Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast: Recent Episodes
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Ben, owner of Water Colors Aquarium Gallery in Grand Rapids, MI is joined by his store managers Amy and Charles to discuss the aquarium hobby
Cyprinidae is the largest family of freshwater fish, which makes it quite challenging to narrow down a top 5 list! In this episode, the Water Colors hosts attempt to do
Leaves, cones, seedpods and more! In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses botanicals, and how to use them in your aquariums. There are loads of benefits to adding these
Continuing Blackwater Month, we’re back to discuss the Betta coccina complex! This complex contains arguably some of the greatest wild betta species known to the hobby. These are true blackwater
Continuing the blackwater aquarium theme, the hosts discuss their top 5 fish picks that look incredible in stained water. To learn all about blackwater aquariums, refer to our previous episode
There’s a new trend taking the hobby by storm – blackwater tanks! These aquariums often have a stained appearance, with water resembling tea. They frequently are designed with lots of
For as long as aquariums have existed, there have been hobbyists looking for ways to avoid maintenance. From misleading products to “experts” online, there are numerous sources that give hobbyists
In this episode, we welcome back Charles to discuss changes and trends in the marine aquarium hobby. Comparing livestock lists through the years, the hosts make note of species that
As we move into the new year, we celebrate our 250th episode by reminiscing on 2025. We had some monumental accomplishments this past year, including many amazing podcast guests, an
In this exciting episode, we have two celebrity guests in the studio to discuss their personal fish room builds! Mike Monje and Craig Forist share details about their own fish
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their top 5 favorite fish that are not safe to keep with coral. The average reef aquarium in 2026 has a variety
We all love bettas, but what other anabantoids need some time in the spotlight? In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their top 5 species from the suborder anabantoidei.
In this episode, the Water Colors team takes a trip back in time. The early aquarium hobby has some fascinating origins, some good and some not so good. Much of
In this episode, the Water Colors Team discusses their top 5 aquarium plants found in Africa! When in comes to plant diversity, Africa is hard to beat! Some of our
In this episode, the Water Colors team is once again quizzed on their fish knowledge! Using the worst commercial wholesale fish list we can find and a random number generator,
Once again, we are joined by our good friend and algae expert Dr. Jordyn Stoll! In this episode, we narrow down our focus and discuss ornamental marine algae, sometimes referred
In this new episode format, the Water Colors team sits down to discuss the current display aquariums within our store in Grand Rapids, Michigan! The display tanks in our gallery
For this Halloween episode, we asked our listeners, friends, and fellow hobbyists to share their spookiest aquarium horror stories. We received some shocking tales about aquarium-related injuries, losses, and more.
Once again, we are joined by our good friend and algae expert Dr. Jordyn Stoll! In this episode, we attempt to tackle the complicated world of marine algae, but quickly
The 55 gal aquarium is a notoriously disliked tank, with many hobbyists avoiding it like the plague. At 48″ long, 13″ wide, and 20″ tall, it can be a very
We’re back with one of our favorite episode formats – answering listener submitted questions! These episodes are livestreamed at the time of recording on our YouTube channel – consider joining
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their top 5 most bragworthy aquarium plants! Some of these species are challenging to find or grow, and having a healthy specimen
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses what to do when you encounter an aquarium emergency. From leaks to power outages, food dumps to broken pumps – what can
In this episode, the Water Colors team is once again quizzed on their fish knowledge! Using the worst commercial wholesale fish list we can find and a random number generator,
In this listener-suggested episode, the Water Colors team comes up with a few of their favorite concepts for nano tanks that can live on your desk! We are accepting votes
In this episode, we are joined once again by freshwater ecologist and algae expert Dr. Jordyn Stoll! Jordyn studies algae in natural environments, and with her expertise, we hope to
After wrapping up our official Killifish month, the Water Colors team concludes by sharing their top 5 killifish of all time! March 2025 was full of non-stop killi action, including
In this episode, the Water Colors Team discusses their top 5 non-armored catfish species! This excludes a lot of fan-favorite cats, such as corydoras and plecos, and forces the hosts
In this new episode format, the Water Colors team is quizzed on their fish knowledge! Using our favorite commercial wholesale fish list and a random number generator, we roll a
For our final episode of Livebearer Month, we welcome back Charles, who joins us to discuss fancy livebearers! It would be an injustice to talk about livebearing fish without taking
The Water Colors team is honored to have Pat Hartman join us for an interview in this week’s episode! Our Livebearer Month would not be complete without the contribution of
Continuing Livebearer Month, the Water Colors team is back to discuss wild-type live bearing fishes! This includes the family poeciliidae, and the tricky taxonomy that comes with it. Some species
Continuing Livebearer month, the Water Colors team is discussing goodeids! They belong to the order cyprinodontiformes, the suborder cyprinodontoidei, and the family goodeidae. This family is split into two sub
To start off our official livebearer month, we’re discussing the genus xiphophorus! This group of fish is near and dear to us, and many other aquarists alike. The genus is
In this episode, the Water Colors team breaks down the class hexacorallia, and the 5 orders within it. This class is distinct in that the species within it are typically
In this episode, the Water Colors Team discusses soft corals, specifically, those in the class octocorallia. We attempt to breakdown the taxonomy, care, and accessibility of the many varieties within
This episode is all about the random stuff we use in our aquariums! From DIY lids to PVC hides, we discuss a number of odds and ends that can be
In this episode, the Water Colors team reacts blindly to stories from around the internet compiled by the editor. This includes forum posts, news stories, and more! These posts range
In this episode, the water colors team welcomes not one, but TWO special guests to join in on the fun! We’re happy to be joined again by aquatic ecologist Jordyn
We often see hobbyists who are fixated on “bad ass” fish. Sometimes they’re looking for big, aggressive cichlids, other times they may be looking for toothy predators like pike cichlids.
Maintenance breeding, conservation breeding, inbreeding, and outbreeding – what does it all mean? Charles returns to the podcast to discuss selective breeding and population genetics. It’s important to consider these
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their favorite soft corals. We have loosely categorized soft corals using the hobby’s distinctions, but keep in mind this is not based
In this interview, the Water Colors Team chats with special guest Dr. Jordyn Stoll, an accomplished aquatic ecologist with an expertise in algae! Jordyn’s formal interest in aquatic ecology began
Here at Water Colors, one of the most common topics we get asked about is “what’s wrong with my betta?” Bettas are one of the most commonly kept fish, so
Lake Tanganyika is home to an astounding diversity of fish, nearly 350 endemic species! This makes narrowing down a top 5 list extremely challenging! In this episode, the Water Colors
In this research-heavy episode, the Water Colors team discusses various aquascaping styles and how they differ. The history of aquascaping goes back nearly 100 years, with the earliest competitive style
To wrap up our official Killifish Month, the Water Colors team welcomes Dave Hemmerlein as a special guest! Dave is a lifelong hobbyist, killifish expert, and 40+ year aquarium club
To continue Killifish Month, the Water Colors team is back to discuss dirt-spawning killis! These varieties of killifish spawn in or over substrate. Hobbyists often use small containers of bark
To continue Killifish month, the Water Colors team is back to discuss mop-spawning killifish! This distinction is given to killifish species that breed in moss/plant mats, which aquarists often replicate
To kick off killifish month, the Water Colors team is discussing biotope examples based around some of our favorite killifish! These examples focus on the native habitats of these killifish
In this highly requested episode, the Water Colors team discusses mantis shrimp from the order stomatopoda. These organisms are some of the most fascinating, interactive, and beautiful pets you can keep in
In this special episode, the Water Colors team is joined by representatives from Schrems West Michigan Trout Unlimited chapter (SWMTU). With the expertise of chapter president Nick Garlock and education
In this episode, the Water Colors team is joined by invasive crayfish expert Dr. Brian Roth. Brian is a fish ecologist and faculty member at Michigan State University’s Department of
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses plants that grow on structures, such as hardscape elements, as opposed to those that root directly in substrate. Classifying these types of
For our 200th episode of the WCAG podcast, we are celebrating with a Listener Questions special! (This is part 2, please listen to the previous episode to catch part 1
For our 200th episode of the WCAG podcast, we are celebrating with a Listener Questions special! In this format, the Water Colors team blindly answers listener-submitted questions read off by
We often encounter hobbyists who are furiously trying to adjust their pH, GH, or dKH based on something they read online. In this episode, we hope to dispel some myths
The term “SPS” Corals, or small polyp stony corals, is a hobbyist distinction used to help differentiate care requirements of coral species in the reef keeping hobby. It’s a completely
In this new episode format, the Water Colors team is blindly reacting to aquarium stories told by the editor. The topics range from shocking horror stories, to tank disasters, and
From color changing, to art making, and even singing, we are constantly surprised by the amazing behaviors of fish – both in nature and in our aquariums. In this episode,
One of the most common inquiries in this industry is “how do I keep a shark?” This episode is about exactly that! There are a variety of “doable” shark species
In this bonus episode, Amy and Ben discuss the origin of Water Colors. The path that brought us to where we are today took a lot of twists and turns!
Pike cichlids are a great example of true predatory fish that can be kept in home aquariums. They range in size from 2-20″ approximately, and are widely distributed across the
It’s hard not to love pufferfish. They have many great qualities that can make them an excellent candidate for a truly interactive pet fish. They also, unfortunately, have a “bite
In this controversial episode, the Water Colors team is joined by invasive species specialist Dr. Alisha Davidson to discuss the very real consequences of goldfish in our waterways. Goldfish certainly
This is part 2 of our listener questions release, see the previous episode for the first half! These episodes are livestreamed at the time of recording on our YouTube channel
We’re back with one of our favorite episode formats – answering listener submitted questions! These episodes are livestreamed at the time of recording on our YouTube channel – consider joining
Everyone loves pufferfish! They are well known for their boisterous behaviors, curious personalities, and silly googly eyes. They come in a wide range of sizes and temperaments, but are often
This episode covers the genus centropyge, as well as some new taxonomic breakthroughs that have rewritten how we classify marine angelfish. Many of the species that we once knew as centropyge are
This episode was recorded with a live audience, including members of the South West Michigan Aquarium Society (SWMAS)! The Water Colors Team is joined by some local club members to
In this episode, the Water Colors team focuses on some fun, measurable achievements that aquarists can feel proud of. Whether you’re an experienced fishkeeper, or brand new to the game – here are some fun benchmarks to consider as you level up in the aquarium hobby. From the first time you see baby fish in your tank, to winning an award for your aquascapes or club accomplishments, these goals can be different for everyone! It’s important to celebrate your own wins!
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In this brand new episode format, the Water Colors team is blindly reacting to aquarium stories told by the editor. The topics range from shocking aquarium horror stories, to tank disasters, and even fishy miracles. There is never a shortage of ridiculous posts in aquarium forums – so if you like this content, be sure to let your hosts know! All posts referenced in this episode will be linked below.
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Online stories referenced in this episode:
- Seachem tab ingredients: https://www.reddit.com/r/PlantedTank/s/p5FkFQzLYR
- Contagious Java fern galls: https://www.reddit.com/r/PlantedTank/s/ebsERaWW2c
- Goldfish survives 2hrs out of water: https://www.reddit.com/r/Goldfish/s/24nfBV0hMm
- Wild snake in aquarium: https://www.reddit.com/r/Aquariums/s/Gg4y9G8XFn
- CO2 tank explosion: https://www.reddit.com/r/Aquariums/s/SaVxPHbvBg
- Protecting aquarium from sonic booms: https://www.reddit.com/r/Aquariums/s/vbHZI5URHB
- Is it ok to take my neighbors tank? (No link)
- Bowfisher removes Koi from MI lake: https://www.mlive.com/environment/2024/07/whoa-bowfishers-remove-world-record-koi-from-michigan-lake.html
- Woke up to an empty tank but no water on floor? (No link)
- My crocea clam killed my yellow tang: https://www.reddit.com/r/ReefTank/s/UYcinQXr0Q
- Granuloma caused by aquarium: https://www.reddit.com/r/Aquariums/s/altB9LztgV
- Hippo tang eats glue: https://www.reddit.com/r/ReefTank/s/akcP9LTCOM
- My gulper cat ate my Arowana: https://www.reddit.com/r/AquariumMemes/s/0c0vigCHyG
- Do not underestimate the lethality of mystery snails: https://www.reddit.com/r/Aquariums/s/ha9ROjgv30
In this episode, the Water Colors team shares their favorite species of rainbowfish. Best known for the dazzling colors they exhibit, there is most certainly a rainbowfish for every aquarist. From larger melanotaenia species that can easily fill out a 90 gallon aquarium, to small and flashy pseudomugils fit for blackwater or even brackish tanks! Many rainbowfish are notorious for taking a while to show off their true colors, but we promise that good things take time! Let’s learn about some of the team’s favorite species of rainbowfish.
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Species mentioned in this episode:
- Rhadinocentrus ornatus, Ornate rainbowfish
- Pseudomugil mellis, Honey blue-eye rainbowfish
- Melanotaenia praecox, Neon dwarf rainbowfish
- Bedotia madagascarensis, Madagascar rainbowfish
- Pseudomugil cyanodorsalis, Neon blue-eye rainbowfish
- Iriatherina werneri, Threadfin rainbowfish
- Melanotaenia garylangei
- Pseudomugil gertrudae, Spotted blue-eye rainbowfish
- Pseudomugil luminatus, Red neon blue-eye rainbowfish
- Chilatherina alleni, Waponga rainbowfish
- Pseudomugil signifer, Paific blue-eye rainbowfish
- Melanotaenia boesmani, Boesmani rainbowfish
- Melanotaenia lacustris, Turquoise rainbowfish
- Melanotaenia lodigesi, Sulawesi rainbowfish
- Melanotaenia macculochi
This episode is a deep dive into cephalopods and how they may (or may not) fit into aquariums. Charles and the Water Colors Team discuss a variety of species, including cuttlefish, octopods, and more! These organisms are often thought of for their remarkable intelligence and ability to problem solve. This same intelligence can also make them challenging to keep in captivity. Many cephalopods have extremely short lifespans, which adds to the challenge of keeping them as pets. Join us as we learn about some of the most fascinating organisms in our oceans!
