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[Latest 2023] Top 7 Best Aquarium Light Timer – Automatically Turns Lights ON/OFF

Trevor Blog, Equipment Reviews, Lights (reviews), Other (reviews) , , 5,311 Comments
[Latest 2023] Top 7 Best Aquarium Light Timer – Automatically Turns Lights ON/OFF

When setting up a new tank, an aquarium lighting timer may be the last thing on your list of things to buy. However, lighting is one of the most important aspects of planted aquarium and reef systems, and many organisms cannot survive without lighting. Here we have discussed the 7 Best Aquarium Light Timer with Automatically Turns Lights ON/OFF.

Many of today’s LED aquarium lights to come with lighting programs that turn on/off automatically and mimic sunrise and sunset.

Comparison Table

We live in today’s world where automation seems to be the best choice. It would be a good idea if you could bring this automation to aquarium lighting as well. Well, it looks like it’s already happened. This is due to the use of aquarium lighting timers available on the market.

If you haven’t used one before, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We present you with the best aquarium light timers you can buy today. Check them out below to make an informed decision.

What is an aquarium lighting timer?

An aquarium lighting timer works the same way as normal lighting timers: you set the desired amount of time for the light to be on; The best aquarium lighting timers even let you set the exact times to turn on and off, and even switch between light modes.

Top 7 Best Light Timers For Your Aquarium Types

Best Aquarium Light Timer Reviews

1. Zoo Med AquaSun Aquarium Timer

Best Aquarium Light Timer

This is one of the simplest aquarium timers you can get today for better use of your aquarium light. The manufacturer provided it with a setting and that should be the custom setting.

This type of setting allows you to set the time quite easily. Anyone who has never used a timer will still find it easy to set it up. Keep in mind that each black tab represents an increment of 15 minutes. You should now be able to set the time to your liking.

When setting the time, keep in mind that the clock is in the 24-hour system. Make sure you always read the correct current time so that the timer can ring accurately.

In case of problems, you can always consult the manufacturer’s manual. You should have an easy time using it all the time.

The timer has a grounded socket with 3 pins. This type of connection is important to eliminate scenarios such as electrocution. Due to its size you should easily find it 2 exit areas. This may be inconvenient for some people as they cannot use the other outlet. However, it is worth using.

Provide an outlet near the aquarium so that you can easily set the timer. It’s also because the timer can’t be plugged into an extension cord.

It comes with a manual override feature. This can be used when you need to turn the light on and off during the programmed period. The LED lamp indicator becomes brighter when the light is turned on.

 

2. Timer Module for Beamswork or EVO Quad LED Aquarium Light Fixture

Best Aquarium Light Timer

This is another high performance timer you can get today. It comes from one of the best brands, so we can expect it to always perform. Rest assured that it will always help you achieve the best timing options for your aquarium light.

From the overall design, the idea is that the model is easy to configure and use. It’s not like one of those timers that you get lost in the way you use it. This is simple. You only get two buttons to configure it.

As for the settings, you can change the time to the minute you want the light to turn on or off. You can always refer to the manual if the model is difficult to use. This may not always be necessary as the process is simple.

Its small size shouldn’t be a problem for anyone. It can always be easy to install it anywhere and plug it in to make it work. Well, you should find it a convenient way to control your aquarium light. You will not always be there to make such changes.

Works with a wide range of accessories. They include the Beamswork and EVO Quad fixtures. With such versatility, there is no doubt that you will see more people opting for this type of model. There is an exception for the Beamswork ET series. You may need to choose a different timer for the series.

You will also be pleased with the fact that the model is affordable. Yes, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to access the performance features that this timer offers.

 

3. NICREW Single LED Lighting Timer

Best Aquarium Light Timer

Nicrew is a leading brand, so we don’t expect to have many problems using this type of timer. It comes with a number of key features that make it easily one of the best to use right now. There is no doubt that having a timer is great for anyone looking to automate aquarium lighting.

You will love the fact that it can simulate sunrise and sunset. This is an important characteristic when it comes to fish health. The gradual introduction of lighting helps to reduce stress on the fish.

This is better than when the light suddenly shines brightly. Even people tend to get disoriented when this happens.

You’ll find that it comes with a 24-hour digital timer that you can easily set. As much as there is a guide you can use, we doubt you can use it. This is because the model is easy to program as desired.

Since it comes with 8 separate timer programs, there is no doubt that it will be versatile for most users. It is always easy for them to set the timer the way they want.

Manual override is still possible. This should help you change the brightness to your liking, even if the device is already programmed.

Installation with your lamp is very easy. It shouldn’t be a problem to do it every time.

 

4. Current USA Single Ramp Timer for Aquarium

Best Aquarium Light Timer

When it comes to this model, it will change the way your aquarium lights and for the better too. The model will simulate a gradual sunrise and sunset for the aquarium inhabitants with ease. This can even help eliminate stress as compared to models that just start working with no gradual lighting.

It is fully programmable. This means that you can set it to work just as you want. It will turn on and off the light, making it suitable for various aquarium lighting conditions.

As for the application, you should find this model being great for both freshwater and marine aquariums. You can be sure that it will deliver on the performance always. You should find that it is also easy to use. You can easily acclimate it to the various animals in the aquarium with ease.

The use of the slow acclimation process will help in reducing the stress that is often caused by the sudden change in light intensity. In the end, you should now have a rhythmic day and night light cycle that the animals are used to.

As for the installation part, you will always find it being easy. The process is clearly explained in the manual so that you can have an easy time setting it up. Nevertheless, it involves plunging the light fixture to the power source and then connect to the time. With both circuits on, you can now go ahead to program the timer.

You can still opt for the manual override so that you can turn on or off the light whenever you feel like.

 

5. DEWENWILS Outdoor Outlet Timer

You don’t need a special aquarium timer to turn your aquarium lighting on and off. The Dewenwills timer is a simple rotary timer that operates on a 24 hour cycle.

Simply set the on and off period by pressing the tabs that correspond to the hours you want the light to turn on and off.

The timer works in 30 minute increments. This means that you can set the duration of day and night to 30 minutes during any 24-hour period.

This timer has a grounded socket. The grounded power cord is 24 inches long. This gives you the freedom to place the timer where you want it.

The timer mechanism is encased in a splash-proof housing. This is a nice safety feature if you are prone to accidental splashes when working on your tank.

The grounded power cord is UL Listed. If the power goes out, you will need to reset the timer to match the current time.

 

6. BN-LINK Compact Outdoor Mechanical Timer

This mechanical rotary timer comes with a 6-inch grounded power cord. The manufacturer says that the protective shell is “waterproof”, but this is incorrect. The housing is waterproof.

It cannot be moistened with water, but every now and then a splash will drip from the lid.

The timer runs on a 24-hour cycle. The rotary timing device is set by pressing a pin when you want the light to turn on and the pin corresponding to when you want the light to turn off.

Don’t forget to push all the pins down between cycling on and off.

The BN-LINK has two grounded outputs. The maximum load is 15 amps divided between the two outputs. Both outputs are controlled by the timer.

It also has a manual ON and OFF button. If the power goes out, you will need to reset the timer to match the current time.

 

7. myTouchSmart Indoor/Outdoor Plug-in Digital Timer

The myTouch timer can be used to design the sky and bomb small fountains. But it will also work well for a basic aquarium lighting program.

A versatile between a mechanical rotary timer, a myTouchSmart unit and a digital timer.

No hay moving wheels or pins to adjust. Simply set the actual time you want the single output to turn on and then when you want it to turn off.

But hay more. You can create a second photoperiod, where the light turns on and off at different intervals.

The LCD screen facilitates the program in the visualization of the actual day and the program of the program. The timer has an internal backup battery which saves time of day and programming in the event of a power outage or if you need to disconnect the time.

How to Set Aquarium Light Timer?

Setting the aquarium light timer should be relatively easy. As much as the process may vary from model to model, you will never have a problem doing it. This is the typical process you can follow.

1. Buy a reliable light timer from one of the best brands

2. Plug the aquarium lighting timer into the wall outlet if it needs to be turned on.

3. Connect it to the aquarium lamp so that you can program the lighting.

4. Depending on what is in the aquarium, you can decide for yourself what time you turn the light on and off.

5. When everything is ready, the timer should do its job by automating the lighting conditions.

 

Conclusion

When it comes to aquarium lighting, you always want the best product. That’s what you get if you also have the best light timer. Based on the models discussed above, it should be easy to make a decision now. You can always choose the best timer that suits your lamp.

[Latest 2023] Top 10 Best Sand For Reef Tank

Trevor Aquarium Substrate (reviews), Blog, Equipment Reviews, Marine (reviews) , , 3,569 Comments

Finding substrate can be complicated: the hobbyist lives off his substrate and everyone claims to be the best.

Using the right Best Sand For Reef Tank is essential for your coral to thrive.

Comparison Table

In fact, the best sand for reef aquariums creates an environment that mimics a natural ocean habitat by using sand from the ocean floor, colonized with the right mix of beneficial bacteria.

The best sand does not need to be changed often or at all. Plus, it quickly flushes and balances the water so you don’t have to wait too long to start the installation.

Top 6 Best Sand for Your Reef Tank

Best Sand for Reef Tank Reviews

1. CaribSea Arag-Alive Fiji Pink Sand

Best Sand For Reef Tank

One of the best things about this Fiji Pink sand from CaribSea is that it is packed with millions of good bacteria before you even put it in an aquarium.

There are heterotrophic, autotrophic and chemilithotrophic bacteria that help reduce waste and shorten the cycle time generally required when installing a new tank.

In fact, it is specially designed to avoid all the problems that arise with a new tank and acts as a nitrate filter, ammonia reducer and biological filter in one.

It is beautiful enough to use alone, but you can also use it with another substrate to quickly add beneficial bacteria to the aquarium. A water purifier is included to quickly clean the water when it first enters the tank. It is also specially made to maintain the growth of bacterial colonies.

Ideal for large colonies to attach to, the surface contains a source of calcium, carbonate and trace elements to balance pH without adding additional chemicals.

