Convict cichlid (Amatitlania nigrofasciata) is a freshwater fish from Central America. It is one of the most popular aquarium fishes due to its hardiness and vibrant colors. There are many different varieties of convict cichlids, each with unique coloration and patterning. Some common types include the electric blue, albino, leopard, black barred, yellow belly or…

Hillstream loaches are a unique species of fish that have adapted to life in fast-flowing streams and rivers. They have elongated, flattened bodies with large pectoral fins and long barbels around their mouths. These adaptations allow them to cling to rocks or other surfaces while they feed on algae and detritus. Hillstream loaches are found…

Yes, sand can raise the pH level in an aquarium. Sand is made up of tiny particles that have a positive electrical charge and as it comes into contact with water, these particles release positively charged ions or cations like calcium and magnesium which increases the alkalinity of the water and therefore raises its pH…

Epsom salt is a mineral compound composed of magnesium, sulfur and oxygen. It is often used in aquariums as an aid for fish suffering from “dropsy” or swelling due to excess fluid retention. Aquarium salt, on the other hand, does not have the same properties as Epsom salt and therefore should not be used to…

To clean seashells for a freshwater aquarium, start by soaking the shells in warm water and white vinegar overnight. This will help dissolve any debris or dirt on them. The next day, scrub off any remaining dirt with an old toothbrush. Rinse the shells well with cold running water to remove all traces of the…

Hillstream Loaches and Otocinclus are both small, freshwater fish from the order Cypriniformes. Hillstream loaches, such as Sewellia lineolata, inhabit fast-flowing rivers and streams with rocky bottoms in their native habitats of eastern Asia. They have a flattened body shape that allows them to easily navigate through the strong currents they live in. Otocinclus, on…

A 100 gallon bow front aquarium is an impressive fish tank suitable for many types of aquatic life. The curved shape of the glass allows more viewing area along with a wider swimming space for your fish. A 100 gallon aquarium will typically measure 78” x 24” at the widest point and 36″ high, so…

To treat beach sand for a freshwater aquarium, you will need to rinse it thoroughly in clean water. This should be done several times until the water runs clear. After that, soak the sand overnight in dechlorinated or filtered water with an air stone to remove any debris and impurities. Finally, boil the sand for…

No, Epsom salt can’t kill fish. People use it to help sick fish, like when they’re constipated or have parasites. But you have to be careful with how much you use. If there’s too much, it can make the water too salty, and that might hurt the fish or even make them die. When you…

Striped Borneo Loach (Acanthocobitis botia) is a species of loach native to Southeast Asia. It is found in rivers and streams in Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. The Striped Borneo Loach grows to an average length of 6cm but can reach up to 11cm. They have a dark brown body with two…