Ammonia ( H3) The presence of ammonia in aquarium water is the #1 killer of fish. The primary sources of ammonia are the decaying of organic material (primarily uneaten food) and excreted waste from the fishes’ gills. An ammonia level as low as .5 part per million (ppm) creates stress upon fish compromising the natural… Read more »
This Hawkfish, or going by its scientific name of cirrhitops fasciatus, has a bright red body with bluish-white freckles on the face and light vertical stripes along the body. Although most Hawkfish grow large, a few Hawkfish species, such as the Hawaiian Banded Hawkfish, remain fairly petite, which makes them suitable for smaller aquariums. The… Read more »
Calcium is used by all salt-water organisms. Some animals use much more than others do; in fact, to some animals, calcium is one of the major components of the diet. Therefore certain types of salt water systems require more attention to the calcium levels. In all salt-water aquariums, calcium must added to replenish the amount… Read more »
Freshwater fish are found in many different types of habitats in nature. Some species are found in cold, fast moving rapids while others may live in warm, nearly stagnant water. Sometimes this can occur even among the same species. Some species of marine fish are known to swim into coastal estuaries to spawn and as the offspring mature, although… Read more »
The marginal plant group is the largest aquatic plant group by far, containing both hardy and tropical plants. Most of them are true perennials and come back year after year, like your favorite Daylily or Black-Eyed Susan. Marginal plants serve many functions, such as adding beauty and providing valuable filtration. They are called “marginals” because… Read more »
Although general mixed communities remain the most popular freshwater aquaria, many fishkeepers are drawn to certain themes. African cichlids are perhaps the best-known “niche” within the aquarium hobby, but there are many others, and recently we’ve been expanding our selection to help you explore different kinds of fish communities. Here are a few directions you… Read more »
Fish are wonderful critters that add color, movement, and plenty of enjoyment to the water garden. The subject of pond fish occurs frequently during conversations about water features. In fact, the same questions seem to rise to the surface on a regular basis, which is why we call them FAQs … or frequently asked questions…. Read more »
One of your main goals as a pond builder should be to create a system that delivers top-notch water quality. In order to do this, it’s helpful to be familiar with principles of water chemistry needed to keep these systems in excellent shape. Water chemistry is, as you may know, an enormous topic. Indeed, fully… Read more »
The Banded Trochus Snail is touted by aquarists of all experience levels for numerous reasons. Like other members of the Trochidae family, the Banded Trochus is easy to care for and very adept at working as your aquarium’s cleanup crew. The Banded Trochus Snail normally has a black foot that is an off white/tan color… Read more »
Disease Terminology and Treatment Drugs When it comes to curing a fish, there are only two methods available to us, either Chemotherapy or Environmental, both of which have their place, but never within our tanks. All treatments must be performed outside of the main tank within a Quarantine Tank. As long as there are hobbyist who… Read more »