One more thing, this substrate never needs to be replaced. It works with the natural bacteria in the aquarium to keep your reef happy and healthy.

2. CaribSea Ocean Direct Substrates

Best Sand For Reef Tank

CaribSea uses a cold preservation process with this Ocean Direct substrate. Each grain of sand is covered in bacteria that came straight from the ocean when it was collected.

It is encased with a thin film of ocean water that remains open to the air so that gas exchange can continue. This allows beneficial bacteria to continue to grow without harmful buildup.

 

3. Carib Sea Aragonite Aquarium Sand

Best Sand For Reef Tank

This aragonite sand from the Caribbean Sea is a perfect natural substrate for reef aquariums. Provides a natural balance of bacteria and minerals needed to maintain water balance.

Because it is reef sand, it is specially formulated to create a reef-friendly environment. It comes from real ocean water, not shallow reefs or beaches.

Believe it or not, this sand keeps the pH at 8.2 without constantly adding chemicals to the water.

That’s not all.

For every pound of this sand, there is 10,000 square inches of surface for beneficial bacteria to grow. This provides a natural way to control nitrate, ammonia and other harmful waste.

 

4. Nature’s Ocean No.0 Bio-Activ Live Aragonite Live Sand for Aquarium

Best Sand For Reef Tank

Nature’s Ocean produces high-quality sand that is completely natural. It actually comes from the ocean and contains live marine bacteria that have stabilized your tank very quickly. The process they use preserves all bacteria in their natural state so they quickly adapt to your aquarium.

In fact, you can set everything up and put your coral and all the fish in the tank on the same day. The instant cycle quickly restores the natural balance of the tank water, removing ammonia and nitrate quickly and effectively.

This sand contains live aragonite that helps control nitrate levels and maintain a good pH. There are also many natural living beneficial bacteria on this substrate including heterotrophs, autotrophs and chemolithotrophs to give a perfect balance to the water.

The sand also provides a large surface area for colonies of beneficial bacteria to continue to grow and thrive, creating a welcoming environment for your reef.

 

5. Carib Sea Arag-Alive Substrate

Best Sand For Reef Tank

Another Caribbean Sea winner, this live black aragonite sand does a great job of highlighting the colorful coral in your tank. Like other branded products, it contains millions of beneficial bacteria to aid in biological filtration, resulting in an ideal environment for tetras, angelfish, cichlids, and even turtles, but it works just as well in a reef tank. The company’s trademarked Arag-Alive substrate also promotes coral growth, which is high in calcium, strontium and carbonate, and helps remove nitrates from the environment. Available in a 20lb bag, the sand contains a biomagnetic clarifier to reduce turbidity when placed in your tank.

Customers write that this sand is about 80% black, with some white and red sand mixed in. In other words, it’s dark enough for your tank’s colors to come out. The consistency is heavier than several other variants, but not like gravel; buyers liken it to the texture of sugar candy, which prevents it from flying off the bottom of the tank. If you’re looking for live sand that makes a strong visual statement, this is a solid option.

 

6. TWO LITTLE FISHIES Sand Live Coarse Reef 15lb

Why use coarse sand? For example, the larger grain size reduces the build-up of debris in your tank, and some critters (such as certain crustaceans) will appreciate the ability to dig and build. We recommend the coarse reef sand of Two Little Fishies, which consists of white aragonite, calcified algae flakes and even small coral skeletons. It’s also packed with the company’s BioPronto live microbes, giving you the same kind of biological filtration found in most other live sand products.

Two Little Fishies Live Coarse Reef Sand does not require rinsing and any cloudiness in your tank should clear after a few hours. The granules have an average size of three millimeters, large enough not to be thrown around your tank. It comes with natural seawater and is sold in 15lb bags.

 

What is the Best Live Sand for a Reef Tank?

The Best Sand For Reef Tank is Carib Sea Arag-Alive Fiji Pink Sand. It’s packed with good bacteria that will help balance your tank quickly, even if you’re starting from scratch with a new setup.

The bacterial mix includes heterotrophs, autotrophs and chemolithotrophs that work together to reduce waste and shorten tank cycle time.

Also, the pH is balanced without adding chemicals. This substrate looks great and as a bonus it never needs to be replaced.

 

How Much Sand Do You Need for a Reef Tank?

The depth of your sand bed is an important consideration when setting up a reef tank and you don’t want to get more or less sand than you need. So how do you find out what the right amount is?

How to calculate the amount of sand per gallon?

To know exactly how much sand you need in your tank, you need to know the depth of the sand bed you want to create and the dimensions of the tank bottom.

But there is an easier way to get an approximation by just using the tank volume. The volume of your tank in gallons is approximately equal to the amount of sand in pounds it takes to make a 1 inch bed. So if you have a 10-gallon tank, 10 pounds of dry sand is enough for an inch bed.

shallow vs. Deep sand beds

There is much debate in the aquarist community as to whether a shallow bed, between ¼” and 2″, or a deep bed, between 3 ½” and 6″ or more, is better.

Shallow sand beds remain oxygenated at all times, so to avoid nitrogen buildup that could alter the chemistry of the water in your tank, you should siphon the bed about once a month.

On the other hand, deep beds do not have oxygen at the bottom of the bed, which allows bacteria to facilitate denitrification so that the nitrogen balance in the tank is self-correcting.

Therefore, deep beds require little or no maintenance and can even be damaged by intensive cleaning.

In general, avoid sand beds between 2†and 3 ½â€; Beds at this depth will allow toxic chemicals like hydrogen sulfide to build up and back up into the tank water, which can be quite harmful to your aquarium.

 

How to Keep Your Sand Clean in a Reef Tank?

Reef sand is very different from most other substrates. You really don’t have to change it often. Instead, it’s ideal to add a few animals to your reef tank to turn over the live sand. These creatures are affectionately called janitors, keepers, or cleaners. Some good options are hermit crabs, shrimp, gobies, or jaw fish.

Be sure to research these creatures before putting them in your tank, as they can’t all live together in peace. If you get the right mix of janitors, you won’t have to clean the sand thoroughly.

That said, it’s still important to maintain a clean surface. Use an aquarium vacuum cleaner or siphon to clean up any food or debris. Make sure you also get everything that is hidden between stones or plants.

 

Conclusion

A reef tank requires a perfectly balanced tank that can be difficult to get to. That’s why it’s important to use the right sand as a substrate when building your tank environment. We looked at several great options, all natural sand collected from the ocean floor with its colonies of beneficial bacteria intact.

Using the best reef sand will not only make your aquarium look beautiful, it will also be less work for you. By supplying the beneficial bacteria that water needs, sand helps keep the water clean and pH balanced without the use of chemicals. Add some janitors to the tank and they will do the job of removing the sand for you. All you need to do is use an aquarium vacuum or siphon to remove debris from the sand surface if necessary. That is! Without changing or washing the substrate, without rotating water.

Our pick for the best sand for reef tanks is Carib Sea Arag-Alive Pink Fiji Sand. It looks great and it also has all the elements you need to keep your tank water clean, pH balanced and free of contaminants. This substrate never needs to be replaced and no additional chemicals need to be added to the water. It will continue to help your aquarium to thrive throughout life.

[Latest 2023] Top 10 Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer for Plant Growth & Safe for Fish

Trevor Aquarium Plants (info and tips), Aquarium Plants (reviews), Blog, Equipment Reviews, Other (reviews), Plants (guides) , , 5,118 Comments
[Latest 2023] Top 10 Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer for Plant Growth & Safe for Fish

Are you planning to place a planted aquarium? Is it the first and are you a little nervous? Many people become anxious because they are told to use fertilizers to keep plants happy and healthy. Here we have provided 10 Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer to solve your problem.

Using an aquarium that doesn’t have low light or technology can be quite intimidating. Not sure where to start. To make it easier, we will talk extensively about fertilizers.

Comparison Table

Many beginners will ignore the last piece of the puzzle because the world of fertilizers seems like a complicated mess. Everyone on the internet is pushing for dry fertilizers because they are profitable and highly adaptable, but they fail to mention the extremely steep learning curve and how easily chemical balances can get out of hand if you don’t know what you are. doing.

You can learn if you need them and how to make them yourself. We also talk about 10 products and tell you which one we think is the Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer.

 

Do Really Planted Aquariums Need Fertilizers?

We are not going to lie and tell you that every planted aquarium always needs fertilizer. Many aquatic plants have few requirements. This means that they only need natural fertilizers created by fish and other inhabitants.

However, the truth is that if you don’t use fertilizer in the planted tank, the plants may not be the same. If you want to successfully grow aquatic plants, you need to know why fertilizers are used.

There are three factors that affect the growth of your plants. These include CO2, light and fertilizers.

Plants need light to grow and photosynthesize. It is true that some aquarium plants do not need much light. However, others require special lighting systems to thrive.

Do not rush to buy expensive LED lamps just yet. You need adequate lighting, but you also need CO2. This is an essential nutrient.

Plants cannot do much with all that light and without CO2. Instead, the algae in the tank will likely take over. This can result in a huge bloom.

The CO2 that is released naturally will not be enough for many advanced plants. So you must have a system to replenish it. A combination of good lighting and a source of CO2 ensures better plant growth.

Yet you won’t see that if you don’t use fertilizer. Plants need many things to grow as they should. This is reflected in the plant food you give them.

Without this Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer, your plants will not grow properly. They probably produce slender, thin stems with pale, brittle leaves. Eventually they will probably die if you only give them light and CO2.

The 10 Best Fertilizers for Your Aquarium Plants

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer Reviews

1. Seachem Flourish Freshwater Plant Supplement

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

Choosing a fertilizer for your best aquarium plants can be a challenge. However, the Seachem brand contains everything you need.

The advanced formula contains many things your plant needs. These include minerals, nutrients and phytohormones.

The roots and shoots are stimulated to grow strongly. Phytohormones are essential in many ways to regulate plant growth.

It works for cell division, leaf senescence and the formation of shoot meristems. In addition, it can help improve stress response, root growth and seed germination.

You must use this product regularly. Doing so can improve your plant’s ability to resist various diseases.