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Species mentioned in this episode:
- Sepia bandensis, ‘dwarf cuttlefish’
- Metasepia pfefferi, ‘flamboyant cuttlefish’
- Euprymna berryi, ‘hummingbird bobtail squid’
- Octopus vulgaris, ‘common octopus’
- Octopus chierchiae, ‘zebra octopus’
- Octopus bimaculoides
- Octopus bimaculatus
- Enteroctopus dofleini, ‘giant pacific octopus’
In this episode, we discuss invasive species education and outreach with Paige Filice of RIPPLE. This campaign aims to work with aquarium retailers to ensure Michigan’s waterways are protected against invasive species. We’ll learn all about some of our state’s species of concern, as well as what we can do as a retailer to better inform our customers. We also hope this episode can share how hobbyists at home can get better informed.
You can learn more about the RIPPLE campaign at https://www.canr.msu.edu/invasive_species/ripple/
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Let’s face it – the aquarium industry causes a lot of harm. From invasive species to over harvesting, the need for regulation in this industry is greater than ever. In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses some recently passed and proposed regulations, as well as dissecting some of the process behind their creation and implementation. Often, hobbyists panic at the thought of being regulated – with some of the loudest voices calling for outrage and opposition. The reality is that we need regulation; for the sake of our planet, the animals we love, and the longevity of the aquarium industry. We hope to encourage listeners to not only accept this concept, but also learn how we can all have a seat at the table and discuss our opinions.
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In this new episode format, the Water Colors team each comes to the table with their own mystery topic. The topic is randomly selected live, and the discussion is led by one host. This episode is led by Charles, discussing live foods and their use in aquariums. Live food cultures are an excellent way to feed your fish, and a great way to encourage breeding and to feed fry. There are countless varieties of species you can culture at home, ranging from tiny copepods to large roaches – and everything in between. Some of these cultures are easy projects with minimal effort needed, while others are tricky to pull off and potentially not worth the hassle. Sustaining your own live food cultures at home can be a great way to save money and minimize waste.
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In this new episode format, the Water Colors team each comes to the table with their own mystery topic. The topic is randomly selected live, and the discussion is led by one host. This episode is led by Ben, discussing a variety of saltwater fish that don’t seem to be successful in hobbyist reef tanks. This is meant to be a thought experiment – dissecting some possible theories on why some of these fish don’t do well in captivity. Many of these species are readily available in the hobby despite their low success rate in home aquariums.
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Species mentioned in this epsiode:
- Moorish idol, Zanclus cornutus
- Melon butterfly, Chaetodon trifasciatus
- Ribbon eel, Rhinomuraena quaesita
- Purple queen anthias, Pseudanthias tuka
- Tamarin wrasses, genus Anampses
- Regal Angel, Pygoplites diacanthus
In this new episode format, the Water Colors team each comes to the table with their own mystery topic. The topic is randomly selected live, and the discussion is led by one host. This episode is led by Amy, discussing general cichlid compatibility. These are some of the most common questions we receive at the gallery; “can this go with that?” This is an extremely broad question, given that cichlids are one of the largest families of fish! We’ll discuss some common pairing dos and don’ts, the 3 metrics for compatibility, and some great examples of cichlid focused aquariums.
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Brine shrimp are one of the most ubiquitous fish foods in the history of fish keeping. These extremophiles cover the globe thanks to wind and birds, which can transport cysts to new locations – creating new populations and ecotypes. The use of brine shrimp has unlocked many monumental breakthroughs in fish breeding and rearing. This episode will break down the nutritional value of brine shrimp, the many ecotypes, various grades, sources, and more.
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The past several decades have brought some monumental advances to the aquarium hobby. From marine breeding breakthroughs to taxonomic discoveries, we have a better understanding of our aquariums and animals than ever before. Technological innovations give us more efficient equipment in smaller, sleeker packages. The world of reef keeping is becoming more accessible with each passing day. What new discoveries are you excited about?
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The art of mimicry is a fascinating topic. Some animal use this skill to trick their prey, while others can use it to trick would-be predators. This episode is all about our top 5 favorite examples of mimicry in aquatic environments. From freshwater to saltwater, we have a range of impressive animals that have evolved to use mimicry to their advantage in creative ways.
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Species mentioned in this episode:
- Calloplesiops altivelis, (Marine Betta) & Moray eels
- Ctenochaetus hawaiienis, (Chevron tang) & Centropyge potteri (Potter’s Angel)
- Synodontis multispinis, (Cuckoo Catfish)
- Corydoras adolfi (Adolfi’s cordoras) & Corydoras duplicareus (Duplicate corydoras)
- Cryptocorynne flowers
- Nimbochromis genus
- Pseudochromis fuscus (Brown dottyback)
- Manonichthys paranox (Midnight dottyback) & centropyge nox (Midnight angelfish)
- Manonichthys jamali (Jamal’s dottyback) & Chromis atripectoralis (Black-axil chromis)
- Acantharus pyroferus (Chocolate tang) & centropyge heraldi (Herald’s angelfish)
- Acantharus chronixis (Mimic half-black tang) & Centropyge vrolikii (Half-black angelfish)
- Acantharus tristis (Mimic Eibli tang) & Centropyge eibli (Eibli angelfish)
- Nannostomus unifasciatus (One-lined pencilfish)
- Antennarius maculatus (Warty frogfish)
- Histrio histrio (Sargassum frogfish)
- Pterois volatans (Volatin lionfish)
- Phyllopteryx taeniolatus (Weedy sea dragon)
- Scolopsis bilineatus (Sunshine bream) & Meiacanthus grammistes (Fang blenny)
- Paraluteres prionurus (Saddleback filefish) & Canthigaster valentini (Valentini puffer)
- Solenostomus paradoxus (Ornate ghost pipefish)
- Monocirrhus polyacanthus (South American leaffish)
- Aspidontus taeniatus (Sabretooth blenny) & Labroides dimidiatus (Cleaner wrasse)
Some of the most recognizable aquarium fish belong to the family poeciliidae, including the well-loved guppies, endlers, platys, and more. The term ‘livebearing’ refers to fish that are ovoviviparous; meaning the offspring are hatched within the body of the parent. The Water Colors team shares their top 5 favorite fish from this family, including discussions on species characteristics, care, and personal experiences. We cover some classics, such as mollies, and some rare species, such as predatory livebearing pike minnows!
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Species mentioned in this episode:
- Priapichthys nigroventralis
- Xiphophorus nigrensis
- Xiphophorus malinche
- Poecilia schenops
- Sailfin molly, poecilia latipinna
- Neoheterandria elegans
- Limia tridens
- Pike topminnow, belonesox belizanus
- Knife-edged livebearer, alfaro cultratus
- Xenophallus umbratilis
- Well-bred captive guppy strains
- Mountain swordtail, xiphophorus nezahualcoyotl
- Poecilia wingei
- Four-eyed fish, anableps anableps
- Blackchin livebearer, girardinus metallicus
In this episode, the Water Colors team joins Charles as we tackle the huge topic that is fish anatomy! Specifically, we are looking at the biology and physiology of teleost fishes, and how we can use this information to better understand our fishy friends and become better aquarists. Join us as we learn about some incredible evolutionary adaptations, specialized organs, and more!
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Aquacaping is all about scale and perspective. Using the incorrect plants in nano tanks can often ruin the sense of scale. In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their top 5 plants suitable for smaller tanks! There is a variety of species covered, ranging in color, texture, and care. This comprehensive list should provide a great reference for new and experienced aquarists alike! What’s your favorite plant for nano aquariums?
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Species mentioned in this episode:
- Microsword, lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae, lilaeopsis mauritiana
- Golden nesaea, ammania pedicellata
- Anubias ‘nana petite’, anubias baertier var. ‘nana’
- Marsilea quadrifolia, marsilea crenata, marsilea minuta
- Hydrocotyle tripartita
- Valisneria gracilis
- Juncus repens
- Pogostemon helferi
- Rotala mexicana
- Crypt parva, crypt lucens, crypt willisii
- Marimo moss balls
- Sußwassertang
- Cardinal plant, lobelia cardinalis
- Ammania gracilis
- Mini bolbitis, Bolbitis Heteroclita ‘Difformis‘
- Bucephalandra, ‘needle leaf mini’
- Micranthemum
- Dwarf hair grass, Eleocharis Parvula
- Glossostigma
- Dwarg sagittaria, Sagittaria subulata
- Blyxa japonica
- Rosette sword, Echinodorus parviflorus
- Eriocaulon ‘Vietnam’
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses some incredible saltwater organisms that require cooler temperatures, as well as some examples of cold-water marine tanks and how to pull them off appropriately. Understand that cold-water aquariums are fundamentally different than our typical reef tanks. They generally require expensive chillers, many of the organisms from these environments have slower metabolic rates, the nitrogen cycle is dramatically slowed in cooler temperatures, and let’s not forget about condensation! What cold-water species would you keep?
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Species/examples mentioned in this episode:
- Caribbean Biotope: yellow gorgonian, tubastraea, coral banded shrimp
- Macroalgae “tidepool” style tank
- Catalina goby, lythrypnus dalli
- Thick-horned nudibranch, hermissenda crassicornis
- Bimac octopus, octopus bimaculoides
- Garibaldi damselfish, hypsypops rubicundus
- Pacific spiny lumpsucker, eumicrotremus orbis
- Horn shark, heterodontus francisei
- Lined seahorse, hippocampus erectus
This episode is all about grass-like plants and how to grow them! Technically, only species from the family poacea are true grasses – but for the purpose of this episode, we extend the label to anything long and ‘grassy.’ Utilizing these plants in your home aquariums can add some excellent contrast in texture to your aquascapes. From fine-leaved eriocaulon plumes to short and manicured dwarf hairgrass carpets, we cover a variety of grassy plants in this top 5 list.
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Species mentioned in this episode:
- Hygroryza aristata
- Poacea sp. ‘Purple bamboo’
- Eriocaulon sp. ‘Feather duster’
- Eriocaulon sp. ‘Malayatoor’
- Eleocharis acicularis, Dwarf Hairgrass
- Vallisaneria gracilis
- Vallisaneria nana
- Helanthium bolivianum ‘Quadrocostatus’
- Helanthium tenellum
- Juncus repens
- Eleocharis montevidensis, Giant Hairgrass
- Sagtittaria subulata, Dwarf sag
- Syringodium filiforme, Manatee grass
- Blyxa japonica
- Cyprus helferi
- Utricularia graminifolia
- Crinum calimastratum
Marine snails are much more than just a clean up crew! The available species are diverse and complex, with some even living up to 40 years! The Water Colors team discusses all you need to know when keeping marine snails in your home aquariums, including care for these amazing invertebrates, species profiles, and how we can keep them more ethically. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Margarita snails (margarites pupillus) * Bumblebee snails (engina mendicaria) * Crown conch (melongena corona) * Babylon snails (babylonia spirata) * Conchs (Genus strombus) + Fighting conchs (strombus alatus) * Moon snails (Family Naticidae) * Turbo snails (Genus turbo) + Chestnut turbo snails (turbo castanea) + Mexican turbo snails (turbo fluctuosus) * Trochus snails (trochus radiatus) * Astrea snails (lithopoma americanum) * Ninja star astrea snails (lithopoma phobium) * Stomatella (stomatella planulata) * Nerite snails (Family neritidae) * Cerith snails (Family cerithiidae) * Nassarius snails (Family nassariidae) * Lettuce sea slugs (Superorder sacoglossa)*
Many of our values here at Water Colors are derived from an understanding that the aquarium industry is inherently harmful to the planet, and in turn, to the fish we love. We tend to harp on these negative impacts in an effort to better understand how we can improve our own practices, and push for changes in the industry we love.In this episode, however, the Water Colors team focuses more on the positive, sharing their top 3 conservation projects led by some amazing people and passionate organizations! These incredible conservationists are making strides to preserve and protect many of the environments our favorite fish come from, as well as supporting the people that live there. From rainforests to our own backyards, we encourage our listeners to consider donating to these excellent causes if they have the means. Links for all projects mentioned will be listed below. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Conservation Efforts mentioned in this episode:* Sumatran Eco Project: https://www.sumeco.id/help-us/ * The George Maier Fund: https://aka.org/!area_WordPress/make-a-donation-to-the-gmf/ * Bocas Mariculture: https://www.bocasmariculture.com/ * Devil's Hole Pupfish: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/ash-meadows/get-involved * Korup Rainforest Conservation Society: https://www.korup-conservation.org/ * Rising Tide Conservation: https://www.risingtideconservation.org/donate/ * PADI Aware Foundation: https://donate.padiaware.org/ * Raincoast Research Society: https://raincoastresearch.org/support-our-science/get-involved/ * RIPPLE: https://www.michigan.gov/invasives/take-action/landowners-gardeners-pond-owners/ripple * Salmon in the Classroom: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/education/educators/sic * Project Piaba: https://projectpiaba.org/donate/ * Seafood Watch: https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/join-give/ways-to-give/give
The concept of damsel fish in aquariums goes back to the beginning of marine fishkeeping. They are often used as "throwaway" fish to cycle new tanks due to their cheap cost and hardy nature. Generally speaking, damsels also have a nasty reputation for aggression, despite their smaller size. Because of this, the aquarium community is rather split on the topic, with strong opinions on both sides. Ben and Calder debate where exactly these fish belong in the hobby, coming from different backgrounds and experiences with the fish in the family pomacentridae. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Yellowtail damsel, Chrysiptera parasema * Dusky damsel, Stegastes adustus * Jewelled damsel, Microspathodon chrysurus * Domino damsel, Dascyllus trimaculatus * Talbot's damsel, Chrysiptera talboti * Reticulated damsel, Dascyllus reticulatus * Springer's damsel, Chrysiptera springeri * Allen's damsel, Pomacentrus alleni * Three stripe damsel, Dascyllus aruanus * Blue devil damsel, Chrysiptera cyanea * Starck's damsel, Chrysiptera starcki * Lemon damsel, Pomacentrus moluccensis * Blue velvet damsel, Neoglyphidodon oxyodon*
This episode is an open ended discussion surrounding women in the aquarium hobby. It's no surprise that women are underrepresented in the world of fish keeping, and we would love to dissect why this may be the case. Amy, with the help of three other well-respected women in our local aquarium scene, dive into this topic and speak about their own experiences as they progress as aquarists. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
