Most filters can be modified by changing the types of mechanical, biological, and chemical filter media used inside. Let’s talk about the different kinds, the functions they serve, and which ones you should use.
While algae is a natural part of the aquarium ecosystem, most people see it as an unwelcome guest because it obstructs the view and can hinder plant growth. Let’s talk about 5 easy methods for cleaning algae off your aquarium walls and decorations.
Have you spotted a miniature tentacle monster in your freshwater aquarium? Not to worry – it’s a fascinating freshwater organism called hydra that is relatively easy to deal with. Find out how to naturally remove them without harming your aquatic animals and plants.
Bladder, ramshorn, and Malaysian trumpet snails are often called pest snails because they reproduce so quickly and are difficult to remove. Learn about 5 methods for keeping your snail population under control.
Is there a brown or black substance that seems to collect like dust bunnies all over the floor of your fish tank? This dirt-like material goes by many names – such as mulm, detritus, and debris – and it’s a naturally occurring part of healthy aquariums. Keep reading as we...
Cloudy water can be very frustrating, since it prevents you from fully enjoying your beautiful fish tank. In this article, we explore the many reasons why your aquarium may look hazy and how to clear up the murkiness as quickly as possible.
Looking for a fish or invertebrate that will clean your aquarium so that you never have to do tank maintenance? Sorry, that mythical creature doesn’t exist. However, many animals do an excellent job of eating leftover food, algae, dying plant leaves, and even pest snails. Discover our top 10 favorite...
When people find out you keep fish, they probably imagine a crusty, algae-coated tank where you can barely see anything swimming inside. But with just a few easy steps, you can keep your aquarium looking like a beautiful work of art. Follow along as we share our top tips for...
Did you know there’s an easy way to clean all the fish waste at the bottom of your aquarium without dumping everything out? Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to use an aquarium siphon (no batteries required!) to vacuum up all the detritus in your gravel.
Aquarium filters often come with disposable cartridges that must be replaced every month, but did you know you can replace them with reusable filter media that lasts for the lifetime of the filter? In this article, we teach you how to upgrade your aquarium filter (and save money) in four...
As one of the key components of an aquarium, filtration is responsible for moving and cleaning the tank water, making it safe for fish to live in. The three main types of filtration are mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration. Certain filters are better at one type versus another, so here’s...
To mimic nature, we as hobbyists many times, need to do water changes. Most waterways have very low nitrates in the water because wastes are constantly being flushed downstream. Unfortunately for us, the byproduct of feeding our fish is nitrates. When this parameter is kept low, fish will be at their healthiest.
