Our Aquariums

Freshwater Crabs For Aquariums

If you are looking for a new addition to your home, freshwater crabs for aquariums are a great option. There are many different varieties to choose from, each one being interesting and unique. Though they are often overlooked as an option, they can make great pets to own.

With the right experience and care, crabs can make great pets to own. They are entertaining and make wonderful conversation pieces in your home. Like any pet, it is important you do your research and provide a healthy habitat for them to live in.

Best Freshwater Crabs For Aquariums

Freshwater crabs can make wonderful pets to own in your home aquarium. They can be great for owners of all experience levels. In many cases, they will only need a tank between 5-30 gallons.

There are several species of fully aquatic freshwater crabs, as well as ones that split their time between land and water. It is important to provide the proper tank size and tank setup in order for your crab to strive.

Rainbow Land Crab

Rainbow Land crabs make fascinating pets to own, as they spend their time between land and water. They are brightly colored and have adorable eyes that look like they are wearing goggles. They are ideal for new to intermediate owners.

Rainbow Land crabs require at least a 20-gallon tank. They grow to be about four to eight inches long. They should be kept alone as they are territorial and they will eat pellets, bloodworms, fish, and fruits.

Panther Crab

Recognizable by their signature spots, panther crabs can be a great choice for beginners. However, they can be aggressive and should have their own tank. They are nocturnal and enjoy having hiding spots for during the day.

Panther crabs need at least a tank that is 20 gallons in size and they grow to be up to five inches long. They typically eat pellets, flakes, algae wafers, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetables. They are fully aquatic but do enjoy having a rock or land to go on occasionally.

Freshwater Pom Pom Crab

Freshwater Pom Pom crabs are fully aquatic and are generally less aggressive than other types of crabs. They are very active, typically peaceful, and enjoy scavenging. Their unique appearance makes it look like they are holding cheerleading pom poms in their claws.

Pom Pom Crabs are small, growing to be only 0.6 and 1 inch in length. They can live in a tank that is just five gallons, but it is recommended to have at least a 10-gallon tank.

These crabs are fully aquatic and eat flakes, pellets, plants, algae, and bloodworms. You can keep them in a tank with other fish as well.

Freshwater Pom Pom Crab

Matano Crab

Matano Crabs make for a unique addition to your aquarium. Their unique color makes them stand out and they can be kept with other fish. They are ideal for novice to intermediate owners.

Matano crabs are fully aquatic, though they do enjoy having a piece of land to come on. These crabs can grow to be around three to five inches long. They should have at least a 20-gallon tank and their diet consists of bloodworms, fish food, and plant life.

Red Claw Crab

Red Claw crabs can be a bit shy and skittish, so they should have plenty of hiding areas. They are territorial, so they should be housed alone or with plenty of room. They should have access to brackish water and land in order for them to thrive.

Red Claw crabs are best suited for intermediate owners. They grow to be up to four inches long and should have at least a 20-gallon tank. Their diet consists of Brine shrimps, fish food, bloodworms, and vegetables.

Red Claw Crab

Fiddler Crab

Fiddler crabs are easily recognizable by having a distinctive large claw. They enjoy splitting their time between land and water and should have access to brackish water. They are fairly easy to keep as pets and are entertaining to watch.

Fiddler crabs grow only to be two to three inches long. They should have at least a 10-gallon tank and can be kept with others. Their diet consists of fish food, brine shrimp, blood worms, plankton, seaweed, and zucchini.

Thai Devil Crab

Though large in size, Thai Devil crabs can be a great option for beginners. They come in a variety of different colors and make a beautiful addition to your home. They should have access to both land and water.

Thai Devil crabs are relatively peaceful and can be kept with others. They grow to be two to four inches long and should have a tank that is at least 10 gallons. Their diet consists of fish flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, fresh & dried fruits, and algae.

Vampire Crab

Sought after for their deep purple color and yellow eyes, Vampire crabs make fascinating pets to own. They need access to both freshwater and land. They can be a good option for beginners but are more fitting for those with experience.

Vampire Crabs grow to be about two inches long. They should have at least a 10-gallon tank and they are best housed by themselves as they can be aggressive. Their diet consists of flake, brine shrimp, bloodworms, dried crickets, and vegetables.

