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  • Amano Shrimp Care Guide: The Best Algae Eater in the Hobby

    Amano Shrimp Care Guide: The Best Algae Eater in the Hobby

    If I could only add one invert to any planted tank I own, it would be Amano shrimp. Every single time. They work harder, eat more algae, and handle themselves better in a community tank than any other freshwater cleanup crew species I’ve kept. But “easy cleanup crew” is where most care guides stop, and that’s where most beginners go wrong.

    Most people buy three. They should buy ten.

    Amano shrimp are tougher to keep than their reputation suggests. Copper in medications or plant fertilizers can wipe out a colony before you notice anything is wrong. They can’t breed in a standard freshwater tank without a separate brackish grow-out setup that most hobbyists will never build. And they’re deceptively sensitive to acclimation stress when first introduced. Get the conditions right and these shrimp are genuinely thriving workers. Get them wrong, and you’ll be buying replacements on a loop without understanding why.

    Table of Contents

    Key Takeaways

    • Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata) are the most effective algae-eating invertebrate in the freshwater hobby. Nothing else comes close for biofilm and hair algae.
    • Buy more than you think you need. Three shrimp in a 20-gallon (75-liter) tank is decoration. Ten or more creates meaningful algae control.
    • Copper is fatal. Check every medication, fertilizer, and tap water additive for copper content before using it in a tank with Amanos.
    • They cannot breed in a standard freshwater aquarium. The larvae require brackish water to survive. Most hobbyists buy replacements rather than breed them.
    • A sponge pre-filter on all intakes is mandatory. Standard filter intakes will catch and kill them.
    • Amano shrimp are sensitive to poor acclimation. Use the drip method when introducing them to a new tank.

    Species Overview

    Scientific NameCaridina multidentata
    Common NamesAmano Shrimp, Yamato Shrimp, Japonica Shrimp, Algae Eating Shrimp
    FamilyAtyidae
    OriginJapan, Taiwan
    Care LevelIntermediate
    TemperamentPeaceful
    DietOmnivore / Algae grazer
    Tank LevelAll areas
    Max Size2 inches (5 cm)
    Min Tank Size5 gallons (19 liters)
    Temperature65°F to 78°F (18°C to 26°C)
    pH6.5 to 8.0
    Hardness6 to 8 dKH
    Lifespan2 to 5 years

    Classification

    OrderDecapoda
    SuborderPleocyemata
    FamilyAtyidae
    GenusCaridina
    SpeciesC. multidentata (Stimpson, 1860)

    Taxonomy note: For most of aquarium hobby history, this species was known as Caridina japonica (de Man, 1892). In 2006, Yamamoto and Hori’s research established that C. japonica was a junior synonym of the earlier-described C. multidentata (Stimpson, 1860). The correct scientific name is now Caridina multidentata, though Caridina japonica still appears widely in older care guides and some retail labeling. Both names refer to the same species.

    Origin and Natural Habitat

    True Amano shrimp are native to Japan and Taiwan. In Japan, they’re found in fast-moving coastal streams and rivers in Shikoku and Kyushu. They have an amphidromous life cycle, meaning they migrate between freshwater and saltwater at different life stages: adults and juveniles live in freshwater, but larvae hatch and must reach brackish or marine water to develop. This is the biological reason they’re nearly impossible to breed in a standard home aquarium.

    Takashi Amano, the founder of modern planted tank aquascaping, popularized these shrimp specifically for algae control in his Nature Aquarium style tanks in the 1990s. The shrimp was named in his honor. His approach, using dense planting, CO2 injection, and macro nutrient dosing, is still the environment where Amano shrimp thrive most visibly. In my experience with Tom Barr’s balanced macro dosing approach in heavily planted setups, Amanos in those tanks are genuinely fat, active, and working constantly. The more plant surface area available, the more biofilm and soft algae they can graze on between feedings.

    Appearance and Identification

    Amano shrimp have translucent to pale gray bodies with a distinctive tan or brown pattern running along the back and sides. A white or light stripe runs from head to tail. The body is covered in small dots and dashes of brown that form the characteristic spotting pattern. Their black eyes stand out clearly against the pale body. They’re not colorful shrimp in the way cherry shrimp are. Cherry shrimp get the color; Amanos get the size and work ethic.

    Male vs. Female

    Sexing Amano shrimp is straightforward once you know the pattern differences. Females are larger overall and show an elongated row of brown dashes along the lower body. Males are smaller with a pattern of scattered dots rather than the elongated dashes. Females also develop a visible “saddle” area for carrying eggs. A fully grown female will typically be noticeably larger than a male of the same age.

    • Female: Larger body, brown dashes along the lower sides, visible saddle, more prominent white stripe along the top
    • Male: Smaller, brown dots rather than dashes, no saddle, slightly more faint stripe

    Females will attempt to breed shortly after molting, releasing pheromones that trigger a frantic swimming display in males throughout the tank.

    Average Size and Lifespan

    Amano shrimp reach about 2 inches (5 cm) at full size. Females consistently run larger than males. Their larger size compared to cherry shrimp is one of the key reasons they fare better in community tanks: most small community fish can’t fit a full-grown Amano in their mouth.

    Lifespan in a well-maintained freshwater aquarium is typically 2 to 3 years, though some individuals reach 5 years with excellent care and stable parameters. The most common cause of shortened lifespan is repeated exposure to trace copper or chronic low-level parameter stress.

    Care Guide

    ASD Difficulty Rating: Intermediate (5/10)
    Amano shrimp are easy to keep alive in stable, established tanks but have hidden demands that catch beginners off guard. Copper sensitivity, acclimation stress, and molting-related problems require more attention than the “beginner shrimp” label suggests. In a mature planted tank with clean parameters, they’re genuinely low maintenance. In a new tank or a medicated system, they’re unforgiving.

    Tank Size

    The minimum tank size for Amano shrimp is 5 gallons (19 liters), but they perform best and show their full behavior in larger setups. The rule of thumb is one shrimp per 2 gallons (7.5 liters), though this is a rough guide. For meaningful algae control in a 20-gallon (75-liter) planted community tank, plan on 10 or more shrimp. Three or four shrimp in that same tank will look nice but won’t move the needle on algae.

    Amano shrimp are escape artists. They will find any gap in a lid and jump through it, especially when first introduced or after a water change. A tight-fitting cover is mandatory. Mesh nets are too wide for shrimp-sized gaps. Glass lids or solid covers are best.

    Water Parameters

    Temperature65°F to 78°F (18°C to 26°C)
    pH6.5 to 8.0
    Hardness (KH)1 to 10 dKH
    TDS150 to 200 ppm
    Ammonia0 ppm
    Nitrite0 ppm
    NitrateUnder 20 ppm
    Copper0 (lethal at trace levels)

    Amano shrimp are more parameter-tolerant than many caridina species but are strictly sensitive to copper, ammonia spikes, and rapid parameter changes. The TDS range of 150 to 200 ppm is similar to cherry shrimp. Monitor with an aquarium test kit regularly and perform water changes of 25 to 30% every two weeks. Check water hardness if you’re experiencing persistent molting problems: low GH is a common cause of failed molts.

    Filtration and Water Flow

    Amano shrimp need gentle filtration. Strong flow creates stress and can exhaust them. More critically: standard filter intakes will catch and kill them. A sponge filter is the safest option for a shrimp-only or shrimp-primary tank. In community tanks with larger filters, cover all intakes with a pre-filter sponge. This is not optional.

    Sponge filters also provide an additional benefit: Amanos graze constantly on the biofilm that builds up on the sponge exterior. It’s an active feeding area for them between regular food offerings.

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    For community tanks where you need a hang-on-back or canister filter for fish filtration, fit a sponge pre-filter over every intake. Replace the sponge every two to four weeks so it doesn’t restrict flow.

    Lighting

    Amano shrimp have no specific lighting requirements. They adapt to any light level the tank uses. If you’re running a planted tank with higher light and CO2, they’ll be perfectly comfortable and more active in the abundant algae growth that setup produces. Dim planted tank setups work just as well. Match lighting to your plants, not to the shrimp.

    Plants and Decorations

    Dense planting is where Amano shrimp thrive. More plant surface area means more biofilm, more algae, and more foraging opportunity. They clean every surface they can reach: plant leaves, driftwood, rock faces, substrate, and the glass itself. Plants also matter for molting cover. After molting, Amanos are soft and vulnerable for a day or two and need places to hide.

    Good plant options for Amano tanks:

    Driftwood is particularly valuable. Amanos graze on the biofilm that develops on wood surfaces and seem to prefer it as a primary foraging location. Aquarium driftwood stands out visually against Amano’s pale body and creates a natural contrast that looks excellent in planted setups.

    Great For Shrimp Tanks!
    Cholla Wood

    Cholla is best known for being an excellent wood for pet shrimp. It naturally decays and provides both food and shelter.

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    Moss is valuable specifically for molting cover. A dense patch of Christmas Moss or java moss gives freshly molted shrimp a place to hide while their shells harden.

    Substrate

    Amano shrimp spend much of their time at the substrate level and graze on it constantly. Fine-grain substrates work better than coarse gravel for shrimp: more surface area for biofilm, easier foraging. Shrimp-specific substrates like planted tank substrates that buffer pH toward slightly acidic are ideal in planted setups. Rinse any substrate thoroughly before use.

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    Fluval Stratum

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    A beginner-friendly alternative to ADA Soil. Works well for planted tanks and shrimp setups.

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    Tank Mates

    Best Tank Mates

    Amano shrimp are almost universally found in planted and community tanks, not shrimp-only setups. Their 2-inch (5 cm) size gives them protection that smaller shrimp species don’t have. The following fish coexist well with Amanos in most setups:

    Tank Mates to Avoid

    Any fish with a mouth large enough to swallow a 2-inch (5 cm) shrimp is a risk. Amanos are also vulnerable immediately after molting, when their new shell is soft and other fish may pick at them.

    • Cichlids
    • Goldfish
    • Large barbs, aggressive loaches, large catfish
    • Any fish with a mouth large enough to fit a full-grown shrimp

    Food and Diet

    In a planted tank with biofilm and algae, Amano shrimp rarely need supplemental feeding. They graze constantly on algae, biofilm, and decaying plant matter throughout the day. The challenge is actually the opposite of what most people expect: feed them too well and they stop eating algae, which defeats the purpose of keeping them.

    In tanks with minimal algae or multiple shrimp competing for resources, supplement feeding with specialty shrimp foods. Dennerle Shrimp King Food works well: the pellets are small enough for shrimp to grab and carry away from the competition, and the formula is targeted for invertebrate nutritional needs.

    In a community tank, note that Amanos are aggressive feeders and will outcompete slower fish during feeding time. Scatter food to give slower fish a chance to eat before Amanos claim everything.

    Breeding and Reproduction

    Amano shrimp are nearly impossible to breed in a standard home aquarium. This isn’t a care failure. It’s biology. The larvae hatch in freshwater but require brackish water to survive and develop. Without a separate brackish grow-out system and live phytoplankton for the zoea stage, the larvae die within days. Most hobbyists buy replacements rather than attempt breeding.

    Sexing Amano Shrimp

    Female Amano shrimp:

    • Larger overall body size
    • Elongated brown dashes along the lower body (not dots)
    • Visible saddle area for carrying eggs
    • Whiter, more prominent stripe running from head to tail

    Male Amano shrimp:

    • Smaller than females
    • Brown dots along the body (not elongated dashes)
    • No saddle
    • Slightly less prominent stripe

    Females will attempt to breed after molting, releasing pheromones that cause males to swim frantically throughout the tank searching for her. This “mating frenzy” is a common sight and how you know breeding has been triggered.

    Breeding Process (Advanced)

    For the serious hobbyist who wants to attempt breeding:

    • Move a berried female to a separate brackish tank (35 PPT / 1.026 SG) before larvae hatch
    • Transfer larvae within minutes of hatching: they need brackish water immediately to survive
    • Feed larvae live phytoplankton or diatoms. Algae Barn Ocean Magik phytoplankton is a reliable choice
    • Larvae reach juvenile stage around 20 days
    • Drip acclimate juveniles from 35 PPT to 5 PPT over 12 to 24 hours before moving to freshwater
    • Grow-out tank should be 2.5 to 5 gallons with water changes every 2 to 4 days
    • Do not add juveniles to a tank with fish until they reach at least 1 inch (2.5 cm)

    The female reproductive cycle timeline:

    • Molt to berried: 1 day
    • Berried to larvae drop: approximately 17 days
    • Drop to next batch: 5 to 7 days
    • Larvae to juvenile stage: approximately 20 days

    Amano shrimp will not crossbreed with other shrimp species. If you’re maintaining a stable mixed-shrimp tank and want to avoid breeding chaos, Amanos are reliable on this point.

    For the freshwater-to-brackish acclimation step, use a precision drip acclimator. I recommend Innovative Marine’s Accudrip for the precise flow control it provides during the critical salinity transition.

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    Molting

    Amano Shrimp Molt

    Molting is the process by which Amano shrimp shed their old exoskeleton to grow. The shell doesn’t grow with the shrimp, so it must be periodically replaced. You’ll know a molt happened when you find a clear, shrimp-shaped shell in the tank. Don’t remove it immediately: the shrimp will often eat the shed shell to reclaim calcium and other minerals.

    A freshly molted shrimp has a soft new shell for the first 24 to 48 hours. During this time it’s vulnerable to attacks from tank mates and needs hiding spots. Dense plant cover or moss is critical during molting recovery.

    If you find a shrimp lying on its side and are unsure whether it’s molting or dead: a molted or molting shrimp will be white or very pale. A dead shrimp will turn orange, pink, or gray and will show signs of decomposition. A freshly shed shell looks exactly like a complete shrimp but is completely clear and hollow.

    Molting Problems

    Failed molts are the most common serious health issue in Amano shrimp keeping. A shrimp that gets “stuck” in its old shell will die. Common causes:

    • Low GH (general hardness): Shrimp need adequate calcium and magnesium to build new shells. If your tap water is very soft, supplement with GH booster or mineral additives.
    • Temperature fluctuations: Inconsistent temperature disrupts the molting cycle.
    • Parameter crashes: Rapid changes in pH, ammonia spikes, or copper exposure during a molt are often fatal.
    • Stress: Aggressive tank mates or sudden changes can trigger a premature molt before the shrimp is ready.

    Common Health Issues

    Copper Toxicity

    Copper is the most common cause of sudden, unexplained Amano shrimp death. It’s lethal at trace concentrations that would not harm fish. Sources include copper-based medications (Cupramine, copper sulfate), some plant fertilizers, and copper plumbing in older homes that can leach into tap water. If your shrimp die suddenly after a water change or medication, copper is the first suspect. Test your source water and every additive you use for copper content before adding anything to an Amano tank.

    Bacterial Infections

    Bacterial infections typically develop after a compromised molt, an injury, or in chronically poor water quality. Signs include white or opaque patches on the body, abnormal posture, or a shrimp that stops moving. Improve water quality and isolate affected individuals. Prevention is better than treatment: maintain clean water and don’t overfeed.

    Acclimation Shock

    Amano shrimp are sensitive to parameter differences between the transport bag and the destination tank. Float the bag for 15 to 20 minutes to temperature-match, then drip acclimate over 30 to 60 minutes before transferring. Dumping them directly from bag to tank is a reliable way to lose them within 24 hours.

    What It Is Actually Like Keeping Amano Shrimp

    Amanos are not shy. They don’t hide the way cherry shrimp do when stressed. In a stable tank, they’re out and active throughout the day, methodically working every surface. They’ll graze the glass, pick through the substrate, work over the driftwood, and clean every plant leaf they can reach. Watching a group of Amanos tackle a patch of hair algae is genuinely satisfying. They pick it apart strand by strand and keep going.

    In heavily planted CO2-injected tanks, using balanced macro dosing along the lines of Tom Barr’s approach, Amanos thrive visibly. They’re fat, active, and working constantly. The more plant surface area available, the more productive they are. You can almost see the correlation between the health of the tank and the behavior of the shrimp.

    The mating behavior is dramatic and unmistakable. When a female molts and releases pheromones, male Amanos will swim frantically through the entire tank, bumping into everything, looking increasingly desperate. It looks like something is wrong. Nothing is wrong. It’s completely normal and usually lasts a few hours.

    When a shrimp is about to molt, it will go still and hide for a day or two beforehand. After the molt, the empty shell appears and the shrimp often eats it immediately. This is also normal. They’re recycling the minerals.

    Expert Take

    I use Amano shrimp in my own tanks regularly. In a CO2-injected planted setup with balanced macro nutrients, they’re genuinely one of the best things you can add. Ten or more in a 30-gallon planted tank, and the algae situation takes care of itself. The one thing I tell every keeper who’s new to them: check your fertilizers and medications for copper before you add anything to that tank. I’ve seen people lose entire colonies to a single dose of a copper-based medication they didn’t think to check. That’s the only way to kill Amanos quickly and the easiest mistake to avoid.

    Mark Valderrama, AquariumStoreDepot

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    Hard Rule: Check everything for copper before it goes in your tank. Medications, plant fertilizers, tap water additives, even some food products contain trace copper. Amano shrimp cannot survive copper exposure at levels that fish tolerate without problems. One treatment with a copper-based parasite medication can eliminate your entire colony. Test your tap water if you’re on city water or have older copper plumbing. This is the single most preventable cause of Amano shrimp loss.

    • Not buying enough. Three to five Amanos in a 20-gallon (75-liter) planted tank looks nice but doesn’t move the algae needle. You need ten or more for meaningful impact. Scale up the number to match the tank size.
    • No pre-filter sponge on intakes. Standard filter intakes will catch and kill Amano shrimp. Cover every intake with a sponge pre-filter before adding shrimp to the tank.
    • Poor acclimation. Amanos are sensitive to parameter differences between bag water and tank water. Always drip acclimate. Never dump them straight from the bag.
    • Overfeeding. In a planted tank with algae, they don’t need supplemental food. Feed them well and they’ll stop cleaning algae. Feed them nothing and they’ll work all day.
    • Expecting them to breed. They won’t in freshwater. Plan on buying replacements every few years as individuals age out.
    • Low GH water. Very soft water causes molting problems. If you’re on soft municipal water, add a GH booster to maintain adequate calcium and magnesium for shell development.

    Should You Get Amano Shrimp?

    Good Fit If:

    • You have a planted tank with algae problems that need long-term management
    • Your tank is mature, cycled, and has stable parameters
    • You keep community fish that are small enough to be shrimp-safe
    • You’re willing to check all medications and fertilizers for copper content
    • You want a highly active, visible invert that earns its place in the tank

    Avoid If:

    • You keep cichlids, goldfish, or any fish large enough to eat a 2-inch (5 cm) shrimp
    • You routinely use copper-based medications for disease treatment
    • Your tank is newly set up or has unstable parameters. Amanos don’t handle parameter swings well.
    • You’re hoping to breed them. Most hobbyists never successfully breed Amanos, and the brackish larval stage makes it a serious dedicated project.

    How It Compares

    Amano Shrimp vs. Cherry Shrimp: Choose Amanos if algae control is the priority. Choose Cherry shrimp if color and breeding activity are what you want. Cherry shrimp breed freely in freshwater, come in vivid red and other color morphs, and are more visually striking per individual. Amanos are larger, eat more algae per shrimp, and handle a community tank more confidently. In a dedicated planted aquascape focused on algae management, Amanos win. In a nano shrimp tank where breeding colonies and color are the goal, cherry shrimp win.

    Amano Shrimp vs. Nerite Snails: Both are excellent algae eaters with no natural freshwater breeding. Nerites are better at spot-cleaning diatoms and hard algae on glass and hardscapes. Amanos are better at hair algae and biofilm on plants. Many serious planted tank keepers use both together: nerites for the glass and rock surfaces, Amanos for the plants and substrate. They don’t compete and serve complementary roles.

    Where to Buy

    Amano shrimp are widely available. For the healthiest stock, buy from a specialty aquarium retailer or direct shipper rather than a chain store:

    • Flip Aquatics – Healthy, acclimation-ready Amano shrimp from a reputable source
    • Dan’s Fish – Specialty freshwater aquarium retailer with quality invertebrate stock

    FAQs

    How many Amano shrimp do I need for algae control?

    More than most people buy. A good starting point is one shrimp per 2 gallons (7.5 liters), but for meaningful algae control in a planted tank you want at least 10 in a 20-gallon (75-liter) setup. Three or four shrimp in that same tank will look nice but won’t significantly impact algae growth. Scale up the number to the tank size.

    Can Amano shrimp breed in a freshwater tank?

    No. Amano shrimp larvae hatch in freshwater but require brackish water to develop. Without a separate brackish grow-out system, live phytoplankton, and precise salinity management, the larvae die within days of hatching. This is one of the more complex invert breeding projects in the hobby. Most keepers buy replacements as needed rather than attempting to breed them.

    Why do my Amano shrimp keep dying?

    The most common cause of sudden, unexplained Amano shrimp death is copper. Check every medication, fertilizer, and water additive you’re using for copper content. Even trace amounts that fish tolerate without problems can kill shrimp. Other common causes include poor acclimation when first introduced, ammonia spikes, rapid parameter changes, and low GH leading to failed molts. Test your water parameters and review everything you’ve added to the tank recently.

    Do Amano shrimp eat fish?

    No. Amano shrimp are peaceful and will not harm healthy fish. They may scavenge a dead or dying fish, which is sometimes mistaken for predation. They’re safe with virtually any fish that can’t fit them in their mouth.

    Why is my Amano shrimp lying on its side?

    If the shrimp is pale or clear, it is probably molting or has just molted. The shed exoskeleton looks exactly like a complete shrimp but is hollow. If the shrimp is orange, pink, or gray, it is dead. A shrimp that is actively struggling on its side and appears to be stuck in its old shell is experiencing a failed molt, often caused by low GH or parameter stress.

    Can Amano shrimp live with betta fish?

    Sometimes, but not reliably. Individual bettas vary significantly in temperament toward shrimp. Some bettas ignore Amanos entirely; others hunt them persistently. A planted 10-gallon (38-liter) or larger tank with plenty of dense plant cover gives Amanos escape routes and reduces the risk. Observe carefully after introduction and have a plan to separate if needed. There is no guarantee of compatibility with bettas.

    What algae do Amano shrimp eat?

    Amano shrimp eat most types of soft algae: hair algae, thread algae, biofilm, and green spot algae (when it’s still soft and thin). They’re particularly effective on hair algae and biofilm on plant surfaces. They’re less effective on black beard algae and thick spot algae once it’s hardened. For black beard algae, liquid carbon (Seachem Excel) as a spot treatment combined with Amano shrimp gives the best results.

    Are Amano shrimp hard to keep?

    They’re intermediate difficulty. In a mature, stable planted tank with clean parameters, they’re low maintenance. The hidden demands are copper sensitivity (which can kill a colony silently), acclimation sensitivity, and GH requirements for healthy molting. The “easy cleanup crew” reputation undersells how specific their needs are. Get those three things right and they’re genuinely easy. Miss one and you’ll lose them without understanding why.

    Closing Thoughts

    Amano shrimp earn their reputation as the best algae eater in the freshwater hobby. In a properly set up planted tank, a group of ten or more working a 30-gallon (114-liter) aquarium is one of the most satisfying things in this hobby to watch. They don’t demand attention. They don’t cause problems. They just work, constantly, all day, on every surface in the tank.

    The keys are straightforward: buy more than you think you need, check everything for copper, and drip acclimate when you add them. Get those right and Amano shrimp are genuinely one of the best investments you can make in a planted tank setup.

    References

    • Yamamoto, Y. and Hori, M. (2006). Taxonomic revision of the Caridina japonica species group. Crustacean Research.
    • Stimpson, W. (1860). Prodromus descriptionis animalium evertebratorum. Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.
    • Zoological Society of Japan: Breeding biology study of Caridina multidentata. Available at zdw.zoology.or.jp
    • Seriously Fish: Caridina multidentata species profile. seriouslyfish.com
    • FishBase / Shrimp Database: Caridina multidentata (Stimpson, 1860). fishbase.org
  • 18 Common Diseases Your Fish May Have (And How to Cure Them)

    18 Common Diseases Your Fish May Have (And How to Cure Them)

    Fish diseases are one of those topics that every hobbyist eventually has to deal with, no matter how careful you are. Over 25 years in this hobby, I’ve seen everything from ich wipe out entire tanks to bacterial infections that looked like fin rot but turned out to be something else entirely. The good news is that most common diseases are treatable if you catch them early. and knowing what to look for makes all the difference.

    There are always health risks when owning fish, but this guide to common fish diseases will allow you to identify, diagnose, and provide you with suggestions on what medications to administer to the affected fish. You’ll be able to know what symptoms to look out for and how to prevent them.

    I have a great video to share from our YouTube channel with you to start off. I will also go over treatment plans for every aliment below.

