In this episode Art takes a close look at the Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus siamensis), one of the most misunderstood freshwater algae eaters in the hobby. Learn how to identify true SAEs vs common lookalikes, the ideal tank size, water parameters, and aquascaping for these active fish, and what they really eat once they discover pellets and flakes. 

Whether you keep planted tanks or just want reliable algae control, this episode is packed with practical Siamese Algae Eater care tips, behaviour insights, and stocking advice to help you make smart choices.

🎵 Music: "Secret Garden" - J.F. Gloss (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/9e66f69f-12fe-4aa7-9cba-bb4616ec5217/)

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, Arthur shares 10 easy, practical tips to make your freshwater aquarium healthier and more stable. From understanding the nitrogen cycle and preventing overstocking, to using live plants, smarter feeding habits, and creating consistent maintenance routines, you’ll learn exactly how to build a tank where fish truly thrive. 

Whether you’re just starting with a small community tank or refining a larger setup, this episode is packed with actionable freshwater aquarium tips to improve water quality, reduce stress, and prevent disease.

Mentioned in this episode: Why Fasting Your Fish Improves Their Health 

🎵 Music: "Last To Leave (Instrumental Version)" - Victor Lundberg (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/62846aa0-d929-4309-abf0-87cfb3f896e5/)

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, Art explores the real difference between Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras?

From their natural habitats in the Amazon to their unique water chemistry, feeding habits, and breeding challenges, this episode gives you everything you need to know to care for these iconic species successfully. Learn how to identify each fish, understand their distinct needs, and create an environment where both can thrive.

Whether you’re struggling to keep Cardinals healthy or curious about mixing the two in one tank, this episode delivers science-backed insights and real-world aquarium advice.

💬 Leave a review and tell us which tetra you prefer: Neons or Cardinals? Your feedback helps others discover The Aquarist’s Edge!

🎵 Music: "Close To Home" - Roots and Recognition (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/ed4518bf-3441-43e4-97f9-2072e9b57c99/)

Art breaks down the 10 most common freshwater aquarium setup mistakes and how to avoid them for good. Whether you’re cycling your first tank or perfecting your aquascape, this episode gives you the scientific background, real-world experience, and practical guidance every aquarist needs.

Learn how to prevent new tank syndrome, balance your filtration, master temperature control, and design a tank that thrives long-term - all while keeping your fish healthy, calm, and colourful.

This episode is your complete guide to setting up a thriving freshwater aquarium ecosystem that’s beautiful, stable, and stress-free.

👉 Leave a review and share your setup stories!

Mentioned in this episode: Mastering Aquarium Placement

🎵 Music: 'Nested Above' - Rebecca Mardal, Guustavv (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/03c888bb-7003-4aa1-9cf0-e35a9d4dddba/)

In Part 2 of The Secret Language of Fish, Art continues exploring the quiet dialogue between aquarist and aquarium.

⭐ What You’ll Discover:

💬 Share your thoughts or experiences as a comment on this episode. 

PART 1: How Your Fish Recognise And Communicate With You

If you enjoy The Aquarist’s Edge, please leave a review and help other hobbyists discover the show.

🎵 Music: "Big Sky Country" - Rymdklang Sountracks (Epidemic Sound -https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/417a59be-6f86-47f8-8bf0-ff5ca1f7e5de/)

Keywords: fish communication, aquarium behaviour, freshwater fish trust, aquarium observation, fishkeeping education, Art’s Fish Room, The Aquarist’s Edge Podcast

In this first part of The Secret Language of Fish series, Art explores one of the most fascinating mysteries for home aquarium keepers: how fish recognise and communicate with their keepers.

Whether you keep angelfish, bettas, or goldfish, this episode will help you see your aquarium in a whole new light; as a world of quiet signals and intelligent responses.

⭐ Topics include:

💬 If you enjoy the show, please leave a review and help other aquarists find The Aquarist’s Edge.