It can also improve the absorption of suitable minerals. This will make your plant stronger.

The first application takes two weeks to work. During this time, it can help stimulate root growth below the surface. Then you will notice that the stems and leaves of your plants also grow better.

Flourish Advance is designed to be safe for all plants in the aquarium. It is also not harmful to aquatic organisms such as fish. It is also not completely toxic to water.

 

2. Seachem Flourish Excel Bioavailable Carbon

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

The Flourish brand is quite popular and there are multiple products with the name. The bioavailable carbon version of Excel provides all the carbon your plants need. It is also organic carbon.

You will also notice that the Excel option includes iron-reducing properties. Therefore, iron is ferrous instead of ferric. Your plants can better use ferrous iron easily.

Plants must produce longer carbon chain compounds, which are called photosynthetic intermediates. When you use Flourish Excel, you avoid the need for those string coals. It introduces compounds that are similar in structure and already complete.

Before first use and each time you change 40 percent or more of the water, use one capful of the product for every 10 gallons of water. After that (and as long as you don’t make a significant change to the water you should use one cap for every 50 gallons every day or two. The threads on the cap are about one ml each.

This product is also safe for your fish. However, if your aquarium houses Anacharis, you should probably use the product every other day rather than every day.

 

3. API ROOT TABS Freshwater Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

Did you know that the plants in your tank can turn yellow, drop their leaves and eventually die without the right fertilizer? They need the right essential nutrients to make them more vibrant and stronger. API ROOT tabs are one of the best products available.

It contains the nutrients your plants need, such as potassium and iron. This can give your new aquatic plants a good start and keep your established plants growing and thriving. Of course, nutrients are consumed over time, so they need to be replenished periodically.

This product is safe for use with tropical fish and others. It comes in tablet form, which makes it easy to use. Simply place the tablets in the gravel at appropriate intervals.

Although you can use it around tropical fish and plants, it is designed for use in freshwater aquariums. You will find the manual for correct dosing on the back of the packaging.

You should add one tablet for every 30 square inches of the gravel surface. Push them half way into the gravel bed. Therefore, a 10-gallon aquarium needs six tablets.

It is ideal to add new tablets to the aquarium every month. This is to ensure that your plants continue to grow exuberantly.

 

4. NilocG Aquatics Aquarium Fertilizer Shrimp Specific

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

If you have a lot of shrimp in your tank, you may want to use the NilocG brand fertilizer. It is designed to keep your plants healthy, but it is also ideal for shrimp tanks. That way, everything in the tank gets what it needs to survive and thrive.

It can make the planted shrimp tank look great. But you’re also giving plants the macronutrients and micronutrients they need.

This product has been specially developed for shrimp tanks. In addition, one bottle can treat up to 2,500 gallons. It also comes with a pump cap, which can make it easier to put into the aquarium.

While it may take a few days to see results, it’s worth the wait. If you have Anubias Nana, Java Ferns, Water Wisteria or Java Moss, they will quickly look stronger and healthier.

When you have developed a root system, you should use three doses of the product every week. After that, you’ll need two pumps a week for 10 gallons of water. There is no need to use fertilizer with every water change.

5. NilocG Aquatics Aquarium Liquid Fertilizer

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

Sometimes a product system is needed to provide the plants in your aquarium with the right nutrients. This is what you get with NilocG macro and micro fertilizers.

The macro version contains potassium, phosphate, nitrogen and much more. It is best to use one pump for every 10 gallons of water. For best results, use plenty of light three times a week with low or medium light once or twice.

You should dose the macro product every other day than the micro. It’s also a good idea to do weekly water changes, changing about 50 percent of the water. Then add the macros.

You will discover that the micro-product contains iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc and vitamin B among other things. This product uses the same instructions as the others. Therefore, you should only remember to use them on other days.

It is important to note that you may need a GH boost. If you have hard water and are unsure of magnesium and calcium levels, you should use the GH booster, which is available separately.

6. Aqueon Aquarium Plant Food

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

Those who have freshwater plants need to make sure they get the nutrients they need. You do this effectively by using the Aqueon plant food brand.

Contains seaweed extract. This is important to encourage better root development. The roots of your plants are where it all starts, so it’s important that they are strong.

This means that your plant’s leaves and stems will also become stronger and more vibrant. Of course you also have to make sure that the plants get the right amount of light.

You will find that this product contains a variety of ingredients. Things like calcium, potassium, magnesium and sulfur are essential for your aquatic plants. It also contains iron, manganese, boron, zinc and molybdenum.

This is of course a plant food, so it is designed to help your plants. Still, it will not harm any fish that is also in the aquarium.

There is a 4, 8 and 16 ounce version of this plant food. It is designed to be used once a week. Just fill the cap and add it to the water.

 

7. API Leaf Zone

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

It is a good option for a typical aquarium with little plant growth in low light and no additional CO2. It is suitable for an aquarium with a lot of nitrates and phosphates in the water, but little K and micronutrients. On the other hand, if you plan to grow more demanding plants with it, a lack of Mn and other non-Fe micronutrients makes diagnosing deficiency difficult.

API also recommends using Leaf Zone in conjunction with API Root Tabs. According to the material safety data sheet, these consist of clay, carbon and “additives” which are unspecified trade secret ingredients. That said, since API advertises them for use in conjunction with their fertilizer, we can guess a little. The additions will likely make up for the lack of N and P in the liquid fertilizer and may also contain the full set of micro. The clay can be there to hold everything together and add some cation exchange capacity, while the carbon can take up different substances to keep additives from leaching too quickly.

 

8. Tropica Premium Nutrition

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

Finally, it says “suitable for aquariums with few plants or slow growing and lots of fish”. This is the most complex explanation, but it makes sense and true when we take a closer look at the analysis: The fertilizer contains a range of micronutrients, as well as some potassium and magnesium. Potassium and microbes make sense again because if they are not fertilized, the only sources are water changes and traces in food. The addition of magnesium may not be so necessary, but it will help those few who have unusually low magnesium tap water.

 

9. Tropica Specialized Nutrition

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

We only get the percentage of phosphorus and nitrogen, so for our ratio we need to convert it to phosphate, which is a multiplication factor of 3.06 (the quotient between the molecular weight of phosphate and phosphorus). The phosphate percentage would therefore be 0.306%. We assume that all nitrogen is supplied as nitrate (a reasonable assumption as ammonia would be toxic and urea very unusual). We multiply by 4.42, which is the molecular weight quotient of nitrate and nitrogen. This gives us a percentage of 5.93%. Therefore, the ratio is 5.93:0.306:0.069 or 100:5.16:1.16.

With these full calculations, we see that this fertilizer is somewhat poor in phosphate and micros (compared to an unrestricted approach). Limiting P is a good way to emphasize reds in plants that are under stress due to nutrient restriction. Moving away from absolute numbers, if we do the math, we also find that the recommended dosage for most tanks is pretty lean, especially if you don’t want to stress over the reddest red. Note that the Tropica aquascapes example uses relatively little red; When we look at the dosage, we regularly see them taking an overdose by a factor of two to five above their own recommendation. This also shows how lean the recommended dose is.
They may have feared that a high recommended dose would lead to nitrate and micronutrient accumulation and health problems in the fish. Such a result would be possible if a customer wanted to use this fertilizer in a lush tank, but without additional carbon dioxide, a situation that could lead to less absorption. Therefore, the recommended dosage may be a compromise between high and low nutrient demand tanks.

10. NilocG Thrive

Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer

The NilocG Thrive website tells us exactly what we need to know: “1 pump (2 ml) per 10 g adds 6 ppm NO3, 1.11 ppm PO4, 4.3 ppm K and 0.23 ppm Fe.” This is almost the exact 100:20:4 ratio needed for a limitless approximation of the Estimation Index (IE), and this is indeed an IE based fertilizer. It also adds extra magnesium. That is why it is a perfect fertilizer for a limitless fertilization approach. But of course it should be mentioned that this approach means keeping up with the water changes as nutrients can build up very easily.

However, there are hidden assumptions in this product: non-limiting means that it exceeds the maximum possible plant intake, which in turn assumes you have a lush tank full of more or less average plants under lots of light and extra carbon dioxide. . For example, if you want to grow a tank full of K-hungry Hygrophila under plenty of light and with extra carbon dioxide, this fertilizer may yield less than the recommended dose of K needed to not be restrictive.

A handy rule of thumb: If you want unlimited fertilization in a tank with no additional carbon dioxide, a quarter to a third of the corresponding dose for tanks with CO2 is enough so as not to be restrictive.

 

How to Fertilize Aquarium Plants Naturally?

If you are looking for a natural way to fertilize your aquarium plants, consider what kind of soil you are using. You can find a special dirt that is ideal for aquarium plants. However, you can use regular potting soil with a lot of NPK or use pond plant compost.

Soil is a great way to give plants a nutritional boost. They get everything they need and it’s already in.

Still, dirt is a bit outdated. Many aquarists think it’s hard when you get upset. Moreover, you do unnecessary work if you have ready-made products for sale.

It is also possible to make a natural fertilizer using the ecology already present in the aquarium. A biologically active filter is the heart of any planted aquarium. If the filter is properly designed, it should contain colonies of good bacteria and activated carbon.

These things work with fish and plants to help purify the water. If you have biologically active filtration systems, the fertilizer will develop naturally. Also, living invertebrates and fish will fertilize plants through their waste and respiration.

 

Is the Aquarium Plant Fertilizer Safe for Fish?

Many people are rightly concerned about whether plant fertilizers are safe for the fish in the aquarium. Of course, most planted aquariums have fish inhabitants. Therefore, it is essential that you choose a fertilizer that will not harm other living things.

Fortunately, most fertilizers are designed for a wide variety of fish and invertebrates. So you don’t have to worry about your fish.

However, you must read the container as manufacturers must state whether the fertilizer is not safe for fish and what type. Still, it’s not common to find commercially available fertilizers that aren’t safe.

 

Conclusion

We believe that these 10 products are suitable for your planted aquarium. Still, some of them were designed for specific things, like Marimo or shrimp. It is ideal to read the product description before making a final decision.