    1. Anchor Worms

    Anchor Worms

    Anchor worms are not actually a type of worm but a large parasitic crustacean from the Lernaea species that can live on your pet fish. Pond fish are most commonly infected with this species. They will attach to their skin and bury their head into their muscles.

    Symptoms of Anchor Worms

    A common sign with Anchor worms would be red and inflamed scales. If you look close enough, you may even be able to see the body of these parasites sticking out! Their bodies will look like whitish green thread stuck to your fish. You may also notice that your fish is rubbing its body up against things in its tank. Other symptoms may include lethargy, ragged fins, and mucous production.

    Treatment of Anchor Worms

    For larger species, anchor worms can usually be easily removed by carefully pulling on the body of the parasite. After you have removed the parasites, you can apply topical antibiotic ointment to their scales.

    Treatment includes using anti-parasitic medications and performing water changes. It would be best if you also cleaned the whole tank to get rid of any of the eggs, larvae, or parasites in the tank.

    For smaller species, using Hiraki USA Cyropro works without affecting your biological filtration.

    2. Bacterial Infections

    Your fish can get a bacterial infection. These commonly happen after an injury. A common bacteria you will encounter is Aeromonas salmonicida1.

    Aeromonas salmonicida

    Causes of bacterial infections

    Many times the cause of these bacterial infections is due to poor water quality and poor diet. This can cause stress in your fish leading to a lower immune system and allow any bacterial infection to set in.

    Signs of a bacterial infection

    For a bacterial infection, these are some of the most common signs that you will see:

    • Red spot on the fish’s body
    • Ulcers on gills
    • Enlarged eyes
    • Swollen abdomen

    Other signs are rapid gill movement, discoloration, and skin ulcers.

    Treatment of bacterial infections

    If a bacterial infection occurs, your vet will prescribe antibiotics based on the bacteria that is present. There are some medications that you can buy online or at a local aquarium store to help treat bacterial infections.

    Administer antibiotics to handle the infection. A popular brand for many hobbyist to recommend is API’s Furan-2 or Triple Sulfa. These are medications that you put into their water. Livestock will need to be transferred to a quarantine tank or hospitalized tank while they are being treated. Before going back to their main tank, the issue with the tank would need to be corrected, and the tank cleaned.

    Also consider adjusting the tank population to control the spread and preventing in the future. Many bacterial infections are usually caused by unclean water and other factors.

    3. Constipation

    If your fish can not poop, they will quickly become constipated. This can cause them to become very ill.

    Causes of Constipation

    There are two main causes of constipation:

    1. Improper diet
    2. Parasite infections

    Both of these can cause your fish to not be able to properly pass feces

    Symptoms of Constipation

    If your fish is constipated you may notice a bloated abdomen. Constipation can cause them to develop swim bladder disease so you will see signs of buoyancy issues, such as difficulty swimming. Other indicators include loss of appetite and bloating.

    Treatment of Constipation

    One of the easiest ways to treat a constipation is enhance nutrition by increasing the amount of fiber in their diet and use deworming medications. Another way to treat constipation is to dose your fish tank with Epson salt (API sells a product that is easy to find in stores). Adding 1 to 3 teaspoons of salt per every 5 gallons of water will help. Epson salt will act as a muscle relaxant and help them be able to poop easier.

    4. CO2 Poisoning

    CO2 levels over 30 ppm can be dangerous for aquatic animals. This issue can arise with fish tanks that use CO2 injection in planted tanks.

    Signs of CO2 Poisoning

    If your aquarium has high levels of CO2 you will notice rapid breathing and gasping for air. You also may notice that these fish are spending more time near the surface of the tank. Also look for abnormal swimming, breathing difficulty, and lethargy.

    Causes of CO2 Poisoning

    CO2 poisoning in can be caused by your CO2 reactor not working, or your plants not absorb CO2 due to the lights not working properly.

    Treatment for CO2 Poisoning

    The best way for you to treat CO2 poisoning is to use an air stone to agitate the surface. This causes the carbon dioxide to dissipate from the water. You can also adjust the rate of CO2 injection in your tank.

    5. Flukes

    Gill Fluke

    Flukes are external parasites (Source- Cuttlebrook Koi Farm). Most flukes will affect fish gills. The two most common flukes that are seen are Dactylogyrus and Gyrodactylus. There can be body flukes or gill flukes. Let’s discuss the causes.

    Causes of Flukes

    These flukes can commonly enter your aquarium from another fish that is infected with flukes.

    Symptoms of Flukes

    Flukes will attach themselves to your fish’s gills and skin. This can damage these areas leading to a secondary bacterial infection. Other symptoms include slime coat changes and gill damage.

    Treatment of Flukes

    The most effective treatment for flukes is Praziquantel. Apply antifungal treatments and conduct veterinary consultations or expert hobbyists for proper management. After you have treated these flukes, you can treat any wounds that these flukes they left with antibiotics.

    6. Clamped Fins

    Clamped Fins is just like it sounds, it occurs when your fish’s fins are clamped close to their body.

    Causes of Clamped fins

    Most fish will hold their fins very close to their body if the water condition is not correct. It could also be caused by external parasites.

    Symptoms of Clamped Fin

    For clamped fin, you may notice lethargic behavior and holding their fins very close to their body even while swimming. They may exhibit clamped fins along with white patches and spinal deformities.

    Treatment of Clamped Fins

    If you see symptoms of clamped fins, it is best for you to check your water conditions. Also, look for any external parasites. If you see any parasites, you will need to manually remove the parasites. Isolate new additions and implement UV sterilization to prevent spread in the future.

    7. Dropsy

    Dropsy is a term used to describe a fish that is swelling due to kidney disease.

    Symptoms of Dropsy

    Usually, the signs of dropsy that are seen are a slightly swollen belly all the way to a very swollen abdomen so much that their scales will stick straight out, causing them to look like a pinecone. Other notable symptoms include scale loss and exophthalmia (bulging eyes).

    Cause of Dropsy

    There are many things that can cause your fish to have kidney issues. These are some common reasons:

    • Stress
    • Polycystic Kidney Disease

    Treatment for Dropsy

    The first thing to do about Dropsy is to put the affected animal in a quarantine tank. This can help eliminate the stress that may be in the display tank if they improve while in the quarantine tank, there is a stressor in the main tank that needs to be addressed. This may be poor water quality, parasites, overcrowding, or something else. Try to figure out what is causing the stress, and fix this issue.

    Dropsy is a serious disease that can lead to the loss of your prized pet’s life. It is best for you to see a vet. Some vets will see fish; however, it may be hard to find one near you. Reaching out to your local aquarium store, you may be able to get suggestions on who to see to help treat your fish.

    I know both of these are not always available to some, so I’m going to defer to Lori’s Hartland’s experience on how she cured her Goldfish using a triple treatment of Kanaplex, Metroplex & Epsom Salt. Here is the full video below that walks you through her experience. It’s also very important to see her experience with her vet call at 19:06. She had to take a phone consultation, which is going to be what most will get when consulting a vet for a smaller species.

    Other blog material you find may tell you to use salt baths, but in my experience, this doesn’t work too well. Lori’s treatment plan and using wheelchairs have been the most effective for me.

    8. Freshwater Ich

    Ichthyobodo is a protozoan parasitic infection seen in fish who are stressed.

    Symptoms of Ich

    Ich attacks your fish’s gills and skin. These parasites will cause your fish to have a grey color to their skin. You will notice that the affected animal will be lethargic, weak, and not want to eat. You may notice that they spend more time near the top of the tank, gulping air or rubbing their side on their tank. Also, watch for white feces, scratching against objects, and rapid gill movement.

    Freshwater Ich

    Cause of Ich

    Stress is the main cause of Ich. This can be due to poor water conditions, overcrowding, or illness. When your fish is stressed, it leads to a lower immune system and allows this protozoal parasite to take over.

    9. Freshwater Velvet (Gold Dust Infection)

    Freshwater Velvet

    Velvet disease in fish can be very deadly for your whole tank. This disease can quickly wipe out everything in your tank.

    Symptoms of Velvet

    Fish who have velvet will be scratching their body against any hard surface in the tank. This is to try to remove the parasites from their skin. They may also display some of the following signs:

    • Lethargic
    • Rapid Breathing
    • Not eating and weight loss
    • Holds fins next to body
    • Labored or rapid breathing
    • Yellow to rust color dust on the body
    • Pealing of the skin in severe cases
    • Cloudy eyes

    Causes of Velvet

    Velvet is caused by the parasite Oödinium pillularis or Oödinium limneticum. These parasites are common in tropical fish and may be present in many aquariums but only cause issues if your fish is stressed, sick, being transported, has a sudden, temperature change or has poor water quality.

    Treatment of Velvet

    If your fish has velvet, you do a few things to help with treatment.

    • Increase the temperature of the water by just a few degrees. Monitor water temperature to ensure it stays elevated.
    • Dim the aquarium lights for a few days
    • The treatment of choice for velvet is copper sulfate for 10 days. A good brand to look for is Copper Power or SeaChem Cupramine. DO NOT use copper sulfate in a displayer tank. A removal of the sick fish to a quarantine tank is a must!

    Velvet can many times be prevented by quarantining any new additions that you are planning on adding to your tank, providing your aquatic livestock with a proper diet, and maintaining good water quality. If you came here to get info on the saltwater version, check out Mark’s article on Marine Velvet.

    For future prevention, consider implementing biosecurity measures like quarantining new additions.

    10. Fungus

    Saprolegina

    The two common fungus infections seen in the freshwater side of the hobby are:

    • Saprolegnia2 and 
    • Ichthyophonus hoferi 

    Symptoms of Fungal Infections

    Fungal infections can cause damage to internal organs. Common signs seen in fish with fungal infections are grey cotton-like growths and coloration seen on the skin, gills, fins, and around the eyes.

    Causes of Fungal Infections

    Fungal infections are caused by unclean water conditions and dead and decaying organic material in your tank.

    Treatment of Fungal Infections

    The first thing you need to do to treat fungal infections is to clean their tank fully. Then using potassium permanganate that you put into your aquarium water. You will want to make sure that you have removed any external pathogens from your fish’s skin.

    A popular brand of fungal treatment that you can use after fully cleaning your aquarium is API Fungus Cure. Apply this topical treatment and disinfect aquarium equipment to control the fungus.

    You can also increase the water temperature to 82 degrees as most of these fungal infections thrive in colder temperatures.

    11. Gill Mites

    Gill Mites

    Gill mites3 are common parasites that are seen in aquariums. These parasites attach to your fish’s skin and feed on their blood.

    Symptoms of Gill Mites

    If gill mites are present, you will notice that their gills do not fully close. These mites prevent the gills from being able to function properly. This will cause your fish to spend most of its time at the surface of the tank gasping for air. Also look for abnormal swimming and red streaks on the body.

    Causes of Gill Mites

    These mites enter your tank from new livestock additions who already have these mites. This is one reason why it is advised to always quarantine any new additions before adding them to your aquarium.

    Treatment of Gill Mites

    To treat gill mites, you will need to use medications such as sterazin and octozin. You will need to repeat this treatment about 5 days later to kill any other mites that may have hatched.

    I read somewhere that another blog stated apply immunostimulants and adjust lighting conditions for recovery. I think that’s false. You can refer to this article regarding immunostimulants in fish – they aren’t well studied.

    12. Hole In The Head

    Hole In The Head Disease

    Hole in the head disease (also known as Hexamita) is seen when there are small indentions in your fish’s head or along their lateral line.

    Symptoms of Hole in the Head

    A common symptom of hole in the head are small indentions into their skin. These will start as slight depressions and can advance to more severe holes. Some fish with this illness will stop eating. This disease often causes fecal changes and parasitic cysts.

    Causes of Hole in the Head

    Hole in the head is caused by a a protozoan called Hexamita. It is a common disease in Discus. Another factor is deficiency of minerals in water due to the use of RODI water or excessive usage of activated carbon.

    Treatment of Hole in the Head

    The best way to treat this is in a quarantine tank and treating with Metronidazole or API General Cure.

    You can feed medicated food using focus and General Cure or Metro.

    13. Hemorrhagic septicemia

    Hemorrhagic septicemia

    Hemorrhagic septicemia is a deadly viral infection seen in fish caused by Piscine novirhabdovirus.

    Symptoms of Hemorrhagic septicemia

    This disease will cause bleeding in their internal organs, muscles, and skin. This can be seen as small red dots on your fish’s skin. You can also see some of the following symptoms:

    • Pale gills,
    • Dark-colored body,
    • Fluid accumulation in the body,
    • Bulging eyes 

    Other signs include hemorrhages and sudden death in livestock.

    Treatment of Hemorrhagic septicemia

    There is no really good treatment for this disease. Many fish who get this illness will die of this infection. You can try to clean the tank and increase the temperature of the water that the fish are in a few degrees. You can try to administer antibiotics such as:

    • API Triple Sulfa
    • Kanamycin
    • Thomas Labs Fish Mox

    Do not use carbon filters when using medications. While they improve water quality, they will remove medication.

    14. Lice

    Your fish can get external parasites such as lice. Fish lice are small parasites that can attach to the skin and suck blood, causing the fish to become anemic.

    Symptoms of Lice

    If your fish has lice you may see a small clear disc laying next to their body. Most fish who have lice infestation are pale due to the lice sucking blood. They may also be rubbing against surfaces in the tank as they try to remove the lice themselves. This can cause them to have external wounds on their skin. Other symptoms may include isolation from the group and skin ulcers.

    Treatment of Lice

    The best way to treat lice is to physically remove all the lice from your fish’s skin. If there are any external wounds, you can treat these areas with topical antibiotic ointment. Over the counter medication of choice would be diflubenzuron under the brand name Dimilin-X. It’s an anti-parasitic medication highly effective at eliminating lice.

    Consider implementing quarantine protocols going forward to prevent future infections.

    15. Pop-Eye

    Popeye Fish

    Pop-eye is due to a bacteria infection that causes one or both eyes to pop out of the socket.

    Symptoms

    This condition is usually very easy to diagnose as you will see bulging eyes (also known as exophthalmia) protruding from their eye sockets. Behavioral changes that include loss of appetite are also common symptoms.

    Causes

    Pop-Eye is usually due to a bacterial infection. It can also be due to vitamin A deficiency, mass behind the eye, or poor water quality.

    Treatment

    Pop-eye is commonly treated with tetracyclines. You can get this medication from your local veterinarian. Also, you will need to check the water quality in your tank and fully clean their tank. If you cannot get a medication from a vet, you can try over the counter sulfa drugs like SeaChem SulfaPlex.

    16. Swim Bladder Infection

    The swim bladder is an organ in your fish that contains oxygen and other gases so that they can be buoyant. If their swim bladder does not function properly, they will have trouble maintaining their desired depth.

    Symptoms

    One of the main signs that you will see with swim bladder disease is that your fish has a hard time staying upright in their tank. They may also spend a lot of time near the surface or deep in the tank. They will have abnormal swimming and a loss of appetite.

    Causes

    Poor water quality and stress are common causes of this condition. Newly purchased fish may get this disease if transported incorrectly (common with imports or species caught in the wild). If you notice that your fish cannot maintain proper buoyancy, the first thing you need to check is the water quality in your tank.

    Treatment

    If your fish does have swim bladder disease, it would be best for you to see an aquatic vet. An aquatic vet is able to perform a procedure to release the air from the swim bladder to correct the issue (known as venting). They will also recommend that you test your tank’s water condition and perform water changes of about 10%.

    Fish who have trouble staying upright or spend a lot of time near the tank’s bottom may need to learn how to be hand fed. This will help ensure that your fish is getting the proper nutrition that it needs to survive. Hobbyists have also tried making harnesses to keep their pet upright, like the video below. Check out Mark Kennedy’s video for the full walk-through. The harness solution is most effective with fancy goldfish.

    17. Tail and Fin Rot

    Causes of Tail and Fin Rot

    Fin rot is usually caused by unclean and improper water quality and an injury to one of these areas. This cut or abrasion can then easily get infected due to unclean water. This can cause these areas to rot.

    Signs of Tail and Fin Rot

    You will see fraying and torn fins (or fin erosion), ragged fins, tails, and nodules on the skin.

    Treatment of Tail and Fin Rot

    There are medications that you can get to treat these infections, such as SeaChem KanaPlex and API Fin and Body Cure. You can also use Methylene Blue from Kordon to treat your tank. It is best to put 1 drop per every 2 gallons of water. When using Methylene Blue, you will need to do a 50% water change every other day for a week.

    18. Mouth Rot

    Mouth rot is caused by a fungus called Flavobacterium bacteria.

    Signs of Mouth Rot

    Look for discoloration and white patches on the mouth area. If your fish has mouth rot, you will see a white cotton-like appearance around their mouth. If this is left untreated, the skin around their mouth will start to rot.

    Causes of Mouth Rot

    This is usually caused by unkept water conditions and stress. This lowers their immune system causing fungus to take over.

    Treatment of Mouth Rot

    There are many antifungals that you can buy at your local aquarium store to help treat this issue such as:

    You should also try to figure out what is causing your fish to be stressed and check the water condition.

    Other Common Illnesses

    In addition to the diseases already covered, there are several other common ailments and parasites that can affect fish in aquariums and ponds. I didn’t have the space in this post to cover them all but here is the list so you can be aware of them. Over time, I will do blog posts about these.

    1. White Spot Disease – A highly contagious parasitic disease common in ornamental fish.
    2. Neon Tetra Disease – Affects neon tetras, causing wasting and color loss.
    3. Fish Tuberculosis – A bacterial disease that can be serious.
    4. Columnaris DiseaseColumnaris is a bacterial infection known for affecting gills, mouth, and skin.
    5. Nitrite Poisoning – Occurs due to high levels of nitrite in water.
    6. Ammonia Poisoning – Caused by elevated ammonia levels in the aquarium.
    7. Black Spot Disease – Parasitic infection causing black spots on skin.
    8. Lymphocystis – A viral disease causing growths on fins and body.
    9. Red Pest Disease – Bacterial infection causing red streaks on the body.
    10. Vibriosis – A bacterial infection affecting internal organs.
    11. Whirling Disease – Causes erratic swimming and skeletal deformation.
    12. Camallanus Worms – Intestinal parasites visible near the fish’s anus.
    13. Oodinium – Also known as “Rust” or “Marine Velvet” disease.
    14. Carp Pox – Causes waxy, skin growths primarily in koi and carp.
    15. Cotton Wool Disease – A fungal infection that looks like cotton wool.
    16. Koi Sleeping Disease – Affects koi and carp, causing lethargy.
    17. Scale Protrusion – Scales protrude due to fluid buildup.
    18. Nematode Infections – Roundworm infections.
    19. Epistylis – A parasitic infection causing cotton-like tufts on the body.
    20. Brooklynella – A protozoan parasite affecting the skin and gills. Clownfish are susceptible
    21. Chilodonella – A parasitic infection affecting skin and gills.
    22. Uronema Marinum – A marine parasite causing severe damage.
    23. Argulus (Fish Louse) – A large, visible parasite that attaches to the host’s body.
    24. Skin Ulcers – Often bacterial in nature, causing open wounds on the body.

    Prevention Steps

    There are many things that you can do at home to help prevent many of these issues. Your aquatic pet’s health depends on the water condition, diet, and levels of stress. To help keep your fish healthy, try doing these best practices below:

    1. Provide a Quality Diet: Your fish should be fed a proper diet every day. Diet will help keep your fish full and not fight with other tankmates in the tank over food.
    2. High Water Quality: Make sure that the water that your fish is living in is clean using highquality power filters or canister filters and at the correct temperature. Also, check to make sure that the levels in your aquarium or outdoor pond are correct.
    3. Observation of tank: It is best to observe all livestock in your aquarium daily. This will let you know if any inhabitants are sick or stressed. Early detection of a disease is easier to treat than one that is not detected until later in the disease stage.
    4. Reducing Stress: Make sure that you reduce the stress in your tank. If you have a fish that is bullying other tankmates or you have just added a new fish to the tank, make sure they are not overly stressed.
    5. Quarantine New Additions: Any addition to your tank should be quarantined for a few weeks to make sure that you are not putting an infected fish (or plant. yes plants can be infected too!) into your tank. This gives you a few weeks to make sure that your fish is eating and not showing any signs of illness before putting them in your main tank. Mark has a great article on quarantining. It is marine fish based, but the same principle applies for freshwater fish.

    Creating A Medicine Cabinet

    Anyone who has multiple aquariums deals with sick fish. Whether you quarantine or not, it’s a based practice to have medication on hold for emergencies. Here would be common readily available medications that are helpful to have on hand. To summarize all the medications discussed, I have added a table for quick reference.

    TypeMedications
    Parasitic (External)Ich-X, Prazipro
    Parasitic (Internal)General Cure, Seachem Metroplex, SeaChem Focus (To Bind)
    FungalAPI Fungal Cure
    BacterialAPI-Furan 2, Seachem Sulfaplex

    FAQS

    What are the most common issues?

    The most common fish diseases are Ich, internal parasites. Read more about fancy goldfish. Hole in the Head disease is common with Discus.

    How Do You Identify Different types of Infections?

    The most obvious way to identify a disease are external signs. You may notice odd behavior in the fish (such as flashing, scratching), cloudy eyes, or a whitish coatings on its body. Another obvious sign is a skinny fish that is eating, a common sign of an internal parasite. Identifying a disease is critical to treating them in time.

    Can You Get Heath Issues From Them?

    No. You cannot get a disease from an aquarium fish unless you eat them. Since we do not eat our aquarium inhabitants, getting ill from keeping aquariums is very rare. As long as you care for your livestock and clean your hands after putting your hands in your tank, you should not have any concerns with getting sick due to keeping an aquarium.

    How Do you Deal With Health Problems?

    Dealing with disease involves treatment. You must first know what type of disease you are dealing with – parasitic, bacterial, fungal, or internal. Each type has different ways of treating it. There are many store-brand medications these days. For large fish, Vets can prescribe medication. This is more common for large fish like Koi and Cichlid. Small species will often get a consultion from a Vet, but don’t expect them do any procedures.

    How Do I Know If they have Internal Parasites?

    The most obvious way to know if your fish has an internal parasite is weight loss. If your fish is eating and says skinny it likely has an internal parasite. The other is the shape and color of the poop. If you see stringy white poop, this is a sign of an internal parasite. Most internal parasites can be treated with Metroplex


    Want to learn more about how to keep a tank clean? Check out this guide on how to clean an aquarium to learn more.

    References

  • Cloudy Fish Tank – 7 Common Reasons (and How To Fix It)

    Cloudy Fish Tank – 7 Common Reasons (and How To Fix It)

    Cloudy water is one of the first problems new fishkeepers run into. and honestly, one that experienced hobbyists still deal with from time to time. I’ve troubleshot this in my own tanks more than once over the years. The frustrating part is that cloudiness has several different causes, and treating the wrong one can make things worse. Once you know how to read the type of cloudiness, though, most cases clear up quickly.

    Dealing with a cloudy fish tank? If you have dealt with this, you will know it is one of the most frustrating things that can happen in the fish tank water. I get your pain, as I have been in the hobby for over 25 years. While the problem is not as common on the saltwater tank side, it is far more common for freshwater tanks.

    There are several reasons for cloudy water in freshwater tanks. In today’s post, I’m going to go through the 7 most common reasons for a cloudy fish tank, and 5 ways you can go about resolving the issue. Knowledge is power in this hobby and I’m here to empower you! Let’s get started.

    Key Takeaways

    • The most common reason for a tank that is murky or water cloudy is having a new tank
    • Proper maintenance and stocking are good ways to prevent a tank from becoming cloudy
    • If your tank needs to be cycled, consider bacteria in bottle products
    • Glass can also make your tank look hazy, clean the inside and outside of your glass

    Why Is My Fish Tank Cloudy? The 7 Most Common Reasons for Cloudy Water

    Murky water sucks. It makes your tank look ugly and unappealing. Fortunately, there are 7 common reasons for it occurring, they are:

    1. You Have A New Tank
    2. You Are Overfeeding Your Fish
    3. You Have Too Many Fish
    4. You Don’t Have Adequate Filtration
    5. There Is A Dead Fish Or Decaying Matter
    6. Your Glass
    7. Your Substrate

    Check out our video from our YouTube channel below. We go into more detail in the blog post. Free to follow along with both.

    1. New Aquarium and Murky Water

    Cloudy water in a fish aquarium and a new tank go hand in hand with our hobby. It is very common for this to happen when you are cycling a tank or have a newly-cycled tank. When you start adding livestock to the tank, you introduce new sources of nutrients and waste to the tank. If you add too fast, the system is thrown off balance.

