The Tint

I admit, we talk an awful lot about the philosophy and the minutiae of the ecology of botanical method aquariums.. today, let’s focus on a few practical aspects of them!

As a botanical method aquarium fan, you’re used to biofilms, decomposing leaves, fungal growths, and detritus in your tanks. Some hobbyists call this a mess… Your fishes call it food!

We love to create aquariums and aquascapes based on what we love and what makes us feel good. However, I sometimes wonder if there is a disconnect between what WE love and what the fishes want… my solution? Think like a fish when designing your next aquarium! It’s not as crazy an idea as it sounds, and it might just open your eyes to some entirely new approaches to creating and managing aquariums…

What happens to the little microcosms that are our botanical method aquariums over the long run? How does Nature manage the ecology that we’ve fostered in those little glass or acrylic boxes. It’s a long game, filled with subtle evolutions, gradual progressions, and change.

As fish geeks, we tend to over think. A lot. We freak out. We worry.. and we scheme. We MUST get to the bottom of every “problem.” Commendable, but is it always necessary?

Okay, it’s been a long time since we covered that most superficial aspect of botanical method aquariums…the characteristic that our podcast is named after: The tint! Let’s discuss what creates it, how it impacts our fishes, and how to create and manage it!

Yeah, it happened again: Someone hit me up for advice on how to get more “cred” on social…as if I would know.. but the ensuing conversation uncovered a common, rather detrimental problem that we encounter within the hobby: the desire to be “accepted” by others. Let’s talk about this.

Stocking aquariums is a fun thing. It’s been guided by long-established hobby philosophies and practices. And of course, I believe that some of these philosophies- good and logical though they may be- are not the ONLY way to approach stocking your tank. Like, is there a way to add way more fishes than “conventional aquarium wisdom” advocates- and to do it sustainably and responsibly? I believe that there is. Fasten your seat belts; this might get a little bumpy!

Todays episode is an appeal for a healthier attitude in the aquarium hobby. A call to those who are afraid to do and share their unique work, for fear of criticism from “them.” Understand the enormous satisfaction and happiness that can come your way if you find- and stay- in your own “lane” in the hobby and do what YOU love…

What’s the best filter for a botanical method aquarium? Our discussion today addresses this oft-asked question…And our conclusion will likely NOT surprise you. Or, will it?