Marble Batik Crab

Though they are relatively rare, Marble Batik crabs are sought after for their unique look. They are relatively easy to keep, making them a suitable option for beginners. Their habitat should include both land and water.

Marble Batik crabs are social animals and prefer to live in the company of others. They should have at least a five-gallon tank, though 10-gallons is recommended as they can grow to be three to four inches. Their diet consists of fish, dried vegetables or fruit, and protein matter.

Thai Micro Crab

Thai Micro crabs are low-maintenance, making them a great option for beginners. Due to their small size, they like to have many different spots to hide. They are fully aquatic and can be kept with other fish.

Thai Micro crabs only grow to be 0.4 inches. They can be kept in a five-gallon tank due to their small size. Their diet consists of algae, biofilm, and plant matter.

Owning Aquarium Crabs

Freshwater crabs for aquariums can make great additions to your home. There are many different species you can get, several of which are beginner-friendly.

Do you have any questions regarding freshwater crabs for aquariums? If so, please ask your freshwater crab questions in the comment section.

Read more about: Mini Sharks For Aquariums

Do I Need An Air Pump For My Aquarium?

If you are getting an aquarium, it is important to know all the equipment you need. You may wonder, do I need an air pump for my aquarium? Air pumps can be an important addition to fish tanks, but not all of them require one.

It is important to have the proper setup for your specific aquarium. You want to provide the right environment for your fish in order for them to thrive and be healthy. In some cases, this means having an air tank for your aquarium.

What Does An Air Pump Do For An Aquarium?

Air pumps simply work to pump bubbles through your aquarium. They provide increased gas exchange, better water circulation, and even additional decoration. Though they are often not a necessary addition to your aquarium, they do provide many benefits.

Surface Agitation

Surface agitation is vital to your aquarium’s health as that is where gas exchange takes place. Without surface agitation, oxygen and carbon dioxide will sit at the surface and can’t make their way out.

To ensure there is enough agitation in the water, an air pump can be used to increase circulation. The constant flow of bubbles will push the carbon dioxide to the surface creating surface agitation, This then allows for gas exchange to take place.

Surface Agitation

Read more about Where To Place Powerheads In A Freshwater Aquarium?

Increased Oxygen

You may wonder, since they live in the water, do fish need oxygen? Fish do indeed need oxygen and it is an important aspect of their survival.

Air pumps are a great way to increase oxygen in a fish tank. An air pump will create thousands of tiny bubbles that in return produce more oxygen.

Oxygen is essential to the life of your fish and plants. Increased oxygen provides a healthy environment for all your fish and plants. This allows for beneficial bacteria to thrive and creates a balanced ecosystem.

They Can Double As Decorations

Not only can air pumps be practical, but they can also be decorative as well. Air pumps can consist of a decoration that will release bubbles as part of their design. They are a fun and practical addition to your fish tank.

One of the most popular air pump decorations for aquariums is treasure chests. When the treasure chests open up, bubbles will flow out. There are also several other variations of air pump decorations that make for an adorable addition to your fish tank.

They Prevent Stagnant Water

Stagnant water can cause algae, toxins, and bacteria to build up. It can create an unhealthy, cloudy environment which can cause all sorts of problems for your fish. Fortunately, adding an air pump can increase airflow to help keep the water clean and prevent it from becoming stagnant.

Is An Air Pump Necessary For An Aquarium?

It can stressful to figure out everything your aquarium needs. You may wonder, do fish tanks need air pumps?

In most cases, an air pump isn’t necessary for an aquarium. However, there are many benefits to having one, which often makes them worth having for your fish tank. There are a few situations where air pumps are required.

Though most fish do well with air pumps, some species do not do well with them. Some fish, like Bettas, do not like currents and prefer still water. The current that the bubbles can create can disrupt certain species, so be sure to do your research.

In addition, fish tanks can be loud, which is especially important to note if you have a fish tank in your bedroom. If you do have a fish tank in your bedroom, you will want a return valve to help with the sound.

If you get an air pump, you will want to make sure to get the right size for your tank. This will ensure you are getting the right amount of bubbles for your tank’s needs. There are several different sizes and styles that you can choose from to meet the needs of your fish and plants.