    As a result of this imbalance, the beneficial nitrifying bacteria in your tank reproduce like crazy in order to digest the excess nutrients. The massive amounts of new bacteria create a cloud, which results in your water looking cloudy. The best way to fix cloudy water issues is patience. Just stop adding fish and let your tank settle down. It should clear up on its own.

    During this time, it is a good choice to do a water test with an aquarium test kit. You will want to look at the big three new tank parameters, which are going to be Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate. Ammonia and nitrite are going to be your biggest concerns with a brand-new tank.

    2. Overfeeding

    If you have an established tank, this is a common reason for tank water in your aquarium to become cloudy. It’s understandable to want to feed your fish all the time. After all, they usually greet you when they see you with their cute little faces. They look at you, and the top of the tank waiting for you to feed them. If you start feeding a lot, your system gets thrown off balance and a bacteria bloom occurs.

    Lay off the feeding for a bit and test your aquarium water. It’s actually a good thing to have your fish go without food for a day to let their digestive systems settle down. Excess food is problematic and can lead to dirty aquarium water. The only fish you don’t want to do this with would be fish that lack stomachs, like goldfish. Look out for automatic fish feeders as it is easy to overfeed with them.

    3. Too Many Fish

    Too many fish in the tank is going to lead to a dirty-looking aquarium. Adding them too fast will also cause the water in the tank to look clouded. Slow yourself down with additions and avoid adding any more fish until you get this problem under control.

    When planning out fish, a really great site to get an overview is AdAdvisor. Just plug in the fish you want to add and run the calculator. As a rule of thumb, you do not want to increase your fish population by 50% and you want to spread out your additions to 4-6 week timelines so your tank has time to balance out. The only time I feel where you can get away from this is if you have done a dry start for a planted aquascape. Here is the link to the calculator.

    4. Inadequate Filtration

    Filtration is a major cause of this problem in an established tank. The main culprit here is going to be your mechanical filtration. Cheaper power filters tend to use coarse foam, which finer particles will pass through. When it comes to canister filters, the issue may be the choice of foam. Fortunately, high-end brands like the Biomaster Thermo will have multiple foam densities you can choose from. If you have a heavily populated tank, you might want to consider going for a finer foam.

    If you are using a power filter, you might want to consider adding a layer of filter to improve your mechanical filtration. I prefer to use the blue floss that is put in canister filters and sumps. You can purchase it in bulk online and then cut it to fit.

    5. Dead Fish Or Matter

    Decaying matter can cause murky water in your tank and will get dirty fast. The biggest piece of decaying matter is going to come from a dead fish. Check your tank every day and see if all the fish you own are accounted for. Sometimes, if your fish are breeding, you may have dead fry that is dirtying up your tank water.

    The other factor is going to be chunks of uneaten fish food and decaying plant matter. Check your substrate for both and trim off any decaying leaves you see on your live plants.

    6. Your Glass

    Your glass can be a source making your tank water look murky. The main cause is from bacterial biofilm. Biofilm looks the most obvious on aquarium driftwood like in the photo below, but it also grows on your glass.

    Biofilm In Aquariums

    This biofilm will stick to your glass and give it a cloudy look if left unchecked. On larger fish tanks, your tank will have a slight tint to it that will make it look a little darker. Low iron rimless aquariums and acrylic tanks will have better clarity and show better than traditional glass tanks.

    7. Your Subtrate

    New substrates can cause cloudiness or milky water that will look hazy if they are not rinsed. Always make sure you wash your substrate thoroughly before putting it in your aquarium. The other cause can be an existing substrate that is stirred up. Stirring up too much of your substrate at once can cause the release of additional nutrients, which will cause a bacterial bloom or cause discoloration of your aquarium water causing it to look milky. If you are going to stir your substrate, it is best to do so when gravel vacuuming so you get most of the debris that comes out

    5 Ways To Deal with It

    Alright, so we know the 7 common causes of cloudy aquarium water. Let’s talk about what we can do about it. It’s actually simpler than you think and here are 5 ways to get rid of it:

    • Proper Tank Maintenance
    • Making Sure Your Glass Is Clean
    • Proper Filtration Maintenance
    • Cycling Your Aquarium
    • Improving Quality Of Light Duration

    1. Proper Aquarium Maintenance

    Dirty Fish Tank

    Proper maintenance on your tank is going to be the #1 solution for white cloudy aquarium water. Most problems in this hobby can be resolved with a water change. A water change can bring balance back into your aquarium and balance the water chemistry. In most cases, clouded water is going to be a result of a bacterial bloom due to spikes in nutrients. Doing a water change will remove these nutrients and get everything in balance. If the problem is more serious, you will need to do more water changes over time to get everything back to where it should be.

    In extreme cases, 40-50% water change every day or every other day is not uncommon when dealing with a serious nutrient spike that causes a tank to become dirty. Gravel vac your substrate. If you have a fine substrate, surface skims it with the gravel vac to remove the top layer of debris.

    2. Making Sure Your Glass Is Clean

    Both the outside and inside of your glass matter. Outside of the tank, water stains on the glass can make your tank look like there is hazy water when trying to look in. Work with a safe cleaner, like white vinegar, or better yet, use a DIYers secret weapon – Magic Erasers!

    Yes, that’s correct. The original Magic Eraser by Mr. Clean has been a blessing for acrylic aquarium owners for many years and goes unnoticed in our hobby. I’ve used it on the outside of the glass with great results. Rumor has it that it works inside the tank as well, but I’m not that brave ?. Still, I’ve had hobby friends tell me that it’s like cleaning with a plastic scraper and is completely safe. I’ve only had personal experience on the outside. For the inside, I prefer a razor blade for glass or a Flipper Cleaner.

    My Pick
    Flipper Algae Scraper

    I love the Flipper. Just put it in your aquarium and clean from the outside. You can even move it to other sides of the tank with its flipper feature. Simply Amazing!

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    The Flipper is amazing for cleaning the inside of your tank. It’s been my go to for years. It is also a great way to get your kids involved, as they can clean from the outside without having to put their tanks in the tank. There is also a cool factor with flipper the scraper when you move it to the other sides of the tank. It will scrape off the toughest of algae from your glass and make your glass look spotless!

    3. Proper filtration maintenance

    If you slack on filter maintenance, this can lead to dirty tank water problems. Your mechanical filtration is not operating at its maximum efficiency. Get into those filters and replace your filter floss and wash out your sponges. You should be changing out your filter floss every other week. For all the filter media you clean, make sure you clean them out with your tank water. If you use tap water or RO water, you risk losing those beneficial bacterial colonies in the process.

    Clean out the piping in your power filters and the tubing in your canister filters. If you have mechanical filtration, consider replacing it for a fresh set. Sometimes upgrading to a premium chemical filtration media like chemi-pure will help, though it is expensive to do. All this maintenance pays off because your filters will operate at their best, keeping your tank water looking crystal clear.

    4. Cycling Your Aquarium

    If you have a new tank, cycling your aquarium is your first step to avoiding  having a brown water tank. Reduce your feeding and don’t add any more fish until the problem goes away. Test your water for ammonia and nitrite levels and do a water change to reduce the excessive nutrients.

    Another thing you can consider if you have a newer tank is getting used filter media from a disease-free tank. This will import beneficial bacteria that will jump-start the cycle. You can also opt for using beneficial bacteria-in-a-bottle solutions like Fritz Turbo Start 700.

    My Pick For Freshwater Bacteria
    Fritz Turbo Start 700 Freshwater

    Fritz Turbo Start is known in the industry as the fastest acting nitrifying bacteria you can purchase. This 700 version is specialized for freshwater tank and has my highest recommendation

    Buy On Amazon Click For Best Price

    If you are looking for a longer-term solution, a UV Sterilizer is a great addition for not only water clarity purposes but also for disease mitigation. Check out my article on Aquarium UV Steriliziers for more information on what makes a good one. There are many out there, and only a few that I would recommend.

    5. Improve quality of light and Reduce Lighting Times

    Poor lighting can really dull out your aquarium and give it a hazy look. This is more common with LED lighting as the light is more focused than T5 lights. Because the light is focused, it can lead to a disco effect and shadows can dull out your tank. I prefer an LED fixture that expands to the length of the entire tank like the Twin Star or Fluval planted tank led.

    If you have T5s, it may be time to replace the bulbs. Getting new bulbs will brighten up the aquarium and make it look more lively and clearer. T5s in general also tend to display a clearer tank, given their even spread of their light. You can get close to this with LEDs, but only with higher end LEDs, like the ones I mentioned previously.

    Reducing your lighting time can also help. This will slow down the reproduction of algae which will keep your glass and water clear.

    Common Questions (FAQS)

    Why Is My Aquarium this way?

    A tank can get dirty or look clouded for one of the 7 common reasons. You have a new tank, you are overfeeding, you are overfeeding your fish, your tank is overstocked, you do not have enough filtration, there is a dead fish or decaying matter in the tank, your glass needs to be cleaned, or you have put in new substrate.

    Is Dirty Water Bad For Fish?

    The appearance of clear cloudy aquarium water is not bad for a fish, but is a sign of imbalance and possibly a greater problem. The first thing you should do when you see hazy water would be to assess your water quality by testing your aquarium water. Get a baseline of your nutrient levels and take action as needed. Usually a water change will help put things back in balance.

    How Do I Make My Aquarium Water Crystal Clear?

    Great filtration, a good aquarium maintenance schedule, and keeping your stock levels stable are the best ways of making your aquarium water crystal clear. You can also purchase equipment and supplies that can assist greatly like an aquarium UV sterilizer.

    Will A Filter Clear Hazy Water?

    A filter can fix cloudy aquarium water. If your tank is new, your filtration system needs to catch up to balance your tank. If you have a heavily stocked tank, you may lack filtration and may need another filter to alleviate water that looks cloudy or hazy. Other times, the filter is the problem because it’s dirty and needs to be maintained.

    Can Driftwood Make My Aquarium Murky?

    Driftwood can make a tank look cloudy or murky. However, the most common issue with driftwood is it can turn your aquarium water a tea like color due to the release of tannins. Some aquarium owners like this look, I personally don’t. If you want to avoid that tea color, purchase a driftwood with a low tannin count like Manzanita or Tigerwood

    Conclusion – Share Your Experiences

    Implementing a proper aquarium care routine will help to avoid cloudy water tanks. Various types of fish that can also make the water cloudy such as Yellowfish and tropical fish, so you have to make a regular cleaning schedule to maintain your aquarium. Tropical fish also require specific water and temperature conditions, or they will get sick. Sand and other equipment can also affect the water in your aquarium when not properly cleaned.

    Have you dealt with dirty water before? How did you clear it up? Share your experiences below and let’s start a conversation! I hope you found this article helpful. I also love to hear from my readers. We have all dealt with this before and we can work together as a community to help others. Thanks for reading and see you next time!

  • Koi vs Goldfish: 7 Key Differences That Determine Which Is Right for Your Pond

    Koi vs Goldfish: 7 Key Differences That Determine Which Is Right for Your Pond

    Koi are pond fish. Not aquarium fish. They reach 2 to 3 feet long and live 25 years or more. The commitment is closer to owning a dog than keeping a fish tank.

    Koi outlive most pets. Make sure your pond plan matches a 25-year commitment.

    Origins

    It’s safe to say that Goldfish are the distant “elder” cousins of Koi fish. I’ll tell you why.

    Goldfish and Koi both originated from East Asia as a result of selective breeding. However, goldfish were bred from a dull olive green colored edible fish, namely ‘Prussian Carp’.

    Whereas, Koi are colorful variants of Amur carp, which emerged in the 1820s. Up until recently, it’s believed that Koi fish have been bred from Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio). Ranger Homesteading has an excellent video below that goes into greater depth about the history of koi fish.

    However, goldfish are a species of their own, while Koi still falls under the Cyprinus carpio category.

    Appearance

    Koi and Goldfish look so much alike when they’re young, wild, and free. However, as they age, things start to change.

    The most significant difference between Koi and goldfish lies in their body shape. Koi are all almost the same size, but goldfish are wider and have an egg-like appearance. However, most goldfish have a variety of body types and shapes depending on their characteristics. They have dorsal fins and tail configurations with round, bulging eyes.

    On the other hand, Koi have a common body shape that remains the same regardless their type with their fins and tail connected. The most interesting trait of Koi is that they possess the same body size even with different color types that leave their owners in awe.

    Appearance-wise, size is the most dominant difference between Koi and goldfish. Goldfish are smaller in size and grow to around 6 inches long. However, in some rare cases, they might grow to be around one foot long.

    Koi, comparatively grow out to be much bigger with an average size of around 20 inches to 25 inches. In some rare cases, Koi are found to be 4 feet long, if given enough food and space.

    Personally, when I was new to fish keeping, I started distinguishing between goldfish and Koi based on their barbels. Barbels are whiskers at the side of the mouth. If the barbels are present, you’ve got Koi. If not, then goldfish.

    Colors

    When it comes to colors, the difference between Koi fish and goldfish are more apparent. That’s because Koi shows a more diverse and striking range of colors than goldfish. This may be because Koi fish are the descents of Common carp, and therefore, show colors in the metallic coloration along with red, orange, yellow, black, and white. The patterns are more unique to Koi due to their selective breeding.

    Contrastingly, goldfish come in red, orange, grey, brown, yellow, white, and black with the exception of gold coloration.

    Fins

    One significant difference between Koi and goldfish lies in the fins and tails.

    Goldfish are graced with two sets of paired fins (pectoral and pelvic) and three sets of single fins (dorsal, caudal, anal). Whereas, the fins of Koi are as simple as a fish’s fin can get.

    There’s an exception in Koi varieties with long, flowy fins, namely Butterfly Koi. And even though, many pond owners love the flowy look of butterfly Koi, Koi enthusiasts do not consider them to be true Koi.

    In addition to that, the distribution of fins in goldfish is highly dependent on the tails. Common goldfish is single-tailed or double-tailed where the single varieties have a single caudal and anal fin and double varieties, such as the fancy goldfish possess two caudal and anal fins. Some goldfish, like the Shubunkin tend to have the fanciest scales and colors that Koi have.

    Lifespan

    Do you know?

    The oldest known Koi in Japan lived for about good 226 years, whereas, the oldest known goldfish lived for about 43 years. Hence, this record speaks volumes about their overall lifespan.

    Koi fish live much longer than goldfish. It is due to the dramatic changes in the body shape of goldfish that lessens their life expectancy.

    The fun part is, both, Koi and goldfish reach their maturity by the age of two or three. However, their lifespan differs from each other. Koi fish are believed to live for about 25 to 35 years or over, while the life expectancy of goldfish is around 5 to 10 years depending on the pond conditions and nutritional analysis.

    Food

    Concerning the matters of food, Koi fish and goldfish are so much similar. They both are omnivorous, lack a traditional stomach, i.e., food passes into the mouth and then straight to the intestine.

    However, due to the variety in body shape and sizes of Koi. Koi Food is tailored for each size – from pellets to food sticks. Also, Koi fish are voracious eaters and might end up eating other small fish in the pond.

    Compared to Koi, goldfish have smaller mouths and pharyngeal teeth to crunch the food into smaller pieces. Like Koi, they are omnivorous and enjoy flakes and small pelleted food.

    Aquarium Life

    One of the most frequently asked questions about Koi and goldfish is about their aquarium life.

    I’ve talked about this before; Koi don’t do well in aquariums. They are born to thrive in garden ponds with at least 200 gallons of water per fish, a capacity of 1000 gallons, and in a pond at least 2 feet in depth.

    Therefore, Koi demands a proper pond with optimal water level and quality. For raising healthy and happy Koi, they should be kept in Ponds, provided that the oxygen levels, diet, and water quality are top-notch.

    On the other hand, goldfish are happy and healthy in aquariums, especially the fancy varieties, which are slower and incompetent than the common goldfish. Furthermore, if you decide to keep your goldfish in indoor aquariums, it’s recommended that you provide them with enough space to move around freely and grow healthily.

    Compatibility with Plants

    Plants With Koi or Goldfish

    If you fancy submerged plants in your garden ponds, this news might disappoint you. Koi do not get along with most aquatic plants. As I mentioned before, Koi are avid eaters with bigger mouths and they ingest small aquatic plants, leaving little to no vegetation behind.

    Goldfish, as opposed to Koi, are fast friends with aquatic plants and will swim around lotus and Lillies merrily, without causing any damage.

    You can keep plants with Koi, but you need to be more selective with the varieties you choose versus with Goldfish.

    Diseases

    Koi are a very hardy breed of fish compared to goldfish, which makes them a perfect fit for extreme weather. However, under circumstances, Koi develop some conditions that might cease their growth and overall performance. Some common Koi diseases are Aeromonas, carp pox, Dropsy, costia, columnaris, and anchor worms. 

    These diseases are either caused by bacteria, viruses, or some parasites, and the best treatment for Koi diseases is isolation. However, the problem is, Koi is a powerful and large breed of fish. It is a nuisance to capture them single-handedly. It’s recommended that you use a net with long handles to reach your Koi without causing much trouble.

    On the other hand, goldfish may be low-maintenance and easy to care for, but they are more sensitive and demand specialized care. This is especially true if you prefer fancy goldfish.

    Some of the most common Goldfish diseases are ich, flukes, fish lice, velvet, fin rot, etc., The treatment of goldfish is much easier than Koi because of the water volume. Also, goldfish are smaller in size and is removed with a regular-sized net.

    FAQs

    I’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions concerning Koi vs Goldfish. Please don’t hesitate to comment if you have more to add.

    Can they survive in the same pond?

    Frankly, yes, under some circumstances.

    As I discussed earlier, Koi are much larger in size than goldfish. Therefore, you would need ample space to fill your ponds with Koi and goldfish, both.
    Furthermore, goldfish enjoy the company of aquatic plants while Koi will enjoy to eating most of them. Hence, there should be a partition for aquatic plants to keep the two breeds catered to and happy.

    The last point is the treatment of diseases. Koi body has different requirements, and since they are graced with larger bodies than goldfish, it is tough to catch and isolate them. Therefore, you need better nets with a solid strategy to deal with such unfortunate situations.

    In addition to these points, despite being hardy and low-maintenance, Koi and goldfish demand proper attention and extensive care. Consequently, you will have to invest more time and knowledge in keeping the two together.

    Other than that, Koi and goldfish get along pretty well and enjoy each other’s company. In fact, many expert Koi enthusiasts love keeping their Koi and goldfish together for ornamental purposes.

    Will koi fish kill goldfish?

    In my years of experience, I’ve never experienced this scenario personally. However, I believe accidents may occur only if you keep the two fish of different sizes together. Koi are greedy and voracious, and they might end up killing fish smaller than them, including goldfish. Therefore, while keeping the two together, be wary of their body size.

    Are koi fish aggressive to Goldfish?

    No, Koi are not aggressive to goldfish. However, there are a few exceptions, such as fancy varieties of goldfish that are unhurried, clumsy, and slow, which might not get along with Koi due to their competence for food and speedy nature. As a rule of thumb, avoid keeping Koi with any small and slow specie

    Koi vs Goldfish. Which Fish Is Right for My Pond? (Main Differences)

    Koi and goldfish, both are a mystical addition to your garden ponds. However, there comes a time when you have to choose between the two.

    So the answer to which is right for your pond lies in your preferences, available space, and time investment.

    Koi offers a rich variety of colors and different sizes to your pond. Yet, they need ample space to thrive and grow happily. You should only consider keeping Koi if you can at least manage 200 gallons of water per fish and have a pond of over 1000 gallons. The fish themselves are also more expensive than goldfish. Since they require large ponds, pond maintenance would require a proper routine with bigger and more expensive equipment to maintain water quality.

    Whereas, Goldfish are much smaller in size and require at least 20 gallons of water. Furthermore, goldfish can thrive in small tanks or aquariums provided that the water quality is excellent. However, due to the varying body shape and configuration, they are slightly more difficult to take care of than Koi.

    All in all, if you have a pond that is less than 1000 gallons, you should go for goldfish.

    Alternatively, if you want a breed hardier than goldfish and you can invest time and money in building a larger pond, Koi would be your best bet.

    Koi vs Goldfish Differences. Which Is The Best Fish For Garden Ponds?

    Apart from body sizes and pond requirements, a few things should be taken into consideration while choosing between the two fish breeds.

    The longevity or life expectancy of Koi is much greater than that of goldfish. Hence, if you’re looking for a long-term investment for your garden ponds, you should definitely opt for Koi.

    Also, if you’re someone who admires a pet’s personality, Koi would be compatible with you. Scientists believe that Koi are more social, smarter, and have more developed personalities than goldfish. And that’s why most fish connoisseurs prefer Koi over goldfish because what’s more rewarding than keeping your fish as companions throughout your life and establishing a healthy relationship with them?

    Nonetheless, both fish make excellent pets that add value, life, and intense colors to your garden ponds.

    Closing Thoughts

    As I promised, after reading this article, you’ll no longer feel the need to ask, Koi vs. Goldfish: which is which?

    Be informed that the major difference between Koi and goldfish lies in the size, lifespan, colors and patterns, appearances, and most importantly, the presence of barbels. Other than that, both are prized pets, loved and adored by pond keepers.


    📘 Want to learn more? This article is part of our complete Freshwater Fish Guide. Your ultimate resource for freshwater species, care tips, tank setup, and more.

  • 7 Best Sponge Filters – Tested and Reviewed for Every Tank Type

    7 Best Sponge Filters – Tested and Reviewed for Every Tank Type

    Sponge filters are one of the most underappreciated tools in the hobby. simple, cheap, and brutally effective for biological filtration. I use them religiously in my quarantine tanks because they’re gentle on fish, easy to seed with beneficial bacteria from an established tank, and nearly impossible to break. They’re also my top recommendation for betta tanks and shrimp tanks where strong flow from a HOB can be a problem. After testing many brands over the years, there’s a clear difference in sponge density, fit, and airflow efficiency between the best and the rest.

    With over 25 years of experience in the aquarium hobby, I’ve assisted countless clients, hobbyists, and readers like you in setting up successful aquariums. I’ve personally tested these products in real world scenarios to determine the best sponge filter on the market.

    Expert Take

    Mark Valderrama, AquariumStoreDepot

    Sponge filters are the unsung hero of this hobby. I ran quarantine systems in every store I managed, and a seeded sponge filter was always in the tank before the fish arrived. You can pull a sponge from an established tank, drop it into a new setup, and have a cycled filter running in minutes. No canister startup ritual, no priming, no media cartridge to buy next month. The sponge IS the media. That biological colony lives in the foam permanently. For breeding tanks, fry tanks, shrimp tanks, and betta tanks, nothing beats it. The gentle flow won’t stress delicate fish or pull fry into an intake. Air-driven biological filtration is genuinely underrated by hobbyists who default to HOBs out of habit.

    The Top Picks

    Editor’s Choice
    Hikari Bacto Surge
    • Name brand
    • Highest quality
    Best Value
    Qanvee Filter
    • Chemical filtration
    • Great price
    Budget Option
    Uxcell Biochemical
    • Well priced
    • Hikari clone

    Let’s get straight to the point and talk about my top picks among the crowd of sponge filters available. So, among all the sponge filters I reviewed, the Hikari Bacto Surge is the clear top pick. It has the best song material and is of the highest quality. The Qanvee offers chemical filtration and a dual sponge setup at a great price. The Uxcell Biochemical is a clone of the Bacto Surge at a much cheaper price (though the sponge material isn’t the same quality. is which one is the best sponge filter? We have several category winners in this review.

    Mark’s Top Pick

    Hikari Bacto Surge for most hobbyists. The sponge quality is genuinely better, the double-sponge design lets you seed new tanks instantly by splitting, and Hikari’s foam holds a bacterial colony that cheap generics can’t match. If you’re running a breeding setup or a dedicated shrimp tank, this is the filter I’d put in every single time. If budget is the hard constraint, the Uxcell is the closest clone, but the foam density isn’t the same. You’ll notice the difference in how it maintains a cycle.

    Sponge Filter: Buy It or Skip It?

    BUY IF YOU HAVE:

    • A breeding or fry tank
    • A shrimp colony (cherry, neocaridina, caridina)
    • A betta tank or nano setup
    • A quarantine or hospital tank
    • A lightly stocked tank under 20 gallons
    • A need to seed a new tank fast

    SKIP IF YOU HAVE:

    • A heavily stocked display tank (needs real mechanical filtration)
    • A large cichlid or goldfish setup with heavy waste
    • An aquascape where aesthetics matter
    • Messy eaters that produce a high particle load

    The Candidates – A Quick Overview

    Below is a list of the best sponge filters you can purchase today. I will discuss the pros and cons of each filter below. 

