Author
FTW Team
The FishTankWorld editorial team brings together experienced aquarists to help you succeed in the hobby.
Articles by FTW Team (74)
10 Gift Ideas for Aquarium Lovers (From $8 to $70)
Fun novelty gifts, tank photography gear, unique accessories, and serious hobby upgrades — 10 aquarium gift ideas for every budget.
February 27, 2026
Best Aquarium Filters 2026: Top Picks for Every Tank Size
The best aquarium filter for every tank size, from nano setups to 100+ gallon tanks. Two picks per size range — jump to your tank size and find the right filter in under a minute.
February 26, 2026
What Is The Best Fish Tank Size For Beginners
Choosing the right fish tank size is one of the most important decisions for a new fishkeeper. Learn about tank sizing, stocking, placement, and why bigger is almost always better.
February 18, 2026
How to Prepare an Aquarium for New Fish
Complete guide to preparing your aquarium before adding fish. Learn how to set up substrate, decorations, equipment, and condition water for a healthy environment.
February 18, 2026
Best RODI System for Aquarium: 6 Top Picks Reviewed
Compare the best RO/DI systems for your aquarium. Reviews of top-rated reverse osmosis deionization units for saltwater reef tanks and freshwater setups, from budget to high-capacity.
February 18, 2026
5 Best Aquarium UV Sterilizers (2026 Reviews)
Compare the best aquarium UV sterilizers for clear water and disease prevention. Reviews of submersible and inline UV sterilizers for tanks from 5 to 300 gallons.
February 18, 2026
Best Sand for Freshwater Aquariums: Compare by Size, Color & Price
Compare the best aquarium sands by grain size, color, and price per pound. Organized buying guide to find the right sand substrate for your freshwater tank.
February 18, 2026
Best Rimless Fish Tanks: Top Aquariums for Crystal-Clear Viewing (2026)
Compare the best rimless fish tanks for crystal-clear viewing. Side-by-side reviews of UNS, Landen, NICREW, and Marineland aquariums from 2.5 to 50 gallons, plus a complete buying guide.
February 18, 2026
10 Amazing Exotic Fish for Beginners
Discover the best exotic fish species for beginner aquarists. From colorful guppies to peaceful corydoras, learn which fish are easy to care for and compatible with community tanks.
February 18, 2026
16 Best Small Fish for Nano Saltwater Aquariums
Discover the best small saltwater fish for nano reef aquariums. From clownfish to gobies, find compatible species for tanks 15-30 gallons.
February 18, 2026
Best Protein Skimmer for 200 Gallon Tank: Top Picks Compared
Honest recommendations for the best protein skimmers for 200-gallon reef tanks. Community-vetted picks from Reef Octopus, IceCap, Simplicity, and Tunze with detailed reviews.
February 15, 2026
Best Aquarium Monitoring System for Freshwater Tanks in 2026
The best freshwater aquarium monitoring systems compared — from smart WiFi multi-parameter monitors to temperature controllers, digital thermometers, and manual test kits. Reviews of Kactoily, Inkbird, Seneye, API, and VIVOSUN.
February 15, 2026
Best LED Lights for Coral Reef Tanks: Honest Picks for Every Budget
The reef community's most trusted LED lights for growing corals, from premium fixtures like Radion and Kessil to budget picks like Noopsyche and NICREW that actually deliver results.
February 15, 2026
Best LED Light for Planted Tanks in 2026
Six LED aquarium lights tested across nano, mid-size, and large planted tanks. From the budget AQUANEAT to the premium Fluval Plant 3.0, find the right light for your plants.
February 14, 2026
7 Benefits To Keeping An Aquarium (with Infographic)
Scientific research confirms aquariums reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mental health. Discover 7 evidence-based benefits of fishkeeping for your home and wellbeing.
February 14, 2026
How To Take Stunning Images of Your Aquarium
Master aquarium photography with tips for smartphones, compact cameras, and DSLRs. Learn about aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and techniques to capture beautiful fish tank photos.
February 14, 2026
How to Care for Your Fish While on Vacation
Going on vacation? Learn how to keep your fish healthy while you're away. Covers automatic feeders, vacation food blocks, fish-sitters, water top-off systems, and pre-trip tank preparation.
February 14, 2026
How to Manage pH Levels in Your Fish Tank
Learn about aquarium pH levels, why they matter for fish health, what causes imbalances, and 7 proven methods to raise or lower pH safely.
February 14, 2026
Brown Algae in Fish Tank: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions
Learn how to eliminate brown algae (diatoms) from your aquarium. Understand the causes of diatom blooms and discover proven strategies for prevention and removal.