They Required For Sponge, Corner, and Under Gravel Filters

If you have a sponge, corner, or under gravel filter, you will need to have an air pump in your aquarium. A sponge filter is a type of filter that runs off an air pump and air stone. Since corner and under gravel filters are driven by the air, they also need an air pump to operate.

Some Protein Skimmers Require Air Pumps

Protein skimmers are an important aspect of saltwater aquariums. They are a device used to remove organic waste from the water in order to create a healthy environment for fish and plants. They remove potentially harmful toxins from the water.

Certain types of protein skimmers require an air pump in order to properly operate. The air bubbles produced by the air pump allow the protein skimmers to work correctly.

Learn more about: Protein Skimmers For Saltwater Aquariums

Do I Need An Air Pump For My Aquarium? The Benefits Of Having One

Though you don’t necessarily need to have an air pump for your aquarium, they can be very beneficial. They can help with surface agitation and gas exchange, increase oxygen and also prevent stagnant water. However, they can also be loud as well.

Air pumps can also be decorative as well. You can buy decorations such as treasure chests that will open up and release bubbles. Decorative versions can make a wonderful addition to your fish tank.

In tanks with sponge, corner, and under gravel filters, air pumps are necessary. In addition, some saltwater tanks with protein skimmers will require one to properly operate.

However, some fish like Bettas do not like the movement from air pumps. Be sure to do your research to find out if one is a good addition to the fish you own. In most cases, however, the fish and plant life you have will benefit from having one.

Do you have any questions on do I need an air pump for my aquarium or not? If so, please ask any questions about air pumps and whether they are the right choice for your aquarium.

Read more about: What Is Aquarium Salt Made Of?

What Is Aquarium Salt Made Of?

Aquarium salt can be a beneficial addition to your fish tank. But, just what is aquarium salt made of? This simple product can be key to a healthy tank environment.

Aquarium salt is a versatile product that many fish owners use. It differs from sea salt, Epsom salt, and table salt. It can bring many beneficial components to your aquarium.

What Is Aquarium Salt Made Of?

Aquarium salt is made of evaporated sea salt. Essentially, it is pure, untreated sodium chloride. Though not everyone agrees with its use, it is added to freshwater aquariums for several different reasons.

It does not include any artificial additives, sugar, or colors. It will not change the pH levels in the water, but it does work to reload natural electrolytes.

Though it may seem odd to add salt to a freshwater tank, it actually has its benefits when done correctly. It can be an easy and affordable way to improve the lives of your fish and help create a healthy environment. Though some people think there are better options, others swear by using it in your aquarium.

Adding aquarium salt to your fish tank eliminates the water from bacteria, fungus, or parasites through osmosis. These organisms are unable to handle salt, where fish are able to withstand the levels needed to eliminate bacteria, fungus, and parasites.

One of the many uses of this versatile product is to promote fish health. It works to improve gill health, allowing for fish to breathe easier. In addition, it can even reduce stress and block the toxic effects of nitrites until a water change.

It can even help heal fish with fungal and bacterial infections. It even helps fight off parasites that may be harmful to fish. In addition, it can also speed up the healing process of fish with wounds.

Sick goldfish

Unlike other over-the-counter medications, aquarium salt is more affordable. It can also help prevent algae from growing, allowing your tank to thrive. It is even able to help promote a healthy, slimy coat in fish.

Learn more about: How To Get Rid Of Blue-Green Algae In A Planted Aquarium

When To Use Aquarium Salt

Aquarium salt is intended to be used with tropical freshwater fish. You should generally avoid using it with fish that don’t have scales, snails, and in tanks with freshwater plants. Cory catfish and tetras, along with other scaleless species do not tolerate salt well.

It is available at pet stores and online as well. You should not use other salts in place of it without doing research as they may cause adverse effects.

Be sure to carefully add the right amount of it to your fish tank. Though small amounts can be beneficial, too high of levels can cause problems for your fish. Be sure to only use the recommended amounts as needed to ensure the best results.

Baths

Salt baths can provide beneficial treatment for the entire fish tank. They can help treat nitrite poisoning, reduce stress, prevent algae and even treat parasites. Salt baths in a fish tank can be used and maintained for up to three weeks at a time.