    ImageNameFeaturesLink
    Editor’s Choice
    Hikari Bacto Surge Sponge Filter
    Hikari Bacto Surge Sponge Filter
    • Name Brand
    Buy On ChewyBuy On Amazon
    Best Value
    Qanvee Sponge Filter
    Qanvee Sponge Filter
    • Chemical Filtration
    • Price
    Click For Best PriceBuy On Amazon
    Budget Option
    Uxcell Biochemcial Sponge Filter
    Uxcell Biochemcial Sponge Filter
    • Best price for value
    Buy On Amazon
    Aquarium Technology Hydro-Sponge Filter Aquarium Technology Hydro-Sponge Filter
    • American Made
    Buy On Amazon
    AquaNet Sponge Filter AquaNet Sponge Filter
    • Chemical Filtration
    Buy On Amazon
    Huijukon Air Drive Sponge Filter Huijukon Air Drive Sponge Filter
    • Dual Sponges
    Buy On Amazon
    Huijukon Sponge Filter Kit Huijukon Sponge Filter Kit
    • Includes Air Pump
    Buy On Amazon

    The 7 Best Sponge Filters Reviewed

    Now that you know the 7 I considered and the top choices, let’s look at each one in detail to see what makes these products stand out. Starting with our top choice from Hikari! Check out the video from our YouTube Channel below.

    1. Hikari Bacto Surge – High Quality Name Brand Product

    Editor’s Choice
    Hikari Bacto Surge Sponge Filter

    The Best Sponge Filter

    With a name brand and high quality reputation, the Bacto Surge separates itself from the pack

    Buy On Chewy Buy On Amazon

    The Hikari Bacto Surge Sponge Filter is the name brand sponge filter on this list. Hikari is a highly quality name brand in the industry. They did not cheap out on this filter. The bacto surge filter uses a highly porous sponge filter that maximizes biological filtration for beneficial bacteria that is better than most filters on this list. Because of their construction, it is easy to modify these filters to make them more silent by inserting an air stone inside them.

    Like the Aquarium Technology filter, the Bacto Surge is more expensive than most on this list. Unlike the aquarium technology filter though, this one is more readily available in fish stores.

    Why the Hikari Bacto Surge Is Ranked #1

    It comes down to sponge density and pore size. The Bacto Surge foam has a finer, more consistent cell structure than any budget clone on this list. That translates directly to surface area, and surface area is where your beneficial bacteria live. More surface area means a larger, more stable bacterial colony. The Hikari is also a double-sponge design, which matters more than people realize: you can split the sponge when seeding a new tank by dropping one half into the new setup while the other half keeps your original tank cycled. No waiting. No bottled bacteria needed. That one feature alone makes it worth the price premium.

    Pros

    • Top grade foam material
    • Can be modified to be make more silent
    • Hikari Name

    Cons

    • Expensive
    • No Chemical filtration

    2. Qanvee Bio

    Best Value
    Qanvee Bio Sponge Filter

    Best Value

    Sponge and chemical filtration in one. Qanvee offers great value with their sponge filter

    Buy On Amazon Click For Best Price

    This style of sponge filter has really grown on me. This double sponge filter from Qanvee has a lot of great features. It has a media chamber that comes with surprisingly good ceramic media. This allows you to use the sponges as a mechanical and the ceramic media as your biological. You can also replace it with carbon and have a 3 stage filter. The telescoping lift tube allows you to quiet down the filter a little. That very welcome considering that you cannot modify these with an airstone. The color is more naturally being dark.

    Overall, this is one of the better buys for a sponge filter.

    Pros

    • Telescoping lift tube
    • Sponge filter can hold chemical media
    • Dual sponge filter

    Cons

    • Can’t be modified
    • Green color

    3. Uxcell Biochemical – A Cheap Hikari Clone

    Budget Option
    Uxcell Biochemcial Sponge Filter

    Budget Option

    A value priced version of the Hikari. This is great for folks looking for a cheap yet quality sponge filter

    Buy On Amazon

    Hikari and Aquarium Technology sponge filters are well constructed and great filtration units. However, they are pricey. What if you could get a similar unit for less? This is where Uxcell comes in with their sponge filter. This is among the cheapest sponge filters on our list and it is well made. It starts off with its superior foam, easily the best among all the value priced brands on our list. You get the advantages of modification with this filter. Dropping in an air stone in the bull eye makes them very quiet 

    The downfalls with this sponge filter? It doesn’t offer an option for chemical filtration and the weighted base is on the cheap. 

    Pros

    • Cheap!
    • Can be modified to be make more silent
    • Best foam among all value priced brands

    Cons

    • No Chemical filtration
    • Lower quality base

    4. Aquarium Technology Hydro – Top Grade

    Aquarium Technology Hydro-Sponge Filter

    An American made, high quality sponge filter. A great choice for those wanting to support a family business

    Buy On Amazon

    Aquarium Technology Hydro-Sponge Filters are one of the best sponge filters available on the market. Founded in 1991 , this Atlanta based company has continued to make high quality sponge filters that can work on small aquariums, large aquariums, and even ponds. It all starts with the patented foam and superior construction. The foam is unique to Aquarium Technologies with a ideal density for both mechanical and biological filtration. This density provides maximum surface area for beneficial bacteria. The construction is american made and expertly engineered with a free standing heavy base that locks securely in place. The base is also easy to take apart so you can accommodate in other spots.

    This construction allows for great flexibility on how you implement filtration. You can modify the install by inserting an air stone to make it extra quiet. If want to increase the flow on the sponge filter, you can power it with an aquarium powerhead instead of an air pump. 

    This well constructed product made by a family based business only has one downfall I can think of. It’s expensive compared to other sponge filters here.

    Why the Hikari Bacto Surge Is Ranked #1

    It comes down to sponge density and pore size. The Bacto Surge foam has a finer, more consistent cell structure than any budget clone on this list. That translates directly to surface area, and surface area is where your beneficial bacteria live. More surface area means a larger, more stable bacterial colony. The Hikari is also a double-sponge design, which matters more than people realize: you can split the sponge when seeding a new tank by dropping one half into the new setup while the other half keeps your original tank cycled. No waiting. No bottled bacteria needed. That one feature alone makes it worth the price premium.

    Pros

    • Top grade foam material
    • Can be modified to be make more silent
    • Larger models can operate via powerhead 

    Cons

    • Expensive
    • No Chemical filtration 

    5. AquaNeat – Dual BioMedia

    Aquaneat Sponge Filter

    A value priced combo sponge filter. Good for those looking for a cheap sponge filter with chemical filtration

    Buy On Amazon

    AquaNet’s Sponge Filter is a unique design as it features a dual media design. It comes with biomedia for these media chambers, but you can switch those out with chemical media and have a full 3 stage filtration unit. The lift tube can be turned 360 degrees as well.

    The suction cups are not the best quality. Several users complained that the unit tends to fall down. They also can’t be modified to be made quieter. 

    Pros

    • Dual biological media
    • Media chamber can hold chemical media
    • Lift tube can be turned 

    Cons

    • Suction cups not the best quality
    • Can’t be modified
    • Odd colors

    6. Huijukon – Dual BioMedia

    Huijukon Air Driven Sponge Filter

    Dual Sponges to make it easier for you clean and maintain. The Huijukon offers excellent value

    Buy On Amazon

    The Huijukon Air Driven Sponge Filter is a great value price sponge filter to consider. The dual sponge filter construction allows you to clean one sponge instead of both which keeps your bacterial losses less during maintenance. I also like the telescoping lift tube that gives you an extra 4 inches. It is small enough to fit in smaller tanks and provides a good amount of filtration.

    Because of its construction, it cannot be modified with an airstone to be made more silent. It also lacks chemical filtration. I’ve seen this sponge filter used a lot in quarantine and breeder tanks. It’s a great sponge filter to consider.

    Pros

    • Telescoping lift tube
    • Dual sponge filter

    Cons

    • Can’t be modified
    • No Chemical filtration

    7. Huijukon Kit – A Great Combo Value

    Huijukon Sponge Filter Kit

    A sponge filter that comes with an air pump

    Buy On Amazon

    Sponge filters are cheap, but somethings getting the air pump is also an added cost that can price you out. Fortunately Huijukon has a great package that addresses this. This combo kit includes an air pump, airline hose and air stone to get you start. To top it off, the sponge filter has a media chamber that allows you to convert the filter to a 3 stage unit.

    Like all suction cup style sponge filters, this cannot be modified. The air pump is also a dual outlet. Given the output of the air pump, I feel it was more appropriate for it to be a single outlet. I do like that it comes with all the accessories though. This is a well priced and competent package.

    Pros

    • Air Pump Included
    • Sponge filter can hold chemical media
    • Dual sponge filter

    Cons

    • Can’t be modified
    • Air pump should be single outlet

    What Is It?

    Sponge Filter Make Up

    A sponge filter is super simple. It literally is a piece of foam that filters your entire fish tank. Some people are taken aback that that really is all there is too. It’s simplicity has to do with it’s foam filter that doubles up as a mechanical and biological filtration unit. A well made sponge filter will be made of the following components.

    Sponge Filter Construction

    1. Foam

    The better the quality sponge filter, the better the foam. This matters a ton in your selection process! The sponge will house the beneficial bacteria that becomes your biological filtration. The best sponge will have more surface area and will have superior biological filtration capacity.

    2. Weighted Base

    This keeps your sponge filter from floating away or getting dragged around by your fish and current. The base can be anchored against gravel or aquarium rocks. Some aquarium sponge filters utilize a suction cup mount instead of a weighted base. Suction cup mounts can come in handy in bare bottom setups.

    3. Strainer and Bulls Eye

    The strainer keeps out detritus and food particles from filtering out of your sponge filter. The bulls eye allows you to connect your airline tubing directly to your sponge filter from your air pump. Some value priced sponge filters will not have this feature. They will have an airline hose connector that sticks out eternally from the filter for you to connect.

    4. Lift Tube

    This moves the water out of the sponge filter to the rest of your fish tank. On higher quality and larger sponge filters, you can use this tube to connect the sponge filter to an aquarium power head. This allows you to have a quieter and more powerful filter. Other sponge filters will have a lift tube that will extend higher so the bubbles made by your air pump will be less disruptive.

    What Are The Benefits Of Having One?

    Sponge filters have a lot going for them that make them super attractive for fish tank keepers.

    1. Easy To Use Biological Filtration

    Nothing is easier than a sponge filter. It just works. If you purchase a high quality sponge filter, you can filter large tanks. In fact, there are many local fish stores that use large high quality sponge filters to save on costs! Imagine that!

    2. Two In One Design

    A sponge filter can handle both mechanical and biological filtration. Any foam will do a great job at mechanically filtering your tank. A good foam will stand out in its biological filtration capacity. They are also very easy to adjust with an air pump. 

    3. They Are Gentle

    If you have fish tank setup with inhabitants that require low current, these are great filters to use. You won’t have to worry about a sponge filter sucking up your baby fish, small fish, aquatic amphibians like axolotls or ornamental shrimp like the Cherry Shrimp.

    4. Very Quick to Cycle

    Because of the flexibility of the foam filter it is very easy to always have a spare foam handy to cycle another tank in an emergency. I’ve also done quick cycles by soaking the sponge in bacteria in a bottle solutions Fritz Turbo Start and got other tanks running.

    5. They are CHEAP!

    Ya I know that should have probably been the 1st reason. I just feel that shouldn’t be your ONLY reason for getting them ?.

    What HOBs and Canisters Get Wrong

    High-flow HOBs and canisters are great filters for the right tank. But there are three things they consistently get wrong for sensitive setups, and sponge filters get them right every time.

    1. They’re not gentle enough for fry or shrimp. HOB intakes are powerful enough to pull in baby fish, shrimplets, and juvenile shrimp. Even with a pre-filter sponge on the intake, you’re adding a workaround to fix a problem that sponge filters never had in the first place.

    2. They destabilize during medication. Canister media and HOB cartridges absorb medications, reducing treatment effectiveness or wiping out your biological colony when you do a cartridge change mid-treatment. A sponge filter doesn’t care. No chemical media, no interference. You treat the tank, the sponge keeps cycling.

    3. They create a cartridge replacement cycle you don’t need. HOB manufacturers sell replacement cartridges because it’s a business model, not because the media needs replacing. A quality sponge filter breaks that cycle. The sponge is permanent. Rinse it in old tank water monthly and it keeps running. No upsell, no subscription, no planned obsolescence.

    What Are The Disadvantages?

    So we know why they are great. Let’s see where aquarium sponge filters fall short.

    1. They are Big and Ugly

    If you are setting up a simple fish tank or breeder tank looks won’t matter too much. However, these sponge filters are not going to look great if you are doing a grand aquascape or driftwood setup. They are also very large and difficult to hide. 

    2. No Chemical Filtration

    This is a big no go for me. I like having the ability to use chemical media in a pinch whenever it is needed. Not having that in a fish tank is a major issue for me. You can mitigate chemical filtration with lots of quality live plants, but then you will still have #1 to deal with above.

    3. Some Fish Will Try To Eat It

    Because a sponge filter is meant to be placed inside your fish tank, your fish are around it all day. It also traps food particles because it acts as a mechanical filter. If you have a fish like a Pleco or a large hungry aggressive fish they may decide to snack on your sponge filter thinking it would make a niece meal. 

    4. They A Loud And Splash Water Everywhere

    I’m demand a quiet display tank when I setup a fish tank. I don’t want noisy equipment and I quietly don’t want my significant other or hear about my client’s significant other complaining about how the noise the fish tank makes keeps them up at night. Quiet and media are the main reasons I go for high quality filters like canister filters. You will also need to factor in the noise level of the air pump you purchase.

    With their uplift tubes, many sponge filters will splash water everywhere at the top of your aquarium. Water droplets will get all over your aquarium canopy and the back of your walls. Again, I want quiet and clean in a display tank. 

    What Are The Ideal Uses?

    I hit you with a number of disadvantages of using a sponge filter. While they may not be the best choice for a display tank, let’s talk about what types of fish tank they are excellent choices for.

    1. Breeder Tanks

    One of the best applications for a sponge filter is for a breeder fish tank. Because sponger filters are gentle they do an amazing job filtering in a breeder tank. You won’t have to worry about losing your small fish fry to your aquarium filter intake. They deliver great piece of mind in these setups.

    2. Quarantine/Hospital Tanks

    Because sponge filters can be setup and cycled so quick and easy, they are great to use in a quarantine tank. A cycled sponge can provide all the beneficial bacteria and biological filtration capacity for a quarantine tank. Since they do not use chemical filtration you are free to use whatever medication you need without worrying about your media removing or absorbing the medication. The sponge filter is also gentle to your inhabitant keeping stress levels down. 

    3. Freshwater Shrimp Tanks

    Sponge filters are amazing in a Freshwater Shrimp Tank. Because of their makeup, you don’t have to worry about the filter sucking up your shrimp and their babies. Sponge filters will also grow biofilm on the surface of the foam making it food producing resource for your shrimp. It’s no wonder sponge filters are used so much in shrimp tanks!

    4. Betta Fish Tanks

    Betta Fish need calm waters. They also have long fins that can be sucked up by more powerful filters. Betta fish prefer light currents and will usually be housed in smaller tanks. This makes a sponge filter an attractive filtration choice for them.

    5. Small Fish Tanks

    Any aquarium 20 gallons and under is ideal for a sponge filter. This makes maintainance and filteration easy. A good quality sponge filter will have plently of surface area to support the small fish appropriate for a smaller fish tank. 

    How To Make It Quieter

    So I kept mentioning that sponge filters can be modified to be made quieter. This is true for models with weighted bases like the Uxcell, Aquarium Technologies, and Hikari sponge filters. All you need to do is take it apart and insert an air stone in the bull eye. This video by BairCichlids shows you how to make the modification. Once done, your sponge filter will be more quiet and more effective in oxygen delivery.

    Maintenance (How To Clean)

    Sponge filters are super easy to maintain. Because the main piece of the filtration unit is the sponge itself, it is a permanent media. This ends up saving you media on disposable media and mechanical filtration cartridge that you might spend otherwise with an Aquarium Power Filter. The main thing you have to maintain is the sponge. Every month, take it out of of your fish tank and wash it in your aquarium water. DO NOT use tap water when cleaning a sponge filter. Doing so will kill the beneficial bacteria on the sponge.

    The main thing you have to be careful of when removing your sponge is all the particles trapped in the sponge getting released. It is a great idea to take our your sponge when doing a water change so you can get what escapes out of the sponge cleaned out. I would recommend that you get a cover on the sponge when pulling it out. You can use a fish bag or a zip-lock bag when doing this. 

    Once you have your sponge and some of your aquarium water in a separate container put the sponge that and squeeze it several times. This will release all the particles out of the sponge. Replace the water in the container several times only you have fairly clear water after squeezing the sponge. 

    Tips and Tricks

    Here are some more tips and tricks regarding sponge filters.

    Your Aquarium Air Pump Matters A Lot!

    Aquarium air pumps are a huge deal when it comes to the effectiveness of your sponge filter. An air pump is the engine of your sponge filter. You do not want to cheap out on a low quality air pump. Check out our Best Aquarium Air Pump post for details on the best out there. For a value priced air pump, I would recommend the Tetra Whisper. Tetra is best known for their air pump models and the Whisper is a great buy to get your going.

    Consider One For Power Back Up Purposes

    Aquarium power outages suck. They are the #2 tank killer in our hobby. A sponge filter and battery powered air pump can save your livestock in a pitch. If you aren’t in the market for a sponge filter as your main aquarium filter, consider it for your power outage plan. Just have a sponge cycled and ready to go.

    The Material Matters

    The better the sponge material the better the surface area for your beneficial bacteria. All the sponge filters here were selected for a reason.

    FAQS

    What Type Should I Buy?

    The best type of sponge filter is one that has a lot of surface area to house beneficial bacteria. The HHikari Bacto Surge excels by having more surface area than cheaper generic sponge filters available in the hobby.

    Are They Worth It?

    Yes – sponge filters are worth it when they are used in the right conditions. They are best utilized in freshwater shrimp tanks, for raising fry, and for small fish tanks. They also work great in quarantine tanks. While they can be used in display tanks, the general practice is that they are not as there are better filtration units available such as power filters and canisters filters.

    How Often Should You Change It?

    Hopefully never. Sponge filters are meant to be used indefinitely as the sponge houses your bacteria. If you threw away the sponge, you would lose all the bacteria housed in it. It’s best to wash your sponge filter in your aquarium water when it needs to be cleaned, but you should avoid replacing it so you don’t disrupt your aquarium’s biological ecosystem.

    Do They Provide Oxygen?

    Yes, sponge filters provide oxygen in aquariums. In fact, they are one of the best filters to do this because they are hooked to air pumps and change a lot of surface agitation. They can also still provide oxygen during power outages as they can be run with battery powered air pumps when other filters would be offline.

    Closing Thoughts

    Sponge filters are cheap aquarium filters, get the job done, and are very easy to use. It’s not wonder they are one of the most popular filtration units on the market. I hope today’s post helped you make an informed decision on what sponge filter to buy. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comment below. Thanks for reading!

    The best filter for a breeding tank, a shrimp colony, or a quarantine setup isn’t the one with the most features. It’s the one that does the job without getting in the way. That’s always been the sponge filter.


    🔧 Want to learn more? This article is part of our complete Aquarium Equipment & Gear Guide. your ultimate resource for filters, heaters, lights, pumps, tanks, and more.

  • 8 Best Aquarium Decorations

    8 Best Aquarium Decorations

    Most hobbyists pick aquarium decorations based on how they look. That’s backwards. After 25 years in this hobby and managing fish stores, I’ve watched fish pace, hide compulsively, and fight constantly in tanks that looked great on Instagram but were functionally empty. Decorations aren’t just aesthetics. They’re behavioral infrastructure. The right decoration reduces stress, establishes territory, enables breeding behavior, and gives your fish something to actually do. The wrong ones just take up swimming space.

    A bare tank is stressful for fish, but an overcrowded one is worse.

    EXPERT TAKE | MARK VALDERRAMA

    In my tanks, driftwood, rocks, and caves always come before novelty decorations. I’ve set up hundreds of tanks over the years and the pattern is consistent: fish with proper hiding spots are less skittish, eat better, and show more natural behavior. Caves matter for cichlids and bettas especially. I’ve seen male bettas display properly only after a cave or dense plant cover gave them a home base to defend. The plastic castle might look fun, but if it has sharp molding seams and no functional hiding chamber, it’s doing nothing for the fish. What I actually put in most of my tanks: driftwood or cork bark for structure, a cave or terracotta pot for territory, and soft plants (live or silk) for cover. That combination works for almost every community setup I’ve built.

    What People Get Wrong About Aquarium Decorations

    The number one mistake I see in customer tanks: decorations chosen entirely for looks, with zero thought given to what the fish actually needs. Plastic castles and skull ornaments show up constantly. They photograph well. But many have sharp molding seams along the interior edges that tear fins on bettas and other slow-moving fish. I’ve pulled decorations out of customer tanks and found shredded fins within a week of installation. If you run your finger along the inside of a decoration and feel resistance or roughness, so does your fish.

    The second mistake: overcrowding. A tank stuffed with decorations leaves no open swimming lanes. Fish that need to swim in groups, like tetras and danios, get compressed into corners. Territorial fish have nowhere to establish boundaries, so aggression escalates. My rule for every new hobbyist: fill no more than 40% of your tank volume with hardscape and decorations. The other 60% belongs to the fish.

    Third mistake: buying painted decorations from unknown brands. Cheap painted resin leaches dye into the water, especially as the paint fades from light exposure. Fish-safe resin is cured and non-leaching. If the product listing doesn’t specifically say “fish safe” or “aquarium grade resin,” skip it.

    The Biggest Mistake Decoration Buyers Make

    Prioritizing appearance over function. I’ve seen it hundreds of times: someone spends $80 decorating their tank with colorful novelty pieces and the fish are stressed and hiding constantly because there are no real territories, no hiding spots fish actually want to use, and no visual breaks in the open water. The fish needs the decoration more than you need the visual. When you finally add one good cave or a piece of real structure and watch a territorial fish calm down immediately, claim it, and start acting normal, the lesson hits. Decorations that look good but don’t function are a waste of space and money.

    WHY THIS RANKING

    I ranked these on five factors: (1) functional value for fish behavior, (2) fish safety with no sharp edges or toxic materials, (3) visual quality that looks natural or high-quality, (4) durability without fading or leaching, and (5) value relative to behavioral and visual benefit. Aesthetic appeal alone is not a ranking criterion. These decorations earn their spot because fish actually benefit from them.

    BUY OR SKIP?

    Good fit if: You want decorations that actually benefit your fish, not just your photos. You keep territorial species (cichlids, bettas, gobies) that need caves and boundary markers. You want a natural-looking scape without the chemistry complications of real driftwood.

    Skip the novelty items if: You keep schooling fish that need open water, you have delicate-finned fish like bettas or angelfish that can’t afford sharp edges, or you’re building a serious biotope where authenticity matters. In those cases, invest in real hardscape, live plants, or species-specific decor rather than novelty ornaments.

    Finding Great Aquarium Decorations

    Below is a table of the candidates. I’ve looked at both artificial and natural aquarium decorations. This list focuses primarily on artificial decorations. If you’re looking for real aquarium stones, plants, or driftwood, check the links below:

    In a hurry? I recommend Current USA Manzanita or their Aquascaping bundle line! Use Coupon Code ASD15 At Checkout!

    Picture Name Features Link
    Editor’s Choice

    Current USA Black Manzanita

    Current USA Black Manzanita

    • Artificial
    • Life-like
    Click For Best PriceBuy On SWA
    Best Value

    Current USA Seiryu Stones

    Current USA Seiryu Stones

    • Artificial
    • Life-like
    Click For Best PriceBuy On Amazon
    Budget Option

    Current USA Fountain Grass

    Current USA Fountain Grass

    • Artificial
    • Life-like
    Click For Best PriceBuy On Amazon
    Penn-Plex SpongeBob Aquarium Ornament

    Penn-Plex SpongeBob Aquarium Ornament

    • Artificial
    • Resin
    Buy On PetcoBuy On Amazon
    Underwater Galleries Cichlid Stones

    Underwater Galleries Cichlid Stones

    • Artificial
    • Ceramic
    Buy On Amazon
    SLOCME Aquarium Ornaments Resin Castle Decorations

    SLOCME Aquarium Ornaments Resin Castle Decorations

    • Artificial
    • Resin
    Buy On Amazon
    Estes Gravel Malaysian Driftwood

    Estes Gravel Malaysian Driftwood

    • Natural
    • Driftwood
    Buy On Amazon
    Marimo Moss Balls

    Marimo Moss Balls

    • Natural
    • Live Plant
    Buy On Amazon
    CousDUoBe Aquarium Decorations

    CousDUoBe Aquarium Decorations

    • Artificial
    • Plastic
    Buy On Amazon

    The 8 Best Aquarium Decorations (Reviewed)

    Let’s get into the details on each decoration. I’ll break down what works, what doesn’t, and who each one is actually for.

