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The Pets Blog Week in Review for Sep 24-30

Happy first day of October! Does that make you think the same thing I’m thinking? “When the heck did that happen? Where’s the year going? It’ll be Christmas before I know it!” Well, I don’t know where the year is going, and, yes, Christmas will be here before we know it. However, before we get too far ahead of ourselves, let’s pause. Catch our breath. Slow down. There, that’s better. Now, in case time was moving so fast that you missed anything Aimee or myself happened to write about last week in the Pets Blog, here’s your chance to catch … Continue reading →

Bloodfin Tetra

The bloodfin tetra is a popular fish for aquarium owners of all skill and experience levels. What makes them a great beginner fish is their ability to tolerate a wide range of water parameters — so if you don’t get your tank conditions perfect right away, your bloodfin tetra will probably survive. Also known as the true bloodfin, the glass bloodfin, and the red finned tetra, bloodfin tetra are on the small side — the average size of a fully grown bloodfin tetra is around two inches (5 centimeters). This breed is relatively peaceful, and can be in danger from … Continue reading →

Tips For Choosing Fish

Over the past few weeks, I’ve taken a look at some easy “beginner” fish if you’re new to the aquarium hobby. Some popular starter fish include zebra danios, platy, gold and cherry barbs, and tetra. But as the old saying goes, there are many fish in the sea. And out of the sea! With such a wide variety of fish available at your local aquarium shop, pet store, or online retailer, how do you choose the best fish for your tank? Doing your research can make a big difference. If you know as much as possible about a particular species … Continue reading →

Platy

Another great tropical fish for the beginner is the platy. This brightly colored fish originates in Central America and is known by many different names. Names are usually based on color patterns: red wagtail platy, red tuxedo, topsail rainbow platy, golden platy, calico platy, salt and pepper platy, coral red platy, blue platy, black platy, and more. Some have more unique names like the moon fish and the Mickey Mouse platy. Platies are very easy to care for and have a lifespan between two and three years. They tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and hardness levels. With the … Continue reading →

The Nitrogen Cycle: Basics

There are many names for the nitrogen cycle: the biological cycle, the nitrification process, the start up cycle, or new tank syndrome. In essence, the nitrogen cycle is the process of converting ammonia to nitrite and nitrite to nitrates and the establishment of good bacteria in the aquarium and filter. Both of these processes are essential to a healthy tank environment. It can take two months or more to complete the nitrogen cycle! The process doesn’t always take that long, and there are some tricks you can use to speed things up, but it can be a very long and … Continue reading →