Why You Need a Pre-Filter Sponge for Your AquariumsLooking for a very easy way to optimize your hang-on-back (HOB) or canister filter? Try a pre filter sponge (or intake sponge). This simple foam cylinder has a hole in the middle that allows you to slip it onto the intake tube of your filter, much like a sock. But why in the world do we need a prefilter sponge when we already have an aquarium filter? Intake sponges have a surprising number of benefits, such as: They provide more surface area to grow beneficial bacteria, which purify the wast...
Top 7 Warm Water Fish That Aren’t Afraid of a Little HeatDuring the hot summer months, it can be hard to keep your aquarium water cool enough for certain fish. Fortunately, there are some species that can survive in higher-than-normal temperatures. Just remember that warmer water cannot hold as much dissolved oxygen as cooler water, so reduce your risk of oxygen deprivation by adding an air stone, sponge filter, or other form of surface agitation. Also, look for aquatic plants that can tolerate higher temperatures, such as anubias, java fern, bacop...
Care Guide for Apistogramma Dwarf Cichlids — Housing, Breeding, & MoreHow would you like to have a small, gorgeous, and inquisitive fish to add to your community tank as a showstopper? Then you need to try the Apistogramma dwarf cichlids, commonly known as “apistos.” What are Apistogramma Cichlids? This genus originates from habitats all over South America and encompasses almost 100 species. The brightly colorful males tend to reach 3–3.5 inches (8–9 cm) and often come with impressive, extended dorsal fins, while females are a bit drabber and stay around 2–2.5 ...
Care Guide for Pygmy Corydoras – The World’s Tiniest Cory CatfishCory catfish are beloved in the freshwater aquarium hobby because of their happy-go-lucky nature and interesting behaviors, such as constantly shuffling through the substrate for snacks. While some hobbyists enjoy keeping the larger species, like the hognosed brochis (Corydoras multiradiatus) or emerald cory catfish (C. splendens), nano aquarium enthusiasts take special pleasure in finding the most petite corys. The pygmy cory (C. pygmaeus) has become quite popular because of its adorable app...
Where is the Best Place to Buy Live Aquarium Fish?Even though Aquarium Co-Op has a brick-and-mortar retail store that sells pet fish to the general public, we personally choose not to sell them online through our website and instead focus on shipping dry goods and live plants. Therefore, many people want to know where we recommend buying pet fish, especially if they don’t live near our fish store. Each source has its advantages and disadvantages, so in this article, let’s discuss the different options and which may be the right ones for you....
Care Guide for Green Neon Tetras — Perfect Nano Fish for Planted TanksGreen neon tetras are a favorite fish for aquascapers because their glowing blue stripe is so eye-catching yet doesn’t take away from the beauty of the aquarium plants. As the little cousin of the more common neon tetra, you can easily fit a small school of green neon tetras in a planted nano aquarium or get a huge swarm to fill a larger tank for an amazing visual impact. Find out what makes this species so special and how to keep them happy and healthy in your home. What are Green Neon Tetra...
Care Guide for Silver Tip Tetras — Fun and Interactive Schooling FishSilver tip tetras are one of our favorite schooling fish. Beginners love them because they are hardy and energetic, and if you have a big enough group, they will follow your finger as you trace it along the outside of the aquarium glass. Plus, their sunshine colors look dazzling in a lushly planted tank. Find out how to keep this fun, little fish both happy and healthy in your home aquarium. What are Silver Tip Tetras? Hasemania nana is a 2-inch (5 cm) schooling fish that hails from the river...
5 Easy Tips to Save Money in the Fishkeeping HobbyThe fishkeeping hobby can be a little expensive, especially in the beginning when you’re starting with nothing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy having aquarium fish if you have a smaller budget. Learn about 5 of our favorite money-saving hacks to get the best bang for your buck. 1. Get More Out of Your Test Strips This trick works with our Aquarium Co-Op ammonia test strips and multi-test strips, but our founder Cory also did this for years using other brands of test strips while workin...
