These days, fake plants have become extremely popular as aquarium decoration pieces, largely because of their low maintenance and aesthetic appeal. Indeed, when I got into the fishkeeping hobby over 40 years ago, I had lots of silk plants adorning my first aquarium. However, there are quite a few hidden downsides to using artificial plants … Read more
Knowing how to achieve the right water pH for a particular community of fish is a skill that separates fishkeeping pros from the rest. But what if your water pH is inconsistent and keeps fluctuating? Because unstable water pH can be dangerous to fish health and tank ecology, it’s important to know how to correct … Read more
Choosing decorations and ornaments for a new aquarium is one of the most exciting parts of setting up an underwater kingdom for your fish. However, you must consider more than just how your setup looks. After all, your aquarium should be a safe, comfortable home for your fish and other aquatic pets, not just look … Read more
Keeping tropical fish is an enduring hobby that’s popular all over the world. I’ve enjoyed creating many beautiful aquascapes during my 40 years in this absorbing pastime, from tranquil freshwater habitats to the bustling ecosystems of saltwater reefs. Whatever your pleasure, every tank contains a glorious tapestry of colors, patterns, and personalities waiting to be … Read more
Although many aquarium fish live relatively short lives, some enjoy impressive lifespans as long as you provide your pets with a high-quality diet and optimal living conditions. So, before taking on any of the following fishy friends, remember that you could be taking on a lifelong commitment, and in some cases, your pet could outlive … Read more
The 1980s marked an era of exuberance and bold experimentation, not just in fashion and music but also in the world of aquarium decor. I remember visiting my college friends’ homes and admiring the outlandish decor in their fish tanks, then catching the bus to my local fish store to buy something even more bizarre … Read more
As an aquarist with over four decades of experience in keeping coldwater and tropical fish of many different species, I’ve learned that having a successful, thriving aquarium isn’t just about water and fish. This absorbing hobby is all about creating a harmonious, balanced ecosystem where every element, from the substrate to the lighting, contributes to … Read more
When it comes to aquarium equipment, almost everyone knows that a reliable filter and lighting are essential, as is an aquarium heater for tropical fish tanks. But other aquarium accessories can be incredibly useful, too! Here we’ll look at some of the most underrated bits of aquarium gear, and explain why you may wish you’d … Read more
Nothing sets off a tank full of beautiful tropical fish like a lush backdrop of healthy aquatic plants. But maintaining a thriving planted aquarium takes time, effort, and attention to detail. Don’t let that put you off! Even a complete beginner can successfully keep a planted fish tank, provided you choose types of plants that … Read more
No matter what size of fish tank you have, some kind of aquarium lighting is essential for the health and growth of fish and plants in your setup. However, you must strike the right balance. Too much light can cause many issues, potentially impacting the well-being of your entire aquatic ecosystem. In this guide, I … Read more
Fishkeeping is a popular hobby with hobbyists of all ages. In fact, I got my first fish tank as a birthday present when I was 15 years old. Since then, I’ve successfully kept many different fish species in tanks of various shapes and sizes and loved every moment of my hobby. Of course, I’ve tried … Read more
An aquarium should be a serene haven for you and the aquatic creatures that live there. You should be able to relax after a long, hectic day and enjoy your setup’s aesthetic tranquil beauty, secure in the knowledge that your pets are as happy and relaxed as you are. However, aquarium fish are highly susceptible … Read more
Keeping fish is a wonderful hobby enjoyed by millions of people across the globe. However, caring for your precious pets can be expensive and time-consuming, even if you only have a small tank. Recently, a few hacks have been circulating online that purport to save you time, money, and effort. However, the bad news for … Read more
Cloudy aquarium water is frustrating for any aquarist, especially if you’re new to the hobby. After all, you want to enjoy a clear view of your fish, and if the water turns murky, you can’t do that. In addition, cloudy tank water can’t be good news for your fish, right? But what does it mean … Read more
Sometimes, you’ll buy a stunning new fish only to find that it hides or sulks for days or even weeks. What is this behavior about, and how should we encourage them to reveal their full glory? Here we’ll explore the main reasons that your fish may be hiding after being introduced to a new tank, … Read more