    1. Current USA Manzanita Wood

    This is the decoration I recommend most often for hobbyists who want a natural-looking scape without the headaches of real driftwood. The Black Manzanita is 100% artificial but looks so convincing that it works in planted tanks and display setups where you’d normally use real wood. The branching structure gives fish actual navigation space: they swim through, around, and behind it, which is what you want from any piece of hardscape.

    The real advantage over actual driftwood comes in water chemistry. This piece releases zero tannins, doesn’t affect pH, and doesn’t require a week of soaking before use. That makes it the right choice for African cichlid tanks or any setup where you need higher pH or harder water. Real driftwood would tank your chemistry. This one won’t.

    Current USA built this line consulting with aquascapers and provides templates and videos to help you design with it. Ready to go out of the box. No soaking. No floating. No chemistry effects.

    Pros and Cons

    • Unique, natural-looking structure with real navigational value for fish
    • No tannins, no water chemistry effects
    • Works in high-pH setups where real driftwood can’t go
    • Ready to use out of the box
    • Limited variety compared to real wood

    2. Current USA Seiryu Stones

    I used to be a strong advocate for natural stones over artificial. Then Current USA’s Seiryu Stones changed my mind. These artificial rocks have the same exotic porous look that makes real Seiryu stone popular in aquascaping and bonsai displays. The resemblance is good enough that you can’t tell them apart in a tank photo. The real win is weight: real Seiryu stone is heavy enough to crack aquarium glass if it falls. These won’t.

    Pre-washed and ready to go. No alteration to water chemistry. If you want to put Seiryu stones in an African cichlid tank where real rock would raise your pH, now you can. The aquascaping bundles from Current USA make it easy for beginners to get a coherent scape without guessing at layout.

    The only real limitation is variety. Real rocks come in unpredictable, interesting shapes. These are templated. For beginners that’s actually a benefit, since templated pieces make layout easier. For advanced aquascapers who want the organic randomness of real stone, you might want both.

    Pros and Cons

    • Life-like appearance, indistinguishable in photos
    • Lightweight with no glass-cracking risk
    • No water chemistry effects
    • Limited variety compared to real stone

    3. Current USA Fountain Head Grass

    Budget Option
    Current USA Fountain Grass

    Use Coupon Code ASD15 At Checkout!

    Current USA offers budget-conscious, life-like artificial plants that deliver the aquascaper look without the maintenance.

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    Most artificial plants look obviously fake. Current USA solved this problem. Their Fountain Grass line looks like taller background plants such as Vallisneria, without requiring any of the maintenance. No trimming. No fertilizer. No CO2. For hobbyists who want background plant coverage without a planted tank setup, this is the answer.

    Affordable, non-toxic, made in the USA. The catch: artificial plants provide cover but don’t compete with algae the way live plants do. If algae control is a priority, live plants or a dedicated algae management approach is still necessary. But for pure visual impact and fish cover at a budget price, these are hard to beat.

    Pros and Cons

    • Life-like appearance unlike most artificial plants
    • Easy to maintain, works in any tank
    • Made in the USA
    • Won’t compete with algae like live plants
    • Can get expensive if you need large quantities

    4. Penn-Plax SpongeBob Ornament

    Budget Option
    SpongeBob Aquarium Ornament

    Budget Option

    A well-priced, charming, and functional shelter for small fish

    Buy On Petco Buy On Amazon

    This one is for the kids’ tanks and the aquarists who want something fun. It’s officially licensed, made from 100% water-safe resin, and actually functions as a shelter with multiple openings for fish to explore. At 5 inches tall, it fits without overwhelming smaller tanks. The door opening is large enough for most small-to-medium fish.

    The word of caution: check the interior edges when it arrives. Some edges can be sharp, and that matters for bettas and fancy goldfish. Run your finger through the opening before it goes in the tank. If you feel roughness, give it a light sanding. Otherwise, this is a solid novelty ornament that also provides actual hiding value for small fish.

    Pros and Cons

    • Durable, water-safe resin
    • Multiple entrances for fish to explore
    • Officially licensed, fun aesthetic
    • Too small for larger fish
    • Some interior edges need checking before use

    5. Underwater Galleries Cichlid Stones

    Underwater Galleries Cichlid Stones

    A practical decoration for cichlids and bettas. Provides private territory for aggressive or shy fish.

    Buy On Amazon

    These are the decoration I recommend for anyone keeping cichlids or bettas who need structured territory. The hollow ceramic chambers give territorial fish a real home to claim and defend. That matters more than most people realize: cichlids without territory escalate aggression toward tankmates. A fish with a cave it has claimed is a calmer fish.

    Made from natural treated ceramic with a pre-coated gravel base so they don’t slide around. Lightweight enough that they won’t crack your glass if repositioned. Each set comes with both small and large stones. Not every species will use them immediately, but for the fish that need this kind of structure, they make a visible difference in behavior within days of introduction.

    Pros and Cons

    • Functional caves that territorial fish actually use
    • Lightweight ceramic, won’t scratch glass
    • Precoated gravel base prevents sliding
    • Not all species will use them
    • Color can fade over time

    6. SLOCME Resin Castle Decoration

    SLOCME Aquarium Ornaments

    Made of water-safe resin. Won’t fade over time and provides nooks and crannies for fish to explore.

    Buy On Amazon

    A classic novelty castle ornament done right. The SLOCME castle is made from 100% water-safe, eco-friendly resin that won’t fade or leach into the water over time. At 8″ x 3″ x 5.8″, it provides multiple openings for fish to explore. The detailing is solid, with precision-etched stonework that looks genuinely decorative rather than cheap.

    The bottom edge can have some sharp spots, so check it before installation. It works best in tanks 20 gallons and larger where it won’t dominate the space. For a kids’ tank or a family aquarium where fun aesthetic is the goal alongside fish wellbeing, this gets the job done without compromising safety.

    Pros and Cons

    • Detailed, sophisticated design
    • Sturdy eco-friendly resin
    • Multiple openings for fish exploration
    • Check bottom edges before use
    • Too small for larger fish species

    7. Estes Gravel Malaysian Driftwood

    Estes Gravel Malaysian Driftwood

    A budget-friendly real driftwood option that comes in multiple size ranges.

    Buy On Amazon

    Real driftwood is the best structural decoration available for most freshwater tanks, and Malaysian driftwood from Estes is the budget-accessible entry point. The natural brown coloring works in any community or biotope setup, and it comes in small, medium, and large sizes so you can match it to your tank properly.

    This wood releases tannins that lower pH and tint the water a natural tea-brown color. For soft-water fish like tetras, discus, and South American dwarf cichlids, that chemistry shift is actually beneficial. For hard-water fish or pristine display tanks where water clarity is a priority, use the artificial options instead.

    Soak it thoroughly in warm water before adding to the tank to remove surface dust. Individual pieces vary in shape from product photos, which is the nature of real wood. If you need predictable shapes, use the artificial options. If you want genuine biological and behavioral value for your fish, real driftwood delivers.

    Pros and Cons

    • Natural wood that fish genuinely interact with
    • Tannins benefit soft-water species
    • Available in multiple sizes
    • Tints water brown (a deal-breaker for some setups)
    • Individual pieces differ from product photos

    8. Marimo Moss Balls

    Marimo Moss Balls are one of the most underrated decorations in the hobby. They’re technically live plants (a type of algae), but they require no special Planted Tank Light, no Aquarium Fertilizer, and no CO2 System to thrive. Drop them in any freshwater tank and they work. They absorb nitrogen and phosphates from the water, provide grazing for shrimp and snails, and add a natural, calming visual element that works with almost any aquascape style.

    They grow slowly and can live for years. You can roll them around periodically to maintain their round shape. The main issues are quality control from some sellers and the potential for moss fragments to clog filters. Get them from a reputable source and give them a quick rinse before adding to the tank.

    Pros and Cons

    • No special lighting, fertilizer, or CO2 needed
    • Absorbs nitrogen and phosphates from the water
    • Food source for shrimp and snails
    • Quality varies by seller
    • Moss fragments can clog filters

    My Recommendation

    MARK’S TOP PICK

    The Current USA Black Manzanita is my top recommendation for most freshwater setups. I’ve used it in multiple display tanks and it holds up better than real wood in one specific situation: tanks that need higher pH or harder water, like African cichlid setups, where real driftwood would tank your chemistry. It’s also ready to go out of the box with no soaking, no tannin leach, and no floating issues. For the average hobbyist who wants the look of a natural scape without the hassle, this is the one I’d buy first.

    WHAT MOST PEOPLE MISS

    Most decoration reviews skip the safety check entirely. Before any new decoration goes in your tank, run your finger along the interior edges. If you feel roughness or resistance, so does your fish’s fin tissue. Cheap painted resin is another overlooked hazard: the paint can leach color into the water as it fades under aquarium lighting, especially in tanks with strong UV output. Always verify the product specifically says “aquarium safe resin” or “fish safe.” And watch scale: a decoration that photographs well at 8 inches may overwhelm a 20-gallon or disappear completely in a 75-gallon. Measure before you buy.

    Buying Guide

    Aquarium decorations come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. When you’re shopping, keep these factors in mind.

    Tank Size

    Cramming too many decorations into a small tank looks cluttered and robs your fish of swimming space. Fish need room to move. My rule: no more than 40% of tank volume occupied by hardscape and decorations. For a small tank (10-20 gallons), one or two meaningful pieces is enough. Spread decoration evenly rather than clustering everything in one area.

    For height balance: aim for a rough 2:3 ratio of tall to mid-height structures. Two tall structures balanced with two or three medium pieces keeps the scape from feeling top-heavy or unnatural.

    Natural vs Non-natural

    Natural decorations (real driftwood, stones, live plants) serve double duty as fish habitat. They look more credible in a display tank and often benefit water chemistry or fish behavior directly. Non-natural decorations (novelty ornaments, bright plastic plants) are easier to maintain and can be fine in kids’ tanks or setups where function is already covered by other hardscape.

    The choice doesn’t have to be either/or. Many great tanks mix natural structure with one novelty piece for personality. What you’re avoiding is a tank built entirely of novelty items with nothing that actually serves the fish.

    Plants

    Live plants are the best decoration for most freshwater setups. They oxygenate the water, remove ammonia, compete with algae, and give fish cover that feels natural to them. The tradeoff is maintenance: trimming, fertilizing, light management. Artificial plants skip the maintenance but lose those biological benefits. Silk plants are the best compromise: soft enough to be safe for fin-delicate fish, look better than plastic, and require nothing from you. Avoid stiff plastic plants with hard or pointed leaf edges, especially in betta tanks.

    Lighting

    Aquarium lighting affects how your decorations look and how your tank functions. Match your light spectrum to your fish and plants. Most freshwater setups do well with a 6,500K “daylight” spectrum. Deeper saltwater setups use higher Kelvin ratings to simulate depth. LED technology has made this easier than ever: most quality aquarium LEDs let you adjust spectrum and intensity. Don’t overpower the tank with light intensity. Too much light drives algae growth and stresses fish that prefer dimmer conditions.

    FAQ

    Can I use any rock in my tank?

    No. The right rock depends on your water chemistry goals. For freshwater, shale, slate, basalt, quartz, and lava rocks are safe choices. Avoid calcium-rich rocks like limestone: they harden the water and raise pH, which is wrong for most soft-water species. For saltwater tanks, reef rock or man-made “Real Reef Rock” is the standard. Whatever you use, wash it thoroughly before adding to the tank.

    Is resin safe for fish tanks?

    Fully cured aquarium-grade resin is safe. It won’t leach chemicals or toxins into the water. The key word is “aquarium grade” or “fish safe.” Generic or cheaply painted resin products are a different story: if the product listing doesn’t specifically confirm fish-safe materials, skip it. Painted decorations from unknown brands can leach dye as the paint fades under aquarium lighting over months.

    Can you put any wood in a fish tank?

    No. Untreated wood rots in water, degrades water chemistry, and can harm fish. Only use wood that is prepared specifically for aquarium use. Driftwood is the standard choice. Malaysian driftwood, spiderwood, and mopani are all commonly used and safe. If you collect wood from outside, it needs extensive drying, cleaning, and boiling before it goes anywhere near your tank.

    How can I make tank decorations at home?

    You can use clay, ceramics, and certain food-safe plastics. Nothing painted, nothing with chemical coatings, nothing that hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned. Terra cotta pots are one of the best DIY options: cheap, widely available, safe, and loved by cave-dwelling fish like cichlids and bettas. Clean everything thoroughly before adding it to the tank.

    Can you put regular toys in a fish tank?

    Sometimes. Non-toxic, food-safe plastics are generally safe in aquariums. Avoid anything painted, adhesive-covered, or made of degradable materials. Legos are a common example of something that works fine. When in doubt, coat with aquarium-safe silicone before adding to the tank. And run your finger over any toy before adding it: if you feel sharp edges, your fish will too.

    How can I make my fish tank look better?

    Start with function. A tank that gives your fish proper hiding spots, territory, and cover looks natural because it is natural. The best-looking aquariums I’ve built in 25 years are the most functionally designed ones. Get the structure right first: a piece of driftwood or hardscape, some plant cover, a cave if you have territorial species. The aesthetics follow from the function.

    Closing Thoughts

    Here’s the truth about aquarium decorations that most reviews skip: function comes before form. Every piece of hardscape, every cave, every plant should earn its place in the tank by doing something for the fish. Hiding spots reduce stress. Territory markers reduce aggression. Open swimming lanes let schooling fish behave naturally. A decoration that doesn’t do at least one of those things is visual noise that’s taking up space your fish need.

    That doesn’t mean your tank can’t look great. It absolutely can. The best-looking tanks I’ve built over 25 years are also the most functionally designed ones. Natural hardscape that also functions as territory, cover, and behavioral enrichment. That’s the goal.

    A decoration that looks great but stresses your fish isn’t a decoration. It’s a liability.

    The Current USA Manzanita and Seiryu Stone line are my go-to picks because they nail both sides of that equation. Beautiful enough for a display tank, functional enough to benefit the fish. Underwater Galleries Cichlid Stones are the best choice for territorial species that need structured hiding spots. And if you’re just starting out, a simple piece of driftwood and a few silk plants will do more for your fish’s wellbeing than a shelf full of novelty ornaments.

    When you’re ready to add quality fish to a well-decorated tank, check out Flip Aquatics (flipaquatics.com) and Dan’s Fish (dansfish.com). Two sources I trust for healthy livestock. Start with function. The aesthetics will follow.


    🔧 Want to learn more? This article is part of our complete Aquarium Equipment & Gear Guide, your ultimate resource for filters, heaters, lights, pumps, tanks, and more.

  • Iwagumi Aquascape – How To Set One Up (Complete Style Guide)

    Iwagumi Aquascape – How To Set One Up (Complete Style Guide)

    Iwagumi is one of the most disciplined aquascaping styles out there, and honestly one of the most satisfying to pull off. The minimalist rock-and-carpeting-plant layout looks simple, but the hardscape placement, plant selection, and growth management all take real patience to get right. I’ve watched hobbyists struggle with this style for months before everything clicks. and when it does, the result is stunning. If you’re going to try it, this guide will save you a lot of trial and error.

    The Iwagumi style is one of the most striking and disciplined forms of aquascaping. all stones, minimalist planting, and rigorous use of the golden ratio. I’ve always admired the Iwagumi aesthetic for its serene simplicity, though I’ll be honest: it’s harder to pull off than it looks. The stone placement has to be nearly perfect, the carpeting plants demand CO2 and strong light to fill in properly, and algae control in the early weeks is a real challenge. This guide walks through everything you need to know to set one up the right way.

    Key Takeaways

    • The Iwagumi Aquascape was the beginning of modern aquascaping
    • It is a zen-like style that focuses on ground cover plants and rock placements
    • CO2 is required to get the lush growth needed for this look
    • Fertilization is required to maintain the growth pace of the groundcover plants
    • Better lighting is needed to keep the ground cover from becoming leggy

    The History Of The Iwagumi Aquascape

    Takashi Amano

    It originated in Japan by the pioneer Takashi Amano. Amano not only created the Iwagumi Aquascape, but also started Aqua Design Amano (ADA). ADA is considered one of the leading Aquarium Substrate developers and supplies of high end planted tank equipment. Amano is so well regarded in the industry that there are two species of Freshwater Shrimp named after him – the Amano and Yamato Shrimp.

    The Iwagumi Aquascape technique derived from Japanese gardening concepts. The Iwagumi concept was published for the first time in the mid 1980s. His publication was the birth of modern aquascaping in the hobby. Taskahi Amano is considered the father of aquascaping by many on our hobby.

    Concepts of the Iwagumi Aquascape

    The Japanese Iwagumi Aquascape is based on the following principles

    • Only one particular type of stone is used
    • No driftwood or roots are used
    • The main focus of the aquascape are the stones
    • One type of plant
    • One type of fish
    • Does not use an even number of stones – odd number of rocks only

    Stones

    The Japanese Iwagumi style is primarily focused are on the stones. The aquascape is going to have an odd number of rocks – usually 3-5. The three stone Iwagumi style is known as a Sanzon Iwagumi.

    The Sanzon Style

    Sanzon Iwagumi

    This is a minimal Zen like Japanese style Aquascape. 3 stones are used with one large stone and two smaller flanking stones. The name is likened to Buddhist triads. I’ll focus more on the traditional 5 stone Iwagumi, but want to define the Sanzon for those interested in it.

    Traditional Style Stone Layout

    With a Japanese Iwagumi Aquascape, every stone serves a function and has a name. Because of this, you have to keep in mind the purpose of each stone you select for the scape. The Stones in the traditional Japanese Iwagumi style are:

    • Oyaishi
    • Fukuishi
    • Soeshi
    • Suteishi

    The following picture from Fish-etc.com illustrates the 5 stones:

    Iwagumi Stone Layout

    Oyaishi Stone

    The Oyaishi Stone is your Master Stone or KeyStone. The whole aquascape is centered around it. This is the main focal point of the aquarium. The Oyashi should be tilted. This is to represent the flow of water and create a natural look. It  needs to be 2/3 of the height of the aquarium. This 2/3 ratio is attractive to the human eye as supported by the Rule of Two Thirds.

    Fukuishi Stone

    The secondary stone is name the Fukuishi. It is a visual counterpoint to the main stone. It needs to be placed at the left or right of Oyaishi. It should be of similar texture and same type of stone as the Oyaishi.

    Soeshi Stone

    Third stone is the Soeshi Stone and supports the impression of the main stone. Its role is to support the flow of the Iwagumi by strengthening the presence of the Oyaishi. It should be placed next to the Oyaishi along with the Fukuishi.

    Suteishi Stone

    Final stones in the Iwagumi style are the Suteishi and form the final details of the scape. These are also known as the sacrificial stone as it does not stand out in the aquascape and may actually be hidden by plant growth over time.

    The Rule of Two Thirds

    I mentioned the rule of two thirds earlier in this blog, so now I will explain it. The rule of two thirds was concepted by the ancient Greeks and have been used in all forms of artwork for thousands of years. It provides a guide on achieving balance with a work of art, which in this case includes aquascaping. It is actually easier to achieve this with an aquarium because we will use this rule on a two dimensional layout using the one major viewing angle of the aquarium. This will usually be the front of the tank. I provided a quick explanation video that discusses the rule of two thirds by Julian Discovers. There is no aquarium here, but this video should still help illustrate what it is.

    We start the rule of two thirds by using four lines – two horizontal and two vertical that run through the tank. This splits up the tank into 9 equal sections. Where the lines cross is considered a golden focus of your aquascape. These mark where you should be placing your prominent pieces of your scape like your stones.

    Stone Selection

    Stone selection is everything with the Japanese Iwagumi style. They are your feature pieces. We consider the following factors when selecting our stones:

    • Size
    • Color (Or Colour for our European friends ^_^)
    • Shape
    • Texture

    Size

    Our prominent rocks need to be impactful. The need to be big enough to stand out in our Iwagumi style tank. An Oyaishi that is too small will not complete your scape while too big will overwhelm the entire aquarium. Aim for 2/3 size of your aquarium height for your Oyaishi

    Color

    Seiryu Stone Iwagumi Aquascape

    There three main types of rocks used with traditional Japanese Iwagumi Aquascapes. We have Dragon Stone, which is brown. Seiryu or Mini Landscape rock is grey. There is also Black Seiryu and Millennium Rock available that are a darker grey or closer to black. Iwagumi rocks are expensive, but they are the foundation of your scape. It is worth spending on hardscaping to pull of an award winning look.

    Shape

    Know the feeling of the scape you would like to design. Do you want stream (smooth rock) look or a mountain range effect (jagged edges)?

    Texture

    Are you looking for smooth texture or want rocks with veins? The texture and placement of your rocks will change the feel of the scape. We call this tension vs. harmony.

    Tension vs. Harmony

    Let’s talk about what this is. The purpose of tension is to create visual interest and energy to our aquascape. Too much visual tension will pull the eye in all directions at once and hurt your design. To create tension, we put our stones at right angles or go with stones that are jagged or veiny.

    Harmony is the togetherness and flow of our aquascape. It is smooth and goes with the flow of the water. To achieve harmony we place stones together and utilize stones that are smooth. Too much harmony and we will have a uniform, stale, and boring aquascape. We must mix a balance of tension and harmony in our aquascape to achieve a stunning piece.

    Setting Up

    After we find our rocks, I encourage people to setup a dry scaping area at your shop (if shopping locally) or to have an area setup to do this in your home.  This can be done with cardboard if you don’t have one available

    Start with a even layer of substrate across the aquarium. We will add more substrate after the stones are placed. To add depth, we can add more substrate at the back of the aquarium to create a sloped affect. Our stones and carpeted plants will prevent the substrate from evening out over time

    Next place the Oyaishi. It is critical to place this first when setting up and it should be placed to be in accordance to the rule of two thirds. Place it at one of the focal points and make sure this stone is 2/3 of height of your aquarium and placed so it is about 2/3 of the width of your aquarium.

    Place the Fukuseki then the Soeishi. Place the final piece – the Suteishi last. Pay attention to balance and angles using the tension vs. harmony concepts I explained earlier.

    For an example Aquascape setup. See the video below by Love Aquascaping below:

    Where are you viewing the aquascape. Consider where you are sitting and the viewing angle. Aim your peaks and valleys to your viewing angles. This develops the sense of depth correctly for the viewer of the aquarium. Slopping your aquarium substrate makes the aquarium look more deep than it really is. We want the substrate shallow at the front and deeper in the back.

    Substrate will slope over time. To prevent this, use rocks and carpeting plants as they will hold the substrate down. Position a camera at your normal viewing angle to see scape. You want to aim for a tri-angular affect when viewing your scape.

    Plants

    We have achieved the proper stone structures for the Iwagumi Style – the rocky yet simple landscape. Now it’s time to focus on the Aquarium Plants that fit the Iwagumi best. The main focus for an Iwagumi is on ground cover or carpeting plants. Grassy type plants are also used. Below is a list of suitable plants for an Iwagumi Aquascape:

    Obtaining Your Plants (Tissue Culture vs. Aquacultured)

    Let’s talk about the possible sources of obtaining your plants. In the planted tank industry we have traditional Aquaculture and Tissue Culture. Aquacultured are grown in a grow out tank, purchased from other hobbyists, or grow emerged at a farm. They are hardy plants, but can be prone to pests.

    Monte Carlo Tissue Culture – UNS

    Tissue culture plants are grown in labs and are completely pest free and have great shelf lives

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    Tissue culture plants are a new development in our industry. These are plants that are grown in a lab. They are free from pests and algae. They have great shelf lives at your retail store, meaning you can purchase them and not have to plant them that day. They are also good value for the money as you can separate the plant bunches. They are worth the consideration and purchase for having that piece of mind of not worrying about pests.

    When you purchase your live plants, you will want to plant densely to start. This prevents algae in the startup phase. It also gives high impact from the start. To pull off a densely planted tank start we must talk about the dry start method.

    The Dry Start Method

    The Dry Start Method or DSM is considered a more advanced technique of starting a planted tank. It was actually originally created for Iwagumi style tanks. The main intention is to create a lush carpet for the tank. We grow plants emerged so their roots take hold. After 4-6 weeks of maturing, the tank can be filled with water. This keeps plants from floating away as their roots have established. Not all plants can be grown emerged so keep that in mind (the plants listed in this blog can be grown emerged). Dwarf baby tears is a common carpeting plant that is used in dry starts.

    There are many benefits to dry starting a tank. We have no algae problems to start. We can take our time and have an easier time planting everything. It’s cheap in the long run and near instant gratification as you start out with a nearly full planted tank to start. You also do not need to cycle the tank as the cycle occurs while you are dry starting.