How to Pick the Best Fish Foods That Aquarium Fish Can’t ResistWith so many brands and types of fish foods at the pet store, how do you know which one to get? Many beginners just reach for a jar that has a picture of their fish on the front without considering whether or not their fish will actually eat it. Living animals actually have preferences when it comes to the taste, ingredients, and form factor, and picky eaters may even refuse the most expensive, high-quality brands if they don’t suit their needs. Let’s talk about the different types of fish fo...
Top 10 Fish That Are Perfect for Planted AquariumsOne of the reasons why we love live aquarium plants is because their natural beauty just seems to magically enhance the appearance of your fish and invertebrates. Plus, some of the animals start to exhibit unique behaviors that you wouldn’t normally see unless they’re surrounded by a jungle of leaves, stems, and roots. If you enjoy aquatic plants as much as we do, try pairing them with our top 10 favorite plant-friendly fish and see which ones you love the best. 1. Elephant Nose Fish Gnathon...
Top 10 Colorful Fish to Brighten Up Your Next Freshwater AquariumIt doesn't matter if you are a beginner or veteran in the freshwater aquarium hobby — everyone is attracted to colorful fish. Bright reds, yellows, blues, and iridescent hues always get the most attention at pet stores because there's nothing like coming home to a beautiful tank full of color and activity. Because there are so many good-looking species to choose from, let’s highlight some of our favorites that possess the most amazing kaleidoscope of colors. 1. Guppy Poecilia reticul...
Top 10 Midwater Schooling Fish for Your Next AquariumWhen planning out what kind of fish to add to an aquarium, we like to pick species that live in different layers of the water column. Instead of having animals that cluster in the same area, the entire tank is filled with interesting activity. Since we’ve already talked about our favorite top-dwelling fish and bottom dwellers, let’s show off the most colorful and lively options that swim in the middle of the aquarium. 1. Green Neon Tetra Paracheirodon simulans The green neon tetra is the sm...
Care Guide for Bucephalandra — A Colorful Alternative to AnubiasWhen it comes to beginner-friendly aquarium plants, most people think of anubias or java fern. But if you’re looking for something a little more unique, try bucephalandra. This lovely plant has unusual, iridescent leaves, does well in low lighting, and is perfect for nano aquariums. However, they tend to cost more than anubias and are very slow growing compared to other aquatic plants. Keep reading to learn all about the beautiful bucephalandra. What is Bucephalandra? Bucephalandra (or “buce”...
Care Guide for Oscar Fish – The South American “Water Dog”Oscar cichlids are one of the most popular fish sold at pet stores because of their beautiful colors and unique personality. These “water puppies” are intelligent enough to recognize you as their owner, will come up to the front of the tank to greet you, and can be trained to eat out of your hand. Also, they can get moody and sulk at the bottom of the aquarium because you altered their environment by doing a water change or moving the decorations. However, many people don’t realize they grow ...
Top 5 Freshwater Sharks for Aquariums (and How Big They Really Get)You may have gone to the pet store and seen some freshwater fish labeled as “sharks.” These species are not true sharks but rather are members of the Cyprinidae family of carp and minnows. They just happen to look like sharks because of their slender, torpedo-shaped bodies and pointy fins. Beginners often buy freshwater sharks because of their attractive shape and hardiness, but they can grow much bigger than expected and have large tank requirements in adulthood. So, before you take home tha...
Care Guide for Boesemani Rainbowfish — Tank Setup, Breeding, and MoreOne of the most striking and recognizable rainbowfish is the Boesemani rainbow. This schooling fish is prized for its unique-looking, bicolored body and is the perfect statement piece for a medium-sized community aquarium. Find out what it takes to keep this stunning species happy, healthy, and showing off the best colors possible. What are Boesemani Rainbowfish? Melanotaenia boesemani has the classic rainbowfish profile with its pointed snout, deep-bodied profile, and large, distinct scales....
