What’s the philosophy behind this whole botanical-style aquarium movement? What should you try to set one of these tanks up? What makes them differ t. As we kick off the second half of the year, I thought it might be a good idea to share some of these thoughts- so that you can share them with others who might as you “Why?”

There is something appealing about how simply we can manage our botanical-style aquariums. About how well they can run without tons of gear, lots of “hands-in-the-tank” intervention, and just basic water exchanges. Simplicity and function to hand in hand.

As you likely know, I’m as obsessed with reef aquariums as I am with botanical-style aquariums. They’re similar, but different. Too many freshwater hobbyists are intimidated by reefs. Don’t be. Just learn. This is not your ordinary “pep talk...” it’s an honest and quite possibly brutal breakdown of what to consider before you try a reef tank. It’s a bit of tough love, but it’s all good. Don’t “fear the reefer!”

If you’re like me, you’re constantly thinking about- and executing- new aquarium ideas. Sometimes you switch ideas so fast your tank isn’t even “wet” yet.. You are easily inspired, always excited..if you’re like that, don’t despair.. it’s a gift!

If you really think about it, am aquarium evolves continuously. If we don’t interrupt it, it can go indefinitely. And if we use some of the biological material in an established aquarium to help “kick start” a new one, couldn’t it be argued that we’re perpetuating a form of “immortality?” Sit down, listen to this one...and ponder! 🤔

The hobby has for generations treasured crystal clear, “invisible” water. That’s all well and good, but it’s not exactly what you get when you place a bunch of leaves, seed pods, and sedimented substrates in your aquarium. We do things a bit differently around here- and that means accepting a different type of water “flavor!” Let’s chop this up a bit...

One of our personal fave pods is the unique Kielmeyera pod. Actually a fruit capsule, but it looks sort of like a leaf.. it’s not a super-popular botanical, but it sure is interesting! Let’s take a closer look!

The idea that our aquariums are and can be authentic functional representations of wild aquatic ecosystems is alluring. It involves looking at Nature- and whet we’ve been taught in the hobby for generations- a bit differently. Are you ready for this?

Yep, we have a large list of cool things to tackle in the aquarium hobby. We have a world filled with inspiration upon which we can draw. Today, let me share a few fave ideas from the list. If you’re stuck, looking for inspiration, or just plain interested in doing something different, have a listen!

Risk is a fundamental part of the aquarium hobby. We play with live organisms. Risk is sort of “baked in” the hobby at all levels. Taking risks is important. It moves the hobby forward. Not taking risks limits advancements, and potentially denies us great hobby breakthroughs. Don’t shy away completely from risk.