For baths, one tablespoon should be used for every five gallons. Making a bath with aquarium salt will not affect the hardness of the water.

Dips

Unlike baths that are meant to treat a whole tank, dips are used on individual fish with ailments. Dips are beneficial for treating fish with parasites, wounds, or infections. They can be a great alternative to more expensive medications.

When making a dip, add one tablespoon of aquarium salt for every gallon of water used. Allow the fish to remain in the salted water for anywhere from five minutes to 30 minutes. You can administer the treatment for up to 30 days if necessary.

Aquarium Salt Vs Sea Salt

Aquarium salt and sea salt have different uses when it comes to using them for fish tank care. While aquarium salt is intended for freshwater fish, sea salt is intended for saltwater fish.

Sea salt is more complex than aquarium salt. It contains components such as sulfates, magnesium, calcium, hydrogen carbonate, bromine, strontium, and potassium. These elements help make the water more suitable for marine invertebrates.

Sea salt is used specifically for aquariums with saltwater marine life. Avoid using sea salt in freshwater tanks to treat ailments in fish. Instead, just stick the aquarium version.

The magnesium in it works as an anti-stress agent and is very important for the nervous system of marine life. The iodine in it supports hormonal balance while the manganese helps the immune system. Iron and copper are vital for the process of hematopoiesis.

Epsom salt can also be of use in fish tanks. You can use it to help treat constipation, Dropsy and swim bladder disease. In addition, it also adjusts the hardness and pH levels of the aquarium and is even safe for most plants.

You should avoid using table salt in your fish tank. Table salt contains iodine, anti-caking agents, and other chemicals that may be harmful to your fish. Though it can be tempting to use since you probably already have it on hand, do not use it instead of aquarium salt.

Learn more about Epsom Salt Aquarium Dosage

The Benefits Of Using Aquarium Salt

Though some experts prefer to avoid aquarium salt as too much can cause problems, it does have many benefits. However, just be sure not to confuse sea salt and aquarium salt for each other.

Aquarium salt can help treat wounds, infections, and parasites in freshwater fish. In addition, it can also improve gill health, reduce stress and even treat nitrite poisoning. It is a more affordable option than most over-the-counter medications and is versatile.

You can administer it into your fish tank by giving dips or baths. Dips are ideal for treating an individual fish whereas baths are for treating a whole aquarium. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions when giving dips or baths to ensure that you do it properly.

Do you have any questions on what is aquarium salt made of? If so, please ask any questions regarding aquarium salt, how to use it and its benefits in the comment section down below.

Read more about: Good Fish For A 55-Gallon Freshwater Aquarium

Good Fish For A 55-Gallon Freshwater Aquarium

Choosing out fish for your aquarium is an exciting process. Fortunately, there is a large variety of good fish for a 55-gallon freshwater aquarium that you can purchase. They will make a wonderful addition to your new fish tank setup.

It is important to get the right fish for your aquarium. You don’t want to get any fish that will outgrow your 55-gallon tank. In addition, you want to avoid species that will fight or eat each other.

Best Fish For A 55-Gallon Tank

There are so many freshwater fish to choose from that it can be a bit overwhelming. If you have a 55-gallon tank, you want to make sure to choose only fish that will be able to thrive in that size. Fortunately, there is a good selection of fish that are appropriate for an aquarium that is 55 gallons.

A 55-gallon tank gives you the ability to have a variety of different fish species. It is a good idea to have a variety of bottom-dwellers, mid-level, and top swimming fish in your aquarium. This will create a good balance in your fish tank.

In addition to the right selection of fish for a 55-gallon tank, you also want to make sure you have the right setup. For that size of fish tank, you should typically have a heater, light, and filter to provide a healthy environment. You also want to have substrate and having live plants can be beneficial.

Be sure to research the diet and set up the specific species of fish needs. It is important to provide them with the right environment in order for them to thrive. You also want to make sure you mix fish that are compatible with each other in order to prevent fights.

Angelfish

Freshwater angelfish make a beautiful addition to your aquarium. There are several different types to choose from, each that have their unique wing-like shaped fins. Native to Brazil, they are now to have a calm demeanor in general and are relatively easy to care for.