    The drawbacks is that the dry start method assumes that you are going to use an active soil like ADA Aquasoil. This means that the substrate is going to be expensive. It’s a more advanced technique as you have to keep your plants moist and watch your plants on a daily basis as you dry start. Here is a video from Cichlidscape on how to do the dry start method. A tank that is dry started will mature in only 2 months. It really is that quick!

    Lighting

    Iwagumi style are known for lush growth and landscaping. We are going to want to select a light that encourages a lot of rapid grow because of this. Iwagumis setups are known for not going low on quality. In looking at our Best Planted Tank LEDs, I feel that the Twinstar LEDs are your best options for complete Iwagumi lighting. There are more expensive options, but I feel this is a good balance of expense and quality.

    Editor’s Choice
    Twinstar LED

    The Best LED for Planted Tanks

    Twinstar nails the spectrum, has the proper spread and comes with a sleek design. Perfect for aquascapers

    Buy On Buce Plant Buy On Glass Aqua

    CO2 Systems for Tanks

    Because we are going to do a dry start setup, our plants are going to be matured when we start up the aquarium. Established plants along with the desire of lush growth from an Iwagumi tank requires a full CO2 system setup. You cannot achieve the award winning mature scapes without proper CO2 injection. The carpeted plants we will be using are CO2 hungry. We will want a proper CO2 regulator, CO2 bubble diffusor, and an appropriate sized CO2 canister. Check out our Best CO2 Systems Reviews for insights on CO2 systems and why CO2 is so essential for your success.

    Best Value
    CO2 Art Pro-Elite

    Best Value

    A budget friendly version of the SE series. This has the quality of CO2 art with a great price. Highly recommended!

    Click For Best Price

    Fertilization for Tanks

    The ADA Aquasoil is going to give us an excellent start with our dry start method and will provide a soil for our plants to feed off of. We must however, continue to feed our tanks. Iwagumis have to grow rapidly, full, and lush. Your plants will demand food with them starting out with a combination of established roots, CO2 injection, and high quality light.

    APT Complete comes with my highest recommendation. Don’t even fool around with the chain store stuff with Iwagumis. For Iwagumis, we will use half the recommended doze on the bottle’s instructions to start and adjust from there. APT Complete is an aggressive growth formula — a warm welcome to our Iwagumi demands. To learn more about fertilizers, see the Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizers blog post for details on macro and micro nutrients.

    Editor’s Choice!
    APT Complete

    Editor’s Choice

    Made by an aquascaper for aquascapers. This is the best all around aquarium plant fertilizer on the market. Marco and micronutrients in one bottle!

    Use Coupon Code ASDComplete for 10% off your order!

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    Fish

    In an Iwagumi tank, the fish are part of your backdrop not the feature. We are not going to seek large fish because of this. We want peaceful schooling fish for our aquascape to complete our work of art. Tetras like neons, cardinal, embers or rummy noses are great. Harlequin Rasboras will also work.

    Fish for Iwagumi Aquascapes

    Filtration

    Iwagumis are high demand tanks. They are simple looking and zen like, but they are high bioload tanks with heavily feed plants. A top of the line filtration unit is a serious consideration here.

    We want the best for an Iwagumi, so I’m going to recommend the Biomaster Thermos Series of Canister Filters. It’s a complete, durable unit with an aquarium heater built into it. It is the go to now for high end planted tanks in today’s age.

    Putting It All Together

    So we have talked about the history and concepts of the Iwagumi, the rock layout, rule of two third, the plants, how to dry start, and the fish. Now it’s time to bring it all together and build a setup. Let’s make a shopping list for you.

    Maintenance Issues

    Plants used in this style of scape are usually heavy root feeders. In the beginning, they will be prone to algae issues. However, using the dry start method will limit our exposure. You may get a diatom outbreak when you come out of the dry start. Diatom blooms are common early on. Consider an Amano shrimp to take care of this as they will eat diatoms and savage for debris in your scape.

    Expect to do big water changes every week and regular pruning. 50% water changes are not uncommon with an Iwagumi. They look surprisingly simple and will be overtime as you get used to the demands of your plant growth, fertilizing, CO2 load, and bioload.

    When cleaning your rocks, a common toothbrush will do the job. Just scrub them and then trim your plants as needed with Pruning Aquascape Tools.

    Closing Throughts

    The Iwagumi Aquascape is my favorite aquascape of all freshwater planted tank setups. There is so much history with it. A complete setup is so zen like, peaceful, simple, yet complex. It is a true work of art. They look like landscape pictures to me or a mountain scape. Building an Iwagumi is definitely something that should be on the bucket list for any aquarium enthusiast. I hope you enjoyed spending some time together with me learning about this wonderful art craft. It truly is that – art. If you have any comments, please leave them in the comments section. Until next time folks. It’s been a pleasure!


    🌿 Want to learn more? This article is part of our complete Planted Tank & Aquascaping Guide. your ultimate resource for aquarium plants, aquascaping styles, substrates, and more.

  • UNS Aquarium Review – An In-Depth Look

    UNS Aquarium Review – An In-Depth Look

    UNS (Ultum Nature Systems) tanks have become the go-to choice for serious planted tank enthusiasts, and I understand why. The ultra-clear glass, the precise rimless construction, the thoughtful dimensions. these tanks are built for aquascapers who care about the details. I’ve had the opportunity to look closely at several UNS setups and here’s my honest assessment of whether the price premium is justified.

    Are you looking for the finest ultra clear rimless aquariums you can find today? If so you have come to the right place as I do a comprehensive UNS Aquarium Review. Ultum Nature Systems or UNS is at the pinnacle of quality and craftsmanship in the planted tank community. As you may have seen in our Best Rimless Tank round up, they were given my editor’s choice badge for best the best at what they do – making a pure rimless aquarium. I didn’t have as much space as I wanted to talk about their aquariums, so I’ll go in-depth here.

    I will go over the following:

    • Features
    • Craftsmanship
    • Ease of Use
    • Value For Money
    • Product Support
    • Price

    In a hurry? I recommend purchasing the UNS 90U

    UNS Aquarium Features

    Ultum Nature Systems (AKA UNS) are considered the premium rimless aquarium brand in our industry. They are heavily favored when it comes to planted tanks. The main selling point is their extremely precise design.

    Glass Construction

    UNS Aquarium Glass

    The glass on the Ultum Nature Systems have 45 degree mitered edges. They use high-grade german silicone to not only secure the tank but to have a quality view without obstruction. All aquariums come with a black leveling mat. They are made of low iron 91 clarity Diamant glass.

    The use of 91 clarity Diamant glass is another level of quality when it comes to aquariums. It is not your ordinary low iron glass.

    Diamant is typically used in commercial office windows, interior design, furniture, and display cabinets. This type of glass isn’t used in aquariums because of its price. UNS doesn’t skip anything on quality and materials to get the highest clarity glass you can find on the market. They are well known with their UNS Systems brand logo laser etched on the right bottom side of every tank they construct.

    Cabinets

    One of the biggest benefits of purchasing a UNS aquarium is have access to their cabinets. The UNS cabinets are one of the most modern and clean looking stands you will find today. They are made of natural wood materials and come fully assembled out of the box. They are far superior to any stand you can buy standard from a pet store.

    They are designed to house Canister filters and there is a 45 degree mitered cut at the top of the cabinet door to allow for a grip when opening the doors. All the cabinets fit with UNS aquariums.

    Craftsmanship

    UNS Aquarium Tank and Cabinet

    Ultum Nature Systems craftsmanship is the pinnacle of the planted tank community. Their glass construction and materials are top notch and unique in the industry. Few if any manufacturers use a commercial grade Diamant glass to save on materials costs. Each glass tank is laser etched with their trademark UNS brand and the aquariums are designed for clean lines and maximum clarity.

    On the cabinet side, the cabinets are some of the most modern looking and elegant aquarium stands you will find in the industry. They have leveling knobs and are designed to last and look amazing. Everything fits seamlessly and the tanks look like a work on art on top of the cabinet. The black leveling mat is nonexistent when installed correctly.

    Together both the aquariums and cabinets make a high-end design that will make you the envy of all your aquarium friends and be a conversation piece in the living room or office.

    Value for the Money

    Ultum Nature Systems Aquariums come in a variety of sizes designed with the aquascaper in mind. All models have a cabinet available that fits with the tank and made with their low iron diamant glass. I feel the value for the money is great given the quality of these aquariums and the cabinets available for them. UNS has the following model lines for their aquariums:

    • Rimless Cube Glass Aquariums
    • Standard Ultra Clear Rimless Glass Aquariums
    • Shallow Rimless Aquariums
    • All-In-One Aquarium Tanks

    Cube Glass Tanks

    UNS Cube Aquariums are nano square shaped tanks. They can be great for tighter spaces. The small aquariums are perfect for shrimp tanks, betta fish tanks, and stunning mini aquascapes.

    Model16C20C25C30C40C
    PictureUNS 40C AquariumUNS 40C AquariumUNS 40C AquariumUNS 40C AquariumUNS 40C Aquarium
    Price$$$$$$
    Dimensins (LxWxH)6.29 x 6.29 x 6.297.87 x 7.87 x 7.789.84 x 9.84 x 9.8411.81 x 11.81 x 11.8115.75 x 15.75 x 15.75
    Aquarium Volume (Gallons)12.14.17.116.9
    LinkClick for Best PriceClick for Best PriceClick for Best PriceClick for Best PriceClick for Best Price

    Standard Glass Tanks

    These are the most popular styles of aquariums of UNS going from small to over 100 gallons. These are the gold standard for ultra clear glass rimless aquariums for the planted community

    Model60U75P90P90U120P120U180U
    PictureUNS Standard TanksUNS Standard TanksUNS Standard TanksUNS Standard TanksUNS Standard TanksUNS Standard TanksUNS Standard Tanks
    Price$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
    Dimensins (LxWxH)23.62 x 14.17 x 14.1729.52 x 17.72 x 17.7235.43 x 17.72 x 17.7135.43 x 22.04 x 22.0447.24 x 19.69 x 19.6947.24 x 23.62 x 23.6270.86 x 23.62 x 23.62
    Aquarium Volume (Gallons)1936446878114.58156
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    Shallow Rimless Tanks

    The shallow rimless line provides longer aquascaping scape as well as swimming space for fish. These are ideal for aquarists looking to maximum tank length and swimming space for their fish while still having a great backdrop for a planted space. They all come with the ultra clear glass that UNS is known for.

    Model25S45S60S75S120S
    PictureUNS Shallow Rimless AquariumUNS Shallow Rimless AquariumUNS Shallow Rimless AquariumUNS Shallow Rimless AquariumUNS Shallow Rimless Aquarium
    Price$$$$$$$$$$$
    Dimensins (LxWxH)9.84 x 9.84 x 4.9217.71 x 11.02 x 7.0923.62 x 14.17 x 7.0929.52 x 17.72 x 11.8147.24 x 23.62 x 14.17
    Aquarium Volume (Gallons)25102668
    LinkClick for Best PriceClick for Best PriceClick for Best PriceClick for Best PriceClick for Best Price

    Ease Of Use

    The aquarium itself is super simple. It’s a clean rimless aquarium that comes with a leveling mat. It’s the cabinets that are the big selling point when you purchase these aquariums. The cabinets come already assembled. This is a big difference between other brands like Red Sea or WaterBox who will have the cabinet come in a kit where you would need to assemble it yourself. This saves you time and risk of error.

    Product Support

    This is a major knock on Ultum Nature Systems. They do not have much in the way of product support. They really rely on their retailers to provide guidance and support for claims. The claims will then run through the retailer. This is why you must purchase these aquariums from an authorized dealer. Most dealers are local fish stores, but a premier online seller of UNS aquariums exists online. That would be BucePlant, who is the go to for advanced freshwater equipment and plants. I would recommend if you are going to purchase a UNS Aquarium aquarium online that you purchase it from BucePlant.

    Price

    UNS due to their unique to the industry leading glass, construction process, and brand name are one of the more expensive pure rimless tanks on the market. There certainty are cheaper brands out there if they are out of your budget range, but the UNS’s premier construction, glass, and brand name really stand out.

    Among cabinets, they are one of the finest cabinets you can purchase outside of getting one custom made. The price for them is worth it. Together as a package, they are an excellent value for a high end aquarium.

    Closing Thoughts

    Ultum Nature Systems aquariums offer a great package for those aquascapers lookers for a high end looking setup. The rimless aquarium is one of the highest quality out there with a unique commercial grade glass type. The cabinets are great looking and designed for planted tanks. If you are looking for a show stopping setup to compliment your home or office, UNS Aquariums are the way to go!

    References

  • CO2Art Pro-Elite Regulator review – AN IN-DEPTH LOOK

    CO2Art Pro-Elite Regulator review – AN IN-DEPTH LOOK

    A quality CO2 regulator is one of the most important investments in a planted tank. it determines whether your CO2 injection is stable, consistent, and safe for your fish. I’ve tested several regulators over the years and the CO2Art Pro-Elite stands out for specific reasons I’ll break down here. This is my honest review after hands-on use.

    Looking for the very best CO2 regulator available for planted tanks today? Well you are in a treat today as I review the CO2 Art Pro-Elite Series CO2 Regulator. I had the pleasure of taking to the CO2Art people about their product and got the full scope on their latest CO2 regulator. If you are a serious aquascaper, or looking to be one, this is the product review for you!

    As a reminder for my viewers, this post will contain affiliate links. An affiliate link means I may earn advertising or referral fees if you make a purchase through my link. With that disclose away let’s get started! Let’s find out what makes CO2Art’s regulator stand out from the crowd!

    My reviews are fairly structured. I’m going to be reviewing the following for this product:

    • Features
    • Craftsmanship
    • Ease of Use
    • Value for Money
    • Product Support
    • Price

    In a hurry? I recommend Purchasing the CO2ART Pro-Elite Combo Bundle!

    CO2Art Pro-Elite Series Regulator Features

    CO2 Art Pro-Series Regulator Series Features

    This is a world class CO2 regulator. It is designed for aquarium safety and precision. The unit can handle systems from nano systems all the way up to 1000 gallons. It is a dual stage regulator. This next gen model now comes with a fully customized solenoid block with a high precision needle value and bubble counter. The System is powered via DC with a power adapter that accepts universal voltage from 100V – 240V. It’s a nice plus from CO2 that they will offer you the plugs for your country and it is a product that is available in both the UK and US.

    Having a dual stage regulator is a great idea for planted tanks because it allows you to directly control the consistently of the pressure of the CO2 system. This is a huge advantage compared to single gauge systems that will run into issues with pressure consistency as the CO2 tank empties. The gauges are very easy to read and the brand dial are nice features they have added to this new generation model. The prior generator had plainer looking gauges and the dial looked more standard like what you would see on a CO2 regulator at a bar.

    The bubble counter and the needle valve on this regulator are top notch. The needle valve is extremely precise. It doesn’t take a ton of them to bed down. It is fast and accurate from the start!

    Craftsmanship

    Let’s talk about the craftsmenship of CO2 products and why they are amazing buys. They are top German quality, reliability built regulators. These are not your budget build short-term warranty regulators that you will find on Amazon. CO2Art backs up this top of the line model with a 10 year warranty. The stainless steel finish is great and the power adapter does a good job of getting too hot in your aquarium cabinet. Nothing in this regulator package looks cheap. No corners were cut with this regulator. Amazing work by the CO2Art team.

    Ease Of Use (Installation)

    CO2 Art Pro Series Ease Of Install

    Installing the CO2Art Pro Series is fairly simple with the YouTube videos that CO2 Art suppliers on their YouTube channel and with their offer of tech support to their customers. They have no problems getting on on customer support ticket to walk you through the process.

    If you are lost on the install – CO2Art offers their instruction manual online here.

    Value For the Money

    The price for these units are not cheap. This top of the line model is up there with similar top end models. What makes their value stand out though is the warranty and customer support behind the product. There is also a wonderful combo package that CO2Art offers that gets you everything you need. This to me makes this Regulator the best value on the market.

    CO2 Art Pro Series Regulator Combo

    This package comes with the following:

    • Pro Series CO2Art Regulator
    • Aluminum Aquarium CO2 bubble Counter
    • CO2 Art Inline Diffusor
    • Aquarium CO2 Drop Checker
    • CO2 Resistant Tubing

    All of these comes together at an excellent price price and backed by a 10 year warranty. Want a better discount? Try my discount code ASD10%Off at checkout.

    Click for Best Price

    Legendary Customer Support

    The biggest differentiating standpoint from CO2Art and every other CO2 regulator seller is their customer support. The customer support is top notch and CO2 offers lifetime technical support for all their customers. The CO2Art team patiently answers all your questions and concerns about install and setup. They will also happily ship this product to multiple countries – US, Canada, UK, Signapore, etc the CO2 will ship internationally. The support team offers you a support portal with online instructions, articles and FAQS. I love their support and they have always been there for me to answer any questions I had.

    Price

    This is the biggest knock on the Pro-Elite Series CO2 Regulator. It is premium priced and may be too expensive for some. CO2Art does offer a more budget friendly version in the Pro-Series Model. You can also purchase the product off Klarna’s pay later program, which will break up the purchase in 4 installments.

    Closing Thoughts

    This is the best CO2 Regulator you can buy today. It has it all. The features, the quality, the customer service, and warranty. You can see the ratings below from me. The product gets my editor’s choice rating. Since I’m open to all reviews, you can leave your own reviews below. This provides the community with an unfiltered source of reviews. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below. Thanks for reading!

    References

  • How to Set up a Freshwater Shrimp Tank: The Ultimate Guide

    How to Set up a Freshwater Shrimp Tank: The Ultimate Guide

    A dedicated shrimp tank is different from a fish tank in almost every way. No copper-based medications. No aggressive tankmates. No sudden parameter swings.

    A shrimp tank is not a fish tank with shrimp in it. Build it for the shrimp or watch them die.

    Freshwater Shrimp tanks are getting very popular these days. Shrimp with their small size, active nature, and appealing personality has increased in popularity, especially with nano or smaller tanks. Shrimp tanks have some special considerations though to be successful. They is intimating at first because they is more delicate than fish and require a bit more planning than first.

    That is not to say they are difficult to keep. In fact, most shrimp are relatively easy to keep, they just require proper planning. That’s what this article is for – to get you on the right track. In this article, I will discuss everything you need to know to get started right.

    Key Takeaways

    • A sponge filter is the go-to for most shrimp tank keepers
    • If you are going the planted tank route, you must ensure your substrate and fertilizers do not contain copper as it could kill your shrimp
    • TDS meters are beneficial to determine if your source water is okay. Consider RO or RODI + mineralizing if your TDS is too high
    • Tank mates are tricky as many fish will prey on shrimp. If they don’t prey on the adult shrimp, they will likely eat the baby shrimp

    Freshwater Shrimp Tank Equipment – Getting The Proper Equipment

    Below is a video from our YouTube Channel all about how to setup a freshwater shrimp tank. We go over more details in our blog post below. If you like our content, be sure to subscribe.

    The first step is figuring out what we need exactly to get started. Let’s start with the biggest consideration – the tank itself.

    Tank Size

    Bigger is better and more stable. Although shrimp can technically survive in a very small aquarium, the water is prone to fluctuations in parameters and temperatures. This can lead to premature death of shrimp. Shrimp do not like a lot of parameter fluctuations in their tank. In addition, healthy freshwater shrimp will actively breed, meaning you want a bigger tank to support the offspring.

    Shrimp Tank Size

    There is also a drawback with going too big. Too big with how small the shrimp are will make your aquarium look underwhelming. Due to this, I would recommend not going larger than 40 gallons with 20 – 29 gallons being an ideal sweet spot to start. A 2 foot long tank will be the cheapest overall to setup.

    If you are looking for a cheap used tank, you will need to do some extra diligence when shopping around. Any used tank that has been treated with copper is going to be a major problem with freshwater shrimp. Copper will leech from the silicon seems in a used aquarium and will kill off new additions to your tank. It is critical that you purchase a used tank that has never been treated with copper to ensure long-term success.

    Filtration

    Editor’s Choice
    Hikari Bacto Surge Sponge Filter

    The Best Sponge Filter

    With a name brand and high quality reputation, the Bacto Surge separates itself from the pack

    Buy On Chewy Buy On Amazon

    Freshwater Shrimp filtration gets a little more complicated with shrimp as you have to account for shrimp fry then the general small nature of Shrimp. A filter can easily suck up shrimp babies and even adults. It is easy to modify your filters to prevent this though., shrimps tanks go with one of the following:

    We do not consider Canister Filters with freshwater shrimp. It’s just overkill for this application. Internal filters could work, but the sponge filter is just a great choice to use if you are going internal. If you are going with a Hang On Back Filter, you can’t go wrong with an Hagen Aquaclear Filter.

    • Sponge Filter – Cheap, easy, and not dangerous to shrimp out of the box. Many shrimp breeders use these in their tanks because they are so easy to use and they work!
    • Hang On Back (HOB) Filter – Also known as power filters. These are excellent choices, but you have to modify your intake to prevent any accidents. I would suggest you place a sponge pre-filter on your intake in order to prevent any losses.

    Heating

    An Aquarium Heater is a controversial subject among shrimp keepers, especially those who keep Neocaridina Shrimp, which can live in cooler water. Ideally, you will want your freshwater shrimp in water temperatures of 70 – 79 degrees Fahrenheit though many breeders will say that a heater is not exactly needed with Neocardina shrimp as long as your area does not get too cold during the winter. For heaters, I would recommend Eheim Jagers.

    Substrate

    With Aquarium Substrate, we have to consider either going with an inert or active substrate. An inert substrate will not affect our water parameters, but will require more supplementation to maintain plants. An active substrate is more suited for shrimp that need softer water, like Caridina shrimp. You will also have more success with active substrate growing rooted plants as nutrients will be available through the substrate. If you are going with an active substrate, consider going with ADA Aquasoil or Fluval Stratum, which is designed for freshwater shrimp.

    Best Value
    Fluval Stratum

    Best Value

    A cheaper and beginner friendly alternative to ADA Soil. Also great for shrimp tanks!

    Buy On Petco Buy On Amazon

    If we are looking at shrimp that like KH, like Neocaridina shrimp, you may want to consider an inert substrate. I would recommend CaribSea EcoComplete if you are looking for an inert substrate.

    If you go with an active soil, keep in mind that your cycle time will be longer. Active soil will produce a lot of ammonia when new and freshwater shrimp are very sensitive to ammonia spikes. Be patient with your cycle and introduce your shrimp when parameters have stabilized.

    Plants

    Anubias

    Anubias is hardy and more fish and inverts won’t bother it. An excellent choice for beginners!

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    Shrimp thrive on planted tanks and there are several good choices for freshwater shrimp. Here are several that will work well with your shrimp inhabitants:

    If you are going with an active substrate, you can consider carpet plants like Monte Carlo. Duckweed and Rotalas do a very good job at protecting your shrimp from high nitrate spikes as they tend to explode in growth when nutrients are high. Also stay on top of your pruning and leaf clean up to prevent decaying matter build up in your aquarium.

    Lighting

    Freshwater Shrimp and lighting is pretty simple. You can use any decent Planted Tank LED system and you should be able to house the main plants listed. For the best features, I would recommend the Serene RGB Pro LED light if it’s in your budget.

    Best Value
    Serene RGB Pro LED

    Current USA’s offering into aquascaping is an incredible value. Spectrum, spread, easy to program and great PAR output.

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    Test Kits

    There are several parameters we will want to keep an eye when shrimp keeping. These will be:

    • Ammonia
    • Nitrite
    • Nitrate
    • pH
    • GH
    • KH
    • TDS

    Ammonia, Nitrite are very important to measure when you get started with your tank. As you tank matures, you will mostly worry about your nitrate levels. PH, GH, and KH need to be regularly tested in order to ensure they stay stable with your desired shrimp.

    TDS is a new parameter to test when it comes to shrimp keeping. TDS is a measure of total dissolved solids in water. Too much TDS can affect the health of your shrimp and some shrimp are so sensitive, it is more ideal to use water from an RODI System and then re-materialize the water with a supplement like Shrimp Mineral. Below is a chart that lists out the range of TDS levels for specific types of shrimp:

    NameOptimal TDSLimits
    Bamboo Shrimp150. 200100. 300
    Snowball Shrimp150. 20080. 300
    Ghost Shrimp150. 200100. 400
    Amano Shrimp150. 200100. 400
    Cherry Shrimp150. 200100. 400
    Cardinal Shrimp10050. 150
    Blue Tiger Shrimp180. 220100. 300
    My Pick
    HM Digital TDS Meter

    Readily available online, this TDS Meter is perfect for ensuring your levels are optimum for your shrimp

    Buy On Amazon

    TDS Meters are readily available online and do a great job at getting accurate readings for you. Make sure when you are testing for TDS, that you test your other parameters as well. Everything affects TDS so just measuring TDA alone is not sufficient! Check out our posts on Aquarium Test Kits for more recommendations on test kits. For KH and HG tests, an API Test Kit should work for most shrimp keepers.

