Author: luke2005@gmail.com

Most saltwater species cannot be kept in an aquarium with their own kind. In the freshwater world, things are totally different. Many of our more common home aquarium species require other members of their kind. The lack thereof produces stress, resulting in a life-span which is shorter than it needs to be. (See 15 Stresses…

1. Use “Had-a Snail” freshwater snail control. Added directly to your aquarium, it kills snails and parasites and might guard against algae spores. NOTE: Live plants should be removed during treatment. 2. Clown loaches will keep snails well under control. 3. Alum is also useful. Look for “Alum U.S.P.” at the drug store. Soak the…

Many beginning hobbyists think snails are essential as scavengers, only to find that some red ramshorns, after a day or two in the tank, will get their antennae nipped by fish every time they poke their head out, and eventually starve inside their shell. It’s one of life’s ironies that if you want to keep…

The following steps should be followed in conjunction with the manufacturers directions on the pharmaceuticals you elect to use. When medicating sick fish, keep in mind that negative reactions to medication can happen. If you suspect your fish are not responding properly, we recommend you call us as soon as possible so that we might…

Are goldfish second-class citizens in the aquarium world? Given away as prizes at school carnivals and sold by the dozens as feeder fish, it’s little wonder that many hobbyists, and even non-aquarists, look upon goldfish as expendable or disposable. We’re referring, of course, to what are typically called “common” goldfish, not fancy goldfish.  Aside from…

America’s best friend with fins is the goldfish. But that long-standing love affair needs to end. A far better choice is a betta, or Siamese Fighting fish. Here’s the sad truth: goldfish don’t like living in bowls. They do much better in a tank with a filter system, but betta fish thrive in torpid water.…

Have you ever wanted to keep a freshwater, planted aquarium? Not just an aquarium with a few live plants, but a true aquatic garden. Doing so can be a very rewarding aquarium experience. An aquatic garden is the freshwater equivalent to keeping a saltwater reef aquarium. Aquatic plants require three main factors to not just…