Why You Need a Pre-Filter Sponge for Your Aquariums
Looking for a very easy way to optimize your hang-on-back (HOB) or canister filter? Try a pre filter sponge (or intake sponge). This simple foam cylinder has a hole in the middle that allows you to slip it onto the intake tube of your filter, much like a sock. But why in the world do we need a prefilter sponge when we already have an aquarium filter? Intake sponges have a surprising number of benefits, such as: They provide more surface area to grow beneficial bacteria, which purify the wast...
Top 7 Warm Water Fish That Aren’t Afraid of a Little Heat
During the hot summer months, it can be hard to keep your aquarium water cool enough for certain fish. Fortunately, there are some species that can survive in higher-than-normal temperatures. Just remember that warmer water cannot hold as much dissolved oxygen as cooler water, so reduce your risk of oxygen deprivation by adding an air stone, sponge filter, or other form of surface agitation. Also, look for aquatic plants that can tolerate higher temperatures, such as anubias, java fern, bacop...
Care Guide for Apistogramma Dwarf Cichlids — Housing, Breeding, & More
How would you like to have a small, gorgeous, and inquisitive fish to add to your community tank as a showstopper? Then you need to try the Apistogramma dwarf cichlids, commonly known as “apistos.” What are Apistogramma Cichlids? This genus originates from habitats all over South America and encompasses almost 100 species. The brightly colorful males tend to reach 3–3.5 inches (8–9 cm) and often come with impressive, extended dorsal fins, while females are a bit drabber and stay around 2–2.5 ...
Care Guide for Pygmy Corydoras – The World’s Tiniest Cory Catfish
Cory catfish are beloved in the freshwater aquarium hobby because of their happy-go-lucky nature and interesting behaviors, such as constantly shuffling through the substrate for snacks. While some hobbyists enjoy keeping the larger species, like the hognosed brochis (Corydoras multiradiatus) or emerald cory catfish (C. splendens), nano aquarium enthusiasts take special pleasure in finding the most petite corys. The pygmy cory (C. pygmaeus) has become quite popular because of its adorable app...
Where is the Best Place to Buy Live Aquarium Fish?
Even though Aquarium Co-Op has a brick-and-mortar retail store that sells pet fish to the general public, we personally choose not to sell them online through our website and instead focus on shipping dry goods and live plants. Therefore, many people want to know where we recommend buying pet fish, especially if they don’t live near our fish store. Each source has its advantages and disadvantages, so in this article, let’s discuss the different options and which may be the right ones for you....
Care Guide for Green Neon Tetras — Perfect Nano Fish for Planted Tanks
Green neon tetras are a favorite fish for aquascapers because their glowing blue stripe is so eye-catching yet doesn’t take away from the beauty of the aquarium plants. As the little cousin of the more common neon tetra, you can easily fit a small school of green neon tetras in a planted nano aquarium or get a huge swarm to fill a larger tank for an amazing visual impact. Find out what makes this species so special and how to keep them happy and healthy in your home. What are Green Neon Tetra...
Care Guide for Silver Tip Tetras — Fun and Interactive Schooling Fish
Silver tip tetras are one of our favorite schooling fish. Beginners love them because they are hardy and energetic, and if you have a big enough group, they will follow your finger as you trace it along the outside of the aquarium glass. Plus, their sunshine colors look dazzling in a lushly planted tank. Find out how to keep this fun, little fish both happy and healthy in your home aquarium. What are Silver Tip Tetras? Hasemania nana is a 2-inch (5 cm) schooling fish that hails from the river...
5 Easy Tips to Save Money in the Fishkeeping Hobby
The fishkeeping hobby can be a little expensive, especially in the beginning when you’re starting with nothing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy having aquarium fish if you have a smaller budget. Learn about 5 of our favorite money-saving hacks to get the best bang for your buck. 1. Get More Out of Your Test Strips This trick works with our Aquarium Co-Op ammonia test strips and multi-test strips, but our founder Cory also did this for years using other brands of test strips while workin...
