HOB vs Canister Filter
Hang-on-back versus canister filters compared on capacity, media, flow, maintenance, noise, space, cost and reliability, and how to choose.
Guides & advice
Aquarium Guides
Sand vs Gravel
Sand and gravel are both reliable freshwater aquarium substrates, but they behave differently during feeding, planting, and maintenance.
Soil vs Gravel
Aquarium soil and gravel can both support successful freshwater tanks, but they solve different problems.
LED vs Fluorescent Lighting
LED and fluorescent aquarium lights compared on plant growth, spectrum, energy use, heat, lifespan, dimming and cost, and which to choose.
RO Water vs Tap Water
Tap water is the simplest water source for many freshwater aquariums, while reverse-osmosis water offers much greater control over mineral content.
Neocaridina vs Caridina
Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp compared on water chemistry, substrate, feeding, breeding, colours and selective lines, to find the right fit.
Java Fern vs Anubias
Java fern and anubias compared on planting, light, growth rate, size and texture, nutrients, propagation and upkeep, to help you choose.
Internal vs External Filters
Internal and external aquarium filters compared on capacity, media, flow, maintenance, noise, space, safety and cost, and which to choose.
CO2 vs Low-Tech Tanks
CO2-injected and low-tech planted tanks compared on plant choice, lighting and algae risk, equipment and cost, upkeep, and livestock.
Summer Aquarium Care
Summer heat changes more than the number on the aquarium thermometer. As water warms, its capacity to hold dissolved oxygen decreases while fish metabolism and biological activity may increase.
Winter Aquarium Care
Winter does not automatically mean your aquarium needs a completely different care routine, but colder rooms can expose weaknesses you barely notice during the rest of the year.
Preparing for Power Outages
A power outage turns off more than the aquarium light.