February 14, 2026
Why Is My Aquarium Water Cloudy? Causes and Solutions
Diagnose and fix cloudy aquarium water. Learn to identify bacterial blooms, algae blooms, and other causes of murky tank water, plus proven solutions for each type.
February 14, 2026
15 Best Algae Eaters for Your Aquarium: Fish and Invertebrates
Discover the best algae-eating fish and invertebrates for freshwater aquariums. Learn about plecos, otocinclus, Amano shrimp, nerite snails, and more species that keep tanks clean naturally.
February 14, 2026
Best Live Rock for Reef Aquarium: Top Options Compared
Complete guide to choosing the best live rock for your reef tank. Reviews of CaribSea Life Rock, Two Little Fishies STAX, Real Reef Rock, MarcoRocks, and premium ocean-cured options.
February 14, 2026
Starting a Saltwater Aquarium for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide
Complete beginner's guide to starting a saltwater aquarium. Learn the 9 essential stages from tank setup and cycling to choosing healthy fish, plus how to avoid common problems.
February 14, 2026
Where to Place Your Fish Tank: 7 Essential Tips
Find the perfect spot for your aquarium. Learn about weight considerations, temperature stability, electrical safety, water access, and optimal viewing locations for your fish tank.
February 14, 2026
Best Coral Food for SPS & LPS: Top 4 Options Reviewed
Find the best coral food for your reef tank. Expert reviews of Polyp Lab Reef-Roids, Red Sea Reef Energy, Brightwell Reef Snow, and Two Little Fishies Marine Snow for SPS and LPS corals.
February 14, 2026
Aquarium Circulation Pump Guide: Types, Sizing, and Placement
Complete guide to aquarium circulation pumps covering powerheads vs. wavemakers, GPH sizing by tank size, optimal placement for planted and reef tanks, and how to eliminate dead spots.
February 14, 2026
Calcium Reactors for Reef Aquariums: Complete Guide
Learn how calcium reactors work, when you need one for your reef tank, and how they compare to two-part dosing and kalkwasser. Includes setup tips and buying criteria.
February 14, 2026
Aquarium Reverse Osmosis Systems: How They Work and Why You Need One
Learn how reverse osmosis water purification works and why RO water is considered essential for marine, reef, and planted freshwater aquariums.
February 14, 2026
Best Aquarium Air Pump for Your Tank (2026 Reviews)
Compare the best aquarium air pumps for quiet operation and reliable aeration. Side-by-side reviews of top-rated pumps for tanks from 2 to 200 gallons.
February 14, 2026
Best Automatic Fish Feeders for Aquariums in 2026
The best automatic fish feeders compared for vacation, daily use, and smart home setups. Reviews of Petbank, DXOPHIEX WiFi, Aoyar, and FISHNOSH feeders with moisture-proofing, portion control, and battery life breakdowns.
February 14, 2026
How Aquarium Water Pumps Work
Learn how aquarium water pumps function, including impeller mechanics, direct drive vs magnetic drive, DC vs AC pumps, and how to choose the right pump for your tank.
February 14, 2026
Best Aquarium Filters for Large Tanks (55+ Gallons) 2026
The best aquarium filters for large tanks reviewed and compared. Canister and power filters for 55-250+ gallon aquariums including Fluval FX4, OASE BioMaster, Fluval 407, and more.
February 14, 2026
Best Biological Filter Media: Guide & Reviews (2026)
Find the best biological filter media for your aquarium. Reviews of ceramic rings, sintered glass, and pumice media to support beneficial bacteria colonies.
February 14, 2026
Best Nano Protein Skimmer: Top Picks for Small Reef Tanks
Find the best nano protein skimmer for reef tanks under 35 gallons. Reviews of the NF-1, ESHOPPS Nano, and Hydor SlimSkim with buying guide and setup tips.
February 14, 2026
Best Canister Filters for Aquariums: 5 Filters Compared
We compared the Fluval FX4, OASE BioMaster Thermo, Fluval 407, SunSun HW-302, and PondForse to find the best canister filter for every tank size and budget. Detailed specs, pros and cons, and a complete buying guide.
February 14, 2026
Best Aquarium Chillers: Keep the Perfect Water Temperature (2026)
The best aquarium chiller for most tanks is the BAOSHISHAN 1/10 HP — quiet, compact, and digitally controlled. Full reviews of top refrigeration chillers with buying guide.
February 14, 2026
How to Choose and Use an Aquarium Heater: Types, Sizing, and Setup
Complete guide to aquarium heaters. Learn the main heater types, how to size a heater for your tank, proper installation steps, safety precautions, and top product picks for freshwater and saltwater tanks.