Keywords: fish recognition, freshwater aquarium behaviour, fish communication, aquarium tips, aquarist education, Art’s Fish Room

Music: "Hold You Heart" - Epsilon Wave (Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/a0a53696-a0ec-4a55-959a-e899edcd9b3a/)

From lowering blood pressure and improving sleep to easing anxiety and nurturing emotional balance, this episode investigates the research and shared experiences that show how aquariums affect the body, mind, and spirit. Drawing on studies from the University of Plymouth, Purdue University, and experts like Diana Walstad and Takashi Amano, Art reveals why the simple act of keeping fish can bring profound peace and wellness to your life.

Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or just starting your first tank, this episode offers practical insight, reflective storytelling, and real scientific evidence that will deepen your appreciation of the hobby and yourself.

🌿 Listen and learn how:

Watching fish reduces stress and blood pressure

Tank maintenance doubles as gentle, mindful exercise

Aquariums provide emotional grounding and structure

Fishkeeping fosters patience, empathy, and perspective

Your aquarium can become a personal sanctuary for stillness

💬 Join the conversation:

Cracknell D. et al., “Viewing aquarium displays elicits a physiological and behavioural response.” Environment & Behavior (2015). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5081108/

Edwards N.E. & Beck A.M. “Animal-assisted therapy and nutrition in Alzheimer’s disease.” American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (2002). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12365769/

Edwards N.E. et al., “The influence of aquariums on weight in individuals with dementia.” Journal of Nutrition Health & Aging (2013). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23138175/

University of Plymouth, “Aquariums deliver health and wellbeing benefits.” (2015). https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/news/aquariums-deliver-health-and-wellbeing-benefits

European Centre for Environment & Human Health, “Attention Restoration Theory – A Systematic Review.” (2017). https://www.ecehh.org/research/attention-restoration-theory-a-systematic-review/

⭐ Call to Action:

🎵 Music Credit: “Hearts” – Erik Fernholm (Epidemic Sound)

Art explores the fascinating world of freshwater aquarium snails. Are they helpful allies or invasive pests? The truth lies somewhere in between.

From Malaysian trumpet snails and ramshorns to nerites and mystery snails, this episode explores the most common species aquarists encounter, their benefits to aquarium ecosystems, and the potential problems they can cause. You’ll learn practical snail control methods, prevention strategies, and even how to care for snails as intentional pets.

Whether you’re battling an unexpected snail invasion or considering nerite snails for algae control, this episode provides practical, science-backed advice to help you manage your freshwater tanks with confidence.

📌 Key Topics Covered:

Types of freshwater snails in aquariums

Benefits of snails: algae control, detritus removal, substrate aeration

Problems with overpopulation and plant damage

Snail invasion troubleshooting and population control methods

Caring for mystery and nerite snails as pets

Prevention: quarantine, plant dips, and smart feeding

Snails as ecosystem indicators and their role in nature

💬 Enjoyed this episode? Please leave us a review and share your snail experiences with the community!

Music: "Coffee Shop Date (Instrumental)" - Jaydan Talley (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/a856a9ec-35d6-313e-9178-c25534c8a33a/)

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we examine the world of planaria in shrimp tanks - what they are, why they appear, and how to keep them under control. If you’ve ever spotted these flatworms gliding across your aquarium glass and worried about the safety of your shrimp colony, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need.

From identifying planaria versus harmless detritus worms, to understanding how they impact baby shrimp, to proven natural and chemical control methods, this episode is packed with expert guidance and practical tips. You’ll also learn long-term prevention strategies to keep your shrimp tanks balanced and thriving.

Whether you’re struggling with a current infestation or simply want to be prepared, this is a helpful guide for every shrimp keeper.

Music: "Swaying" - Candelion (Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/b99559b7-b6ca-4bd8-b1d0-682f3c9411bf/)

We take a look at how to set up the perfect guppy tank. From the ideal tank size to the right temperature, pH, and water hardness, you’ll learn everything you need to create a stable environment where guppies thrive.

Whether you’re a beginner struggling with constant guppy losses or an experienced aquarist looking to refine your setup, this episode is packed with scientific explanations, practical home aquarist tips and advice to help you succeed.

Click here for more guppy care episode: Guppy Care Playlist on YouTube (Aquarist's Edge episodes)

Music: "Just One More Day" - Kikoru (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/b59a9f47-4f3f-3dd2-85be-c8d1fab2f725/)