The Water Colors team discusses the importance of travel in this unique episode! There are so many reasons to explore the world, but here we discuss our top 3 favorite places to view wild fish in their natural habitat. These experiences can teach us so much about our favorite species, and give us context as to how they behave in their environments. From wild killifish to soaring eagle rays; we'll hear about some ambitious dream locations and real-world anecdotes from recent travels in this episode. How far would you travel to see your favorite fishes? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Locations mentioned in this episode:* Nusa Penida Island, Thailand * Steps Beach Tres Palmas Reserve, Puerto Rico * Ambergris Caye, Belize * India * San Blas Islands, Panama * Malawi, East Africa * Cameroon * Thailand * Micronesia * Republic of the Marshall Islands * Republic of Palau
One of the most beloved fish in the Water Colors universe is the stunning Blood-red Parrot cichlid. They come in so many fun shapes and colors, what's not to love? Plus, they play so well with their tank mates! This episode is dedicated to our top 5 favorite variations of the most iconic aquarium fish of all time. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
Utilizing macroalgae in reef tanks is a popular trend in modern day marine aquaria. It's an excellent way to add some variable textures and colors into your saltwater tank. With special guest Johnathon Butkus, the Water Colors team discusses topics such as care, taxonomy, compatible tank mates, and more. From the vibrant 'blue hypnea' to the alien-like 'dead man's fingers', we cover a variety of macroalgae species in this episode! Which is your favorite? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Some species mentioned in this episode: Caulerpa prolifera * Chaetomorpha * Pom Pom Gracilaria * 'Sea Grapes' Caulerpa racemosa * 'Dragon's Tongue' Halymenia * Blue Hypnea * 'Dead Man's Fingers' Codium decorticatum*
Elacatinus gobies are the perfect nano fish - small, stunning, and regularly captive bred! These awesome cleaner gobies are not obligate cleaners, and therefore work well in a large variety of reef tanks. Join us as we learn about this widespread genus of beautiful neon gobies - from care, to husbandry, to evolution and more.Fishes Discussed in this Episode:- Cayman sponge goby (Elacatinus centralis)- Cayman cleaner goby (Elacatinus cayman)- Shortstripe goby (Elacatinus chancei)- Belize sponge goby (Elacatinus colini)- Yellowline goby (Elacatinus horsti)- Linesnout goby (Elacatinus lori)- Spotlight goby (Elacatinus louisae)- Serranilla goby (Elacatinus serranilla)- Slaty goby (Elacatinus tenox)- Yellowprow goby (Elacatinus xanthiprora)- Sharknose goby (Elacatinus evelynae)- Cleaner goby (Elacatinus genie)- Barsnout goby (Elacatinus illecebrosus)- Belize cleaner goby (Elacatinus lobeli)- Neon goby (Elacatinus oceanops)- Broadstripe goby (Elacatinus prochilos)- Yellownose goby (Elacatinus randalli)- Yellow neon goby (Elacatinus figaro)- Noronha cleaner goby (Elacatinus phthirophagus)- Trindade cleaner goby (Elacatinus pridisi)- Redhead goby (Elacatinus/Tigrigobius puncticulatus)- Exuma goby (Elacatinus atronasus)- Jarocho goby (Elacatinus jarocho)- Cinta goby (Elacatinus redimiculus)- Bluestreak cleaner wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus)- Greenbanded goby (Tigrigobius multifasciatus)- Redcheek goby (Tigrigobius rubrigenis)- Panamanian greenbanded goby (Tigrigobius panamensis)- Cayman greenbanded goby (Tigrigobius harveyi)Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
Cichlids get too much love... so in this episode, we're discussing our top 5 list from South America - but we're excluding all cichlids! There are so many exciting fishes from South America that get overlooked due to the popularity of SA cichlids. This diverse list includes corydoras, tetras, puffers, killis, and even some unique oddball species. What are your favorites? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Brochis cat, Brochis splendens * C125, Aspidoras spilotus * South American puffer, colomesus asellus * Flameback bleeding beart tetra, hyphessobrycon pyrrhonotus * Black butterfly tetra, hyphessobrycon negodagua * Crystal tetra, protocheirodon pi * Galaxy oto, Parotocinclus haroldoi * Splash tetra, copella arnoldi * Cenepa red pencilfish, nannostomas sp. 'Cenepa Red' * Marbled hatchetfish, carnegiella strigata * Striped cory, scleromystax barbatus * Adolfo's cory, corydoras adolfoi * Cardinal tetra, paracheirodon axelrodi * Black ghost knifefish, apteronotus albifrons * L134 Leopard frog pleco, peckoltia compta * Blue striped rivulus killifish, laimosemion xiphidius*
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses dottybacks! We take a look at behavior, compatibility, species profiles and more. Charles makes a strong case for why everyone should try keeping dottybacks for themselves. Many of them have stunning colors that you wont get anywhere else, and unique attitudes to match. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
We're back with another episode answering listener questions! These episodes always receive great feedback, and they are a blast to record. Join the Water Colors team as we answer some fun questions and discuss tips, tricks, and controversies related to our listener's inquiries. Any future questions can be submitted to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com This episode was recorded live on YouTube! For the full version, check out the link below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hag6Y4tSc4A Consider becoming a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/
We love discussing aquarium fish, but in reality, this only includes the tiniest fraction of all fish species! In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their top 5 non-aquarium fishes! From big ocean fish to cold-water trout, we're talking about some of our favorite fish from around the world. Referenced clips:EVNautilus clip - mola molaEVNautilus clip - stubby squid Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Mola mola, Ocean sunfish * Labroides dimidiatus, Cleaner wrasse * Salvelinus fontinalis, Brook trout * Lepomis macrochirus, Bluegill * Otodus megalodon, Megalodon * Aetobaus narinari, Spotted eagle ray * Family 'Opisthoproctidae' - Barreleyes * Latimeria chalumnae, African coelacanth * Carcharhinus galapagensis, Galapagos Shark * Phycodurus eques, Leafy sea dragon * Anguilla eels * Rhincodon typus, Whale shark * Urogymnus polylepis, Giant freshwater stingray * Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, Chinook salmon * Coryphaena hippurus*, Mahi mahi
In this episode, the Water Colors Team breaks down a handful of ways that casual aquarists can use the scientific method to better their aquariums, and better the hobby as a whole. There are plenty of fish keepers that have dabbled in breeding fish, but what do you know about the environments your fish come from? Or their conservation concerns? The evolutionary biology of the fish you love? Let's take a closer look at how we can all be better scientists using our aquariums at home. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
Let's talk about our friend (and enemy) cyanobacteria. Much of the conversation around cyano is about how to eradicate it, but hopefully this discussion will help you look at it a bit differently. This is an incredibly diverse term for many forms of bacteria, some of which have been around for an estimated 4 billion years. This episode should help you understand how to treat cyano, and maybe even how to appreciate it, too. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
Regrets? Mistakes? All of the above. The Water Colors Team revisits some of our biggest errors for a special 150th episode. We're not afraid to admit when we slip up - and we greatly appreciate all of the constructive feedback and criticism we've received along the way. Join us as we revisit some 'oopsies' in the long journey of recording 150 episodes of the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
In this episode, the Water Colors team questions the ethics of the hobby that we all know and love. We approach fishkeeping different than most businesses in this industry, and with that comes some difficult questions. Why is it okay to keep animals in captivity? What impact does our hobby have on the communities and habitats our fish come from? These are all tough questions that we have no real answers for. We can, however, discuss these issues openly - and encourage positive changes and a healthy dialogue surrounding a hobby that is inherently harmful. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
In this episode the Water Colors team makes a top 5 list of their favorite freshwater fishes from Asia. How hard can it be to narrow down our top 5 fish from the largest continent on Earth? From loaches, to gobies, to danios, and more. This diverse list covers a variety of fish, some of which may even fit into your existing tanks at home. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Zebra loach, 'botia striata' * Blue neon goby, 'stiphodon atropurpureus' * Lake Inle danio, 'Inlecyrpis auropurpureus' * Pearl danio, 'danio albolineatus' * Neon blue rasbora, 'sundadanio goblinus' * Kubotai rasbora, 'microdevario kubotai' * Dwarf sole, 'Achiroides leucorhynchos' * Pearl killifish, 'Aphanius mento' * Pearl gourami, 'trichopodus leerii' * Betta ocellata * Betta macrostoma * Panda barb, 'haludaria fasciata' * Multi stripe pygmy loach, 'micronemacheilus cruciatus'*
The Water Colors team joins Charles as he discusses some of the fishes from the tribe Chromidotilapiini; specifically Pelvicachromis and a few related genera. This topic is one that Charles has researched intently, so buckle up for a deep dive! From care, to husbandry, to conservation efforts, and threats to native populations - this episode cover a wide array of related topics.Primary literature referenced in this episode:Schwarzer, J., Lamboj, A., Langen, K. Bernhard, M. Phylogeny and age of chromidotilapiine cichlids (Teleostei: Cichlidae). Hydrobiologia 748, 185–199 (2015). Species mentioned in this episode: Pelvicachromis kribensis * Pelvicachromis pulcher * Pelvicachromis sacrimontis * Pelvicachromis taeniatus * Pelvicachromis roloffi * Pelvicachromis silviae * Pelvicachromis subocellatus * Enigmatochromis lucanusi * Wallaceochromis robrolabiatus * Wallaceochromis signatus * Wallaceochromis humilis*
Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
This episode, is all about clams in the subfamily Tridacninae. Photosynthetic clams look stunning and otherworldly, yet their physiology is even more fascinating than their appearance. The Water Colors team covers a wide array of related topics; including the history of clam aquaculture, a brief overview of care, and a handful of species profiles.Species Discussed in this Episode:- Giant clam (Tridacna gigas)- Southern giant clam (Tridacna derasa)- Small giant clam (Tridacna maxima)- Boring clam (Tridacna crocea)- Fluted giant clam (Tridacna squamosa)- Horse hoof clam (Hippopus hippopus)Related species that were omitted due to a lack of commercial availability:- Elongated clam (Tridacna elongatissima)- Tevoro clam (Tridacna mbalavuana)- Noah's clam (Tridacna noae)- Rosewater's clam (Tridacna rosewateri)- Tridacna squamosina (synonymous with Tridacna costata)- Porcelain clam (Hippopus porcellanus) Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping aquarium goods, merch, equipment, live plants, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Enjoying the content? Consider becoming a member on YouTube for exclusive access to livestreamed events! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
The official Water Colors guide on how to buy gifts for the aquarists in your life! Feel free to shamelessly send this podcast to your friends and family for gift ideas. From equipment, to merch, to quality of life upgrades - here is a top 5 list of great gifts for the fish people in your life. What would you like to get as a gift? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Shop for great gifts, aquarium merch, equipment and more online at the Water colors Shop: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Become a member on YouTube for access to exclusive livestreamed episodes! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
In this special episode, the Water Colors team hangs out with pioneering aquarist and collector, Gary Lange, as he discusses some of his adventures in decades of fish keeping, collecting, and travel. Gary is a long standing member of the Missouri Aquarium Society (MASI), founder of the Rainbowfish Study Group of North America (RSG), and is responsible for importing 8 new species of rainbowfish. Join us as we live vicariously through his many adventures. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping aquarium merch, equipment, live plants, and more!: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Enjoying the content? Consider becoming a member on YouTube for exclusive access to livestreamed events! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
Switching gears in this episode - a few staff members discuss their favorite things about working at Water Colors. The work environment Ben has created in the shop is special, and we feel fortunate to be a part. Let us know your thoughts on this behind the scenes look into the Water Colors work space. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping live plants, aquarium goods, merch, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Become a member on YouTube for exclusive access to livestreamed events! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
We've all seen outrageously expensive fish while shopping at local fish stores. What makes a pricey fish "worth it?" This episode's discussion is all about splurges, and how rarity and accessibility drive cost of some unique fish to astronomical levels. With a special guest, Ben, Amy, and Charles pitch their top 5 picks for rare and expensive freshwater fish, and determine if the price tag is justified. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Spotted congo puffer, (tetradon schoutedeni) - $299.99 * 'Fancy' bettas, (Candies, Aliens, Coppers, Hellboys, Avatars, etc) * Redfin cactus pleco, L24 (psuedocanthicus pitanga) $249.99 * Scarlet cactus pleco, L25 (psuedocanthicus pirarara) $269.99 * Alestopetersius brichardi 'Red Form' $59.99 * Lampeye congo tetra, (phenacogrammus aurantiacus) $39.99 * Mascara barb, (Dawkinsia assimilis) $39.99 * Dawkinsia rubrotinctus, $49.99 * Corydoras pantanalensis, $129.99 * Corydoras pulcher, $54.99 * Super parallelus cory, CW127, $129.99 * Corydoras eversi, $79.99 * Charming rosy tetra, (hyphessobrycon epicharis) $79.99 * Silver lancer, (mystus bocourti) $89.99 * Wallaceochromis rubrolabiatus, $39.99 * Polypterus teugulsi, $69.99 * Synodontis paralis, $129.99 * Clouded archerfish, (toxotes blythii) $49.99 * Clouded leopard loach, (vanmanenia crassicuada) $69.99 * Betta albimarginata, $49.99 * Leporinus sp. 'Strawberry', $129.99 * Leopard frog pleco, L134, $129.99 * Super red devil tetra, (hyohessobrycon notidanos) $59.99 * Mountain grunter, (hephaestus habbemei)* $299.99
Who doesn't love an anemone and clownfish combo? In this episode, the Water Colors team has a very open ended discussion on anemones in home aquaria. This topic is difficult from a taxonomy stand point - and we are the first to admit; there is far more we DON'T know about anemones, than we DO know. That being said, Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss some common issues with anemones, the variety of species available to the hobby, and general care. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping merch, aquarium goods, live plants and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more great content? Consider becoming a member on YouTube for exclusive access to livestreamed events! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