February 14, 2026
Best 55-Gallon Fish Tank Stands: 5 Stands Compared
We compared the Verano, 4ever2buy, VOWNER, and two farmhouse cabinet stands to find the best 55-gallon aquarium stand for every budget and style. Weight capacity, moisture resistance, storage, and built-in power compared.
February 14, 2026
Best All-In-One Saltwater Aquarium Kits: 5 AIO Tanks Compared
We compared the top all-in-one saltwater aquarium kits from Coralife, Fluval, and Innovative Marine. Detailed reviews covering lighting, filtration, build quality, and what you still need to buy.
February 14, 2026
Best Small Fish Tanks: Top Nano Aquarium Kits Reviewed
Find the best small fish tank for your home or office. We review 4 top nano aquarium kits from NICREW, Marineland, Aqueon, and URUQ with built-in filtration and LED lighting.
February 14, 2026
Bow Front vs Flat Aquariums: Which One to Buy?
Compare bow front and flat front aquariums to find the best choice for your home. Learn about viewing angles, photography, maintenance differences, costs, and which tank shape suits beginners and experienced aquarists.
February 14, 2026
Best Saltwater Aquarium Test Kits for Reef and Fish-Only Tanks
Compare the best saltwater aquarium test kits for reef and FOWLR tanks. Reviews of API Master Kits, Hanna Checkers, refractometers, and digital meters — plus a testing schedule and buying guide.
February 14, 2026
7 Factors to Consider When Buying Aquarium Fish
Essential guide to purchasing healthy aquarium fish. Learn how to evaluate fish health, species compatibility, tank size requirements, and food needs before buying your first fish.
February 14, 2026
The One Inch of Fish Per Gallon Rule: Truth or Myth?
Is the one inch of fish per gallon rule reliable? Learn why this popular stocking guideline has limitations and how to properly stock your aquarium.
February 14, 2026
Setup Ideas For Your 20 Gallon Fish Tank
Complete guide to setting up a 20 gallon fish tank with equipment checklists, proven fish stocking combinations, compatible species, live plant suggestions, and decoration ideas for freshwater and saltwater setups.
February 13, 2026
How to Set Up a Small Freshwater Fish Tank
Easy six-step guide to setting up a small freshwater aquarium. Learn proper placement, equipment selection, cycling, fish stocking, and maintenance for a thriving nano tank.
February 13, 2026
Best HOB Protein Skimmer Reviews: Top 5 Hang-On-Back Models
Comprehensive reviews of the best hang-on-back protein skimmers for reef tanks. Compare top HOB skimmers from Coralife, Reef Octopus, IOAOI, and Marine Color for tanks up to 105 gallons.
February 13, 2026
7 Ways to Reduce the Water Flow of Your Aquarium Filter
Is your aquarium filter current too strong? Learn 7 effective methods to reduce water flow and protect your fish from stress, including DIY solutions and equipment modifications.
February 13, 2026
How to Set Up a Fish Tank Filter: Complete Installation Guide
Step-by-step instructions for installing all five aquarium filter types—HOB, canister, sponge, internal, and undergravel. Covers priming, safety, and first-run troubleshooting.
February 13, 2026
How to Set Up a Protein Skimmer
Complete guide to setting up protein skimmers for reef aquariums. Learn about nano skimmers, HOB models, and in-sump installations with troubleshooting tips.
February 13, 2026
Does a Protein Skimmer Benefit a Reef Tank?
Learn why protein skimmers are essential for reef aquariums. Discover how foam fractionation removes organic waste, improves water clarity, and promotes healthier corals and fish.
February 13, 2026
Best 10 Gallon Fish Tank Kit for Beginners (2026 Reviews)
Find the best 10 gallon fish tank kit for beginners. We review 4 top starter kits including a rimless all-in-one, Aqueon, Tetra, and GloFish to help you choose.
February 13, 2026
Best 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit: Buyer's Guide & Reviews (2026)
Find the best 20 gallon fish tank kit for your home or office. Reviews of Tetra, Aqueon, and GloFish kits with a comprehensive buyer's guide.
February 13, 2026
Glass vs Acrylic Fish Tank: The Differences You Need to Know
Compare glass and acrylic aquariums to find the best material for your fish tank. Learn about weight, clarity, durability, cost, and customization options for both materials.
February 13, 2026
The Best LED Lights for Freshwater Aquariums (2026 Guide)
We compared the best LED aquarium lights for freshwater tanks — from planted setups to fish-only displays. Fluval Plant 3.0, Finnex Planted+ HLC, Hygger 957, and NICREW ClassicLED Plus reviewed with specs, pros, cons, and which tanks each light fits best.