When it comes to the Best Aquarium Plant Fertilizer, we think the Seachem brand is for you. Since we liked the Flourish and Flourish tabs, we get a tie winner. These products are essentially the same, although one is in liquid form and the other is a tablet.

Top 10 Best Nano Protein Skimmer (2023 Buyer Guide) For Small Saltwater Tanks

Trevor Blog, Equipment Reviews, Marine (reviews), Other (reviews) , 4,375 Comments
Top 10 Best Nano Protein Skimmer (2023 Buyer Guide) For Small Saltwater Tanks

The best protein skimmers include an advanced filtering technique that you can take advantage of when using them in your aquarium. They are a great way to keep your water quality in the best possible condition.

If you have a nano aquarium, you always need a protein skimmer to clean your aquarium. So what’s the best nano protein skimmer?

Comparison Table

Most people would have that question in mind by thinking about the best way to make sure their aquariums are always kept clean. Most manufacturers understand what humans need in a nano aquarium protein skimmer.

Designed specifically for these challenges, some owners recognize that having one of the best nano protein skimmer models is a great step in keeping the water clean and your nano aquarium thriving (depending on the type of coral you want to keep ).

With many models available, you may not know which model to choose, but you don’t have to worry about that. We’ve shared some of the best models you can choose for your aquarium today. Check out the models below to make an informed decision about the best nano protein skimmers.

All saltwater aquariums benefit from a protein skimmer and nano tanks are no exception. Just because your tank is small doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the benefits of a protein skimmer.

 

Top 10 Best Nano Protein Skimmers For Small Saltwater Aquariums

 

Nano Protein Skimmer Reviews

 

1. Tunze nano doc protein skimmer – 9004

This model opens you up to a different type of skimmer that you have seen on the market before. The model has designed its components for internal function. With such a design you get a model that is very advanced and also ultra functional.

This type of model will eventually clean the water in your tank and still take up less space. The goal is that you can use less space and still get more performance from a skimmer.

The model can be used without any problem for seawater aquariums or soft coral aquariums. The water supply is excellent for keeping the water in your aquarium at the correct level. The presence of the suction function is excellent so that it can remove the bacteria film on top of the water surface.

The skimmer also ensures efficient foam production. It is important that you get the right amount of foam. Too much foam sometimes makes it difficult for the process to be effective.

Pros

  1. Very efficient
  2. Produces fine bubbles
  3. Efficient foam production
  4. Removal of the superficial bacterial film

Cons

  1. Expensive model

2. Comline DOC Protein Skimmer 9001

It may be a new model on the market, but it often delivers the right performance that people want. It is one of the smallest models that you will see today. The small size does not mean that it would not work properly.

This new model comes as a simple plug-and-play device. This should mean that the model is easy to position and operate. It will work well for the nano aquarium up to a 37 gallon capacity.

Another thing the model does is use a partially closed system. The model is designed to work through the diffusion process. The results are that the model will not remove any important live plankton for your aquarium.

The model has the important surface suction design to remove the film from the surface. It will be easy for you to filter the water in your aquarium leaving it clean all the time.

There is the use of an intermediate chamber that comes with a patented system, which avoids the case of excess foam. The results are that the outgoing water without bubbles returns to the aquarium.

You still get better airflow regulation and an important muffler to keep the operation quiet. You will always love having a silent skimmer in your room. It is also important to use silicone dampers to avoid any transfer of vibrations from the skimmer to the aquarium.

Pros

  • Surface suction for film removal.
  • Outgoing water without bubbles
  • Silicone dampers to prevent the transfer of vibrations.

Cons

  • Some think it’s too big

 

3. Hydor USA SlimSkim Internal Skimmer

This model comes in two sizes and we can see the largest model up to 65 gallon capacity. It also works great for nano saltwater tanks up to 35 gallons in capacity. If it may have been difficult to get the best skimmers for the smallest tanks, this one should give you the performance you need.

Based on a number of reviews you can easily see that the product works very well for your nano aquarium. The model is designed to occupy a small space. This means you don’t have to worry about how much space it would take up after installation. Even if you have a small opening, it can always be easy to tighten it in place.

The manufacturer has also made an adjustable collection tray for it. This makes it excellent to adapt the model to work on demand. You still have the rubber o-ring on the cup, which is important for holding it tight and avoiding leakage problems. You also get a valve on the major airline to tune the skimmer’s performance.

Most people would like to learn more about the installation process. Well, this model takes about 10 minutes to unpack and put it in the tank. The instructions are also clear to make it easy for you to get the job done quickly and smoothly.

Benefits

  1. Great capacity
  2. Adjustable foam level
  3. Efficient energy

Cons

  1. Expensive model

 

4. Bubble Magus QQ1 Hang On Nano Protein Skimmer

This is one of the best skimmers you can get today when it comes to available nanoprotein skimmers. The model is designed to be robust, so you can use it for years without worrying that it won’t work the next minute. This is different from the other models you will find in the market today.

Using an efficient pump is ideal for a protein skimmer. The Rock SP600 pump is great for making sure you get the best performing skimmer.

Due to its low power, it generates less heat in the aquarium water. You always want to keep the water temperature within a certain range, even if it goes through the skimmer.

As part of reducing the noise level, you get this model with a silent air intake. A sound-absorbing silencer in the air intake has been used. This ensures that you can enjoy a moment of silence around your aquarium without worrying about the noise of a protein skimmer.

The size of the model also ensures that it has a small footprint. With the pump mounted internally, you should be able to save space for a sump. You also get a stylish design with this model. The use of beautiful colors should easily improve the look of the collection compartment.

It is still a reliable model that you can get in the market today. It will continue to provide you with the best performance at all times so that you can enjoy value for money with it. There is the use of the inlet guard to help prevent fish from entering the pump easily.

Pros

  1. Silent air intake
  2. Maximum skimming
  3. Reliable
  4. Efficient pump

Cons

  1. Less capacity for the price

 

5. AQUATICLIFE INTERNAL MINI SKIMMER 115

This compact protein skimmer is made for nano aquariums with a capacity of up to 30 liters. The AquaticLife Internal Mini Skimmer 115 has a very strong needle wheel drive that increases the contact of air with water. It is well known that it is easy to install and also maintain. This internal nano skimmer is relatively quiet when installed and working properly. The canister is made of clear plastic, so you can easily tell when it’s time to clean it. Primarily, this is a hanging skimmer, but it can also be used in a collection tray.

Due to its size, the AquaticLife Internal Mini Skimmer 115 is by far the best nanoprotein skimmer for very small saltwater aquariums. The extra suction cups make it more stable in your tank. Known to leak if not installed correctly. The AquaticLife Internal Mini Skimmer 115 is inexpensive and easily manageable for most budgets.

6. AQUAC NANO REMORA PROTEIN SKIMMER

The AquaC Nano Remora Protein Skimmer is very compact and uses a powerful Maxi jet 900 pump, this is also an excellent choice for nano tanks under 20 liters. It is a very powerful and reliable nanoprotein skimmer. The installation of the AquaC Nano Remora Protein Skimmer is fairly easy. It costs more than other small nano protein skimmers in the comparable category, but the pump of this nano protein skimmer is comparable with higher capacity. Microbubble formation during the running-in period can take up to 2 days. The only drawback is the noise, especially during outages. However, it tends to decrease or disappear significantly when used over a few weeks.

7. ESHOPPS NANO PROTEIN SKIMMER 10-35

If you are looking for a quality skimmer, chances are you will get it. Many people who have used it agree that it has helped them get their money’s worth with its construction and performance.

Small size is more important to someone looking for a great skimmer than a nanoprotein skimmer. The model is compact in size so you can easily and conveniently add it to your aquarium setup.

The installation part makes most people like it even more. The model is easy to install, so you can get it up and running in no time. The manufacturer has included an easy-to-understand manual with diagrams that you can use to follow the installation procedure.

The pump is designed to provide better energy efficiency. You do not have to worry that the model will eventually use more energy, increasing your energy bill.

The needle wheel drive is also great for making sure you can enjoy the skimmer for longer. You end up with clearer, cleaner water.

8. Mame Nano Skimmer

When you look at Mame’s nanoprotein skimmer, the small size and design immediately catches your eye. If you want to maximize the space your tank has to offer, this may be the best option for you.

The housing of the Mame nano skimmer is remarkably thin, which means it can be stored out of the way and won’t distract the aquatic life in your tank. We are talking about a 3.9 by 3.9 by 11.4 inch footprint here!

Another thing we like about the Mame nano skimmer is the aesthetics of the entire device. It’s a joy to see and the sleek design means you can put it in any tank and it looks fantastic.

The simple glass case that Mame chose is something we wish other manufacturers would try with their own products. Even the clip you use to mount the nano skimmer on your aquarium is transparent, so it really fits!

When it comes to functionality and cleaning efficiency, this mini protein skimmer doesn’t disappoint either. The Mame nano skimmer creates air bubbles in the glass body that carry foam and unwanted debris to the top of the tube. From there, everything is taken to a separate collection container that is outside your tank.

Despite being so small and fairly quiet, you can expect this nanoprotein skimmer to do a fantastic job of keeping your water quality in top condition. One thing to note is that you will need an air pump if you decide to pick up this skimmer, so try to find a quiet one!

9. The AquaMaxx Ws-1

It wouldn’t be an aquarium products checklist if we didn’t have AquaMaxx! If you’re looking for a nanoprotein skimmer that impresses and comes from a long-trusted manufacturer, consider the AquaMaxx Ws-1.

This nano skimmer mimics the design of your larger protein skimmers that have performed pretty well for years. Don’t fix what’s not broken, right?

In terms of cleaning efficiency, the Ws-1 is probably as good as it can be when it comes to handling nanotanks. As long as you put it in a tank that holds less than 65 gallons, it will do its job with ease.

Not only that, but this is a nanoprotein skimmer that will last you a long time, too. AquaMaxx is a reliable manufacturer and since your nanotank won’t brave the skimmer, it will likely use it solidly before it needs to be replaced.

