In general, sand is better for a fish tank than gravel. Sand has many advantages over gravel such as providing a softer substrate for the fish to swim on and helping keep water clearer due to its smaller particle size. Gravel can contain sharp edges that may injure sensitive fins or gill plates of some…
Epsom salt is a mineral that can be added to aquariums for the benefit of aquatic plants. It contains magnesium sulfate, which helps to provide essential nutrients for healthy plant growth and provides an additional source of sulfur. Adding Epsom salt to your aquarium also helps increase oxygen levels in the water, which is beneficial…
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…