Freshwater and saltwater aquariums differ in terms of the type of fish and plants they can support, the equipment needed, and the maintenance required. Saltwater aquariums typically house marine fish and invertebrates that require a more complex setup with specialized equipment like protein skimmers and reef lighting. They also need regular testing and adjustment of water parameters such as salinity and pH. Freshwater aquariums, on the other hand, are generally easier to maintain and are well-suited for a variety of fish species and aquatic plants. They require less specialized equipment and are typically more affordable to set up initially.