Sometimes, planted aquariums can be hard. But worry no more, because the Water Colors team is here to discuss their easiest plant picks! Some of the species in this episode are even easier to keep than plastic plants! From species that can grow under a desk lamp, to others that can thrive in blue plastic gravel, this list has got you covered. Also mentioned in this podcast are some illegal plant species, which are often prohibited because they're SO easy that they can thrive in nearly any environment. Remember to handle your aquatic plants and animals responsibly, and abide by your local regulations. Join the discussion and share your thoughts in the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping a wide variety of aquarium plants, equipment, merch, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ If you enjoy this content, consider becoming a member on YouTube for exclusive access to livestreamed events! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery
The Water Colors team revisits a fun topic, mobile ornamental invertebrates in saltwater aquaria. This list ranges from functional add-ons to your clean up crew, to rare and unusual inverts that require dedicated setups. Join us as we discuss some fun shrimps, snails, cephalopods, and more! Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode:* Fighting conchs * Abalone * Longspine sea urchins * Tuxedo urchins * Mysid shrimp * Sexy shrimp * Hermit crabs * Moon jellyfish * Candy pistol shrimp * Brittle stars * Bobtail squid * Skunk cleaner shrimp * Stomatella snails * Dwarf cuttlefish * Harlequin shrimp * Peppermint shrimp * Red serpent star * Harlequin serpent star * Mantis shrimp
The Water Colors team, with special guest Dr. Alisha Davidson, discuss the potential for harm as a result of the sale and distribution of several floating plants in the aquarium trade. Some very common plants in our hobby pose a huge risk to our native waterways if mishandled. Water lettuce, water hyacinth, salvinia, and more - all are species of concern in regards to the risk associated with their sale. With input from our invasive species expert, we discuss the criteria used to designate potentially harmful plants, how to dispose of them properly, as well as suggest some safer alternatives to use in your home aquariums. Referenced in this episode is Alisha Davidson's published paper on aquatic plant risk assessment:"Assessing progress in regulation of aquatic nonindigenous species across themultijurisdictional waters of the Laurentian Great Lakes, with emphasis onthe live trade pathways" - Alisha Dahlstrom Davidson, Andrew J. Tucker, W. Lindsay Chadderton, Erika Jensen, Cecilia Weibert, and Russel DeathYou can access this publication here: https://www.reabic.net/journals/mbi/2021/3/MBI_2021_Davidson_etal.pdf Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping aquarium plants, merch designed by your hosts, aquarium supplies and much more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ If you enjoy this content, consider becoming a member on YouTube for behind the scenes access to livestreamed events! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Water lettuce, Pistia stratiotes * Water hyacinth, Pontederia crassipes * Alligator weed, Alternanthera philoxeroides * Salvinia molesta * Salvinia minima * Red root floaters, Phyllanthus fluitans*
Let's face it - some of the most beautiful fish look plain and boring at your local fish store. It's not until you bring them home, condition them, and spoil them, that they truly shine. Some species go from brown and dull to bright and illuminating in the right conditions! Others are shy and evasive, until you allow them to settle in at home and suddenly they're bold and confident! This episode is all about the overlooked favorites that can become incredible if you take the time to condition them. What fish have you kept that only got better with time? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping aquarium plants, custom merch, additives, equipment and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ If you love the show, consider becoming a member on YouTube! Get behind the scenes access to livestreamed events: https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Species mentioned in this episode: Genera: Apistogramma (wild) + Panduro, trifasciata, pebas, agassizii, elizabethae * Genera: Dawkinsia barbs + dawkinsia filamentosa + dawkinsia assimilis * Genera: Sundadanio + Goblinus, axelrodi, rubellus * Genera: Melanotaenia rainbows + Parva, melanotaenia parva + garylangei, melanotaenia garylangei * Genera: Desmopuntius barbs + desmopuntius rhomboocellatus + desmopuntius hexazona * Genera: Geophagus + Redhead topajo, geophagus pyrocephalus * Dwarf neon rainbows, melanotaenia praecox * Exclamation point rasbora, boraras urophthalmoides * Strawberry rasbora, boraras naevus * Glass catfish, kryptopterus vitreolus * Whiteclouds, tanichthys albonubes * Pelvicachromis Moliwe * Convict cichlids, amatitlania nigrofasciata * Cherry barbs, puntius titteya * Honey Gourami, trichogaster chuna * Firering danio, brachydanio kyathit * Pearl danio, danio albolineatus * Xiphophorus nigrensis*
Learn all about your hosts in this intimate, deep dive episode! This topic takes a different tone than our typical discussions. In this episode, we discuss Ben, Amy, and Charles' backgrounds, philosophies, and current standings in the hobby that we all love (most of the time). When you become so invested in an industry such as this, it's important to occasionally take a step back and analyze where you stand, as well as your mental wellness, and what keeps you going. Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Become a member on YouTube to see livestreamed recording sessions, behind the scenes, and bloopers! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery Support the show by shopping aquarium merch, equipment, live plants, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/
In this episode, we're talking about fish from the family acanthuridae! This discussion is an overarching tutorial on the 6 different genera, as well as some of the species you may encounter in the aquarium hobby. Everyone seems to think they need a tang in their reef tank, but they are frequently kept in undersized aquariums. Be sure to study up on the requirements for each species, or you may risk angering the Tang Police! Support the show by shopping merch designed by your hosts! Along with other great aquarium supplies and equipment, only at: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Some species mentioned in this episode: Powder blue tang, Acanthurus leucosternon * Clown tang, Acanthurus lineatus * Tomini tang, Ctenochaetus tominiensis * Blue hippo tang, Paracanthurus hepatus * Powder brown tang, Acanthurus japonicus * Achilles tang, Acanthurus achilles * Convict tang, Acanthurus triostegus * Sailfin tang, Zebrasoma velifer * Naso tang, Naso lituratus * Gem tang, Zebrasoma gemmatum * Yellow tang, Zebrasoma flavescens * Purple tang, Zebrasoma xanthurum * Black tang, Zebrasoma rostratum * Scopas tang, Zebrasoma scopas * Desjardini sailfin tang, Zebrasoma desjardinii * Gold rim tang, Acanthurus nigricans * Zebra tang, Acanthurus polyzona * Sohal tang, sohal surgeonfish * Orange shoulder tang, Acanthurus olivaceus * Lavender tang, Acanthurus nigrofuscus*
The term LPS corals, or large polyp stony corals, is a hobbyist classification used to try to categorize coral species based on care and needs. This episode is all about our favorite LPS coral species, as well as how to care for them. Growing coral can be scary, and buying some of your own can be a real investment. From this discussion, we hope to demystify some of the care requirements of LPS corals and help you improve your reef at home, or even start a brand new project! Support the show by shopping Water Colors merch, coral care products, reef tank equipment and more at: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Species mentioned in this episode: Trachyphillia geoffroy, 'Open Brain coral' * Fimbriaphyllia ancora, 'Hammer coral' * Heteropsammia cochlea, 'Walking Dendro' * Duncanopsammia axifuga, 'Duncan coral' * Cyphastria 'Meteor shower' * Platycerus temensis, 'Maze Brain coral' * Fungia fungites, 'Plate Coral' * Scoly 'War Paint' * Blastomussa wellsi * Micromussa lordhowensis, 'Acan Lord' * Caulastraea furcata, 'Candy Cane coral' * Catalaphyllia jardinei, 'Elegance coral' * Cynarina coral * Euphyllia glabrescens, ' Torch coral' * Plerogyra sinuosa*, 'Bubble coral'
Stem plants are a very general hobbyist classification of aquarium plants comprised of a huge variety of species. They range from incredibly easy to very demanding and difficult. We can observe a great variation of growth from these plants depending on their environment, which makes them useful for both decoration and utility. In this episode, the team discusses their top 5 species and how to care for them! Looking to discuss aquariums with like minded people? Join the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show by shopping high quality aquarium plants, equipment, and merch designed by the hosts here: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Species mentioned in this episode:* Rotala rotundifolia * Rotala h'ra * Rotala macrandra * Ammannia pedicellata 'golden' * Rotala wallichii * Rotala rotundifolia 'super red' * Potomageton gayi * Pogostemon stellatus * Limnophilia indica * Hygrophilia angustifolia * Ludwigia hybrid lacustris * Alternanthera reineckii * Najas guadalupensis * Bacopa caroliniana * Ludwigia arcuata * Persicaria sp 'Kawagoeanum'
Freshwater shrimp make an excellent addition to many aquariums, or better yet, a huge multi-generational colony all on their own! There are many varieties and colors, and they can be some of the most effective organisms in your clean-up crew. The Water Colors team breaks down how to care for some popular shrimp species, as well as some rare ones, and dispels some myths surrounding their care. Are you keeping shrimp of your own? Join the discussion or share a pic on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support the show and shop aquarium products and merch here: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/
The concept of biotypic aquariums is rarely, if ever, replicated in the reef hobby. While biotopes are common amongst freshwater hobbyists, the reef community seems to be lacking in this domain. In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses many different reef habitats, and how variable they can be. Salinity, current, and nutrient load can change dramatically even across the course of a day. This can make it challenging to accurately replicate reef habitats in aquariums, but also proves how much room there is to grow as a hobby! Enjoying this topic? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Looking for Water Colors merch, live plants, aquarium products and more?Visit our web store here: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/
Some of the most exciting and diverse fish in the world come from South America, and we definitely have our favorites! In this episode, the Water Colors Team discusses our top 5 SA cichlids - as well as why they make our list, and how you can keep them at home! From eartheaters to pike cichlids, we'll discuss some of the coolest species of fish to come out of this biologically rich region of the world. Which species are your favorite? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Looking for aquarium goods and merch? Support the show by shopping our selection: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/ Species mentioned in this episode:* Nannacara anomala “Golden eye cichlid” * Mikrogeophagus ramirezi “Ram Cichlid” * Geophagus pyrocephalus “Red Head Topajo” * Acarichthys heckelii “Threadfin Acara” * Geophagus sveni “Sveni Eartheater” * Crenicichla notophthalmus * Mesonauta festivus “Flag Cichlid” * Andinoacara pulcher “Blue Acara” * Apistogramma panduro * Laetacara curviceps "Dwarf Flag Cichlid" * Apistogramma Macmasteri "Red Neck" * Taeniacara candidi "Black Stripe Dwarf Cichlid" * Astronotus ocellatus "Oscar" * Apistogramma Agassizii "Tefe Blue Pearl" * Pterophyllum altum "Altum Angelfish" * Apistogramma hongsloi * Teleocichla centrarchus * Satanoperca daemon "Satan's Perch"
This week's podcast is a long requested episode: a thorough guide to common freshwater fish diseases. Here at Water Colors we've helped and dealt with a huge variety of illnesses and related problems, and in this podcast we hope to dispel some myths and share some helpful advice for diagnosing and treating potential diseases.
If you have questions or comments related to this episode, join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Looking for great aquarium supplies, plants, or medications? Shop our selection here: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/
This episode is dedicated to the hottest fish around! The Water Colors team lists their top 5 aquarium fish that like it hot, we're talking 85 degrees F (29 C) and up! This can be useful information for those who keep warm water species and need good tank mates, or for those that live in very hot climates.
Shop Water Colors merch, plants, aquarium supplies and more: https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/shop/?v=7516fd43adaa
Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Species mentioned in this episode: * Rope fish * Zebra danios * Desert pupfish * Aphanius genus + Aphanius sirhani + Aphanius mento + Aphanius dispar * Stomatepia pindu * Betta coccina * Altum anglefish * Dicrossus filamentosus * Green neon tetra * Epiplatys dageti * Desert goby * Betta imbellis * Soda cichlid * Cardinal tetras * Taeniacara candidi * German blue rams * Betta channoides * Clown loaches * Royal zebra plecos L46
The genus Cryptocoryne. From easy to easier. The episode is an introduction to plants from the genus Cryptocoryne. What are some of the available and not so available varieties and where are they found? Crypts are some of the easiest plants in the aquarium hobby. This doesn’t mean they are not cool! 50-60 Species of Crypt
Sri Lanka Cryptocoryne Beckettii Cryptocoryne Wendtii Cryptocoryne Parva Cryptocoryne Wilisii Cryptocoryne Thwaitesii Cryptocoryne Alba Cryptocoryne Bogneri Cryptocoryne Walkeri (lutea) Cryptocoryne Nevilli Cryptocoryne Undulata Cryptocoryne India Cryptocoryne Ciliata Cryptocoryne Cognata Cryptocoryne Consobrina Cryptocoryne Retrospiralis Cryptocoryne Sivadasanii Cryptocoryne Spiralis Cryptocoryne Malaysia Cryptocoryne Affinis Cryptocoryne Ciliata Cryptocoryne Cordata Cryptocoryne Decus-silvae Cryptocoryne Diderici Cryptocoryne Elliptica Cryptocoryne Griffithii Cryptocoryne Longicauda Cryptocoryne Minima Cryptocoryne Moehlmanni Cryptocoryne Nurrii Cryptocoryne Pontederfolia Cryptocoryne Scurrils Cryptocoryne Schulzei Cryptocoryne Villosa Cryptocoryne Zukalii Cryptocoryne Thailand Cryptocoryne Albida Cryptocoryne Annamica Cryptocoryne Ciliata Cryptocoryne Crispatula
Cryptocoryne Cruddasiana
Cryptocoryne Vietnamensis Cryptocoryne Mecongensis Cryptocoryne Loeiensis
Borneo Cryptocoryne Aura Cryptocoryne Auriculata Cryptocoryne Bullosa Cryptocoryne Ciliata Cryptocoryne Cordata Cryptocoryne Edithiae Cryptocoryne Furruginea Cryptocoryne Fusca Cryptocoryne Griffithii Cryptocoryne Hodoroi Cryptocoryne Ideii Cryptocoryne keei Cryptocoryne Grabowskii Cryptocoryne Lingua Cryptocoryne Longicauda Cryptocoryne noritoi Cryptocoryne Pallidinervia Cryptocoryne Striolata Cryptocoryne Uenoi Cryptocoryne Yujii Cryptocoryne Zaidiana Cryptocoryne Zonata Cryptocoryne New Guinea Cryptocoryne Ciliata Cryptocoryne Dewitt Cryptocoryne Versteegii Cryptocoryne Phillipines Cryptocoryne Aponogetifolia Cryptocoryne Ciliata Cryptocoryne Coronata Cryptocoryne Pygmea Cryptocoryne Usteriana
Sumatra Cryptocoryne Bankaeinsis Cryptocoryne Ciliata Cryptocoryne Cordata Cryptocoryne Fusca Cryptocoryne Jacobsenii Cryptocoryne Longicauda Cryptocoryne Matakensis Cryptocoryne Minima Cryptocoryne Moehlmannii Cryptocoryne Nurii Cryptocoryne Ponterdriifolia Cryptocoryne Scurrilis Cryptocoryne Vilosa Cryptocoryne Wongsoi
This episode is a discussion on the difficult, yet necessary topic of conservation in the aquarium hobby. The Water Colors team, with special guest and staff member Calder Burton, have an open ended conversation about policy and regulatory changes that can and will affect the future of fish keeping. Calder is our quarantine department manager, as well as an environmental policy specialist. We hope to encourage listeners at home to take a greater stake in the hobby we all love.