The main problem with this nano skimmer is that it has to be housed in a collection bin. This makes this impossible for many nano tank owners. One of the main reasons people get small tanks is primarily because of the convenience and limited space, which is why sinks are not very common.

However, if you have a receptacle with your nanotank and you want something that can easily remove organic materials, then you should definitely consider the Ws-1.

10. Innovative Marine Skimmate Ghost Protein Skimmer

The Innovative Marine Skimmate is available in three sizes. The super small “desktop” version is designed for tanks of twenty gallons or less, making it one of the smallest nanoprotein skimmers you can find. The slightly more robust “Medium” model is suitable for tanks of 40 liters or less, making it also suitable for many nano tanks.

With a very simple skimmer design, things like installation and cleaning are no problem.

However, having the Skimmate under control gave many customers a headache. These nano skimmers can be extremely sensitive to the creation of a large volume of micro bubbles in your aquarium. The correct settings can minimize this problem, but even when installed correctly, the Skimmate appears to produce a significant amount of micro bubbles compared to other nano protein skimmers.

For those who manage to tame the Skimmate, it can really free up some space in your tank as the desktop version is truly one of the smallest protein skimmers on the market. They also operate extremely quietly, consuming only 6.5 watts of electricity.

What is the Best Nano Protein Skimmer?

To be one of the best nanoprotein skimmers, you have to look for a model that can offer performance, reliability and a lot more features. For the list mentioned above, the Bubble Magus QQ1 Nanoprotein Skimmer should give you the best performance every time.

It still comes with the best pump that should give the best important bubbles for cleaning the aquarium water. The sleek design should also interest you in the model as it will look better too.

 

How to Set Up a Nano Protein Skimmer?

The first thing you need to do is check the capacity of the protein skimmer. You need to make sure it is correctly marked for your tank. Always make sure that the capacity is greater than the volume of the aquarium.

With some protein skimmers, most parts would be assembled. You may need to assemble the remaining parts before installing them in the tank. See the assembly process in the manual to get it right.

Configure the skimmer according to the supplied skimmer type. Make sure to connect the hoses correctly to avoid problems with aquarium water leaks. Check the connections and make sure they are correct. Turn on the skimmer and see how it works best.

If you’re stuck with the skimmer mount, you can always watch YouTube and see how other people have connected a similar model.

 

Conclusion

You will always feel comfortable having a model that can deliver performance and reliability every time you use it. It’s the reason you can always rely on reviews for the best nano protein skimmer models.

Choose the right model and you no longer have to worry about protein skimmers not working when needed. The models we reviewed are among the best in the industry. You shouldn’t have a problem with it.

[Latest 2023] 10 Best Pond Liners For Koi Ponds, Water Gardens & Fountains

Trevor Blog, Equipment Reviews, Ponds (info & tips), Ponds (reviews) , 5,218 Comments
Best Pond Liners

To create the perfect outdoor pond, it is essential to use the best pond liner. The pond liner serves as the basis for your pond; the better it is, the more likely it is to thrive.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about Top Rated pond liner selection and some of the best products out there to get your pond going.

Comparison Table

An essential part of your pond setup, a liner does much more than prevent water from flowing into the ground beneath your pond; it is also responsible for providing a base for plants to take root and fish to explore.

There are many things to consider when choosing the Bestest pond liner, especially if you are starting a pond from scratch.

Today we’ll take a look at everything you need to consider when choosing the best pond liner for your outdoor water landscape and review our top 10 list of the best pond liners for every type of fish, climate, and pond size.

 

What is a Pond Liner?

A pond liner in a waterproof, impenetrable membrane that used for covers the bottom of a pond. Pond liner also prevents pond water from being absorbed into the ground and keeps unwanted contaminants from seeping in.

 

Top 10 Best Quality Pond Liners to Use For Your Ponds

 

Best Pond Liner Reviews

1. TotalPond pond skins Pond Liner

Best Pond Liners

This TotalPon liner measures approximately 13 x 20 feet, although smaller sizes are also available. It is a good size for a large pond measuring approximately 9 x 16 x 1.5 feet or approximately 1200 gallons of water and the black color will naturally blend into your pond environment.

Something really cool about this liner is the textured surface. It is an easy way to promote beneficial bacterial growth and thus help maintain a healthy pond environment.

PVC material is lightweight, flexible and easy to handle, making installation simple. It is also very durable. It’s puncture resistant and won’t break down under the sun’s UV rays, so it should last for years without any problems.

What makes it so strong? Between the PVC layers it is reinforced with tightly woven polyester that provides more durability without adding extra weight. It is specially designed to weigh less than comparable coatings.

2. Firestone W56PL451015 EPDM Rubber Pond Liner

Best Pond Liners

This Firestone liner is also made from EPDM rubber that is resistant to UV, light and heat, and has a reputation for long-lasting durability. Measuring 10 x 4.5 meters, this pre-cut liner is flexible and easy to install in the contours of your pond.

One of the best things about this coating is that the material remains flexible even in cold weather, making it less likely to crack and wear during the winter. It is puncture resistant and safe for all plants and fish in your pond.

Because this pond liner is resistant to the overgrowth of harmful microbes and algae, it helps protect water chemistry and provides a healthy environment for your fish and plants. The black color blends into the background and gives the illusion that your pond is deeper than it is.

3. Firestone PondGard PL45-1010 Rubber Pond Liner

Best Pond Liners

If the name “Firestone” sounds familiar to you, you should. It is one of the world’s leading tire manufacturers. But did you also know that they make pond liners? Well they do. And they are just as strong and reliable as your tires.

This liner measures 10 x 3 meters and is made of thin, flexible EPDM rubber. It is ideal for ponds and for creating waterfalls and other water sources.

Installation is simple and reliably adapts to the shape and curves of your pond, without the need for special tools. EPDM is UV resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it perfect for a pond environment.

Homeowners and professionals rely on this liner to create beautiful ponds that require minimal maintenance and remain beautiful. It comes with a 20-year warranty, provided you install it with a suitable underlay.

4. USA Pond Products Pond Liner

Best Pond Liners

If you have a smaller pond, this 4×6 foot liner is a great option. It is safe for fish and plants and made of PVC, making installation easy no matter how many intricate contours, steps and curves you have.

Black is great for adding depth to your pond, but also for blending in with the environment so that it does not differ from the rest of the landscape. The company suggests keeping the material out of direct sunlight so that it lasts as long as possible.

Keep in mind that this liner is quite small, so provide enough overlap and depth to determine if it is right for your pond. This product is made in the USA and is recyclable, so if you ever replace it, please dispose of it responsibly.

5. Beckett Corporation Preformed Pond

Best Pond Liners

Many people like flexible liners because you can shape them any way they want, but for many people a preformed liner is a good choice. This Beckett Corporation product is made of high quality flexible plastic. The round shape creates a 35 gallon pond.

One of the great things about this liner is the flat bottom that makes it easy to place plants and pumps without worrying about anything falling or adding extra supports. The black color serves as an excellent base and background for the plants and fish you add to your pond.

This pond is perfect for installation on the ground, but can also be used above ground. The material is UV resistant and therefore lasts a long time in the sun. It’s made in the USA and backed by a 10-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

6. Algreen 91901 Avonlea Rigid Preformed Pond Liner

Best Pond Liners

Another great option if you want contoured eyeliner is this one from Algreen. What we really like about it is that it is made from recycled plastic. The rigid construction holds 33 liters of water and is safe for plants and fish.

The flat bottom gives you a good foundation for planting and pump placement and has built-in planting shelves for easy installation.

In terms of material, it is durable and will not chip, crack or fade. It’s UV stable, so exposure to the sun won’t harm plastic either. This is also a good option for people who live in areas with cold winters. It is weather resistant and backed by a five-year limited warranty.

7. Greenseal Pond Liner

Best Pond Liners

This EPDM pond liner is an ideal choice for a wide variety of ponds. It is elastic enough to fit custom designs and is relatively inexpensive if you want to create a larger pond.

However, keep in mind that you’ll want to wear a base layer with this liner to avoid stretching and punctures.

The coating can withstand almost all weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, and lasts up to 30 years.

In support of this, the manufacturer offers a 15-year warranty against leaks due to manufacturing defects.

The siding comes in a unique, slightly odd size: 13 feet, 1 inch by 9 feet, 9 inches. However, it is easy to make the liner smaller or to tape several sheets together with liner tape.

Note that this plate, like all EPDM liners, is almost 2 millimeters thick.

8. Algreen 91914 Avonlea Pond Kit

Best Pond Liners

This complete pond set from Algreen contains a preformed plastic pond liner, a pond pump of 200 liters per hour with supplied flow control, two fountain heads and a lamp with exchangeable color filters.

The liner itself is large enough to hold 33 liters of water, enough for small fish and turtles, but too small to use as a koi pond.

While plastic is strong enough to be used as an above-ground pond with no supportive backfill, plastic will crack in extreme cold or long exposure to UV light.

Keep in mind that Algreen makes no warranty on the pond liner or pump, which is also prone to clogging.

9. HDPE Pond Liner

Best Pond Liners

Due to its durability and light weight, this HDPE pond liner is designed for use in almost any pond. Like EPDM liners, this liner can withstand extreme cold and direct UV light.

Plus, it’s more puncture resistant than EPDM liners, so there’s no need to use a base coat with this liner. However, keep in mind that this liner has no manufacturer’s warranty.

Siding is available in a variety of sizes, including 13 x 11 feet, 16 x 11 feet, 16 x 15 feet, and 36 x 30 feet.

If you have a very unique custom pond design, you can weld multiple plates together. All sizes are 0.12mm thick, making this liner significantly thinner than any EPDM or PVC liner.

Due to its durability and light weight, this HDPE pond liner is designed for use in almost any pond. Like EPDM liners, this liner can withstand extreme cold and direct UV light.

Plus, it’s more puncture resistant than EPDM liners, so there’s no need to use a base coat with this liner. However, keep in mind that this liner has no manufacturer’s warranty.

Siding is available in a variety of sizes, including 13 x 11 feet, 16 x 11 feet, 16 x 15 feet, and 36 x 30 feet.

