Water Chemistry
Brackish water: specific gravity 1.005-1.015 (half-strength marine salt). pH 7.5-8.2.
Use marine salt mix (Instant Ocean, Reef Crystals) dissolved in freshwater.
Mangrove Propagation
Buy red mangrove propagules (seed pods) from aquarium shops or tropical plant nurseries.
Root in sand/gravel with half-submerged conditions. Leaves develop above water level.
Tank Inhabitants
Mudskippers (Periophthalmus) — amphibious fish that need both water and land. Archerfish (Toxotes) — shoot insects with water jets.
Brackish snails (nerite species), mollies (tolerate brackish), bumblebee goby.
Paludarium Structure
Low water section (30% tank volume), elevated land area (70%). Mangrove roots rise from water into air, creating vertical interest.
Mist system or daily spray maintains humidity for foliage growth.