In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we unravel the mystery of disappearing guppy fry - why it happens, what you can do about it, and how to raise healthy, thriving generations of guppies. From the evolutionary biology behind fry cannibalism to practical, science-backed strategies that home aquarists can implement right away. Whether you’re dealing with an unexpected population boom or trying to save every last fry, this episode is packed with advice that will take your breeding skills to the next level. 💬 Have you faced fry disappearances? Share your story in the comments or leave a review—we’d love to feature your tip in a future episode! * Mentioned in this episode: Guppy Genetics Made Simple - Guppy Genetics Made Simple

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the key differences between Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp - two stunning genera that dominate the freshwater shrimp hobby. From water chemistry and care needs to breeding difficulty, compatibility, and strain variety, this guide is all about helping you figure out which shrimp are right for YOU. Whether you're a beginner setting up your first tank or an advanced hobbyist chasing high-grade Caridina, this episode will give you the clarity you need. 🎙️ Which type of shrimp fits your aquarium goals and skill level? Let’s find out. Referenced in this episode: What is biofilm?

What if your fish could tell you how they feel? In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the fascinating world of fish behaviour; from ancient instincts to modern cognitive science. Discover what drives your fish’s actions, how to decode their body language, and what research (including the famous goldfish-driving-a-tank experiment) tells us about how intelligent and emotional these animals really are. Whether you’re keeping bettas, cichlids, tetras, puffers, or clownfish, this episode is packed with expert tips to help you observe, understand, and enrich your fish’s world. 🔬 Learn how fish think, feel, learn, play, and communicate like never before.

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we break down the true economics of aquarium keeping using simple but powerful financial tools like ROI, break-even analysis, NPV, and amortization. Whether you're deciding between a budget heater and a premium one, or wondering if a canister filter is worth it, this episode gives you a toolkit to make smarter, safer, and more cost-effective choices. Host Arthur Preston explains each concept in everyday terms, with practical, real-world examples that show how better spending leads to better tanks and better outcomes for your fish. 💬 Learn how to: Compare budget and premium equipment with real ROI analysis Factor in long-term cost, time, and fish safety Use depreciation and opportunity cost like a pro aquarist This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to balance their love for fishkeeping with a real-world budget.

In this episode we take a critical look at one of the most persistent myths in the hobby: that air bubbles from your filter automatically mean your fish are well-oxygenated. Spoiler alert: they don’t. We uncover the science behind gas exchange, explain why surface agitation matters more than you think, and offer proven solutions to improve oxygen levels where your fish need it most. You’ll learn how temperature, filter placement, and even seasonal changes can drastically impact oxygenation. If you've ever wondered how oxygen even gets into your water, this episode if for you!

Have you ever felt guilty for not feeding your fish? You may actually have helped make them healthier! In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the surprising science and practical benefits of fasting your community aquarium fish. Learn how strategic fasting improves digestion, reduces waste buildup, supports water quality, and mimics natural feeding rhythms. We cover species-specific advice, common myths, troubleshooting signs, and how to build a fasting schedule that supports long-term fish health. Whether you're caring for goldfish, bettas, corydoras, or a full community tank, this episode provides expert insights and actionable tips.  

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we learn about the basics of care for the often-misunderstood Clown Loaches (Chromobotia macracanthus), covering everything from their natural habitat in Indonesian floodplains to their unique behaviours in the home aquarium. Whether you're housing juveniles or managing a mature shoal, you'll learn how to design the perfect tank, maintain ideal water conditions, feed for health and growth, prevent disease, and troubleshoot common problems.    You can search for Care Guides episodes in your favourite podcast app or go take a look at the Aquarist Edge Care Guide episodes on YouTube: Care Guides (YouTube playlist)   👉 Don’t forget to leave a review and share your thoughts.

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we answer one of the most critical and misunderstood questions in fishkeeping: Where should you place your aquarium? With expert-level insights, we cover everything from structural safety and natural light to temperature stability, noise, and real-life home scenarios. Whether you're setting up a nano tank or a 600-liter community display, this episode offers practical advice, troubleshooting solutions, and tips that will help you make the best decision for both you and your fish. 🗨️ Share your tank placement wins (or horror stories) by leaving a voice comment here: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/contact You can also leave a review on your podcast app. Thank you for taking a moment to help us out!   Episode music:  Music track: November by Limujii Source: https://freetouse.com/music  Royalty Free Music for Videos (Safe)

The recently released documentary film entitled "Aquariums: The Dark Hobby" shines a light on the marine aquarium hobby's impact on Hawaii's reefs and the broader marine ecosystem. In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we journey from marine coral reefs to freshwater riverbeds, uncovering what ethical, sustainable fishkeeping really means for freshwater aquarists. While marine hobbyists often face criticism, the freshwater world has its own victories—and its blind spots. We’ll explore the hidden carbon cost of our fishrooms, celebrate major breeding successes, and finish with several easy eco-friendly habits you can start this week to make a difference. No guilt trips - just practical wisdom and real-world examples to empower every hobbyist. 🌿 Don’t forget to leave a review and share your feedback: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/episodes Aquariums: The Dark Hobby documentary: https://aquariumsthedarkhobby.com/   Project Piaba - creating sustainable freshwater aquarium trade: https://projectpiaba.org/

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the art and science of building a vibrant planted aquarium without CO₂ injection. Learn how to choose the right plants, lighting, substrate, and layout strategies to create lush growth with minimal tech and maintenance. Whether you're a beginner or an aquascaper on a budget, this episode will help you build a tank that thrives naturally and looks amazing doing it. 📝 Feedback link as mentioned in the episode: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/contact    

In this week’s episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we’re taking the mystery out of guppy genetics and turning it into a clear, beginner-friendly guide for hobbyists who want to breed stunning guppies right at home. From dominant and recessive genes to punnett squares and strain development, this episode is packed with practical insights, scientific explanations, and real-world advice you can apply to your own tank. Whether you’re curious why your fry don’t match the parents or you're ready to build your first breeding line, this is your go-to guide for understanding guppy heredity, trait tracking, and breeding strategy. Arthur mentions Punnet Squares in this episode. You can read more about how to use these with your guppy breeding project here: https://artsfishroom.co.za/understanding-guppy-genetics-a-beginners-guide-to-punnett-squares/ Mentioned in this podcast: "Are Our Guppies Weak?"