    Parameters for Neocaridina are as follows:

    • pH: 6.5 – 7.5
    • KH: 1-4
    • GH: 6-8
    • TDS – 80-200
    • Water Temp: 65 – 73 F

    Parameters for Caridina shrimp are as follows:

    • pH: 6.2 – 6.6
    • KH: 2-6
    • GH: 4-8
    • TDS: 80-100
    • Water Temp: 70 – 73 F

    Keep in mind these are general guidelines. Caridina and their bee varieties can have various ideal parameters so you will want to do your research accordingly!

    How To Set Up

    I’m going to borrow a video from my good friend Aaron from Aaron’s Aquatics. This video shows an example setup and the start up process. Aquascaping for Shrimp Tanks are best using the Iwagumi style aquascape. This is because the large rocks create mountain that are still smooth for shrimp to venture around on. Cholla wood is also great to use for shrimp. Aaron’s video also has a few other recommendations like Catappa Leaves.

    Species – Choosing The Right Ones

    So you heard me earlier in this post talk about Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp. I’m going to focus on these two types of shrimp in this post.

    Neocaridina shrimp are going to be hardier than Cardina shrimp. They are a hardwater species and like KH, which means them best for an inert substrate. If the Neocardina shrimp, the Cherry Shrimp is the most beginner friendly and has the most variety.

    Beginner Friendly
    Cherry Shrimp

    Great red color and very hardy. Cherry shrimp are the best beginner shrimp for shrimp tanks

    Click For Best Price Buy In Bulk

    Cherry Shrimp have grades that are easy to follow with Red Cherry being the lowest grade and Painted Fire Red being the highest. Their grades are as follows:

    • Cherry
    • Sakura
    • Fire Red
    • Painted Fire Red

    Each grade is more rare and more expensive than the other. Cherry shrimp will  breed and grow quickly.

    Other examples include Yellow, Blue Dream, and Green. All come from the Neocardina Davidi species. You can get multiple colors, but be aware that over time they will cross bred and you will have hybrids. A variety only tank is more ideal to keep consistent colors.

    Snow White Bee Shrimp

    Caridina shrimp are a soft water, more delicate species of shrimp. They tend to be imported from other countries making them larger when shipped and more prone to die off for a variety of reasons that I will explain later. Caradia shrimp and bring in some exotic colors and adapt better to active soils like ADA Aquasoil because they prefer softer water and tend to fit better in a professional level planted tank because the plants one will go for will demand softer water. Caradina shrimp are highly sensitive to parameter fluctuations and the reason why shrimp tend to get labeled as hard to keep in our industry. One common Caradina shrimp is an Amano shrimp.

    There is another type of shrimp that is available called Sulawesi shrimp. These are exotic shrimp that imported. They have high mortality rates when shipping and are an advanced care shrimp to keep.

    Here is a simple chart below on Neocardina and Caradina shrimp varieties:

    Neo CaridinaCaridina
    CherryTangerie Tigers
    SnowballsRacoon Tigers
    Blue JellyYellow King Kong
    Blue DreamAura Blue
    CarbonBlue Bolts (Crystal/Bee)
    OrangeShadow Panda (Crystal/Bee)
    ChocolateGolden Bee
    Green JadeSnow White

    Sourcing Selections

    When purchasing freshwater aquarium shrimp, sourcing becomes a major component in your success. With shrimp, you have two sources, importing shrimp and homebred shrimp.

    Importing shrimp is what you will find at your local fish stores. If you haven’t seen my Quarantine post, you may not be familiar with the sourcing cycle of imported livestock in our hobby. It is below for your reference:

    The Ornamental Fish Trade Supply Chain

    Imported livestock in general are going to go through multiple distributions to get to your home. This increases stress and the likelihood for diseases. Imported shrimp will also be larger in size, meaning they will have a harder time adapting to captivity. It is common for imported shrimp to experience die off when shipping (picture reference from the University of Florida).

    Homebred shrimp on the other hand are going to be hardier in general. They are used being in captivity and tend to be less prone to diseases. Homebred shrimp can also have issues as well if your breeder is not experienced or they are only a generation or two removed from being imported. In general, it’s going to be better to get your shrimp homebred from a local breeder in your area as they will use the similar source water as you (e.g. – tap water). Check your local aquarium societies and social media groups for sources of homebred shrimp.

    For those who do not have a local breeder available, I would highly recommend Buceplant. They sell a variety of Neocardina shrimp that would all be excellent choices for your shrimp tank.

    Pests – Dealing With Them

    Freshwater aquarium shrimp have pests that we need to deal with. Most will come from freshwater plants we purchase. The main pests are:

    • Planaria
    • Hydra
    • Scuds
    • Dragon Fly Nymphs

    Planaria is a type of flatworm that will attack and eat shrimp. You can use a Planaria Trap or a No Planaria medication to eradicate the problem.

    Hydra is a small aquatic vertebrae. They will sting and poison your shrimp killing them. They can also be treated with No Planaria medication.

    Scuds are especially dangerous for newborn shrimp. It is another hitchhiker from live plants. Manual removal is best for these. The reproduce very fast. Another option is to use Bettas or Killifish as they they will happily eat the scuds. Betta are a wildcard for shrimp tanks. Some people go the nuclear route, remove as many shrimp as they can, drop the Betta in and let it eat all the scuds over time. Once the scuds have been eaten the Betta is removed and the shrimp is reintroduced.

    Dragonfly Nymphs are nasty predators. They will kill and eat your shrimp and will hunt non-stop. Manual removal is your best bet. There are other options you can do, but they will harm your shrimp.

    The best way to deal with pests is prevention though. Consider dipping your plants in a bleach solution (19 parts water to 1 parts bleach) and rising with Prime conditioned water before introducing them into your aquarium or consider quarantining your live plant additions. See the video below from LifeWithPets on how to do a bleach dip for your live plants:

    Compatible Tank Mates

    You may not be interested in shrimp only tanks, so this list of fish will help with picking ones that will work with your shrimp. One thing you will need to keep in mind is if you add fish, it is going to be very likely that the shrimp babies will get eaten so don’t expect to breed shrimp with fish. There are very few fish that will not eat a baby shrimp if given a chance. You can increase your chances of success by choosing a larger species of shrimp like an Amano. Here is a limited selection of small fish that may work in a shrimp tank:

    Neon Tetra

    Feeding

    You need a mix of natural and prepared food to be successful with shrimp tanks. The main natural food we are looking to have available is biofilm. Biofilm is the structure bacteria build to support themselves and grow on surfaces. Shrimp will eat this in the aquarium. Biofilm can grow on your sponger filter, leave litter, mosses, and rocks. The more surface you have available the better for your shrimp. You can also provide “permanent food” like Cholla Wood.

    The next is prepared food. Powered Shrimp Baby Food by GlasGarten is a great choice to sustain shrimp babies. For adult shrimp, commercial shrimp food is available for purchase and will do the trick.

    Shrimp Baby

    This powdered food is perfect for baby shrimp

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    It is also a good idea to use a Feeding Tray when feeding your shrimp. This will prevent excess food getting lost in your substrate and keeping the rest of your aquarium clean from food debris. It’s also a nice way to observe your fish.

    Tank Maintenance

    Shrimp in general are more prone to parameter changes than fish. Staying on top of maintenance is a big deal with shrimp tanks. Many shrimp tanks are also smaller tanks, which make them more susceptible to parameter changes.

    Water Quality

    Shrimp are sensitive to ammonia, nitrite, and higher levels of nitrate. Weekly water changes are especially important with shrimp tanks. Another factor to consider with shrimp tanks is water top off. When water evaporates, parameters can change. Evaporation just pulls out water, but leaves your trace minerals in. You will want to added pure replacement water. This would be something like RODI water or distilled water to replace your evaporated water. You can use an Auto Top Of System to make things easier.

    Shrimp Tank Maintenance Tasks

    Additional tasks aside from water changes and top off water would be once a month filter cleaning. Make sure when you clean your filter media that you use your pulled tank water and squeeze the foam or sponges. This will clean out the debris, but will maintain the bacterial colonies in the media. Sponges should last a very long time and shouldn’t need to be replaced. Don’t replace a sponge unless you absolutely have to, and be very careful if you do because of the bacterial colony loss. It’s better to seed a sponge beforehand if you have to replace a sponge.

    Another key thing to note about shrimp tank is you need to be very careful when you put your hands in your aquarium. Shrimp are very sensitive to toxins. Detergents, chemicals on plants, flea treatments from pets, flea shampoo, and cleaners are prone a risk for your shrimp. Always make sure you wash your hands before putting your hands in your tank. Reef Safe Soap is your friend and a recommended purchase if you are going to handle a shrimp tank.

    Problems – Why They Die

    There a number of challenges one can come across with a Shrimp Tank. I’ll try to cover several of them in this post.

    Parameter Swings

    Shrimp are sensitive to water parameter swings. Having proper tests kits and a TDS meter are you friend. Get in the habit of regularly testing your water on a weekly basis.

    Uncycled Tanks

    Shrimp are very sensitive to ammonia in the aquarium and with their prolific breeding, they can add on to your bioload overtime. If you are using active substrate like ADA Aquasoil, keep in mind that the substrate will generate ammonia when it is first introduced. You will want to give an active soil like this a good two months before introducing shrimp.

    Molting Issues

    A common aliment in beginner shrimp tanks. This indicates a lack of iodine in the tank. Most staple food and powered food will serve this function. Fertilizer that is made for shrimp tanks will also include iodine to help support the shrimp’s molting process. Additional items to add if needed would be montmorillonite material powder that you can readily purchase online.

    Too Many Males

    If you have a shrimp tank with too many males to females, this will present a problem to your population. Males in abundance will overwhelm, stress out, and harass females to the point of death. If you are seeing your females are dropping fast, consider removing a portion of your male population to balance out your numbers. I have provide examples of a female and male shrimp to show you the visual differences. The male is longer while the female has an expanded abdomen section.

    Female Cherry Shrimp
    Male Shrimp

    Aquarium Heaters

    Heater failure is pretty common in our hobby. A failed heater can lead to many shrimp deaths. Heaters will fail on the on position, which will overheat your tank. Consider an Aquarium Heater Controller to prevent a catastrophic event.

    Pests

    As we mentioned earlier, pests are a major problem in shrimp tanks. Consider using a bleach dip to prevent nuisance pests in your tank.

    Toxins

    Toxins – especially copper are especially deadly to shrimp. Make sure if you are using fertilizer that your fertilizer is shrimp safe meaning that there isn’t copper in the mix or purchase a fertilizer specially designed for shrimp. Check our our Aquarium Plant Fertilizer post for recommended products.

    Poor Source Water

    Let’s talk about your source water. In general for freshwater tanks, you is okay using tap water that is treated with a Dechlorinator. If you are going to keep harder to keep shrimp like Caridina shrimp, you will probably need to go with better source water.

    Shrimp are very sensitive to copper levels and high nurtients, things that is present in tap water. You will want to look at your city’s water reports to see what is in your water. RODI water is 99% pure H20 for your aquarium and ideal for sensitive species of shrimp. If you use tap water with Caridina shrimp, it’s possible to get quick die off of your shrimp. If you are using RODI water, you will need to remineralize the water when making water changes. You will want to use a remineralizer supplement in order to get the proper elements in your water changes so your shrimp can stay health.

    Editor’s Choice
    SaltyShrimp – Shrimp Mineral

    Editor’s Choice

    The go to for remineralizing your source water. Highly recommended for all shrimp tank setups

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    Baby Deaths

    Having baby shrimp dying in large numbers can indicate an inadequate source of biofilm for the babies. Focus on building this up in your tank with more rocks, mosses, leave litter, and consider using powdered food to keep them fed.

    Life Span

    Shrimp don’t actually live very long. Most shrimp will live 6-12 months in an aquarium, but they breed a lot. This is also why having a single variety of shrimp is a big deal because generations pass quickly and within a couple of years you will have hybrid shrimps in your tank from the new generations.

    Closing Thoughts

    Glass Feeding Dish For Shrimp Tanks

    Freshwater shrimp tanks are loaded with personality and if bigger shrimp are selected, they is manageable for a beginner. Shrimp tanks are a niche in our hobby with challenge levels for everyone and it is really exciting to have an actively breeding tank.

    They can really be a lot of fun to keep and with their smaller sizes, your wallet will thank you versus going for a much larger tank :). If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading.

  • The 10 Best Nitrate Removers for Freshwater aquariums (2026 Reviews)

    The 10 Best Nitrate Removers for Freshwater aquariums (2026 Reviews)

    High nitrates are one of the most common problems I see in freshwater tanks, and one of the most misunderstood. In 25 years of keeping fish and managing aquarium stores, the question I’ve heard more than almost any other is: “What do I add to get my nitrates down?” The honest answer most people don’t want to hear: you probably don’t need to add anything. You need to fix what’s causing them.

    Most “nitrate removers” are band-aids. The real answer is water changes, stocking discipline, and biological filtration. But some products do work in specific situations, and knowing which ones are worth it can save you a lot of money and frustration.

    https://youtu.be/E0YnjkKaGn8

    What People Get Wrong About Nitrate Removers

    The misconception is that nitrate remover products are a substitute for addressing root causes. They’re not. If you have 80 ppm nitrates because you’re overstocked and doing monthly water changes, dropping a chemical pad in your filter will temporarily reduce the number but won’t stop the source. You’ll be replacing that pad every few weeks forever while your fish are still stressed from the chronic nitrate load.

    The second mistake: treating nitrate management as a chemistry problem instead of a biology problem. Nitrates are a waste product of the nitrogen cycle. The only permanent solutions are the same ones nature uses: dilution (water changes), uptake (live plants), or conversion (anaerobic bacteria in specialized media). Everything else is temporary.

    The Biggest Mistake Freshwater Keepers Make

    Overstocking and then trying to chemical-fix their way out of it. I’ve watched hobbyists spend more on nitrate-removing filter media over a year than they would have spent doing proper weekly water changes. The media needs to be replaced, the problem never goes away, and the fish are still living in water quality that’s chronically below ideal. If your nitrates are consistently above 40 ppm between water changes, look at your stocking level before you look at your product options.

    EXPERT TAKE | MARK VALDERRAMA

    After 25 years in this hobby, here’s my honest take on nitrate removers: Biohome Ultimate is the only product on this list I’d call a genuine long-term solution for a heavily stocked fish-only tank. It’s expensive and takes time to establish, but once it’s running, the results are real and lasting. For everything else, you’re managing symptoms. Seachem Purigen is my go-to for a quick, reliable intervention, and the Acurel pad has saved more than a few tanks I’ve seen in stores where the owner needed fast results with a canister filter. But none of these replace fundamentals: stock appropriately, change water regularly, and let your biological filtration do what it’s designed to do.

    Understanding the Nitrogen Cycle First

    Aquarium Nitrogen Cycle

    Before we get into products, here’s why you have a nitrate problem. The nitration cycle runs through 5 stages:

    1. Nitrogen enters the system through fish food
    2. Ammonia is produced through fish waste and decaying material
    3. Nitrosomonas bacteria convert ammonia to nitrite
    4. Nitrobacter bacteria convert nitrite to nitrate
    5. Plants use nitrates and ammonium as fertilizer

    Most freshwater tanks are missing step five. No live plants, no nitrate consumption. The standard filter media that comes with most power filters handles steps 3 and 4 through biological colonization, but filter manufacturers don’t typically include media designed to address step 5, because it’s more expensive and not everyone wants it.

    Ways to Remove Nitrates

    1. Water Changes

    Water changes are the foundation. They dilute nitrates and replace trace elements. If you’re doing them consistently, most hobbyists can keep nitrates under control without any additional products. The goal is to not be a slave to the water change bucket, but realistically, a 20-25% change every 1-2 weeks is the baseline for a healthy freshwater community tank.

    2. Live Plants

    A well-planted tank is a natural nitrate sink. Dense planting can genuinely eliminate nitrate buildup in lightly stocked tanks. This doesn’t work for everyone: goldfish destroy plants, aggressive cichlids uproot them, and some hobbyists simply don’t want to manage plant growth. But if you can do it, a planted tank is the most elegant nitrate solution available.

    3. Reduce Stocking

    Sometimes the tank is just overstocked. The 1-inch-per-gallon rule is outdated and unreliable; it doesn’t account for bioload differences between species. Goldfish, large cichlids, and messy eaters produce far more waste per inch than neon tetras. If your biological filtration is maxed out, no product will solve that sustainably.

    4. Dedicated Nitrate-Removing Filter Media

    This is where the products below come in. Nitrate-removing media works through either chemical/resin absorption (disposable) or biological means (permanent media that grows anaerobic bacteria). Both approaches work, but they work differently and suit different tank setups. Know what you’re buying before you add it to your filter.

    The Candidates

    Every product here has been selected based on field experience and safety for freshwater use. All are safe for fish and plants when used as directed.

    In a hurry? I recommend Biohome for a permanent solution and Seachem Purigen for a disposable solution.

    PictureNameTypeLink
    Editor’s Choice
    Biohome Ultimate Filter Media
    Biohome Ultimate Filter Media

    Permanent

    Buy On Amazon
    Best Value
    Seachem Purigen
    Seachem Purigen

    Rechargeable

    Click For Best PriceBuy On Amazon

    WHY THIS RANKING

    These products are ranked on effectiveness for freshwater applications, long-term value (permanent vs. disposable cost over time), ease of use in common filter types (power filters, canister filters), and how well they address the specific type of nitrate problem most freshwater keepers face. Products that require specific filter configurations or offer only temporary relief are ranked accordingly.

    The Top 10 Best Nitrate Removers (2026 Reviews)

    1. Biohome Ultimate Filter Media: The Best Permanent Solution

    Editor’s Choice!
    Biohome Ultimate Filter Media

    Editor’s Choice!

    The only filter media that handles ammonia, nitrite, AND nitrate biologically. Set it and let it work.

    Buy On Amazon

    Biohome Ultimate is the best biological filtration media you can buy, and in my opinion it’s the most effective long-term nitrate solution for freshwater tanks. It handles ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate, all three stages of the nitrogen cycle, in one permanent media. Biohome was originally developed by PondGuru, a pond care YouTuber who needed a solution for high-nutrient pond water. It translates extremely well to freshwater aquariums.

    Because it’s biologically based, it takes time to establish. Don’t expect results in the first week. You’re waiting for anaerobic bacteria to colonize the inner pores of the media, which can take 4-8 weeks in a new setup. Once it’s running, you’re done. You add it to your filter and leave it there. No replacements, no recharging.

    The drawback is cost and quantity. You need 2-4 lbs for a mid-sized tank, and it’s not cheap. Here’s Bio-Home’s own dosing guide:

    EnvironmentAmount of Biohome Required
    Avg Community Tropical Tank1 kg/26 gal (100 lt)
    Avg Cold Water Tank1-1.5 kg/26 gal (100 lt)
    Predator Tank1.5-2 kg/26 gal (100 lt)
    Large Cichlid Tank1.5-2 kg/26 gal (100 lt)
    Malawi/Tanganyikan Tank1.5-2 kg/26 gal (100 lt)
    Avg Mixed Fish Pond1 kg/52 gal (200 lt)
    Avg Koi Pond1 kg/39 gal (150 lt)

    If you want to stop being a slave to constant water changes, this is worth every penny. It’s the investment you make once instead of buying disposable media repeatedly.

    • Pros: Permanent, biological, handles full nitrogen cycle, mini version fits power filters
    • Cons: Expensive upfront, requires 4-8 weeks to establish

    2. Seachem Purigen: Best Fast-Acting Option

    Best Value
    Seachem Purigen

    Best Value

    Fast-acting, color-changing resin that removes organics and nitrate compounds. Rechargeable with bleach solution.

    Buy On Amazon Click For Best Price

    Seachem Purigen is the fast-acting option I recommend for hobbyists who need results now. It uses a synthetic resin that removes organic compounds, and its color changes from white to dark brown as it depletes. That color indicator is genuinely useful: you know exactly when to replace or recharge without guessing.

    Recharging uses an unscented bleach solution, which actually destroys the organics instead of just releasing them back (API’s salt recharge approach has risk of leaching organics back over time). Purigen’s recharge process is more thorough.

    It’s affordable, available everywhere, and fits in power filters without modification. For a fast intervention on a tank with elevated nitrates, this is my default recommendation.

    • Pros: Fast acting, color indicator, rechargeable, fits power filters
    • Cons: Recharge process takes attention, not a permanent fix for chronic issues

    3. EA Premium Nitrate Reducer Pad: Best Budget Canister Filter Option

    Budget Option
    EA Premium Nitrate Reducer Pad

    Budget Option

    Budget-friendly, effective infused pad that works immediately in canister filters

    Buy On Amazon

    The EA Premium Nitrate Reducer is an infused filter pad that works immediately, no break-in period. It’s my budget recommendation for canister filter owners. Place it in the chemical media stage after your mechanical filtration. Rinse it before use or it’ll cloud your water. It can be cut to fit different filter sizes.

    • Pros: Cheap, works instantly, can be cut to size
    • Cons: Dusty (rinse first), hard to find locally, may not fit small power filters

    4. Acurel LLC Nitrate Reducing Pad: Proven Field Results

    Acurel LLC Nitrate Reducing Pad

    The name-brand canister filter nitrate pad with proven field results in large tanks

    Buy On Amazon

    Acurel’s Nitrate Reducing Pad has been a reliable option for years. It’s a 10×18 inch pad you cut to fit. I’ve personally seen this pad drop nitrates in a 180-gallon African cichlid tank from 60-80 ppm down to under 20 ppm. It works best in a canister filter’s chemical media chamber. The limitation is power filters: you need enough pad surface area to be effective, and most power filters can’t accommodate enough of it.

    • Pros: Proven large-tank results, cuttable size, fast acting
    • Cons: Not effective in small power filters, harder to find locally

    5. API Nitra-Zorb: Best All-In-One Resin for Canister Filters

    API NITRA-ZORB

    Resin media that handles ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Replaces carbon in canister filters.

    Buy On Amazon Buy On Chewy

    API Nitra-Zorb is a resin-based media that handles ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate and replaces carbon in canister filters. It’s rechargeable with an aquarium salt solution, which makes it reusable. One caution: the salt-based recharge only replaces ionic compounds, it doesn’t destroy larger organic compounds the way Purigen’s bleach recharge does. Over time there’s a risk of organics leaching back, though in practice most users replace it often enough that this isn’t an issue.

    • Pros: Handles full nitrogen cycle, replaces carbon, rechargeable
    • Cons: Bag is large (designed for canister filters), can interfere with established beneficial bacteria colonies

    6. Boxtech Aquarium Media: MarinePure-Style Ceramic for Freshwater

    BoxTech Aquarium Media

    Ceramic blocks with massive surface area for anaerobic bacterial colonization in canister filters

    Buy On Amazon

    Saltwater keepers know MarinePure as a top biological filtration option. BoxTech applies the same principle in a 3×3 block sized for canister filters. It’s a permanent solution that grows anaerobic bacteria to convert nitrates. No replacement needed once established, but like Biohome, it requires weeks to colonize before showing results.

    • Pros: Permanent, large surface area for bacteria, good fit for canister filters
    • Cons: Won’t fit most power filters, needs establishment period

    7. Dr. Tim’s Aquatics NP-Active Pearls: Marine Biologist Designed

    Dr. Tim’s Aquatics NP-Active Pearls

    Designed by marine biologist Dr. Tim Hovanec for nitrate and phosphate reduction

    Buy On Amazon

    Dr. Tim Hovanec is a marine biologist who made his reputation on nitrification research. These NP-Active Pearls are designed to reduce both nitrates and phosphates through controlled biological activity. The pearls feed beneficial bacteria that consume both compounds. They work well in reactors and high-flow filter areas. For freshwater applications, they’re a solid biological nitrate reducer, though the setup is slightly more involved than a simple media pad or biological block.

    • Pros: Designed by actual marine biologist, reduces both nitrates and phosphates, biological approach
    • Cons: Works best in reactors, more complex setup than alternatives

    8. IceCap Turf Scrubber: The Best Passive Nitrate Export System

    IceCap Turf Scrubber

    Permanent algae-based nitrate and phosphate export for freshwater and saltwater systems

    Buy On Amazon

    The IceCap Turf Scrubber grows algae under an LED light. You harvest the algae regularly, and with it you’re physically exporting the nitrates and phosphates the algae has consumed. It’s a genuinely elegant biological solution for hobbyists who want to reduce maintenance frequency. It works in freshwater and saltwater. The tradeoff is that it’s another piece of equipment to maintain and it requires space.

