craig is the best over there, The Jungle Pet Shop. My goal for this summer is to make it over there and do updates on the 2 LFS’s in Grand Junction and the 1 in Craig. Thanks to every one of my readers! The journey continues.
Sequoia Elisabeth
(1) Saltwater vs Freshwater Aquarium: All 9 Differences Explained. https://www.everythingfishkeeping.com/saltwater-vs-freshwater-aquarium/.
(2) Saltwater Vs Freshwater Aquarium - Everything You Need To Know. https://www.tankarium.com/saltwater-vs-freshwater-aquariums/.
(3) Saltwater Vs Freshwater Aquarium [Pros & Cons of Both]. https://aquariumlabs.com/saltwater-vs-freshwater-aquarium/.
(4) Which is Better a Freshwater or Saltwater Aquarium?https://aquariumsathome.com/which-is-better-freshwater-or-saltwater-aquarium/.
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