Blogs

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are one of the most reliable ways to produce pure water for aquariums. Whether you keep delicate freshwater shrimp, soft-water plants, or sensitive marine corals, RO ensures you start with a clean slate — free of harmful impurities. How an RO System Works RO systems filter water in stages, removing progressively finer impurities until the output is nearly pure H₂O. 1. Sediment Filter (Pre-filter) Purpose: Removes large particles such as sand, rust, dirt, and silt. Why important: Protects the delicate RO membrane from clogging. Lifespan: Typically changed every 6–12 months. 2. Carbon Block Filter Purpose: Removes...

Getting into the hobby for the first time can be confusing. Hopefully this guide will help you enter the hobby and become a successful aquarist! FISH TANK SIZE The first step of your journey is to decide on the size of the fish tank. You are essentially creating a miniature ecosystem, at least when compared to the real thing. The larger the volume of water, the more stable and forgiving your system will be. Therefore it is easier to maintain a larger aquarium. TYPE OF FISH Once you have decided on the tank volume, you can begin to plan what...

What is Seachem Flourish Excel? Seachem Flourish Excel is a liquid carbon supplement designed for planted aquariums. While not true gaseous CO₂, it provides plants with a usable form of organic carbon (glutaraldehyde-based compounds) that they can metabolize for growth. It is commonly used in: Low-tech aquariums (without pressurized CO₂ systems). Smaller tanks where pressurized systems may not be practical. Algae control, as Excel can suppress certain algae species (especially black beard algae). How Liquid CO₂ Differs from Pressurized CO₂ Aspect Liquid CO₂ (Excel) Pressurized CO₂ Injection Form of Carbon Provides organic carbon (not actual CO₂ gas). Supplies true CO₂...

Freshwater planted aquariums are living ecosystems where plants, fish, and microorganisms coexist. To achieve a thriving planted tank, aquarists must balance three main pillars: light, CO₂, and nutrients. When these factors are in harmony, aquatic plants will grow healthily, provide oxygen, improve water quality, and create a natural environment for fish. The Balance: Light, Fertilizer, and CO₂ Light provides energy for photosynthesis. CO₂ (carbon dioxide) is the building block of plant growth. Fertilizers supply essential macro and micro nutrients.  Imbalance in any of these factors can lead to algae problems or plant deficiencies. For example: Too much light without enough CO₂...

Introduction to Corals Corals are living animals, not plants. They belong to the phylum Cnidaria and host tiny symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae within their tissues. This partnership allows corals to feed in two ways: Photosynthesis – zooxanthellae convert light into energy for the coral. Direct Feeding – corals capture plankton and organic matter from the water using their tentacles. Because of this dual feeding strategy, corals require stable water parameters and an environment that balances light, flow, and nutrition. Ideal Water Parameters for Corals Parameter Ideal Range Importance Salinity (SG) 1.025 – 1.026 Stability is crucial – fluctuations stress corals...