We would love to hear your thoughts on this issue. Please join the ongoing conversation in the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
What fish are safe to keep in your beloved shrimp tank? It's hard to resist the urge to add fish to a shrimp colony, but many species will turn your tank into an all you can eat buffet! In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their top 5 picks for shrimp-safe fish. What fish do you keep with your shrimp?
Interested in learning more from like-minded aquarists? Join the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Species mentioned in this episode: * Zebra oto, Otocinclus cocama * Butterfly barb, Enteromius hulstaerti * Clown killifish, Epiplatys annulatus * Threadfin rainbow, Iriatherina werneri * Stiphodon goby, Stiphodon atropurpureus * Jelly Bean tetra, Ladigesia roloffi * Scarlet badis, Dario dario * Halfbeaks * Licorice gouramis * Boraras sp. * Emerald dwarf danio, Celistichtys erythromicron * Neon blue rabsora, Sundadanio goblinus * Endler's livebearers * Dwarf green barb, Pethio gelius * Corydoras Habrosus
Predatory fish can be some of the most entertaining species to keep - but the same traits that make them fun can also pose a challenge! What tank mates do you keep with a fish predator? How do you feed and care for them? The Water Colors team discusses all these questions and more, and ranks their top 5 predatory reef fish.
Want to learn more about predatory fish? Or are you interested in seeing other aquarists' projects and pets? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners group on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Species mentioned in this epsiode: * V-tail grouper (Cephalopholis urodeta) * Snowflake moray eel (Echidna nebulosa) * Volitan lionfish (Pterois volitans) * Giant frogfish (Antennarius commerson) * Warty frogfish (Antennarius maculatus) * Neon dottyback (Pseudochromis aldabraensis) * Honeycomb moray eel (Gymnothorax favagineus) * Dwarf fuzzy lionfish (Dendrochirus brachypterus) * Harlequin tusk wrasse (Choerodon fasciatus) * Speckled epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium trispeculare) * Arc eye hawkfish (Paracirrhites arcatus) * Niger triggerfish (Odonus niger) * Striped burrfish (Chilomycterus schoepfi) * Blue line grouper (Cephalopholis formosa) * Polleni grouper (Cephalopholis polleni) * Miniatus grouper (Cephalopholis miniata) * Clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum) * Spanish hogfish (Bodianus rufus)
Killifish make for great pets, display fish, and breeding projects. Some of the easiest types to keep and breed are known as non-annual killifish, or mop-spawners! This name comes from the strategy aquarists use to induce spawning behavior - by placing a synthetic yarn mop to encourage breeding and to collect eggs. The Water Colors team discusses some of their favorite killifish that can be bred in this manner, as well as tips and tricks to take on your own project at home!
Watch our tutorial on creating mops here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TteHpP9okBk
Watch our tutorial for collecting eggs here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHXBYxyTpTk
Have some fun killifish of your own you'd like to share? Or questions on how to begin your own project? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Species mentioned in this episode: * Fundulopanchax gardneri * Aphyosemion striatum * Lamprichthys tanganicanus * Aphyosemion bivittatum * Aphyosemion hera * Scriptaphyosmeion gurgnardi * Fundulopanchax sjostedti * Aphyosemion fellmanni * Epiplatys annulatus * Aphyosemion australe "Gold" * Aphyosemion/diapteron abacinum * Aphanius mento * Epiplatys singa * Aphyosemion/diapteron fulgens * Epiplatys dageti (Monroviae) * Aphyosemion elberti
Corydoras catfishes are some of the most universally loved bottom dwellers in the aquarium hobby. This genus is comprised of nearly 200 species and counting! In this episode, the Water Colors team ranks their top 5 cory cats, along with some useful tips on keeping and breeding these fun little armored catfishes.
Have some fun cory cats of your own? Share a picture or join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Species mentioned in this episode: * Corydoras similis, Violet Cory * CW010, Orange Laser Cory * Corydoras adolfi, Adolofo's Cory * Corydoras duplicareus * Corydoras habrosus, Dainty Cory * Corydoras pygmaeus, Pygmy Cory * Corydoras sterbai, Sterba's Cory * Corydoras eques * Corydoras atropersonatus, Polka Dot Cory * Corydoras weitzmani, Twosaddle Cory * CW009, Green Laser Cory * Corydoras schultzei, Black Venezuelan Cory * Corydoras paleatus, Pepper Cory * Corydoras aeneus, Bronze Cory * CW28, Super Schwartzi Highfin Cory * Corydoras eversi * Corydroas hastatus * Corydoras trilineatus, Threestripe Cory * Corydoras julii, Julii Cory
Tub pond season is once again upon us! This is a fun and effective way to breed fish outside, with the added benefit of naturally occurring live food and a beautiful display to enjoy. What are the best fish to keep in this manner, and what factors should we take into consideration? The Water Colors team has an in-depth discussion on their favorite species for this application.
Have a tub pond of your own? Or questions on how to set one up? Join the discussion in the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Species mentioned in this episode: * Fancy guppies * Zebra danios * Platys * Swordtails * Florida flagfish * Celestial pearl danios * Pseudomugil luminatus * Pseudomugil gertrudae * Blue paradise fish * Betta smiradigna * Laetacara curviceps * Odessa barbs * Rosy barbs * Corydoras similis * Corydoras trilineatus * Bristlenose plecos * Cherry barbs * Dwarf neon rainbows * White cloud mountain minnows * Oryzias woworae
You know that excitement you feel when you see fry appear in an aquarium? Followed by the panic of "now what?" Well in this episode, the Water Colors team discusses everything you need to know about raising fry! From feeding, to water changes, to growth inhibiting hormones, we cover lots of frequently asked questions and share some stories of our own projects. Have stories of your own you'd like to share? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/
Characins are a vast and diverse family of fish that are hugely popular in the aquarium hobby. With well over 1000 species, how could you ever pick a favorite? In this episode, the Water Colors team does just that, narrowing the list down to our top 5 species of characins. Some are classics, and some are rare and unique. What are your favorites? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Species mentioned in this episode:* Ember tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) * Lapis tetra (Hyphessobrycon cyanotaenia) * Cardinal tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) * Crystal tetra (Protocheirodon pi) * Emperor tetra (Nematabrycon palmeri) * Jellybean tetra (agadesia roloffi) * Congo tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) * Blue tetra (Knodus broki) * Beckford's pencilfish (Nannostromus beckfordi) * Espei pencilfish (Nannostromus espei) * Purple pencilfish (Nannostromus rubrocaudatus) * Lampeye congo tetra (Phenacogrammus aurantiacus) * Serpae tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques) * Marbled hatchetfish (Carnegiella strigata) * Bucktooth tetra (Exodon paradoxus) * Wimple piranha (Cataprion mento) * Redbellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) * Lemon tetra (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis) * Tucano tetra (Tucanoichthys tucano) * Green fire tetra (Hyphessobrycon flammeus) * Ruby tetra (Axelrodia riesei) * Blueberry tetra (Hyphessobrycon wadai)
Are you interested in starting a reef tank, but are intimidated by coral care? Well in this episode, we discuss the top 5 easiest corals to keep in your saltwater aquarium! Some species grow as fast as weeds, and some are nearly impossible to kill. This makes for a great beginner friendly list, or just a fool proof range of easy to maintain corals for hobbyists of all experience levels. What species would you add to this list? Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/ Support us by shopping online at https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/shop/?v=7516fd43adaa Some species mentioned in this episode:* Xenia sp., Xenia anthelia "Waving Hand" * GSP, Green star polyp * Colt coral (Cladiella sp.) * Duncan (Ducanopsammia) * Yellow polyps (Parazoanthus sp.) * Frog spawn (Fimbriaphyllia sp.) * Spaghetti finger leather (Sinularia flexibilis) * Kenya tree (Capnella sp.) * Hammer coral (Fimbriaphyllia sp.) * Discosoma mushrooms * Toadstools (Sinularia) * Cyphastrea * Purple plating photosynthetic sponge (collospongia sp.) * Montipora caprincornus * Pink photosynthetic gorgonia
Referenced terminology* coenenchyme: the tissue that surrounds and links polyps in octocorals
What are your favorite Water Colors Aquarium Gallery episodes? It's like choosing a favorite child! Tune in to hear Ben, Amy, and Charles' top 5 favorite podcast episodes ever recorded. Some make the list due to their significance, while some are in the running simply because we had a good time recording.This episode was livestreamed on YouTube! To watch the session, you can find the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/T7u3EqCt1I4?feature=shareChime in with your favorite episodes on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/Episodes mentioned:* 12: Intro to Killifish * 17. Trade Secrets: How Water Colors Quarantines EVERY Saltwater Fish * 24. Invasive Species with Dr. Alisha Davidson * 25. Our Five Dream Saltwater Fish * 50. Adventures in Acclimation: From Coral to Coral Beauty * 56. Interview: Will Ogburn and Laura Roy, University of Dayton Fish Lab * 61: Five Killer Beginner Mistakes * 62. Saltwater Changes * 67. Lacey Act Amendments * 79. Schooling Reef Fish * 80. Designer Clownfishes * 82. Conservation in Aquariums: Is It Enough? * 88. Biotopes: Examples of Replicating Wild Habitats * 89. The Breeding Projects We're Most Proud Of * 90. Blackwater Aquariums: Turning a Fringe Habitat into a Mainstream Hobby * 92. Aquariums for Kids: Fostering an Enduring Love for the Hobby * 99. Licorice Gouramis: Little Gems of the Rainforest * 104. Questions Submitted by Podcast Listeners * 108. Worst Aquarium Advice We've Seen Online * 111: Wild-Type Clownfishes and Where to Find Them * 112: Dirt-Spawning Killifishes
You asked for it! We'll be dipping our toes in the water with our first YouTube livestream on Tuesday, April 4 at 7:15 EST (Link below). The topic of discussion will be Top 5 Favorite Episodes of the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast. Depending on the response we get, livestreams like this might become regularly scheduled. So, please share the news and keep those hands wet!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7u3EqCt1I4
People often worry about whether they're feeding their cats and dogs the right food. In your quest to find the right food for your furry pets, you'll find all sorts of helpful advice. On the other hand, if you've ever tried to figure out the best food to feed your fish, you might have come away frustrated from the lack of beneficial advice out there. In this episode of the podcast, the Water Colors team discusses a framework to consider when you're trying to find the right food for the fish you have in your home. You can share your personal journey to discover your favorite fish food on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group page.Addendum:- Ash content in food is a metric of how much "stuff" is left after a sample of the food has been heated to a high temperature. Most of the ash content is comprised of minerals and organics. This is a metric used on both human food and fish food.Literature Referenced:- Lall, S. P. and S. J. Kaushik. 2021. Nutrition and metabolism of minerals of fish. Animals (Basal): Sep 11(9): 2711.Fishes Mentioned in this Episode:- Tangs (Family: Acanthuridae)- Foxface (Siganus vulpinus)- Orchid dottyback (Pseudochromis fridmani)- Clownfishes (Amphiprion spp.)- Betta (Betta spp.)- Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus)- Tetras (Family: Characidae)- Clown loach (Chromobotia macracanthus)- Cichlids (Family: Cichlidae)- Cardinal tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)- Goldfish (Carassius auratus)- Lionfsh (Pterois spp.)- Pike cichlid (Crenicara spp.)- Pelvicachromis kribensis "Moliwe"- Japan Blue Lyretail Guppy (Poecilia reticulata "Japan Blue Lyretail")- Discus (Symphysodon spp.)- Tropheus spp.- Soda cichlid (Alcolapia alcalica)
In this episode of the podcast, the Water Colors team shares their thoughts on the worst aquarium advice they could find on the internet. You can share the worst advice you've ever seen online on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group.Addendums:- In this episode, we guesstimated that there are approximately 240 species of damselfishes. The family Pomacentridae is currently comprised of 31 genera and over 380 species.- In this episode, we failed to mentioned that Green chromis (Chromis viridis) is technically a species of damselfish, as it is a member of the Pomacentridae family, despite the fact that it would have been relevant to the discussion.Corrections:- In this episode, we brought up the pixie hawkfish (Plectranthias inermis) and discussed how it is not a member of the hawkfish family, Cirrhitidae, but is in fact a member of the damselfish family. It is actually more closely related to anthias, being a member of the Anthiinae subfamily. We also failed to mention that there is an actual hawkfish species that is also called the "pixie hawkfish". Which would be Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus. The fact that two different fish from two entirely different familes could carry the same common name is a great example of why we don't like common names.Species Mentioned in this Episode:- Oscar cichlid (Astronotus ocellatus)- Goldfish (Carassius auratus)- Mbuna cichlids ("Rockfish" within the Tribe: Haplochromine)- Maroon clownfish (Amphiprion biaculeatus)- Damselfish (Family: Pomacentridae)- Green chromis (Chromis viridis)- Cardinalfish (Family: Apogonidae)- Bicolor blenny (Ecsenius bicolor)- Clown gobies (Gobiodon spp.)- Yellow watchman goby (Cryptocentrus cinctus)- Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica)- Hawkfish (Family: Cirrhitidae)- Arc-eye Hawkfish (Paracirrhites arcatus)- Pixie "hawkfish" (Plectranthias inermis)- Falco hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys falco)- Flame hawkfish (Neocirrhites armatus)- Diamond sleeper goby (Valenciennea puellaris)- Sixline wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia)- Royal gramma (Gramma loreto)- Ocellaris clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris)- Coral beauty angelfish (Centropyge bispinosa)- Blue-faced angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon)- Engineer goby (Pholidichthys leucotaenia)- Tangs (Family: Acanthuridae)- Bird wrasse (Gomphosus varius)- Ctenochaetus tangs (Ctenochaetus spp.)- Chocolate tang (Acanthurus pyroferus)- Tomini tang (Ctenochaetus tominiensis)- Kole tang (Ctenochaetus strigosus)- Bamboo shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis)- Bristlenose pleco (Ancistrus spp.)- Common pleco (Pterygoplichthys pardalis)- Oto catfish (Otocinclus spp.)- Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata)- Rosy barb (Pethia conchonius)- Tridacna clams (Tridacna spp.)- Bamboo sharks (Chiloscyllium spp.)- Gouramis (Family: Osphronemidae)- Honey gourami (Trichogaster chuna)- Betta (Betta spp.)- Three-spot gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus)- Dwarf gourami (Trichogaster lalius)- Pearl gourami (Trichopodus leerii)- Pelvicachromis kribensis "Moliwe"- Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)- Discus (Symphysodon spp.)- Sparkling gourami (Trichopsis pumila)- Panda barb (Haludaria fasciata)- Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)- Danios (Subfamily: Danionin)- Tetras (Order: Characiformes)- Swordtails (Xiphophorus spp.)- Catfish (Order: Siluriformes)
In the Betta genus, there are two documented modes of incubation: bubble-nesting and mouthbrooding. Among the bubble-nesters, domestic strains of Betta splendens are easily the most ubiquitous. In this episode, the Water Colors team survey all of the bubble-nesters. You can share your stories (and photos) of bubble-nesting Betta on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group!Species Mentioned in this Episode:- Betta macrostoma- Betta splendens- Betta mahachaiensis- Betta imbellis- Betta smaragdina- Betta siamorientalis- Betta stiktos- Betta coccina- Apistogramma agassizii- Betta cf. smaragdina "Guitar"- Betta brownorum- Betta rutilans- Betta sp. "Api Api"- Betta hendra- Betta miniopinna- Betta livida- Betta tussyae- Betta persephone- Betta burdigala- Betta rubra- Betta foerschi- Betta uberis- Betta bellica- Betta simorum- Chili rasbora (Boraras brigittae)- Ember tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae)- Harlequin rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha)- Espei rasbora (Trigonostigma espei)- Sundadaino spp.