If you have a very unique custom pond design, you can weld multiple plates together. All sizes are 0.12mm thick, making this liner significantly thinner than any EPDM or PVC liner.

10. Aquascape EPDM 45 Mil Rubber Liner

 

Best Pond Liners

Aquascape Designs is a supplier of pond supplies including pond water pumps, fountains, treatments and liners.

They offer EPDM liners in a variety of pre-cut sizes from 8 ‘x 10’ to 20 ‘x 25’.

The rubber is 45 mils thick and very puncture resistant.

The coating can also be used to coat streams and waterfalls. The material is easy to cut and seal if you want to add a slot box or bottom drain.

Aquascape Designs offers a 20 year warranty on its EPDM liners.

Benefits of Using Liner For Your Pond

The main function of a pond liner is to prevent water from seeping out of your pond. The dripping water removes important nutrients such as calcium, magnesium and selenium from the pond.

To maintain a pond with a natural soil, you must constantly add water to it. While this may not be a major problem with a small pond, the water loss can be quite significant with large ponds, and topping up the water several times a week can be a burden.

A liner not only protects against water leaving the pond, it also acts as a barrier to prevent contaminants from entering. Because the water does not mix with the surrounding soil, you have more control over the water values ​​and you keep your pond clean.

Another bonus is that you don’t have to worry about fertilizers, bug sprays, or other chemicals seeping through the soil and into your pond. Having this control over the purity of your water can help maintain a healthier environment for your plants and fish.

Pond liners also prevent erosion around your pond. If you use natural soil, rain and varying temperatures can wear down the pond’s edges, which over time can significantly change the shape and size of the pond.

 

How to Determine the Size of Your Pond Liner

There are many calculators available online to help you determine how much plant cover you need. That said, it helps to know how to figure it out for yourself to better understand the size and shape of your pond.

This calculation is not as easy as you may think. You must consider the depth of all bends at the bottom of the pond, as well as along the banks, and you must leave enough overlap to install the liner correctly.

When calculating the dimensions of your pond, it is very important where you get your measurements from. Make sure you get the width at the widest point, the length at the longest point, and the depth at the deepest point.

This will likely give you a measurement that is slightly larger than the actual dimensions of your pond, unless you have one that is perfectly square, rectangular, or perfectly round, which is a good thing. If your sizes were smaller, the liner wouldn’t fit.

Once you have the dimensions of your pond, you will need to perform two simple calculations to determine the size of the liner you need:

To know the length:

Pond length at the longest point + double depth + 2 for overlap

To calculate the width:

Pond width at widest point + double depth + 2 for overlap

Here are some examples.

If your pond is 11 feet long x 8 feet wide x 2.5 feet deep, this is what you would do to determine the size of the liner:

Width: 8 (width) + 5 (double depth) + 2 = 15

Length: 11 (length) + 5 (twice the depth) + 2 = 18

So, in this example, you’ll need 15 x 18-foot siding. For ponds that are not a standard size, order one that is larger but closer to the actual size. For example, a 10×20 liner would be too small, but a 15×20 liner would be perfect.

Here’s another example. Let’s say your pond is 2 meters long, 1 meter wide and 2 meters deep. In this case, your calculations are as follows:

Width: 4 (width) + 4 (double depth) + 2 = 10

Length: 7 (length) + 4 (twice the depth) + 2 = 13

For this pond you need a liner of at least 10 x 4 meters. A 10×12 eyeliner would be a bit too small so you should use a 12×15.

 

How to Install a Pond Liner in a Large Pond?

The first thing to do before you can install a pond liner is dig the hole for your pond. Some people prefer to lay a garden hose to plan the shape so that you have a better idea of ​​where to dig.

When digging the hole, keep the bottom as flat as possible. If you want one end to be deeper than the other, it is better to create a gradual slope than a big step down.

After digging the hole, measure it according to the instructions above to make sure you get the correct size liner.

It is a good idea to install an underlayment under the cladding. This is a thicker layer of material that insulates the bottom of the pond from rocks or sharp roots trying to pierce the surface. Once this is done you are ready to install the siding.

1. Spread the liner over the top of the hole. Then push it into the hole by walking to the center. Cover the bottom of the pond first, working your way to the edges, making sure to leave an even overhang around the edge of the pond.

2. Once the bottom is covered, move around the edges, fold the siding if necessary and use large stones, bricks or stones to hold it in place.

3. When you are satisfied with the appearance of the liner, add about two inches of water to cover the bottom of the pond. The liner will likely move if the weight of the water pushes it down. If necessary, remove anchors from the sides to allow the siding to cure naturally.

4. Trim a liner that extends more than a foot or more from the stone ring that holds it in place. This will remove the mass to keep the pond looking tidier. Depending on the size of your pond, it may require quite a bit of pruning. (Save the pieces you cut to use as patches later if needed.)

5. Complete the landscape around the pond by adding more rocks and stones to the edge to add more security to the liner.

6. Add plants and the pump to the pond and then fill it.

Obviously, the installation process for a preformed siding is a bit different. The main difference is that you should not start digging your pond hole until you have the liner.

1. Place the preformed liner where you want the pond. Spray around the perimeter with line marker spray. You can also use sand to create an outline.

2. Dig a hole 4 to 5 inches larger than the pond’s perimeter. Start by digging only to the depth of the plant shelf.

Once you’ve dug about a foot, place the pond in the hole and press the center. This marks in the dirt where you need to keep digging to reach the correct depth.

4. Continue digging until the pond fits in the hole. Make sure the bottom is level as much as possible. Once the pond is in place, fill it halfway with water.

5. Now is not the time to fill in the area around the pond. Fill this in with topsoil, rocks, stones or sand. You can also pour cement around the edge so that you can seal the pond after the concrete has dried.

Put plants in your pond. Ideally, about one to two thirds of the area should be covered with plants.

7. Connect and prime the pump.

 

Which Pond Liner is Best?

Ultimately, the best pond liners for your pond depends on the aesthetics you want to achieve, your pond design, and the weather conditions around your home.

Greenseal and Firestone EPDM liners, as well as HDPE pond liner, are versatile solutions for almost any pond, although you should use an underlay if you choose EPDM liners.

For pond builders with a limited budget, Beckett PVC liner is an economical option; Keep in mind that this is the least durable of the coatings we reviewed.

Finally, the Algreen Pond Kit is a good solution for people who just want a small preformed pond without the hassle of designing and building a pond from scratch.

 

Conclusion

Using high-quality best pond liners is the best way to lay a solid foundation for your pond. There are many options to choose from.

Whether you have a large or small pond or prefer a flexible or preformed liner, we offer many options to find the right one for you.

[Latest 2023] Top 10 Best Aquarium Water Conditioner Review

Trevor Blog, Equipment Reviews, Other (reviews), Water Health (info & tips) , 5,462 Comments
[Latest 2023] Top 10 Best Aquarium Water Conditioner Review

The water conditioner is a staple in my aquarium kits. The easiest way to ensure your water is aquarium safe.

But not all are of equal quality when it comes to how much you get for your money.

Comparison Table

When it comes to owning the aquarium, there are many things that go into the maintenance section. One thing you should never forget is aquarium water maintenance.

As part of water maintenance, you should use an aquarium water conditioner. This is because sometimes people even add tap water to the aquarium before treating it.

That process involves changing some of the water, but tap water contains chemicals, minerals, and heavy metals that keep the water safe for us to drink, but make it deadly for fishing. Fortunately, you can solve that problem by using a tap water conditioner.

But how long does it take for the water conditioner to work? And what is the best aquarium water conditioner? In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about tap water conditioning products, including detailed water conditioner reviews and our personal recommendations.

So what is the best aquarium water conditioner? We can answer that question below with a list of quality water conditioners for your aquarium.

The 10 Best Water Conditioners For Your Aquariums

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner Reviews

1. Seachem Safe

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

When it comes to a potent treatment for your aquarium, the Seachem brand does not disappoint. It is a concentrated and complete conditioner. It also works for salt and fresh water tanks to remove chloramine and chlorine.

The product permanently and immediately removes chloramine and chlorine from the water. In this way, your biofilter can remove nitrates, nitrites and ammonia. Plus, everything detoxes after a short 48 hours.

Seachem Prime works hard to detoxify heavy metals, ammonia and nitrites in ordinary tap water. While these are typical and safe levels, they are not suitable for fishing. Therefore, your tetra, beta and other fish have a safe environment to live in.

You can use this in case of emergency. Use a 5 times higher dose of the product for nitrite and ammonia in the water. Only use a half dose if the water temperature is above 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Use one product cap for 50 gallons of new or replacement water. Add it to fresh water for your fish first. If you have large amounts of chloramine, consider a double dose.

 

2. API Tap Water Conditioner

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

It is difficult to condition tap water to house fish in an aquarium. The API brand presents a conditioning product. This can immediately neutralize chloramines, chlorine and other chemicals.

Therefore, tap water is safe for fish. In a sense, chemicals in tap water do a lot of damage to fish. They can cause tissue irritation, gill destruction, and death.

The product is a highly concentrated formula. So you don’t need a lot every time. It is better to use it when you change or add water.

You should also use this product when adding new fish. It can be used in freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

Dosage instructions are to add 1 ml per 20 gallons of water. This can detoxify heavy metals and remove chlorine. To get rid of chloramines, you need 5 ml per 30 gallons of water.

In addition, you should feed your fish twice a day. You can use API fish food, which is designed to work with other API products. This keeps your fish healthy and active.

3. Natural Rapport Aquarium Water Conditioner

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

Sometimes you want a professional quality water conditioner. The Natural Rapport brand is essential. It works for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

You don’t need separate accessories, chemical kits or supplies to deal with slime layers and stress layers. This chlorine remover does it all for you in one simple step.

It is advisable to use a treatment during each water change to help goldfish, bettas and other fish thrive. The product adds electrolytes, balances the pH and adds a layer of sludge to your fish. It is also safe for saltwater plants, marine invertebrates and crustaceans.

When you use the product, it works quickly to kill harmful bacteria. These include nitrates, ammonia, chloramine, chlorine and heavy metals.