Since Angelfish can grow to be relatively large, they need a tank that is at least 55 gallons. They generally spend most of their time at the mid-to-upper level of the tank.

Angelfish

Barbs

Barbs are colorful, hardy fish that are active swimmers. There are many different types of barbs including Cherry, Black Ruby, Denison, Gold, Rosy, Tiger, Tinfoil, and Zebra Barb. They are social fish and often do best in groups of at least five.

Barbs generally spend most of their time hanging out at mid-level. They are best kept with other fish that are active as well.

Rainbowfish

Rainbowfish are beautiful and active fish that can make a great addition to your aquarium. There are many different types including Madagascar, Lake Wanam, Neon, Red, Lake Kutubu, Desert, Boeseman’s, and Axelrods. They spend most of their time at the mid-to-upper level of the aquarium.

Zebra Daino

Zebra Dainos are stripped fish that are known for being active and hardy. They are docile fish that do great when you have a school of them. They are typically top swimmers.

Fancy Guppy

Fancy guppies are lively, active fish. If adding them to your 55-gallon tank, you want to get several since they are small fish. They are top swimmers and come in a variety of different colors.

Tetras

Tetras are small fish that come in different varieties such as Neon, Cardinal, Black-Skirt, and Bleeding Heart. They add a great pop of color to your aquarium and do best in large schools. They are mid-level dwellers and should be kept with medium or small-sized fish.

Tetras

Read more about Longest Living Aquarium Fish

Gourami

Gourami fish are slow-moving fish that are docile in the right environment. There are different types including Three-Spot and Dwarf. Though males should be kept separate as they can be aggressive, females can live in the same tank.

Gouramis are unique as they breathe at the surface by using their labyrinth organ, which acts as a lung. They spend most of their time at the mid or top level of the aquarium.

Swordtail

With an intriguing bright-orange experience, Swordtails make a great addition to your aquarium. The males have a unique long tails make them stand out in your tank. They are typically top-dwellers and are generally easy to care for.

African Cichlids

African Cichlids are a beautiful species of freshwater tropical fish. They are active fish, but they can be highly territorial and aggressive. African Cichlids are best kept as the only type of fish in the tank

Kuhli Loaches

Kuhli Loaches are a unique type of bottom-dweller that do a great job keeping your fish tank clean. They are great at hiding and are peaceful fish. Kuhli Loaches prefer to be kept in groups of at least six.

Cory Catfish

Cory Catfish make for an adorable addition to your fish tank. They are bottom-dwellers and enjoy cleaning up any excess food that gets stuck at the bottom, helping reduce waste. Cory Catfish are best when kept in schools of at least five to ten.

Cory Catfish

Good Fish For A 55-Gallon Freshwater Aquarium

There are several great species of fish you can get for your 55-gallon aquarium. For the best community fish for a 55-gallon tank, you want to have a combination of bottom-dwellers, mid-level, and top swimmers. This will help create a balanced environment in your freshwater fish tank.

The best fish for a 55-gallon freshwater tank include Angelfish, Barbs, Rainbowfish, Zebra Daino, Fancy Guppy, Tetras, Gourami, Swordtails, African Cichlids, Cory Catfish and Kuhli Loaches. Each of these fish will make a beautiful addition to your tank.

Before buying fish, it is important to research the care they need. It is vital you provide them with the proper food and environment they require. In addition, it is also important to research what other fish they are compatible with.

Do you have any questions about good fish for a 55-gallon freshwater aquarium? If so, please ask any questions about freshwater fish and the environment they need in the comment section down below.

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Protein Skimmers For Saltwater Aquariums

If you have saltwater fish, you will want to know the importance of protein skimmers for saltwater aquariums. Protein skimmers are an important aspect of allowing your aquarium to run properly. They allow for a healthy environment for your fish and plant life.

It can be overwhelming to try and figure out all the stuff you need for your saltwater aquarium. There are so many things you need to do in order to have just the right setup. A protein skimmer is one of the most important aspects of a saltwater aquarium setup.

What Is A Protein Skimmer?

A protein skimmer is a type of mechanical filter that works to remove organic waste from an aquarium. It removes things such as excess bacteria, toxins, waste, and leftover food. It is a vital aspect of maintaining a proper environment in the tank.