DIY projects are something that most hobbyists try at some point in time. Whether it be to try saving a few dollars or because the industry doesn't have a reliable solution for a problem, the Water Colors team discusses the DIY strategies we've tried. We'll even tell you which ones failed and which ones are golden. Tell us about your DIY projects, whether they succeeded or not, in the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group.Corrections:- In this episode, we stated that the type species for the genus Betta was Betta pugnax. The actual type species is Betta picta.- In this episode, we used the name "Heniochus duplicares". This is not a currently recognized species and. What we meant was Heniochus diphreutes.- In this episode, we stated that brine shrimp (Artemia spp.) exoskeletons are comprised of keratin. Keratin is a family of fibrous proteins produced specifically by vertebrates. In the case of an invertebrate, like brine shrimp, their exoskeleton would be composed of chitin.Fishes Mentioned in This Episode:- Heniochus butterflyfish (Heniochus diphreutes)- Tiger barb (Puntigrus tetrazona)- Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens)- Betta pugnax- Neon red rasbora (Sundadanio rubellus)- Espei rabora (Trigonostigma espei)- Neon green rasbora (Microdevario kubotai)- Sundadanio spp.- Cockatoo cichlid (Apistogramma cacatuoides)- Panda Apisto (Apistogramma panduro)- Pelvicachromis kribensis "Moliwe"- Common "Krib" (Pelvicachromis pulcher)- Betta mahachaiensis- Stiphodon gobies (Stiphodon spp.)- Volitans lionfish (Pterois volitans)- Harlequin rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha)- Betta unimaculata- Betta ocellata
Getting started with planted aquariums can be intimidating. In this episode of the Podcast, the Water Colors team explore the chemistry of planted aquarium dosing. We'd love to hear your adventures in planted aquarium dosing on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group.Addendum:- The "Val Guy" is Nick KinserCorrections: In this episode, we stated that cyanide is a chemical component to the electron transport chain. This is an erroneous statement as cyanide inhibits Complex IV in the electron transport chain. In fact, many photosynthetic organisms produce organic cyanides as a defense against herbivory.
Finally, the long awaited episode where the Water Colors team reads your listener questions! A big thank you to everyone who submitted questions for his episode, we had a great range of prompts from silly to serious. Reach out with questions for future episodes by emailing info@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com.
Butterflyfishes are some of the most colorful of all reef fishes, earning the affection of many marine aquarists. In this episode of the podcast, the Water Colors team discuss the joys and the headaches of keeping fishes in the Family Chaetodontidae in home aquariums. if you keep butterflyfishes at home, we'd love to see photos of them posted on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group.Books Mentioned in this Episode:- Angelfishes & Butterflyfishes: Plus Ten More Aquarium Fish Families with Expert Captive Care Advice for the Marine Aquarist (Reef Fishes Series: Book 3) by Scott W. Michael- Marine Aquaria and Miniature Reefs: The Fishes, the Invertebrates, the Techniques by Dr. C. W. EmmensAddendum:- Moorish idols (Zanclus cornutus) are a monotypic species found within the monotypic Family: Zanclidae. Zanclidae is currently sorted into the suborder: Acanthuroidei, due to an implied (distant) cladistic relationship with tangs.Fishes Mentioned in this Episode:- Pakistani butterflyfish (Chaetodon collare)- Pyramid butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys polylepis)- Ornate butterflyfish (Chaetodon ornatissimus)- Oval butterflyfish (Chaetodon lunulatus)- Melon butterflyfish (Chaetodon trifasciatus)- Blacktail butterflyfish (Chaetodon austriacus)- Eastern triangle butterflyfish (Chaetodon baronessa)- Orange-face butterflyfish (Chaetodon larvatus)- Meyer's butterflyfish (Chaetodon meyeri)- Bennett's butterflyfish (Chaetodon bennetti)- Moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus)- Discus (Symphysodon spp.)- Orange-spot filefish (Oxymonacanthus longirostris)- Copper-band butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus)- Longnose butterflyfish (Forcipiger flavissimus)- "Longnose Tweezer-face" butterflyfish (Forcipiger longirostris)- Anemonefishes (Amphiprion spp.)- Black pyramid butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys zoster)- Double saddle-back butterflyfish (Chaetodon ulietensis)- Vagabond butterflyfish (Chaetodon vagabundus)- Teardrop butterflyfish (Chaetodon unimaculatus)- Pearlscale butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)- Klein's butterflyfish (Chaetodon kleinii)- Millet butterflyfish (Chaetodon miliaris)- Lemon butterflyfish (Chaetodon citrinellus)- Multicolor angelfish (Centropyge multicolor)- Yellow tangs (Zebrasoma flavescens)- Flame angelfish (Centropyge loricula)- Wrought-iron butterflyfish (Chaetodon daedalma)- Declevis butterflyfish (Chaetodon declivis)- Burgess' butterflyfish (Chaetodon burgessi)- Hawaiian butterflyfish (Chaetodon tinkeri)- Racoon butterflyfish (Chaetodon lunula)- Threadfin butterflyfish (Chaetodon auriga)- False Moorish idol (Heniochus diphreutes)- Bannerfish (Heniochus acuminatus)- Eight-lined butterflyfish (Chaetodon octofasciatus)
When you say "African cichlids", you usually conjure up images of "peacocks" from Lake Malawi. This connotation is reductive because it ignores two facts. 1. Cichlidae is one of the most species diverse families of fishes in the world. 2. Africa is the second largest continent in the world. In this episode of the podcast, the Water Colors team try their best to ignore the African Great Lakes (Lake Malawi, Lake Victoria, and Lake Tanganyika) in order to explore the diversity of cichlids in ecosystems across the entire continent of Africa. You can share photos of your real African cichlids with us on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group.Corrections:- In this episode, we often use the phrase "Rift Lakes" to refer to Lake Malawi, Lake Victoria, and Lake Tanganyika. The "definition" we are using is more colloquial than it is accurate to the conventional geographic designation for lakes within the Rift Valley region of Africa. It might have been more accurate for us to say "African Great Lakes".- In this episode, Charles said "Rubrolatochromis", which is a genus that does not exist. We were talking about genera split from Pelvicachromis and he managed to erroneously "upgrade" the species Wallaceochromis rubrolabiatus to the genus level.- In this episode, Ben stated that baking soda (AKA sodium bicarbonate) has a "kpH" of 7.8. He was conflating the concepts pKa reaction of sodium bicarbonate <-> carbonic acid, which have the respective pKa values of 10.3 and 6.4, with the 7.4-7.8 pH range that a sodium bicarbonate system will buffer to.Addendums:- The genus Haplochromis was originally coined by F.M. Hilgendorf in 1888 in an attempt to start sorting through the "wastebin genus" Chromis. He utilized Haplochromis obliquidens as his type species, but this entire arrangement was thrown into disarray when it was realized that "Chromis" was already in use for genus of small reef fishes, making it's usage for Pseudocrenilabrinae cichlids a junior homonym. This confusion has resulted in over a century of the taxonomic relations of this clade being redefined multiple times and the relationships between these clades are still misunderstood.Book Mentioned in this Episode:The Cichlids of Western Africa by Anton LambojCichlids Mentioned in This Episode:- Discus (Symphysodon spp.)- Ram cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)- Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)- Apistogramma spp.- Nanochromis spp.- Common krib (Pelvicachromis pulcher)- Wonderful goby cichlid (Gobiocichla wonderi)- Xystichromis sp. "Kyoga Flameback"- Haplochromis spp.- Aulonocara spp.- Pseudotropheus spp.- Copadichromis borleyi- Pseudocrenilabrus nicholsi- Egyptian/Victorian mouthbrooder (Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor)- Pseudocrenilabrus philander- Silver Katana cichlid (Haplochromis thereuterion)- Sardine cichlids (Cyprichromis spp.)- Malawi shell-dweller (Pseudotropheus lanisticola)- Jewel cichlid (Hemichromis spp.)- Jack Dempsey cichlid (Rocio octofasciata)- Hemichromis cristatus- Hemichromis lifalili- Regani dwarf pike cichlid (Crenicichla regani)- Hemichromis sp. "Moanda"- Black diamond Madagascar cichlid (Paratilapia polleni)- Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus)- Bichard's slender cichlid (Teleogramma brichardi)- Wallaceochromis spp.- Enigmatochromis lucanusi- Pelvicachromis silviae- Pelvicachromis sacrimontis- Pelvicachromis subocellatus- Nanochromis transvestitus- Nanochromis parilus- Nanochromis splendens- Pindu cichlid (Stomatepia pindu)- Pelvicachromis kribensis "Moliwe"- Soda cichlid (Alcolapia alcalica)- Tilapia cichlids (Oreochromis spp.)- Buffalo-head cichlid (Steatocranus casuarius)- Blue-lipped buffalo-head cichlid (Paragobiocichla irvinei)- African butterfly cichlid (Anomalochromis thomasi)
For various reasons, many aquarists don't want to have a heater in their aquarium. In this episode of the podcast: the Water Colors staff discusses fish species that are suitable to an aquarium without a heater and a few considerations to have when you're not utilizing a heater in an aquarium. If you have questions, or just wish to show off your home aquarium, join the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group and join the conversation!Correction:-In this episode we postulated that Apistogramma panduro could be considered a coolwater Apisto. This depends on the criteria of "coolwater". Apistogramma panduro can go down to 20°C/72°F. In the context of the conversation in this podcast episode, Apistogramma borelli would have been a better example, as they can go down to 18°C/65°F.Fishes Mentioned within This Episode:- Betta splendens- Betta unimaculata- Betta pugnax- Betta ocellata- White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes)- Neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)- Bristlenose pleco (Ancistrus sp.)- Blue Paradisfish (Macropodus opercularis)- Common swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)- Common platy (Xiphophorus variatus)- Southern platy (Xiphophorus maculatus)- Highland swordtail (Xiphophorus malinche)- Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)- Common molly (Poecilia sphenops)- Sheepshead swordtail (Xiphophorus birchmanni)- Least killifish (Heterandria formosa)- Goodeids (Family: Goodeidae)- Cuban Limia (Limia vittata)- Rummynose tetra (Hemigrammus bleheri)- Halfbeaks (Nomorhamphus spp)- Stingrays (Suborder: Myliobatoidei)- Great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias)- Salt and Pepper Cory (Corydoras paleatus)- Panda Cory (Corydoras panda)- Clown killifish (Epiplatys annulatus)- Hyphessobrycon tetras (Hyphessobrycon spp.)- Ember tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae)- Lemon tetra (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis)- Panda Apisto (Apistogramma panduro)- Cardinal tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)- Green neon tetra (Paracheirodon simulans)- Hillstream loaches (Sewellia spp.)- Zebra/Leopard danios (Brachydanio rerio)- Cherry shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)- Turquoise rainbowfish (Melanotaenia lacustris)- Eastern rainbowfish (Melanotaenia splendida)- Dwarf rainbowfish (Melanotaenia maccullochi)- Boeseman's rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani)- Buenos Aires tetra (Hyphessobrycon anisitsi)- Nothobranchius rachovii- Nothobranchius eggersi- Odessa barb (Pethia padamya)- Lake Inle danio (Devario auropurpureus)- Cherry barb (Puntius titteya)- Opsarius danio (Opsarius pulchellus)- Celestial Pearl danio (Celestichthys margaritatus)- American flagfish (Jordanella floridae)- Goldfish (Carassius auratus)- Dojo loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus)- Kuhli loach (Pangio semicincta)
In this episode, Ben, Amy, and Charles answer questions submitted by the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery staff! The questions submitted range wildly, from serious and introspective, to middle school "would-you-rathers."