It also instantly makes tap water safe by detoxifying and removing chemicals from the water. Therefore, it is safe, effective and recommended for living reefs. The product works for exotic fish and betta, among others.

This conditioner contains 11 active ingredients. You can work with water to add protective layers of sludge and electrolytes. However, it also takes all the bad stuff out of the water.

4. Fluval Water Conditioner for Aquariums

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

You will definitely be impressed by the Fluval brand water conditioner. It is designed to make tap water safe for fish.

Of course it does this by neutralizing chloramines, chlorine and heavy metals. In addition, it also protects the mucous membranes of the fish. These areas are often quite sensitive and need a little extra help.

Fluval has patented their formula, which is designed to reduce stress on your fish. In addition, it can be used in fresh and salt water applications. The purpose of the product is also to protect the fins and scales of your fish.

This way the fish do not get inflammation or other disorders. In the aquarium, abrasions, broken fins and abrasions can occur. Now fish can heal faster if you use this product.

Be sure to use this conditioner when adding new water to the tank. It is also suitable for water changes and when installing a new tank.

If your goal is to remove chlorine, you should use 5 ml for every 10 gallons. Those who want to protect the fins and scales of their fish and remove chloramine should use 10 ml in 10 gallons of water.

5. KordonNovAqua+ Plus Water Conditioner

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

Whether you have a freshwater or saltwater aquarium, you can use Kordon’s NovAqua+. It is designed to remove heavy metals commonly found in tap water. It can also detoxify chloramine and chlorine.

As if that weren’t enough, you can also provide your fish with vitamins and immunizers. These are important for your fish to stay healthy. The product also adds a protective layer to the skin of the fish.

This protects you from the dangers in the tank. You may not realize it, but your fish can get cuts and scrapes. This slime guard reduces the chance of your fish getting cut, but it can heal faster.

You will be happy to know that this product is also safe for your aquarium plants. Eliminate chlorine and chloramine so that all living things are protected and safe.

When it comes to using the right amount of conditioner, the instructions are on the back of the bottle. It is quite easy to read and understand. Just add a teaspoon of the product for every 10 gallons of water in the tank.

6. TankFirst Complete Aquarium Water Conditioner

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

Many people think that water conditioners smell terribly. The TankFirst brand recognized this problem and stopped it. It has a natural additive that does not produce the noxious odor while being effective.

While your fish probably won’t mind the smell, you will. Now you don’t have to worry.

The formulation is designed to be groundbreaking. It can make tap water safe right away because it removes many contaminants. These include chlorine, chloramine, nitrites, ammonia and heavy metals. This conditioner is complete and can be used in reef, marine and freshwater aquariums.

A bottle of conditioner weighs 16.9 ounces and can treat up to 1,000 gallons of water. You only need one lid, which is one teaspoon, for every 10 gallons.

This product appears to be used in freshwater and saltwater species. These can be live corals, snails and shrimp. Even sensitive fish are safe when using this product.

You must use this conditioner when adding water due to evaporation. Also consider using it for water changes and also when you can measure nitrite and ammonia levels.

7. MicroBacter7 – Bacteria & Water Conditioner

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

People with aquariums need a complete bioculture and water treatment. It’s hard to find the right one, but the MicroBacter7 brand can be helpful. It can help you set up a biological filtration system for your new aquarium.

If you already have one set up, you can still use this product. It allows you to reduce nitrates, nitrogen, nitrites, ammonia, phosphates and organic carbon. In addition, it works in marine and freshwater aquariums.

The product contains enzymes and microbes that are essential and effective for your fish. It has also been tested by a veterinary pathologist and is recommended nationwide.

Of course, that’s not all the product does. It can stimulate the growth of photosynthetic organisms. In addition, it can increase oxygen concentration and reduce hydrogen sulfide production.

You will also find that it can provide you with a healthier substrate in the aquarium. This means you have to clean less and change less water. The product also improves water quality so you can watch your beautiful fish swim and play all day long.

8. Hagen Fluval Water Conditioner

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

Look at the price of the 16.9 ounce container, it seems reasonable.

However, you will use it faster because you need 10 ml for 10 gallons.

9. Tetra AquaSafe PLUS

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

This is another cheaper alternative to Prime in terms of volume, especially for a 1-liter (33.8-ounce) container.

However, it is expensive in terms of how many gallons it can actually handle. That’s because you need 5 ml for 10 gallons or 7 drops per gallon. So we do the math, and 1 liter can only treat 2,000 gallons.

10. Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner

Best Aquarium Water Conditioner

Aqueon is a very popular brand of tap water conditioner that immediately neutralizes chlorine and chloramines, in addition to detoxifying ammonia, heavy metals and fish waste. As an added benefit, Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner helps restore the fish’s natural sludge layer that can be lost when fish are transported or fished. This water conditioner also helps reduce stress on fish, making it a great option for new setups.

The correct dosage of water conditioner is easy to measure using the calibrated dosing cap.

This is one of the cheapest water conditioning products we’ve seen, but it pretty much does what all the other brands do at a slightly lower price.

Why Use Water Conditioner in Aquarium?

Water conditioners are helpful when it comes to treating tap water to make it safe for fish.

Conditioners remove chlorine commonly found in tap water. Chlorine as a chemical is good at keeping bacteria and other microorganisms away so you can use the water for human consumption.

The same level of chemical chlorine that is safe for humans can easily be toxic and kill the fish in the aquarium. You must use the water conditioner to remove any chlorine and chloramine in the water.

It’s not just about removing chemical chlorine, water conditioner is also good at removing heavy metals from water. Such heavy metals are often found in tap water.

It should also be great when it comes to removing ammonia, nitrites and nitrates from water. As you can see, you always end up with clean water.

Depending on the water conditioner, it can also help to create an important layer of sludge to protect the fish. In general, you should have a safe environment for aquatic life.

 

What is the Best Aquarium Water Conditioner?

When it comes to choosing the best aquarium water conditioner, it’s all about a model that can always deliver performance. You don’t want to pick one with too many additives that won’t even perform.

For the list above, you can always settle for Seachem Safe as it is one of the best of the many available in the industry. The model offers exemplary performance to easily clean the water. The impressive concentrated solution also reduces nitrites and nitrates that you can find in aquarium water.

 

How Does the Aquarium Water Conditioner Work?

The water conditioner is important when it comes to cleaning the water and making it safe for fish. So how does the water conditioner really work? It’s pretty easy once you understand the chemistry behind it.

The conditioner starts by neutralizing the chlorine in the water. This is done by the formation of ionic bonds and will thus turn the chlorine in the water into harmless components. Once this happens, the water must be safe for aquatic life.

The same chemical process will take place when it comes to removing other components such as chloramine and heavy metals.

 

Which Water Conditioner is Best?

After reading this article, guess which one I decided I preferred.

Yes, Seachem Prime.

And no, Seachem doesn’t pay me a lot of money to promote their products.

Although, if they wanted to give me a big check, I wouldn’t worry about it either.

I promised myself that I would keep an open mind while writing this article. I knew I preferred Prime, but everyone should always be open to new information, including myself.

But I have to admit that after looking at the numbers for all these different products, I came to the conclusion that Prime is the best water conditioner.

I don’t really believe the aquatic experts’ claim that Prime’s odor bothers aquarium fish. I’ve added Prime to my tanks literally hundreds of times now.

The fish don’t try to escape the new water or swim away if I fill the tank right away.

So it all boils down to this: I want a water conditioner that removes chlorine/chloramines, detoxifies nitrites and nitrates, and is reasonably priced. Prime is the clear winner.

 

Conclusion

There is no doubt that you now know that this could be the reason why your fish has been dying all the time. You can’t just add tap water to the aquarium and hope the fish will survive.

Now that you know more about Best Aquarium Water Conditioner, you should be able to have one of the best products for your aquarium today. Each of the models discussed above will give you the performance you deserve when it comes to treating your water. You can choose according to your preferences.

Top 11 Best Aquarium Silicone – Reviews and Guide 2023

Trevor Blog, Equipment (info & tips), Equipment Reviews, Other (reviews) , , 5,348 Comments

 Aquarium silicone is a sealant designed to repair small leaks, cracks and fish tank construction. Choosing the Best Aquarium Silicone is vital for your fish health and tank strength.

We’ve reviewed 11 different silicone sealants below to help you find the safest and most effective option for your aquarium needs. 

 

 

Comparison Table

 

The 11 Best Aquarium Silicone Products Reviewed

ASI’s clear silicone sealant has been specifically formulated for aquariums, forming an airtight seal unaffected by being submerged in fresh or salt water. 

This sealant creates a bond strong enough that it doesn’t need a primer. This material will not break or shrink and provides a long-lasting seal. It can also be used vertically without worrying about flowing or sagging while it cures.

It takes between 7 to 14 days to fully cure, after which it’s non-toxic to fish. And heals clear so as not to detract from the appearance of the tank.

Since this product is 100% silicone, it is resistant to chemicals in the air and UV radiation, so it can really provide a long lasting effect. 

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Non-toxic
  • Non-slump
  • Formulated for fresh or salt water tanks
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Not for acrylic tanks
  • Leaves residue on hands
  • Takes 7 days to cure (dries in 24 hours)

2. Aqueon Silicone Sealant

The Aqueon Silicone Sealant is a 100% non-toxic silicone option. Application is simple and easy, and it creates a high resistance, permanent seal.

This sealant is formulated for both fresh and saltwater tanks, and is durable enough that there’s little risk of cracking or shrinking over time.

The product cures clear and is a discreet option for fixing leaks or damages. However, it’s also available in the color black for a different aquarium aesthetic. 

It is strong, permanently flexible and will last a long time. It’s recommended to wait 24 to 48 hours between application and use.

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • No cracking or shrinking
  • Easy to apply
  • 100% non-toxic
  • Formulated for fresh or salt water tanks
  • Clear (also available in black)

Cons

  • Doesn’t keep well
  • Strong smell until dry

3. MOMENTIVE RTV Silicone

The MOMENTIVE RTV Silicone is a high quality adhesive product specifically formulated to combat extreme temperatures. It’s also suitable for various portable applications and caulking guns.