Aquarium protein skimmers break down organic compounds before they break down. This will help not only keep the water clean but also keep it clear. In addition, protein skimmers also work to reduce the chance of algae growing in your fish tank.

Protein skimmers also work to reduce nitrate buildup, which can potentially be toxic to your fish and plants. They work to keep the water safe and healthy. Without one, algae can rapidly spread and dangerous toxins can even build up.

Protein skimmers got their name as they use the polarity of the proteins to remove waste from aquariums. They contain a reaction container that forms lots of tiny bubbles. The organic matter in return sticks to the bubbles.

The bubbles are then brought up to the surface of the chamber. The collection cup then works to manually remove the containments from the water column.

Learn more about: Saltwater Aquarium Filter Setup

Types Of Protein Skimmers

There are several different protein skimmers you can choose from. Each one has its own advantages. They even come with different features to meet the needs of your tank and come in all different prices as well.

HOB

Hang on Back (HOB) protein skimmers hang on the back of aquariums. They are a great option for those who don’t have sumps. They hang just like power filters and are generally designed for aquariums under 100 gallons.

In-Sump

In-sump protein skimmers are designed to fit in the sump of an aquarium. They are available in many sizes and come in simple to more complex models. Depending on the size and features, you can get one for just a few dollars or several thousand.

External

External protein skimmers sit outside the sump of an aquarium. The sump transfers water into the external skimmer, cleans it, and then returns it back to the sump.

In-Tank

In-tank protein skimmers are generally designed for nano tanks. This is so they don’t take up too much space in your aquarium. Though in-tank protein skimmers are generally small, they can be very effective.

Types Of Protein Skimmers

Co-Current Vs Counter Current Skimming

Co-Current skimmers are the first type of protein skimmer invented. They use an open-ended tuber or cylinder that includes a bubble source at the base. They use the volume of the air bubble that rise in the column to bring them to the water within the chamber body.

Water is then drawn into the cylinder from below the water’s surface. Then, once the bubbles pop in the collection cup, the treated water flows back into the aquarium. Co-current protein skimmers can be sump or HOB.

Counter-current skimmers inject water at the top of the reaction tube. In this type, the bubble source, along with the isolated outlet fitting. The water passes against the rising bubbles. This then doubles the dwell time.

Venturi-Style Skimming

Venturi-style skimming is a newer type of protein skimmer. They feature a Mazzei valve but do not use airstone or limewood diffusers to create bubbles. The venturi valve delivers the water that needs to be treated and the bubbles as well.

ETS/Down-Draft Skimming

A new type of protein skimmer is the ETS (Environmental Tower Skimmer) is popular for its relatively simple design. Also known as down-draft skimming, it has the ability to filter large amounts of water.

ETS connects to a sump with a long tube with an internal baffle plate and a drain valve. Inside of the tube are bio-balls that diffuse the high-velocity water that goes through the top. As the water flows down on the bio-balls, it is smashed several times over them.

When the water arrives at the sump at its base, it is white and foamy. The baffle inside then makes dwell time. In addition, the protein-rich froth rises up into the tube with the collection cup above it.

It is most popular among those who own small tanks. However, there are smaller designs that use the same steps to allow smaller capacity systems to work as well. There are also several variations as well.

Protein Skimmers For Saltwater Aquariums

Protein skimmers are an important addition to your saltwater aquarium. They work to remove organic waste, toxins, leftover food, and harmful bacteria from the water. They are a vital addition to keeping your aquarium water clean and clear.

Organic waste sticks to tiny bubbles made by the protein skimmer. The bubbles are brought up to the surface champer where the collection cup then manually removes the containments from the water before returning the water.

There are several different types of protein skimmers. They include in-tank, in-sump, HOB, external, co-current, counter-current, venturi styling, and ETS/Down-Draft skimming. The type of tank and setup you have will allow you to find the best protein skimmer for the needs of your fish.

Each type of protein skimmer has its own advantages. They all work to effectively rid the organic waste from the water in your aquarium. They can even come with different features and are available in a wide array of budgets.

Do you have any questions on protein skimmers for saltwater aquariums? If so, please ask any questions on the types of protein skimmers and how they work in the comment section down below.

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