Plants we hate
In this episode, the team discusses aquarium plants that we can't stand. Whether they're tough to manage, a pain to keep alive, or just illegal! We normally love aquarium plants here at the gallery, but today we're channeling our hatred.
Hornwort, duckweed, frogbit, invasive plants (cabomba, euro frogbit, water hyacinth, elodea, parrot's feather), glosso, java ferns, fake plants, HC cuba
In this episode, the team discusses designer clownfish. Through selective breeding and careful manipulation, there are some stunning "fancy" clownfish available in the aquarium trade. We discuss some of our favorites variations, and some true abominations of nature.
With the help of special guest Dr. Alisha Davidson, an expert in invasive species, the Watercolors team discusses the potential impending changes to the LACEY Act, and how it might affect the aquarium hobby/trade. Don't freak out, this episode is all about breaking down the potential amendments for all to understand.
Today, the Water Colors team investigates the topic of schooling fish in saltwater aquariums. We'll dive into several species that are commonly sold as schooling fish, and why they DON'T WORK! Listen to today's episode and see why the concept of schooling fish in saltwater aquariums is largely a myth.
One tank turns into two, which turns into a few more... Before you know it, you have a dedicated room to house all your aquariums (and a hefty electric bill). This week, we discuss the concept of fish rooms, and how to manage Multiple Tank Syndrome. Let us know what your dream fish room looks like!
In this episode, the team at Water Colors discusses their top 5 CARES fish species. The CARES Preservation Program (Conservation, Awareness, Recognition and Responsibility, Encouragement and Education, and Support and Sharing) is based on conservation efforts and public education.
The goal of the program is to "encourage hobbyists worldwide to devote tank space to one or more species at risk and distribute offspring to fellow qualified hobbyists, while forming an information network where possible between aquarists, scientists, and conservationists." -
Claudia Dickinson CARES Preservation Program Coordinator
Addendum: We recorded this episode before our recording session for the Lacey Act Amendments (Episode 67). In this podcast you will hear us referring to an upcoming "Lacey Act Amendments" podcast, despite that episode having already been released. The content discussed in our Lacey Act Amendments episode includes many potential ramifications for the future of our hobby. At the time, it was decided that we should prioritize getting that information to you as quickly as possible.
This is part 2 of our Captive Bred Saltwater Fish discussion, listen to episode 74 for more information on this topic. The team is discussing captive bred saltwater fish that are available in the hobby. Here at Water Colors, we're both impressed and inspired by the innovations in captive breeding efforts. Despite this, we've run into some issues with captive bred fish. Let us know how your experiences with captive bred fish have gone!
In this 2 part episode, the team is discussing captive bred saltwater fish that are available in the hobby. Here at Water Colors, we're both impressed and inspired by the innovations in captive breeding efforts. Despite this, we've run into some issues with captive bred fish. Let us know what you think about our favorite captive bred species, and stay tuned for part 2 where we discuss some of the drawbacks we've encountered.
The team discusses frequently asked saltwater questions, and dispels some common myths and assumptions. Lots of useful information for new hobbyists and seasoned veterans alike.
The team discusses our top 5 brands for aquarium products, and why we think they're the best in their class. We stand by equipment that outperforms its competitors, is cost-efficient, and is just plain reliable. What brands do you trust?
You know those fish that just make amazing pets? More personable, more interested, more interactive? In today's episode, we discuss our top "wet pets" in saltwater aquariums, and why they make such great companions.
You know those fish that just make amazing pets? More personable, more interested, more interactive? In today's episode, we discuss our top "wet pets" in freshwater aquariums, and why they make such great companions.
The Water Colors team discusses all things discus in todays episode! Tune in to learn about one of the most prestigious freshwater fish around.
Literature Cited: Manuella Villar Amado, Izeni P. Farias, Tomas Hrbek, "A Molecular Perspective on Systematics, Taxonomy and Classification Amazonian Discus Fishes of the Genus Symphysodon", International Journal of Evolutionary Biology, Vol. 2011, Article ID 360654, 16 pages, 2011. https://doi.org/10.4061/2011/360654
This episode is inspired by listener questions on our Facebook group! The team discusses frequently asked coral questions, ranging from some of the basics to some advanced water chemistry knowledge. If you're new to reef keeping, or you're a seasoned veteran, you'll certainly learn something new from this discussion.
What makes a fish funny? In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles use a Top 5 list in an attempt to answer that question.
In this episode, the team discusses the misinformation and unethical practices of many large scale aquarium businesses. Here at Water Colors, we've seen first hand just how many new hobbyists are given awful advice from chain stores. Take a listen and see how common misinformation affects newcomers and the industry as a whole.
In this episode, Ben and Charles have a heated debate about fish from two different regions of the world, South America vs Asia. Which team would you pick? Who won?
In this episode, the team complains (again)! Only this time, it's about the worst money wasting aquarium products. Check out some of the most pointless and ineffective things being marketed to hobbyists, and save yourself the money by avoiding them in the future.
Carbon cartridges, API master test kits, overpowered filters, vacation feeders, mini CO2 kits, cheap heaters, saltwater dechlorinators, bulb lights, fake anubias, and more.
Cyprinidae can be a difficult family of fish to really wrap your head around. It contains danios, barbs, rasboras, some loaches, and other associated species. While it can seem like a catchall, many of the most popular aquarium fish belong to this diverse group. In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss their favorite cyprinid species.
A list of saltwater holy grail fish is inherently much different than a list of freshwater holy grail fish. When there are fewer species to choose from, the differences between them can seem much greater. These fish are unavailable because of legal restrictions, unattainable because they're so expensive, very difficult to keep, or just unique and require specialized care. Whatever the reason, these are the saltwater species that Ben, Amy, and Charles consider to be outstanding among their peers.
A holy grail fish can mean different things to different people, but for one reason or another these are the fish that set themselves apart from the others.
What are your holy grails? Let us know!
Species mentioned in this episode, spoilers below!
Royal Zebra Pleco, L046 Hypancistrus zebra
Apistogramma agassizii "Cuipeua"
Betta macrostoma
Caradina dennerli
Royal Butterfly Danio: Opsarius pulchellus
Nannostomus espei
Spotted Congo Puffer: Tetraodon shoutedeni
Lampeye Congo Tetra: Phenacogrammus aurantiacus
Altum Angelfish: Pterophylum altum
Panda Loach: Protomyzon pachychilus
Betta mahachaiensis
Montezuma Sword: Xiphophorus montezuma
Betta ferox
Discus: Symphosodon aequifasciata
Water changes are an essential part of aquarium keeping... or are they? There are a lot of people out there who claim that they can keep a healthy reef tank doing few to no water changes. For this episode, Charles did some research on what a water change is actually doing for your aquarium. He, Ben, and Amy discuss some different philosophies around water changes, and why we do what we do. We're getting geeky again folks, you might want to grab a Python and get some changes done while you listen to this one.
Selling fish at a small local store, we get to see a lot of the aftermath of poor advice and improper maintenance. Many beginners, and even the not-so-beginners tend to fall into the same traps. In this episode Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss the deadly mistakes that are the most common, and the common mistakes that are the most deadly.
This week's surprise episode may tiptoe into rant territory. Ben, Amy, and Charles have a freeform discussion on questions that they often get about planted aquariums. What questions did they miss? Post in the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners group on Facebook.
Check out watercolorsaquariumgallery.com for merch, aquarium supplies, and live plants.
Nano aquariums are more popular than ever, and nano reefs in particular have had even the most dedicated freshwater hobbyists peeking over at the other side of the shop. A saltwater tank that is fewer than 20 gallons can offer a less expensive, potentially lower maintenance option, compared to more traditional larger mixed reefs. In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss what goes into setting up a nano saltwater tank, from most basic fish only setup to high tech reef.
Have a nano reef? Post your pictures in the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners group on Facebook.
This week's episode is going to swing us into the research side of fishkeeping. While most of us are exclusively hobbyists, we all have a lot to learn from scientific studies. Will Ogburn and Lauren Roy work in the fish lab at the University of Dayton studying stickleback behavior and transgenerational plasticity under Dr. Jennifer Hellmann. In this interview: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss their study as well as what goes into maintaining a fish room for scientific research. For more information on the work of the Hellman Lab, see https://jehellmann45.wixsite.com/
Most long term aquarium hobbyists remember a particular fish species fondly as what drew them to aquariums, or as a significant step in their personal journey. This time, this podcast is not about those fish. In this episode, Ben, Amy, and Charles talk about the fish they missed the first time around. Are there any fish that you swore you'd never keep but slowly warmed up to? Let us know!
When venturing into saltwater for the first time, it can be easy to see the more complicated equipment or testing as the biggest mentality shift. In practice and with good guidance, these hurdles usually end up being a lot less difficult than they seemed at first glance. Often the challenge that sneaks up on the new reef tank owner who has been conditioned to buy schools of fish in their freshwater hobby, is that most reef fish are very competitive with conspecifics and any other similar species. This makes compatibility one of our most common debates around the shop. Which fish can go together, and why? A few simple rules will get you pretty far, but there are always exceptions. In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss saltwater compatibility, what works, and what to avoid.
Freshwater aquarium fish come from all over the world. Most long term hobbyists tend to drift toward one continent or the other to specialize in, and their opinions on where the best fish come from can can be a little heated. In this episode, Ben and Amy attempt to settle a debate they've hinted at many times, while Charles moderates.
Where do you stand? What did we miss? Let us know!
Remember that this is all in good fun, and the good news is that we don't have to choose just one!
Improper acclimation is by far the most common reason that saltwater fish die soon after going home. If you skip the drip, you risk shocking your fish. Acclimate too long, and the dangers only increase. In this episode, Charles shares the chemistry of acclimation, and why 20 - 25 minutes is all you need.
Plecos, or catfish of the family Loricariidae, are a group of fish that can promote some pretty strong feelings in hobbyists. Whether you're still bitter over the common pleco that got way too big before you knew better, or you've been looking for that holy grail species for years, you probably have a memorable experience with these fish. In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles talk about some of these experiences and why they make them love to hate plecos... or maybe hate to love them?
We've talked about genetically modified fish in this podcast before, not always in the most positive light. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy flip that attitude on its head and talk about some of their favorite line bred, hybrid, and transgenic fish!
What are your favorites? Let us know!
Show Notes: SPOILERS BELOW!
Here is a list of all of the fish discussed in this episode and some associated notes.
Sunset Platy - Xiphophorus maculatus
Cherry Barb - Puntius titteya
Glo Fish Danio - Danio rerio * Note: Glass Fish are in an entirely separate family than Charicins or Cyprinids. They are in the family Ambassidae
Apistogramma agassizii "Fire Red"
Apistogramma macmasteri "Red Neck"
Apistogramma cacatuoides "Super Red"
German Blue Ram - Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
Copper Plakat Betta - Betta sp.
Marble Plakat Betta - Betta sp.
Red Dumbo Halfmoon Betta - Betta sp.
Albino Cory Catfish - Corydoras aeneus
Electric Blue Acara - Andinoacara sp.
Green Tiger Barb - Puntigrus sp.
Red and White Ryukin Goldfish - Carassius auratus
A&M Aquatics is a marine livestock importer/wholesaler located in Michigan. If you live in the midwest, there's a good chance you've seen their fish in your local fish store, but their range extends across the entire United States. We at Water Colors have been fortunate to work extensively with A&M and benefit from their uncompromising approach to importing fish.
In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles sit down with Bill Backus, owner of A&M to discuss his history in the aquarium trade, the story of A&M, as well as his views on the hobby and its future.
Invertebrate diversity is one of the major advantages a saltwater aquarium has over freshwater. Most of the time, and for good reason, coral and other sessile (immobile) invertebrates get the glory. However, it can't be understated how much character and interest their more active cousins can bring to your tank. In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss their top 5 mobile invertebrates.
Summer is the season for getting outside and enjoying the weather while it lasts, but that doesn't mean you need to leave your indoor hobbies entirely. Setting up a temporary pond outside can be the perfect way to take on a breeding project you don't have space for in the fish room, or add a beautiful feature to your yard or balcony. These tub ponds are cheap and easy to set up and maintain. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy talk about summer tubs, how to do them, and what to put in them.
Nano tanks have blown up in popularity over the last few years, for good reason. A nano saltwater aquarium can be a more budget friendly option for the entry level marine aquarist, or the perfect solution to a small space. However, when it comes to stocking a nano reef tank, it's easy to get lost in the weeds of differing opinions. In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss their favorite fish for tanks 20 gallons or less and have some debate over what makes a fish appropriate for a smaller aquarium.
What did we miss? Which picks did you disagree with? Let us know!
Sometimes selecting fish for your aquarium can seem like a daunting task. You want fish that get along, look beautiful together, and fill your tank with a variety of activity. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy bring some of their favorite freshwater fish combinations to the table.
What are your favorite fish to put together? Leave a comment or e-mail us at podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com
In the second part of this introduction to our aquarium books: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss their favorite reads on the saltwater side of the hobby.
Biota Aquariums is one of the world leaders in captive bred saltwater fish, producing and wholesaling an amazing array of livestock including large food fish, tiny gobies, invertebrates, and the now the highly sought after yellow tangs.
Ben, Amy, and Charles were very lucky to get the opportunity to sit down for a call with Jake Phillips, the general manager of Biota Florida to discuss Biota, their mission, and his journey into the world of captive bred marine fish.
There may be a few more audio hiccups than usual as this episode was recorded over a video call.
The next couple of episodes will be about books! The internet is an irreplaceable resource for finding information about your aquarium, but there's nothing like a book when you need to take a comprehensive look at a subject. Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss the impact that books have had on their freshwater hobby, and some recommendations for titles to look for.