How to Pick the Best Fish Foods That Aquarium Fish Can’t Resist
With so many brands and types of fish foods at the pet store, how do you know which one to get? Many beginners just reach for a jar that has a picture of their fish on the front without considering whether or not their fish will actually eat it. Living animals actually have preferences when it comes to the taste, ingredients, and form factor, and picky eaters may even refuse the most expensive, high-quality brands if they don’t suit their needs. Let’s talk about the different types of fish fo...
Top 10 Fish That Are Perfect for Planted Aquariums
One of the reasons why we love live aquarium plants is because their natural beauty just seems to magically enhance the appearance of your fish and invertebrates. Plus, some of the animals start to exhibit unique behaviors that you wouldn’t normally see unless they’re surrounded by a jungle of leaves, stems, and roots. If you enjoy aquatic plants as much as we do, try pairing them with our top 10 favorite plant-friendly fish and see which ones you love the best. 1. Elephant Nose Fish Gnathon...
Top 10 Colorful Fish to Brighten Up Your Next Freshwater Aquarium
It doesn't matter if you are a beginner or veteran in the freshwater aquarium hobby — everyone is attracted to colorful fish. Bright reds, yellows, blues, and iridescent hues always get the most attention at pet stores because there's nothing like coming home to a beautiful tank full of color and activity. Because there are so many good-looking species to choose from, let’s highlight some of our favorites that possess the most amazing kaleidoscope of colors. 1. Guppy Poecilia reticul...
Top 10 Midwater Schooling Fish for Your Next Aquarium
When planning out what kind of fish to add to an aquarium, we like to pick species that live in different layers of the water column. Instead of having animals that cluster in the same area, the entire tank is filled with interesting activity. Since we’ve already talked about our favorite top-dwelling fish and bottom dwellers, let’s show off the most colorful and lively options that swim in the middle of the aquarium. 1. Green Neon Tetra Paracheirodon simulans The green neon tetra is the sm...
Care Guide for Bucephalandra — A Colorful Alternative to Anubias
When it comes to beginner-friendly aquarium plants, most people think of anubias or java fern. But if you’re looking for something a little more unique, try bucephalandra. This lovely plant has unusual, iridescent leaves, does well in low lighting, and is perfect for nano aquariums. However, they tend to cost more than anubias and are very slow growing compared to other aquatic plants. Keep reading to learn all about the beautiful bucephalandra. What is Bucephalandra? Bucephalandra (or “buce”...
Care Guide for Oscar Fish – The South American “Water Dog”
Oscar cichlids are one of the most popular fish sold at pet stores because of their beautiful colors and unique personality. These “water puppies” are intelligent enough to recognize you as their owner, will come up to the front of the tank to greet you, and can be trained to eat out of your hand. Also, they can get moody and sulk at the bottom of the aquarium because you altered their environment by doing a water change or moving the decorations. However, many people don’t realize they grow ...
Top 5 Freshwater Sharks for Aquariums (and How Big They Really Get)
You may have gone to the pet store and seen some freshwater fish labeled as “sharks.” These species are not true sharks but rather are members of the Cyprinidae family of carp and minnows. They just happen to look like sharks because of their slender, torpedo-shaped bodies and pointy fins. Beginners often buy freshwater sharks because of their attractive shape and hardiness, but they can grow much bigger than expected and have large tank requirements in adulthood. So, before you take home tha...
Care Guide for Boesemani Rainbowfish — Tank Setup, Breeding, and More
One of the most striking and recognizable rainbowfish is the Boesemani rainbow. This schooling fish is prized for its unique-looking, bicolored body and is the perfect statement piece for a medium-sized community aquarium. Find out what it takes to keep this stunning species happy, healthy, and showing off the best colors possible. What are Boesemani Rainbowfish? Melanotaenia boesemani has the classic rainbowfish profile with its pointed snout, deep-bodied profile, and large, distinct scales....
