Under-Gravel Filtration for Your Aquarium

The purpose of your aquarium filter is to establish and maintain beneficial bacteria colonies. If you’re wondering why there needs to be bacteria in your aquarium, take a moment to learn about the nitrogen cycle: The basics Stages of the nitrogen cycle Starting fishless An under-gravel filtration system is a popular choice for aquarium filtration. Here’s how they work: a plastic grid or plate sits underneath several inches of gravel. The filter draws water down through the gravel (through colonies of healthy bacteria). Lift tubes and airstones at the corners of the plate create suction and keep the water cycling. … Continue reading

The Pets Blog Week in Review for April 7-14

Guinea pigs, poop, and DIY aquarium troubleshooting were among the topics Aimee and I covered last week. In case you had to miss a day or two, here’s your handy Week in Review recap of what we wrote on: Monday, April 7 I’ve had a chance to do a lot of reflecting lately on who I am and how I got to be that way. In What if Animals Hadn’t Been Okay? I pondered what sad shape I’d be in if I had been taught differently about pets. Tuesday, April 8 In DIY Aquarium Leak Fixes, Aimee rolled up her … Continue reading

DIY Aquarium Leak Fixes

Has your glass aquarium sprung a leak? All is not lost yet… here’s a relatively easy way to fix a small leak in your tank. Most leaks happen at the joints — where two panes of glass meet. If your glass aquarium is leaking from a crack in the glass itself, you might have an easier time just getting a new aquarium! Here’s what you’ll need: A felt tip marker, like a Sharpie. Razor blades (the kind without a handle). Paper towels or a soft cloth. A residue remover like acetone. A tube of 100 silicone sealant. Conditioned/prepared water to … Continue reading

Building a Paludarium

If you want to combine land and water habitats in your tank — create a paludarium — the best bet for a beginner may be a paludarium kit. However, after poking around various shopping and search sites, it seems like it might be difficult to find one! Terrarium kits are far easier to find. Educational suppliers like Carolina do offer “river tank” ecosystems for classrooms that can support aquatic and land animals and plants. Don’t be put off by the lack of kits available at the moment — you can still make your own paludarium! The first think you need … Continue reading