Breeding fish is one of the most rewarding aspects of the aquarium hobby. Taking something we love and making more of it for others to enjoy is often what keeps us engaged with our tanks. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss their favorite fish that breed by scattering their eggs, and some of their favorite methods to raise them.
The family Cichlidae is near and dear to all of our hearts at Water Colors. Almost every aquarium has room for a pair of these devoted parents. Their fascinating behaviors and outgoing personalities, often combined with spectacular color, are what draw us to cichlids. However, with these traits often comes aggression, large size, and plenty of other drama. In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss the cichlids that have earned their place at the bottom of their lists.We'd love to hear from you too! What cichlid will you never keep again?
We talked nano saltwater last week, this week we're shifting over to freshwater! There are so many options for tanks that are 10 gallons and under but Ben, Amy, and Charles do their best to narrow it down to their top 5.Do you have a favorite nano fish? Let us know!
The big trend in aquariums right now is small. Nano aquariums are easier to fit into your life, typically require less time to maintain, and are often cheaper than larger tanks. But where does this trend fit into the marine side of the hobby? Many of us have heard "bigger is better" when it comes to reef tanks. Thankfully, in our experience, this isn't always true. With some careful planning a nano saltwater tank can be a lot less work and just as much fun! In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss their experiences and ideas for reef tanks smaller than 20 gallons.
In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy share stories about saltwater organisms that make them sad. This could be because keeping them is very difficult, or they had a heartbreaking experience with an individual. While we'd never say this kind of discussion is fun, commiserating over our experiences is how we lean the most!
In this episode, Ben sprung a surprise debate on us. What's better, freshwater or saltwater? From the start it's an impossible question, the disciplines are so different that comparing them seems fruitless. However Ben, Charles, and Amy try to tackle every angle a hobbyist may look at the issue. This includes species availability, time, difficulty, and cost. While the conversation may come across as contentious, it's all in good fun. What do you think is better? Keep it civil, but let's keep the debate going!
In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles take a look at what it takes to get into planted aquariums for the first time as a freshwater aquarist. In this scenario, they talk about hypothetically what it takes to transition into planted tanks. They discuss a hypothetical scenario in which they are converting a non planted aquarium into a planted aquarium. This discussion covers plant choice, substrate, lighting, and fertilization. While setting up a high end aquascape may take more effort or money than a handful of anubias plants, a beautiful tank is possible at any skill level and in most setups with a little careful planning.
We’re keeping the series going this week, but flipping the discussion over to the saltwater side of things!This episode covers a wide range of marine fish from the common and hardy, to the rare and particular. While Ben, Amy, and Charles do tend to get carried away designing dream systems, most of the fish and aquariums discussed in this episode could be achieved by the average aquarist.
Questions and suggestions, or just have your own inspiration to share? Comment under this episode, send an email to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com or join us on Facebook to keep the conversation going!!
In the second part of this episode Ben, Amy, and Charles continue discussing aquariums designed around a freshwater fish. Confused? Listen to last week's episode!What fish would you design a tank around? Let's keep the conversation going. Send an email to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com, leave a comment, or send us a message on Facebook!
This discussion got away from us a little bit. We had to cut it off halfway through! We often approach setting up a new aquarium by determining what size we can fit and what we can afford, and don't spend much time thinking about how to stock it until it's already home. What would our aquariums be like if we took the opposite path? In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles discuss their ideas on how to design aquariums around a very specific fish. These aren't necessarily biotopes, but aquascapes and equipment carefully chosen to showcase the best of a species. Keep an eye out for part 2, coming soon!
In this episode: Ben, Amy, and Charles share five freshwater fish that make them smile. These memorable fish are the reason so many of us keep and breed particular species, and in a lot of cases are what keep us in the aquarium hobby for so many years.
This week our team got the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Alisha Davidson, an expert in non indigenous species and their spread. The discussion covers how an organism winds up on watch lists, and where to find the lists. Most importantly, this episode focuses on the impact the aquarium hobby has on wild waterways and the simple ways we can all reduce our responsibility.Questions for Dr. Davidson or the Water Colors team? Send an e-mail to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com or find us on Facebook. Organizations mentioned in this episodeGLANSIS: Great Lakes Aquatic Nonindigenous Species Information SystemHabitattitudeIUCN: International Union for the Conservation of NatureMichigan Sea GrantNOAA: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
This is going to be a geeky one! Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss some of their favorite cichlids, the genus Apistogramma. While they do indulge themselves with some deep dives into taxonomy, most of the discussion is centered around a strong affection for these charismatic little fish and details on their care. Whether you are a planted aquarium enthusiast, a master breeder, or a collector of the rare and beautiful there is probably a place for an apisto in your fish room.
In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy tackle some of the misconceptions they often hear around the shop. Some of these have spread like wildfire due to the popularity of Facebook groups and forums, and some have been going around since people started trying to keep fish tanks. What misconceptions have you encountered, and which have you grown out of? Leave a comment below or head over to Facebook to join the conversation!e-mail podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com with questions, comments, or concerns.
You heard them talk about their dream saltwater fish in the last episode. Now Ben, Charles, and Amy are discussing their dream freshwater fish! Many of these are rare fish that they've never seen before, but some are fish that deserve a whole tank devoted to them.What's your dream fish? Comment on our Facebook page or send an e-mail to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com
We just talked about our dream tanks. In the next couple of episodes we'll be talking about our dream fish! This week it's all about saltwater. A dream fish could be one you've always wanted to keep, or if you ask Charles sometimes it's a fish you wish existed. What's your dream fish? Head over to the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Facebook page to join the discussion, or send a message to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com
Ben, Charles, and Amy get a little personal in this edition of the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast. This week, they're discussing their dream tanks and what it would take to achieve them. Some of these are nearly 1000 gallon reef systems, some are as small as 20 gallons. A dream tank could be the setup you're investing in right now, or something you know you'll never do but really would like to.What's your dream aquarium? Comment on Facebook or send an e-mail to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com
This week Ben, Charles, and Amy bring to the table their favorite fish that are easy to breed. Whether you can "Just Add Water" or let the fish take care of each other, this list covers some of the best fish to start your breeding career off with success. Of course they can't keep it to just five...Below is a list of the fish they selected for their lists, as well as a couple that were mentioned along with them. Beware of spoilers!AmyKribensis Cichlid: Pelvicachromis pulcherAlso mentioned Enigmatochromis lucanusiNeocaridina davidiGold BarbBristlenose PlecostomusBlue Paradise FishCharlesNothobranchius killifishCorydoras aeneusZebra DaniosBetta smaragdinaBetta falx also mentionedCherry BarbBenGarneri KillifishWhite Cloud MinnowDwarf Neon RainbowsGuppies and Endler's Livebearer'sPeacock GudgeonYellow Lab CichlidConvict Cichlid
Pests can make or break the success of an aquarium. In this episode Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss where pests come from in freshwater aquariums, how to get rid of them, and most importantly how to prevent them. Have a pest problem? This episode may help!
Send in your questions or comments to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com and don't forget to check us out on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
This week: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss one of everyone's favorite groups of fish. Sharks can be incredibly rewarding aquarium fish if chosen carefully. This episode covers what makes a shark acceptable for aquariums and the species recommended here at Water Colors.The book referenced in this episode is Aquarium Sharks and Rays by Scott Michael
Lighting can be one of the most overwhelming aquarium purchases. It's difficult to know exactly what lights are best for an aquarium just by looking at the box, and lights are often the most expensive boxes you buy for the tank. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss how light spectrums and intensity are measured. They also offer up some recommendations for lighting based off of what they've used and loved. While it's pretty much impossible to cover the full subject of lighting in a single podcast, this episode should give you a good baseline on how to pick lights for your tank. If you've got any questions or comments, head over to our Facebook page or send an e-mail to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.comSome of the products and brands discussed in this episode:TwinstarEcoTech RadionAI HydraAI PrimeCurrent TrueLumen StripsKessil
In this episode, Ben, Charles, and Amy talk about their favorite aquarium products. These are the filters, lights, additives, tools and more that make our hobby that much easier and more successful.
Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss the broad subject of filtration. They explain the three types of filtration and why you need them, the nitrogen cycle, what a filter does, and (perhaps more importantly) what a filter does not do. Getting the right filtration for your tank can make maintenance easier. In this episode, they share their favorite types of filters and how they use them to keep their aquariums healthier. What's your favorite filter? e-mail podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com or join us on Facebook for more discussion
If you're a regular customer at Water Colors, you probably have a love hate relationship with our quarantine procedures. Each of our saltwater fish is quarantined for at least four weeks and treated for any possible parasite. Our staff is dedicated to selling only the most healthy fish possible. We strongly believe that this is the way that every aquarium shop should be operating. The decision to make this information public was a difficult one, but we consider it our responsibility to show the industry that it can be done successfully. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery saltwater quarantine system publicly and in detail for the first time. This episode covers our exact methods for quarantining large batches of saltwater fish and the long, arduous journey that led us to them.
If you've ever considered breeding fish for fun or profit, you have probably considered selling to other hobbyists or fish stores. If you're an experienced breeder, you may have wondered what goes into the value of your fish, and why it's so much different than what you see on store shelves. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy get into some of the details of why fish cost what they do and some tips and tricks to get the most out of breeding fish.
Ben, Charles, and Amy return to form in another top five list week. This time they discuss the aquarium plants that they believe don't get the attention they deserve. Whether they're classics that can be used differently, a perfect alternative for a more common plant, or relatively unknown, there's a plant in this episode for nearly every aquascape.
In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy have a conversation on a hotly debated subject in the aquarium hobby. Should we be buying wild caught, captive bred, tank raised, or larval reared fish? What is the difference, and what is the best for our hobby as well as for our planet? While it may seem obvious that a fish in a tank is one less in the wild, the issue is as complex as any other in conservation. We want to hear what you have to say on this subject! e-mail your feedback to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com or check us out on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Bettas may be the most beloved group of fish on the planet. If you're listening to this episode, chances are you've kept one if not many in your lifetime. While the domestic strains of Betta splendens are undoubtedly an aquarium staple, the wild species can be just as rewarding to keep, and in some ways less problematic. In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss bettas of all shapes and sizes, and how to keep them happy and healthy. Questions, comments, or corrections? e-mail podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.com or stop by our Facebook page for more discussion.
In this episode: Ben gets the opportunity to geek out on one of his favorite groups of fish. Killifish are some of the most diverse and adaptable organisms on the planet, found in nearly every type of freshwater ecosystem and on nearly every continent. If you've never considered keeping killifish before, give this episode a try. There's a killi for every method of aquarium keeping, you just need to find the right one.Have something to say about this episode or general podcast feedback? Send an e-mail to podcast@watercolorsaquariumgallery.comCheck us out on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more content.
It's easier than ever to find information, but how do we know who to trust? In the misinformation age, it can be difficult to differentiate fact from opinion. Whether a source is in person, online, or even printed there are some telltale signs that something may not be correct. During this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss their tips and tricks for assessing information and its credibility.
In this week's episode of the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss one of the more controversial subjects in the aquarium hobby. Genetically modified fish can be hybrids, transgenic, or selectively bred. Let us know how you feel on the subject!Check out Water Colors Aquarium Gallery on YouTube, and as always, #keepthosehandswet
In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss the most majestic and one of the most misunderstood groups of saltwater fish. Angelfish come in all sizes and if you're into reef keeping, chances are there's a species of angel that will work in your tank
This episode is a good one for anyone considering a saltwater setup. Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss the subject of the saltwater cleanup crew. A clean up crew is the team of invertebrates and fish that can make aquarium maintenance that much easier, but they aren't all always needed. They share their favorite helpers and those who've been less than helpful, as well as some tips to prevent needing them in the first place.
In this episode, Ben, Charles, and Amy attempt to answer the huge question: "How do I start an aquarium?" In the process, they discuss their best time saving and budget saving options for many different types of aquariums, as well as how to start up some of the more specialized systems. Whether you're just starting your first tank, making the jump to saltwater, or just want to take your hobby to the next level these tips provide a place to get started.
Another Top Five list from Water Colors. Ben, Charles, and Amy discuss their top five underrated saltwater fish. Whether they'll fit in any reef or deserve a tank all to themselves, these fish deserve a bigger place in the reefkeeping hobby. If you've never kept a reef tank before, they focus on some fish that would be the perfect start to your saltwater hobby.
This time Ben, Charles, and Amy talk about the saltwater fish they hope never to see at Water Colors. There's some debate over why a fish doesn't belong in a reef tank, but there are certainly some they can all agree on!If you're interested in this subject, don't forget to listen to our first episode to hear the freshwater version. Let us know which fish are on your list.
Welcome to the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast!In this podcast we'll be discussing everything aquariums: fish we love and fish we don't think belong in tanks, how to keep and breed fish, propogating plants and corals, and of course sharing stories about the crazy hobby that is our passion.This introduction covers Ben, Amy, and Charles' personal histories. We talk about how we got into the aquarium hobby and how we ended up at Water Colors
In this episode of the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast, Charles gets to flex his research muscles. He, Ben, and Amy share what they know about clownfish. From their genetic history, to the quirks and stories that make them some of the most beloved aquarium fish. For those of you who've heard enough about a certain famous clown, hear them out. They discuss all of the different clades and complexes of clownfish, highlighting what makes each uniquely fascinating.
In this episode Ben, Charles, and Amy tackle the tricky subject of testing. This may seem like a dry subject, but it illustrates the difference in their aquarium keeping styles and philosophies. From cycling your tank to managing SPS corals, they get into what situations testing is useful for and how to go about it. Let us know what you do to test your water. Don't forget to subscribe and check out our youtube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9KDJMM0-5FyHM3QMC_1Vqg/
In this episode Ben, Charles, and Amy brought to the table five types of freshwater fish that you're not likely to see in our shop.Let us know what you think, but keep the discussion civil. Do you agree with our picks? What fish do you think shouldn't be for sale?
In this episode: Ben, Charles, and Amy made lists of the 5 aquarium fish that don't get enough love. These are the fish we're really excited to talk about, but don't hear too many other people mention. Let us know which fish you think are underrated!