    • Pros: Natural nitrate export, permanent, works for both freshwater and saltwater
    • Cons: Requires additional space and regular algae harvesting

    9. Seachem Denitrate: Biological Media for Low-Flow Areas

    Seachem Denitrate

    Permanent biological media that promotes anaerobic bacterial growth for nitrate conversion

    Buy On Amazon

    Seachem Denitrate is a porous biological media specifically designed to support anaerobic bacteria that convert nitrates. It works best in areas of very low water flow, such as deep canister filter beds or static sumps, where oxygen is limited enough for anaerobic bacteria to thrive. It’s a permanent solution that takes time to establish but requires no ongoing replacement.

    • Pros: Permanent, specifically designed for anaerobic bacterial growth
    • Cons: Requires low-flow placement, takes time to establish

    10. Seachem Matrix: Dual-Purpose Biological Media

    Seachem Matrix

    High-surface-area biological media supporting both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    Seachem Matrix is pumice-based biological media with high internal porosity. The outer surface supports aerobic bacteria for ammonia and nitrite conversion, while the inner pores, where oxygen is depleted, allow anaerobic bacteria that consume nitrates. It’s a well-engineered permanent solution that works across both stages of the nitrogen cycle in one product, similar in concept to Biohome but at a different price point.

    • Pros: Dual aerobic/anaerobic bacteria support, permanent, good surface area
    • Cons: Requires time to fully colonize, results vary with flow rate and placement

    BUY OR SKIP?

    Buy a nitrate remover if: Your nitrates consistently hit 40+ ppm between water changes, you have a heavily stocked fish-only tank without live plants, or you’re keeping sensitive species (discus, German blue rams, wild-caught cichlids) where parameter stability is critical. Skip the products if: Your problem is overstocking or water change neglect, in which case no product will substitute for fixing the root cause. And if your tank has healthy live plant coverage and light stocking, you likely don’t need additional intervention at all.

    MARK’S TOP PICK

    For a permanent solution: Biohome Ultimate Filter Media. It’s the most complete biological answer and once established, it genuinely reduces dependence on water changes. For a quick fix: Seachem Purigen. It works fast, the color indicator removes the guesswork, and it fits in power filters. These two cover the most common scenarios I see in freshwater tanks.

    WHAT MOST PEOPLE MISS

    The IceCap Turf Scrubber is almost never mentioned in freshwater nitrate discussions because it’s associated with reef tanks. That’s a missed opportunity. A freshwater turf scrubber exports nitrates and phosphates at the same time through algae harvesting, requires no media replacement, and scales with your system size. For a heavily stocked community tank where you want to reduce water change frequency, it’s one of the most efficient long-term solutions available. Most freshwater hobbyists never consider it.

    Should You Buy a Nitrate Remover?

    Good fit if:

    • You keep sensitive species that need nitrates consistently below 20 ppm
    • Your tank is heavily stocked and water changes alone aren’t keeping up
    • You want to extend intervals between water changes without sacrificing water quality
    • You have a canister filter and want to add a dedicated nitrate removal stage

    Avoid if:

    • You’re hoping a product will substitute for water changes entirely
    • Your problem is chronic overstocking (reduce stocking first)
    • You have a well-planted tank with appropriate stocking levels (plants are already handling it)

    FAQs

    What Is a Safe Nitrate Level for Freshwater Fish?

    Most freshwater community fish tolerate nitrates up to 40 ppm without visible stress. For sensitive species like discus, German blue rams, and wild-caught cichlids, keep it under 20 ppm. Goldfish are surprisingly tolerant and can handle higher levels, though consistently high nitrates shorten lifespan over time.

    How Fast Does Seachem Purigen Work?

    Purigen works within 24-48 hours for noticeable reduction. It’s not instantaneous, but it’s the fastest-acting option on this list other than a large water change. Monitor with a test kit after 48 hours to see your results.

    Can Live Plants Replace a Nitrate Remover?

    In a well-planted tank with appropriate stocking, yes. Dense planting with fast-growing species like hornwort, water wisteria, or stem plants can consume nitrates as fast as a lightly stocked tank produces them. In heavily stocked tanks or fish-only setups, plants alone won’t be enough.

    Will a Nitrate Remover Work in a Power Filter?

    It depends on the product. Seachem Purigen and the EA Premium Pad work in power filters. Biohome Mini version fits some power filters. Larger products like API Nitra-Zorb and the Acurel pad are designed for canister filters and often won’t fit in standard HOB units.

    How Long Does It Take for Biohome to Start Working?

    Biohome needs 4-8 weeks to fully establish anaerobic bacteria in a new setup. In a mature tank with existing bacteria, colonization can be faster. Don’t evaluate it before the 6-week mark. The wait is frustrating but the long-term results are worth it.

    Closing Thoughts

    Here’s the bottom line on nitrate management: the products on this list work, but they work best as part of a proper husbandry routine, not as a replacement for one. Biohome Ultimate is the best permanent solution for a seriously stocked freshwater tank. Seachem Purigen is the best quick intervention. For budget canister filter users, the Acurel pad delivers real results. And the IceCap Turf Scrubber is the overlooked option most freshwater keepers never consider.

    Start with your fundamentals: stock appropriately, change water consistently, and let your biological filtration do its job. Then layer in one of these products where it makes sense for your specific setup.

    For healthy livestock to stock your freshwater tank, check out Flip Aquatics and Dan’s Fish. Both carry quality freshwater fish that arrive healthy.


    Want to learn more? This article is part of our complete Aquarium Equipment & Gear Guide, your ultimate resource for filters, heaters, lights, pumps, tanks, and more.

  • Freshwater Aquarium – Words of Wisdom I Wish I Knew Before I Started

    Freshwater Aquarium – Words of Wisdom I Wish I Knew Before I Started

    Hello again fellow readers. Over the past few years, I have gone through a full dive into the freshwater aquarium hobby. As many of my friends and hobbyists know, I started in the hobby straight into saltwater aquariums and then into reef tanks. A couple of years ago, I posted a big piece of content titled words of wisdom I wish I knew before I started. As I got more into the freshwater side of the hobby, I thought to myself I should do the same with freshwater aquariums.

    Today’s post is going to be a long. Each one of these points can be a post on its own. My purpose is to place all these words of wisdom into a single post so you can reference it to anyone starting out in the freshwater aquarium hobby. I got a video below as well you can check out from our YouTube Channel.

    Key Takeaways

    • Education is the number one factor to have success. Research and trust authoritative blogs and experts in the field
    • Don’t cheap out on your setup, invest in quality equipment
    • Be careful with your livestock choices
    • Be patient with your setup and keep calm when things go wrong
    • Maintain your aquarium and avoid getting multiple fish tanks

    Freshwater Aquarium Words Of Wisdom – What I Wish I Knew Before I Started

    #1 – Educate Yourself

    Educate Yourself

    The freshwater hobby is very broad. I would say it is about 3-4 times more broad than the saltwater aquarium hobby. A saltwater hobbyist goes to corals at the ultimate goal while a freshwater aquarist can have many goals. You can go with a large predator tank, a planted tank, a small betta fish tank, or even a pond. This means that the hobby is always evolving. There are new breakthroughs every day and new subsets of the hobby. Such as in life, dedicate yourself to never stop learning about this hobby if you are passionate about it. Seek blogs like this one, videos, authoritative figures, etc.

    #2 – Patience Is Your Virtue

    Patience with Aquariums

    Read the image above and understand what it comes. Freshwater aquariums is all about doing everything you can to set yourself for success then letting go. You have to be patient about the results after you have taking the actions or setup the proper routines. Impatience will wreck you in this hobby.

    #3 – Know The Nitrogen Cycle

    The nitrogen cycle is the cornerstone piece of knowledge you must have to succeed in the fish hobby. The nitrogen cycle is a 5 stage process:

    1. Nitrogen is introduced with fish food
    2. Ammonia is excreted either by fish or decaying material
    3. Nitrosomas bacteria convert Ammonia to Nitrite
    4. Nitrobactor bacteria converts Nitrite to Nitrate
    5. Plants use Nitrates and Ammonium as fertilizer

    Your aquarium is a closed biosystem. Your biosystem needs to have a balance of enough bacteria to keep levels in check. Knowing your balance will keep you from overstocking and overwhelming your biosystem. You can check out the video below by Girl Talks Fish for a more detailed explanation.

     

    It is important to know that most stock filtration equipment will not offer you a full nitrogen cycle out of the box. There are two ways to resolve this. Either get live plants or invest in the best nitrate removers for freshwater aquariums. I recommend Biohome Ultimate for permanent solution or Purigen as a disposable solution.

    #4 – Involve Your Family

    Child Fish Tank

    Freshwater Aquariums offer a greater opportunity to get your family or loved ones involved in your hobby. The hobby is easier to understand and perform compared to saltwater aquariums and anyone with proper guidance and training can have fun and get involved. Do not isolate yourself in your hobby or passion. Invite your children if you have them or your loved one into your hobby. You can have reliable tank sitters when you are away and not panic when things go wrong and you are not present to fix them. A family that keeps fish together, stays together.

    #5 – Watch Out For Multiple Tank Syndrome

    Multiple Tank Syndrome

    Freshwater aquariums are more approachable and far easier to get lost in multiple tank syndrome than with saltwater tanks. For one, it’s way easier to handle water changes and multiple tanks since the you do not need a RODI system for the vast majority of setups. The other thing is that the freshwater hobby is so broad. It’s better to have specialty tanks then to attempt mixed community aquariums not to mention the various aquascaping styles with planted tanks.

    Avoid stretching yourself too thin as well as your wallet. Take your time to enjoy your current aquarium and learn from it. When you are ready for the next steps, consider an upgrade and not an additional fish tank.

    #6 – Join A Local Club

    Aquarium Society Meeting

    A local aquarium club or society can be transformation in journey in this hobby. You can meet many people of different backgrounds and experience. One of the biggest benefits to joining a club is the mentorships you can obtain if you are looking for advanced techniques and freshwater fish keeping methods. You can check out a list of local aquarium clubs in our prior blog post.

    #7 – Don’t Take LFS Advice at Full Value

    There is a higher likelihood that you will get a knowledgeable employee at a local fish store (AKA LFS) when it comes to freshwater aquariums. However, remember that the freshwater hobby is vast. It’s very possible that the employee can be an expert on say Discus Tanks and be completely clueless on how to dry start an Iwagumi aquascape. Always do your research, be prepared, and have a plan before you walk into your local fish store.

    #8 – Everyone On A Forum Has An Opinion

    There are many great forums online that you can join to learn more about the hobby. Be careful of bad information and people trying to give you an answer to help but may not know the best answer.

    When it comes to freshwater aquariums I would look at social proof. Is the person giving you advice have the type of tank that you want? Does this person have proven knowledge in the hobby.

    To provide you a good example, there are many blogs on the internet about tank equipment. Some of them are written with bad advice to sell you a product rather than educate you. Others I would have serious doubts if author bio on the bottom is a real person.

    This blog and site was founded by me, Mark Valderrama. I have been featured on NBCNews, Slate, Buzzfeed, and Huffington post regarding care about our hobby. I am the peer adviser of two books written about aquariums, Freshwater Aquariums for Dummies 3rd edition and Saltwater Aquariums for Dummies 3rd edition. I have owned both freshwater fish and saltwater aquariums.

    There are many influencers in the freshwater space, more so than the reefing hobby. Many are true experts in the field versus entertainers. Take your time to do your due diligence.

    #9 – Don’t Overstock

    Overstocked Aquarium

    The general rule you hear in the freshwater hobby is the 1 inch of fish per gallon. I cringe when I hear this rule, because it’s way too broad. Some freshwater fish, like goldfish, are big and bulky, and are hard on a bioload. Other fish, like Cichlids, are territorial and need shelter and space. The 1 inch of fish per gallon is okay for schooling fish like Tetras, but it fails on just about everything else. Too many fish can also lead to poor quality water and a cloudy fish tank.

    If you want to look up stocking levels, I would highly suggest using AqAdvisor as a tool. It will provide a comprehensive calculation for your stock, and allow you to plan correctly for your aquarium.

    #10 – Betta Fish Do Not Belong In A Bowl

    Betta Fish Bowl

    You see Betta all the time at local pet stores in bowls. You also probably see a bunch of Betta Fish Tank sets available at the same said stores. I will tell you right now that this is not healthy long-term for a Betta. Bettas are best served in at least a 5 gallon aquarium. Give your pet Betta a better life by giving it an environment that it would enjoy. Check out our Betta Fish Care guide for more info on these wonderful fish.

    #11 – Goldfish Do Not Belong In A Bowl

    Goldfish Bowl

    This is another soapbox moment for me. Goldfish get large and need a lot of space to get to their full size. A goldfish bowl is not healthy for them long term. They are also freshwater fish that are very hard on a bioload since they eat so much and produce a ton of waste. Treat your pet goldfish to a proper aquarium setup so they can reach their full size and potential. Check out our Goldfish Tank care guide for more info on these popular fish.

    #12 – Leave Large Aggressive Fish For The Vets

    Large Aggressive Fish

    You may walk into this hobby wanting to get large aggressive freshwater fish. After all, many like Arowanas, Oscars, Jewel Cichlids, and Jack Dempsey are very beautiful large fish. The problem with these fish are multiple. They get very large and require very large aquariums. This means you have to invest a lot in getting the proper sized tank for them. They are very aggressive and so you have to be very careful who you house with them. Some of these fish are so aggressive that they have no issues with trying to go after your hands when feeding them! Worse yet, some of these fish are large and powerful enough to crack aquariums that are too small for them. The wolf cichlid is notorious for their super aggressive nature as an example.

    Large fish also require a ton of food. Due to their aggression, they are known for getting wounds from fighting or just thrashing about in your tank. These wounds can lead to infections. Keep large aggressive fish for the experts or those with the budgets you can handle them.

    #13 – Filtration Matters

    Hagen Aquaclear

    It can be really tempting to just buy a cheap filter to get you started on your freshwater aquarium. The hobby makes it very easy to get into with entry level filters or cheap filters made in China. The problem is not all filters are created the same and as your tank matures, you need better filtration. I would recommend at minimum an Aquarium Power Filter for most freshwater aquarium setups and a Canister Filter for planted tanks. Save the sponge filters for specialized tanks like Freshwater Shrimp Tanks or fry raising. There are very good brand names in the freshwater hobby make quality equipment like Hagen and Eheim. Their equipment is built to last for many years.

    #14 – Start Bigger Than Necessary

    Bigger is Better

    If you are starting out in the hobby, the best advice is to buy the biggest tank for your setup that you can afford. The bigger the tank, the more stability you would have. If you are going for a smaller aquarium like a 5 gallon or 10 gallon aquarium, I would suggest going with an all in one aquarium so you have everything setup and ready to go for you. The main issue with smaller tanks is it is hard to grow with them and often times you outgrow the tank quickly or get overzealous and overpopulate the tank.

    #15 – Get A Good Test Kit

    Keeping a successful aquarium means you are in tune with your tank and its water quality parameters. You want to get in the habit of regularly testing your water so you can spot changes in your biosystem before its too late. Not all test kits are created equal. See our post on the Best Freshwater Aquarium Test Kits for our picks. Don’t have time to read that post? No problem, I would recommend the API Freshwater Master Test Kit for most freshwater setups.

    #16 – Get A Good Gravel Vacuum

    Python Cleaner

    The Python is a mainstay in the fish hobby. Easily clean your aquarium by connecting this to your sink!

    Buy On Amazon

    If you have an aquarium substrate, a gravel vacuum is a critical tool. A quality gravel vacuum can pull out all sorts of junk out of your substrate. There are lots of waste that accumulates in your gravel bed and without vacuuming you run of having waste decay and cause nutrient spikes down the road. The best gravel vacuum in my experience is the Python gravel vacuum. It connects directly to your sink and is very convenient to use.

    #17 – Set A Maintenance Schedule

    Set A Schedule

    Setting a maintenance schedule and sticking to it is a long-term habit in our hobby. There are a lot of things to consider when keeping a fish tank, so it’s best to write things down as set reminders for yourself in order to keep up with your tank. Here are suggestions I would have of maintenance tasks to keep track of:

    • Daily
      • Dose fertilizer
      • Check bubble counter and drop checker color
      • Check water level – top off if needed
      • Observe your fish for any obvious signs of disease or stress
    • Weekly
      • Water change 15-20%
      • Check all your equipment to ensure working order
      • Clean glass, hardscape, and plant leaves
      • Trim your live plants if you have them
      • Check CO2 canister – refill as needed
      • Test your water
    • Monthly
      • Clean out your filters – wash down after cleaning with aquarium water
      • Clean pipes and strainers

    Some setups are easier to maintain then others. You can always look into a self cleaning fish tank, if you want something less maintenance heavy. Most will be powered by natural filtration.

    #18 – Have Backup Equipment

    Backup Aquarium Equipment

    The harsh reality of our aquarium equipment is that they are subjected to being in hard conditions being underwater with our livestock. Eventually, equipment does break and they can be expensive to replace. The unfortunate fact is our equipment tends to go down at the worst times. The best way to prevent a disaster is to have a back up plan. Having back up equipment is the best step we can make. Here is backup equipment we want to have in for our freshwater aquarium.

    #19 – Have A Plan When The Power Goes Out

    Power Outage Aquarium

    Fish Tank Power outages are one of the most common cause of tank crashes in our hobby. It is a really helpless feeling when the power is out and you watch all your livestock slowly die because you have no backup plan. Don’t let this be you! Be proactive and develop a plan of action when it happens (because it will!).

    The great thing about freshwater aquariums is that many can get by with a couple of battery powered air pumps. For others with larger aquariums we can consider a battery backup air pump. For those with large investments in their aquariums, you may want to consider a mobile generator or a whole home generator.

    #20 – CO2 Matters (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

    CO2 Aquarium

    As we have learned in our Best CO2 System for Planted Aquarium post, the golden ticket to fast grow in plants is CO2. 50% of your plants dry mass is carbon. A live plant will use 10 times more carbon than any other macro or micro nutrient. Knowing these fact, many hobbyists are still intimated by CO2. Sometimes it’s the cost to setup and other times it’s being intimated by the complexity.

    CO2 systems are much easier to setup and dial than you think. One you have one setup and running, it’s mostly just reading your drop checker and adjusting your inject levels to stay within level. Many hobbyists I talked to post install usually tell me they wish they did it earlier. Take the plunge and get some killer growth in your plants!

    #21 – No CO2? Go Low Tech!

    Low Tech Planted Tank

    Is a CO2 setup out of your budget? If so, pivoting to a low tech planted tank is a great alternative. A low tech tank is a freshwater aquarium with live plants that do not use CO2 injection. Building a thriving low tech tank requires proper selection of live plants. You want to work with plants that do well under low light, will generally feed in the water column, and are hardy. Check out our best low light aquarium plants and best beginner aquarium plants post for a full list of plants that are ideal for low tech. For those who don’t have the time to read, my go to for low tech are Java Fern and Anubias.

    #22 – Not All Fertilizers Are Created Equal

    Editor’s Choice!
    APT Complete

    Editor’s Choice

    Made by an aquascaper for aquascapers. This is the best all around aquarium plant fertilizer on the market. Marco and micronutrients in one bottle!

    Use Coupon Code ASDComplete for 10% off your order!

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    We learned in our Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizers post that fertilization is one of the 3 cornerstones of planted tank success. Unfortunately, we also learned that fertilizers are not all created equal. The most popular fertilizers sold in planted tanks are usually designed for low tech planted tanks. Those with full planted tanks or high need better fertilizers. In addition, many fertilizers do not have guaranteed analysis info and hide behind their brand names. We swear by APT Complete for our fertilization needs.

    #23 – Red Plants Are Harder To Grow Than Green Plants

    Red Aquarium Plant

    Red plants are typically harder to care for than green plants. This is due to their stronger light requirements, more specific spectrum requirements, and nitrate needs.

    They generally should be avoided by beginners. If you want to try out a red plants, consider an easier to care for species like Cyptocoryne ‘flamingo’ or Red Amazon Swords.

    #24 – A Quality Light Matters For Planted Tanks

    Best Value
    Serene RGB Pro LED

    Current USA’s offering into aquascaping is an incredible value. Spectrum, spread, easy to program and great PAR output.

    Click For Best Price Buy On Amazon

    We learned in our Best LED Lights for Planted Tanks post that lighting is one of the 3 cornerstones of planted tank success. Lighting is broken down into three elements that we need to know are adequate in the lighting fixture we purchase:

    • Spectrum
    • PAR
    • Spread

    We learned that there is an ideal plant spectrum and that different plants have different PAR requirements. Shading can also be problematic with taller plants so spread is a major factor in our decision for our fixture.

    The Serene Pro RGB LED we feel is the best comprehensive planted tank light in the industry. It excels in all 3 elements and will work with most planted tank setups.

    #25 – Dip Your Plants

    Dipping your plants should be something all planted aquarium owners should do before introducing plants in their aquarium. Plants can introduce pests and disease such as snails and parasites like ich and planaria. By using this method by Lifewithpets above, you can eliminate pest hitchikers from your plants. For parasites, you can consider a quarantine period for your plants in a separate tank. You can do even better by select lab grown plants, which tend to be pest and disease free for extra safety.

    #26 – Aquascaping Tools Are Amazing!

    Stainless Steel Aquascaping Tools

    Look cool and get the job done right with these stainless steel aquascaping tools. For for fine detailing on your scape!

    Buy On Amazon

    Proper Aquascaping tools are amazing when it comes to maintaining your planted tank. Curve scissors make it easy to cut down ground cover and smaller plants while prune shares will cut your taller plants. The tweezers are great for moving plants around and handling new arrivals. The substrate spatula is excellent for keeping your substrate tidy and even. I can’t imagine handling a planted tank without one. It’s a must purchase in my mind if you are serious about keeping a planted tank.

     

    #27 – Not All Substrates Are Created Equal

    Editor’s Choice!
    ADA Aqua Soil

    The Best Planted Tank Substrate

    The world’s standard in active substrates for planted tanks. Created by brand that founded modern aquascaping

    Buy On Amazon

    In our best aquarium substrate for planted tank post, we talked about active vs inactive substrates. Active substrates are ones that alter our water chemistry and break down over time. As this substrate breaks down, they fertilize our aquarium plants. This means active substrate amazing for rooted plants and ground cover. They are also preferred for dry starts as you can grow some plants in the substrate before you flood your tank. This results in healthy plant growth from the start, a short/nearly instant cycle, and less algae problems.

    In contrast, an inactive substrate will not alter your water chemistry. It will not breakdown. However, some inactive substrates are designed to absorb nutrients and still work well for rooted plants. If you are going with a traditional gravel bed, you may want to consider column feeding live plants since it will be more difficult to support root plants in gravel.

    #28 – Driftwood Can Leach Tannins

    In our Best Driftwood for Aquariums post, we talked about tannins and how to prevent your aquarium for getting that unappealing tea color. The best two ways to prevent this are:

    • Select a driftwood with a low tannin count
    • Prep your driftwood properly

    We learned from our post that Manzanita, Spider wood, and Tiger wood have a low amount of tannins and are the preferred driftwood types to work with.

    Prepping your driftwood will also save you a world of headache getting that tea color out. Boil your driftwood until the tea color is gone and use carbon media to get rid of any discoloration that comes from the leftover tannins.

    #29 – Not All Rocks Are Safe For Usage

    Traditional Seiryu Stone

    A go to classic. Highly recommended for Iwagumi aquascapes

    Buy On Buce Plant Buy On Glass Aqua

    In our best rocks for freshwater aquarium post, we learned that not all rocks are safe for aquariums. Some rocks can alter our water chemistry. Some like limestone will raise the pH and hardness, which is great for an African Cichlid Tank, but bad for the majority of tropical freshwater fish. Other rocks, like the ones you can pick up at your local river could contain harmful chemicals or bacteria that can wipe our your tank.The preferred rock for freshwater aquarium is granite and there are many types of available in our hobby. I would recommend Seiryu Rock for most aquarium projects.

    #30 – Learn To Aquascape

    Learning the types of freshwater aquascape styles and how to design them will take your tanks to the next level. If you want to have stunning award winning looking tanks, it all starts with learning how to aquascape. Start by learning the various type of styles and design concepts like the rule of two thirds and tension vs harmony. What makes aquascaping amazing in this hobby is it is all derived from art, photo techniques, and garden scape designs. It is a true art form that is very rewarding when you create a major work of art. You can get started by learning about a few of the aquascape styles below

    Final Thoughts

    That was a long post wasn’t it :). Well, I hope you enjoyed reading and took away some words of wisdom. As always, please share and subscribe to our newsletter. If you have any tips you would like to share, please leave us a comment below. Thanks for reading and see you next time!


    📘 Want to learn more? This article is part of our complete Freshwater Fish Guide. your ultimate resource for freshwater species, care tips, tank setup, and more.