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the use of aquarium salt - one of the most powerful, misunderstood tools in freshwater fishkeeping. From the science of osmoregulation to practical treatment techniques, we break down what salt does, when to use it, and when it can do more harm than good. Whether you’re dealing with parasites, stress, nitrite spikes, or simply wondering if salt belongs in your tank at all, this episode is packed with insights, real-life examples, and myth-busting clarity for hobbyists at every level. 🧂 Learn how to dose correctly, avoid common pitfalls, and understand the physiology behind salt use in aquariums. Share the podcast: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the slimy, often misunderstood layer of microbial life known as biofilm. We learn that is absolutely essential to the health and balance of your aquarium. From its critical role in biological filtration and nutrient cycling, to how it feeds shrimp, fry, and snails - we go deep into the science and practical applications of biofilm in both planted and non-planted setups. Whether you're cycling a new tank or fine-tuning a shrimp colony, this episode has everything you need to master the art of biofilm.  

In today’s episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore 10 incredibly useful tips for keeping your Cherry Shrimp healthy, colourful, and thriving. Whether you're starting a new colony or troubleshooting mysterious disappearances, this episode explores everything you need to know - from tank setup to feeding, water quality, breeding, and more. You’ll also learn how to avoid common mistakes, spot hidden dangers, and master the art of keeping shrimp safe in your community aquarium.   📝 Leave a review and tell us how your Cherry Shrimp are doing: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/reviews   🐟 Check out Art’s Fish Room for all your shrimp supplies: https://artsfishroom.co.za

Interview with Tristan Fourie (@SimplyAquaticCT). In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, host Arthur Preston sits down with Tristan Fourie to discuss his journey in the aquatic hobby and his expertise in freshwater shrimp breeding. From starting out in fishkeeping to building a top-class shrimp room, Tristan shares his knowledge, experiences, and the importance of community in the hobby. 📌 Topics Covered: ✔️ How Tristan got started in the aquatic hobby ✔️ His journey to becoming a top shrimp breeder ✔️ The process of building a top-class shrimp room ✔️ Key tips for successful shrimpkeeping and breeding ✔️ The value of community in the fish and shrimp hobby   Follow Tristan here: YouTube: / @simplyaquaticct Instagram: / simplyaquaticct - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Home of The Aquarist's Edge podcast: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore how to revitalize your aquarium fish through proper diet and supplementation. From DIY fish food recipes to nutrient-packed commercial supplements, this episode is your complete guide to enhancing your fish’s health. We break down the essential nutrients fish need for growth, immunity, and vibrant colouration while tackling common feeding mistakes that could be harming your aquarium. 🐠 Need top-quality aquarium supplies? Visit Art’s Fish Room: https://artsfishroom.co.za 🎧 Enjoying the show? Leave a review and share your thoughts!

Are angelfish the graceful beauties of the aquarium world, or are they secretly little troublemakers? In this extended episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the behaviour of angelfish, their natural instincts, and what causes them to turn aggressive. From ideal tank setups to managing aggression and choosing the right tankmates, we cover everything you need to know to keep your angelfish happy and your tank peaceful. *Please consider leaving a review of the podcast here: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/reviews

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore everything you need to know about pregnant guppy care! From identifying pregnancy signs to advanced breeding techniques, we cover the best ways to ensure healthy fry and strong genetics. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, this episode has invaluable insights for you! 👉 Leave a review: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/reviews👉 Visit Art’s Fish Room for all your aquarium needs: https://artsfishroom.co.za/

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, host Arthur Preston explores some of the most debated practices in the freshwater aquarium hobby. From ethical dilemmas to scientific revelations, this episode unpacks the complexities of creating a thriving aquatic environment. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned aquarist, this episode is packed with insights that will make you rethink how you care for your tank and its inhabitants. Reflect on your own practices as Arthur discusses actionable steps to create healthier, more ethical aquariums. Tune in now to gain a fresh perspective on the hobby and learn how to make informed decisions that benefit both your fish and the planet. Keywords: freshwater aquarium, fishkeeping tips, ethical aquariums, aquarium science, tank maintenance, aquarium controversies, sustainable fishkeeping

Is your aquarium facing challenges like algae blooms, unexplained fish illness, or struggling plant growth? Before you reach for a quick fix, tune in to this episode of The Aquarist's Edge! We explore the aquarist's most powerful tool: a problem-solving mindset. Learn how to observe your tank like a scientist, identify the root causes of common problems, and develop effective action plans. From understanding water parameters to diagnosing fish diseases, we'll equip you with the knowledge and confidence to troubleshoot any aquarium issue. Plus, get practical examples of how to apply these techniques to algae control, fish health, and plant care. Become a master aquarist and create a thriving ecosystem!