Scuba diving and reef tank keeping are two hobbies that may seem vastly different at first glance. One involves exploring the depths of the ocean, while the other entails creating and maintaining a miniature marine ecosystem in your home. However, it's not uncommon for scuba divers to become heavily involved in reef tanks at their homes, and there are many similarities between the two hobbies.

Julie and Scott Shiles Scuba diving together

For scuba divers, the appeal of exploring the ocean is often the chance to see incredible marine life up close. Similarly, reef tank enthusiasts are drawn to creating a home environment that mimics the beauty and diversity of the ocean's coral reefs. Both hobbies involve a deep appreciation for the intricate and complex ecosystems that exist in our oceans and a desire to recreate that beauty and complexity on a smaller scale.

In order to be successful at both scuba diving and reef tank keeping, a certain level of knowledge and skill is required. Scuba divers must have a good understanding of the underwater environment, including the marine life they may encounter, the currents and tides, and the potential dangers of diving. Reef tank keepers must also have a solid understanding of the marine life they are keeping, including their feeding habits, water chemistry, and the types of equipment needed to maintain a healthy environment.

In both hobbies, attention to detail is crucial. Scuba divers must pay close attention to their surroundings, keeping an eye out for potential hazards or changes in the environment. Similarly, reef tank keepers must be diligent in monitoring their tanks, checking water parameters and ensuring that equipment is functioning properly. A single mistake in either hobby can have serious consequences for the delicate ecosystem being observed or created.

Both scuba diving and reef tank keeping also require a certain level of patience and dedication. Scuba divers must often wait patiently for marine life to reveal itself, and reef tank keepers must be willing to put in the time and effort required to maintain a healthy and thriving ecosystem.

The Shiles Family, from left to right Ashton, Julie, & Scott enjoying a Scuba diving trip in Cozumel 

One benefit of both hobbies is that they can be incredibly rewarding. Scuba divers have the chance to see amazing marine life up close and personal, and reef tank keepers can experience the satisfaction of creating and maintaining a beautiful and thriving mini-ecosystem in their homes.

Overall, scuba diving and reef tank keeping may seem like vastly different hobbies, but they share many similarities. Both require a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of marine life, a certain level of knowledge and skill, attention to detail, patience, and dedication. For scuba divers who become involved in reef tank keeping, it's an opportunity to bring a piece of the ocean into their homes and continue to explore and appreciate the wonders of marine life even when they're not diving.