Author name: Nic Hsu

Discover how the Ocean Free Hydra filter uses Hydro-Pure oxidation to detoxify ammonia and organics, blending mechanical filtration with in‑chamber treatment. A beginner‑friendly guide to setup, maintenance, and myths.

Learn how UV sterilizers keep aquarium water clearer, reduce free-floating parasites, and ease maintenance. This guide covers what UV does and doesn’t do, sizing, installation, safety, and real-world setup tips for freshwater, planted, and reef tanks.

Learn how to safely use garden rocks and wood in freshwater aquariums: when it’s OK, how to test and clean, and which materials to trust and avoid.

Learn what cyanobacteria blooms are, how to recognize them, and a practical, step-by-step plan to safely remove them and prevent future outbreaks in freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

Green water in your aquarium? Learn its causes and follow practical fixes—from emergency steps to long-term prevention and a 7-day plan—to restore crystal clarity safely.

Learn how RO water gives aquariums a clean starting point. This beginner guide covers what RO is, how RO/DI works, remineralization, when to use it, and tips for freshwater, shrimp, brackish, and reef tanks.

Discover how protein skimmers remove dissolved organics from saltwater tanks, how they work, and how to choose, install, tune, and maintain them for clearer water.

Discover the best aquarium gravel for your tank with this beginner-friendly guide. Learn inert vs. active substrates, grain size, color, depth, and setup tips to keep fish healthy and plants thriving.

Make your aquarium whisper-quiet with this beginner-friendly, low-cost guide. Learn quick, safe fixes for common noise—from vibration to bubbles.

Save money and build a great aquarium setup by buying second-hand gear—without the risks. This thorough guide covers what to inspect, how to test before buying, safe cleaning, and red flags to walk away from—for freshwater, planted, or reef tanks.