February 13, 2026
Best Floating Aquarium Plants: Benefits and Top 6 Reviewed
Discover the benefits of floating aquarium plants and find the best species for your tank. Reviews of Water Lettuce, Duckweed, Amazon Frogbit, and more with care tips.
February 13, 2026
Best Substrate for Planted Tank: 6 Top Options Reviewed (2026)
Find the best substrate for your planted aquarium. Reviews of Fluval Stratum, FZONE Aquarium Soil, Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand, CaribSea Peace River, and more.
February 13, 2026
10 Best Easy Live Plants for Betta Tanks
Discover the best easy live plants for betta fish tanks. From Java Fern to Amazon Sword, learn which beginner-friendly plants bettas love and how to care for them.
February 13, 2026
The Ultimate Guide to Black Moor Goldfish Care
Complete care guide for Black Moor goldfish covering tank setup, feeding, water conditions, and compatible tank mates. Learn how to keep these unique telescope-eyed fancy goldfish healthy.
February 13, 2026
The Complete Guide to Feeding Goldfish
Learn everything about feeding goldfish - what, when, and how much to feed. Includes fresh food ideas, commercial food recommendations, and foods to avoid.
February 13, 2026
Goldfish Care: Why They're Harder Than You Think
Think goldfish are easy beginner fish? Learn the truth about goldfish care requirements including tank size, filtration, temperature, diet, and why they often die in bowls.
February 13, 2026
Koi Fish vs Goldfish: 10 Key Differences
Learn the differences between koi and goldfish including size, appearance, diet, care requirements, and housing needs. Understand which species suits your setup.
February 13, 2026
12 Safe Tank Mates for Oranda Goldfish
Find compatible tank mates for your Oranda goldfish. Learn which fancy goldfish varieties, schooling fish, bottom dwellers, and invertebrates can safely share a tank with your Oranda.
February 13, 2026
How to Set Up a Goldfish Aquarium the Right Way
The ultimate guide on how to set up a new goldfish aquarium the right way. How to choose the best aquarium, filter, lighting, plants, and tank mates for your goldfish.
February 13, 2026
Cherry Shrimp Care: Complete Guide for Beginners
Everything you need to know about keeping cherry shrimp (Neocaridina davidi). Learn about tank setup, water parameters, feeding, breeding, and compatible tankmates for these colorful freshwater shrimp.
February 13, 2026
Ghost Shrimp Care: Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about ghost shrimp care. Learn about habitat requirements, water parameters, feeding, breeding, and tank mates for these fascinating transparent shrimp.
February 13, 2026
How to Set Up a Nano Shrimp Tank
Complete guide to setting up a nano shrimp aquarium. Learn about equipment, water parameters, cycling, stocking, and maintenance for a thriving Neocaridina shrimp colony.
February 13, 2026
Betta Tank Mates: The 10 Best Companions for Your Betta Fish
The 10 best betta tank mates that actually work — from peaceful bottom-dwellers to snails and shrimp. Includes tank size requirements, species to avoid, and how to introduce new tank mates safely.
February 7, 2026
How To Change Aquarium Filter Without Losing Bacteria
Learn how to safely change your aquarium filter without crashing your biological filtration. Understand the science behind beneficial bacteria and avoid common mistakes that lead to water quality problems.
February 6, 2026
10 Reasons Why a Large Aquarium Is Better
Discover why larger aquariums are actually easier to maintain than small tanks. Learn about water stability, fish compatibility, and the long-term benefits of going big with your aquarium setup.
February 6, 2026
How to Get Rid of Algae in Your Fish Tank
Complete guide to algae control in aquariums. Learn to identify common algae types, understand what causes outbreaks, and discover proven prevention and removal strategies.
February 5, 2026
How to Train a Betta Fish: Yes, It Can Be Done!
Betta fish are intelligent and can learn tricks. Discover how to train your betta to follow your finger, jump for food, swim through hoops, and flare on command.
February 5, 2026
Betta Fish Water Changes: How Often, How Much, and the Right Way
Complete guide to betta fish water changes. Learn the correct frequency, volume, and step-by-step process for safe water changes that keep your betta healthy and stress-free.
February 4, 2026
Do Betta Fish Need a Heater? Why Temperature Control Is Essential
Betta fish are tropical and need a heater to maintain 76-82°F. Learn why stable temperature matters, what happens without a heater, symptoms of cold stress, and how to choose the right heater for your betta tank.
February 4, 2026