The Tint

A quick thought- we should strive, in our botanical-style aquariums, to recruit and support a variety of life forms besides just the fishes- ranging from microorganisms to small crustaceans, to aquatic insects...life, on many levels.

In this installment, Scott Fellman and Johnny Ciotti discuss some of the finer points of the botnaical-style aquarium, it's nuances, differences, and the philosophy behind it. We talk about practicality, management, expectations, and authenticity. And we answer some of YOUR questions, too! Despite a few tech glitches, this episode has a little something for everyone who's into "The Tint!"

“Floating leaf litter banks?!?” Yup. Talk about an unusual habitat to replicate in your aquarium! This one’s right up our proverbial alley, so to speak. I’ll fill you in on the details of this cool natural feature, and drop a few ideas how to accomplish this in your own aquarium!

Botanical style aquariums are different. They don’t look their best right after they’re set up. In fact, they don’t look good in a week- or even 6 weeks. Nope, they take months to reach their aesthetic and functional “prime.” A different sort of dynamic- an amazing one- dictates by the steady hand of Nature.

Ideas are what drive the aquarium hobby. Ideas excite, educate, and inspire other hobbyists. However, when you don’t try to execute on them, they’re not all that useful, right? Time to execute on that idea that’s been percolating in your brain!

There is something wonderful about the first dishes we kept as children. For many of us, they launched a lifelong love affair with the hobby. They bring a sense of nostalgia, fun, and comfort. They draw a direct line to our childhood- and to generations of hobbyists who came before us. This episode is an homage to a few of my “comfort fishes!”

In this super special expanded edition of “The Tint”, we welcome back our fave aquascaper, George Farmer! We talk about his upcoming book, the state of the hobby, answer some listeners’ questions, and was philosophical! An episode packed with something for everyone!

There is something irresistible about the idea of evolving old techniques! Remember when culturing “infusoria” was all the rage in fry rearing? How about an evolved version of the classical practice- with a “botanical” twist?

The most literal title yet.. and the most detailed answer we could give to this super commonly-asked question about Tannin Aquatics!