The sealant is non-toxic, not involving any poisonous dyes or content, and provides a solid bond with the glass in your tank, along with supporting the use of old silicones left in the aquarium. 

It’s a clear sealer that’s able to be used on verticals and overhead. Application is easy, quick and can be used anywhere on or in the tank.

This adhesive silicone sealant meets military standards and is USDA certified. 

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Good for vertical & overhead
  • Glues a range of materials
  • USDA certified
  • Value for money
  • Strong adhesion

Cons

  • Not specific for aquariums

4. Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant

This Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant can be applied on various surfaces, such as glass, ceramic, toys, appliances and aquariums. 

This product is made of transparent silicone, creating a waterproof and protective seal. It is safe for use with saltwater or freshwater aquariums and will not crack, peel, or shrink over time.

It’s simple to apply and only takes 24 hours for the silicone to cure before your aquarium can be used again. 

4.5/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Aquarium safe
  • Glues various materials
  • No cracking or shrinking
  • 100% silicone
  • Quick to cure

Cons

  • Some reviews say bottom of tube splits if squeezed hard

5. ASI Aquarium Sealant BLACK SILICONE

The ASI Aquarium Sealant is a relatively cheap black silicone option to help repair your aquarium. We find black silicone can hide algae much better than clear sealants can, helping maintain a clean and aesthetic tank.

ASI is a durable, fish safe choice for your aquarium. It withstands both saltwater and freshwater and won’t slump or split as it cures.

This product only takes 24 hours to dry, however around 7 days to fully cure before you can use your tank again. 

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Non-toxic
  • Non-slump
  • Formulated for fresh and saltwater tanks
  • Value for money
  • Black

Cons

  • Not for acrylic tanks
  • Leaves residue on hands
  • Takes 7 days to cure (24 hours to dry)

 

6. MarineLand Silicone Squeeze Tube

This fish safe MarineLanf Silicone Squeeze Tube works exceptionally well compared to other clear silicones on the market. It provides a solid adhesion that dries immediately with an impressive grip, similar to rubber. 

However, it’s worth noting that this silicone is not easy to apply and requires a bit of patience and practice to make it work the way you want it too. But with the right application, this product can provide one of the most effective seals.

We believe it’s good value for the price. This silicone can be be used outside of aquarium repairs, on various materials. It’s free of toxic substances and is safe for your fish and plant life. 

4.5/5 STARS

Benefits

  • 100% clear silicone
  • Non-toxic to fish
  • Strong seal

Cons

  • Doesn’t seal plastics
  • Strong smell until cured
  • Application takes practice

7. Gorilla Clear 100 Percent Silicone Sealant Caulk

The Gorilla Clear 100 Percent Silicone Sealant Caulk is another of the best options on the market due to its ensured long-lasting performance. It’s mold and mildew resistant and is also available in a large 10oz size, for various and multiple applications. 

This sealant is versatile enough to be used for applications such as bathrooms, kitchens, doors, and windows. It dries translucent clear to prevent discoloration or distracting repairs. 

It’s 100% silicone and 100% waterproof. There’s also no risk of seals breaking, shrinking or turning yellow, regardless of whether it’s applied inside or outside. 

This product is not aquarium specific.

4.5/6 STARS

Benefits

  • 100% silicone
  • Clear or white options
  • 30 minutes water ready
  • Won’t yellow, shrink or crack

Cons

  • Not aquarium specific
  • Poor packaging of product (parts damaged)

8. 3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200 Black

This 3M Marine Adhesive 5200 Sealant is a high strength formula versatile for a wide range of applications, including boats, kitchens and many surfaces. 

It’s recommended as the best option for permanent sealing of gel coat, fiberglass or wood. Once hardened and cured, it provides a waterproof and elastic bond in and out of the water. 

It is a strong and flexible polyurethane polymer that can form a robust unit. One that is capable of retaining joints and seals during swelling, vibration, shock or contraction.

This product is not aquarium specific.

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Won’t crack or peel
  • Flexible
  • Easy application
  • Black
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Takes 5-7 days to cure
  • Not aquarium specific
  • Poor packaging (damaged parts)
  • Some reviews say it doesn’t cure properly

9. Dap 00688 All-Purpose Adhesive Sealant

 

This Dap 00688 All-Purpose Adhesive Sealant is 100% clear silicone and is used for both building and repairing aquariums. Once applied, it takes 24 hours to completely cure.

Because it’s aquarium specific, it contains toxic-free materials and is safe for your fresh and saltwater fish and plants once cured. It is completely waterproof, remains flexible and does not break or peel.

Like a lot of silicone products, the Dap sealant has strong fumes during application that should dissipate once it’s dried and cured. 

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • 100% clear silicone
  • Stays flexible
  • Won’t crack or shrink
  • Non-toxic to fish when cured
  • Good adhesion

Cons

  • Only one nozzel with product
  • Strong fumes during application
  • Not able to reseal glue after use

10. GE 1200 Series Construction Silicone Sealant

 

This aquarium grade GE 1200 Series Construction Silicone Sealant suits all types of tanks, including larger style aquariums of a hundred liters or more. 

The adhesive product is an affordable option, and cures quite quickly compared to other silicone sealants. The seal it provides is extra strong and efficient, and is specific to various aquatic environments. 

Similar to other sealants available today, this product has an unpleasant odor during application and comes with a sticky paste that could hold your hands together tightly, so wearing gloves when working is recommended to prevent this from happening. Once cured however, all fumes and stickiness are no longer an issue. 

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Quick curing
  • Aquarium grade
  • Very strong adhesion

Cons

  • Strong fumes during application

11. Permatex 80050 Clear RTV Silicone Adhesive Sealant

Permatex 80050 Clear RTV Silicone Adhesive Sealant is well-known for being flexible, durable and lending a long lasting seal. It’s weather resistant and able to be used indoors and outdoors.

The silicone adhesive sealant is one of the most versatile choices in circulation because it can be used to repair and seal metal, plastic, vinyl and glass fabrics. It can also be used for vinyl tops and paint stripping. So whilst it can be used on aquariums, it’s a worthwhile investment for door frames, roofs and trimmings as well.

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • General purpose sealant
  • Bonds many materials
  • Flexible

Cons

  • No aquarium specific

How to Use Aquarium Silicone Sealant?

Best Aquarium Silicone

It’s always a good idea to refer to each silicone aquarium sealant’s specific instructions before attempting to apply it. Although it’s true that they’re all used in basically the same way, it’s important to understand how long each sealant will take to fully cure. 

Don’t use the aquarium before it is ready and cured otherwise the water may be adversely affected. These products are non-toxic and safe for your fish, but only after they have dried and had the right amount of setting time.

Silicone adhesive should be applied as soon as you recognise leaks or damages in your aquariums, to prevent any danger to your aquatic life. It can also be used to glue various decorations for tanks, plants and stones on the aquarium glass. 

A General Step-By-Step Method on How to Seal a Corner Leak with Silicone.

1. Completely empty the aquarium.

2. Use a razor blade to remove as much old silicone as you can. When applying the new silicone, you want it to come into contact with only the glass, so the bond can be stronger and more effective.

3. Clean the surface and brush with fine-grit sandpaper. This slightly stiffens the surface and forms a stronger grip.

4. Make sure everything is completely dry before continuing.

5. Use a silicone gun to apply a new layer of silicone inside the edges. Use duct tape or clamps to hold everything in place while it heals.

6. Smooth the silicone along the seams with your finger to remove any excess.

7. Allow the silicone to harden for the period of time recommended by the manufacturer.

This general method can be adapted for some different situations.

For example, if you notice that there is a chip causing a leak, it is not necessary to replace the entire seam. Drain the aquarium a few inches below the chip. Clean broken glass with gloved fingers, then use fine sandpaper. Insert the silicone into the chip with a small piece of glass of similar size. Cover with wax paper and use masking tape to hold it in place until the silicone hardens. Fill the tank back up and it’s ready to go again.

Regardless of how you’re using the silicone sealant however, remember to let it harden completely before putting it in the water.

 

How to Remove Aquarium Silicone from Glass?

The first and easiest method to remove silicone from the glass is to use a razor blade and simply scrape it. 

If you need to remove silicone from a larger area or if you are trying to remove it from the corner seam, we recommend using a heat gun or hairdryer to blow hot air along the seam. Hairdryers will work but might take slightly longer. 

Once the silicone is heated and more flexible, use a razor blade to scrape it. It is important not to heat it to the point it starts to melt. You just want it to be a little more flexible, so it’s easier to remove. You can use a utility knife to split the corner if you’re taking everything apart. After removing as much as you can, use a rough sponge to get rid of any excess silicone.

 

Frequently Asked Question About Best Aquarium Silicone

What is the use of silicone sealant?

  • Silicones are an excellent sealant that can be used to repair cracks or leaks in your aquarium glass. They are waterproof, non-toxic, flexible and durable. You can also use them to repair other household items.

 

What kind of silicone is safe for aquariums?

  • 100% silicone is completely safe for aquariums as long as there are no sneaky additives; if it’s marked as pure silicone, it is safe. 

 

How to use silicone sealant on your aquarium?

  • Make sure you’ve read the instructional guidelines on the tube. It will help you know how long it will take for the silicone to set. Empty your aquarium completely. If you apply silicone sealant to broken glass, make sure it is clean. It should only come into contact with the crystal and nothing else. Don’t rush it and give it plenty of time to dry and cure.

 

Video Guide About How to Choose Best Aquarium Silicone

 

 

 

Final Comments

Silicone is arguably the most effective and safest adhesive to use in an aquarium, due to its durability and lack of toxic substances that could harm your fish and plant life. We’ve reviewed the Best Aquarium Silicone options that’ll create long-lasting seals to offset any damages and leakages in your tanks.

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[Latest 2023] Top 7 Best HOB Protein Skimmer For Saltwater Marine, Reef Tanks

Trevor Blog, Equipment (info & tips), Equipment Reviews, Marine (reviews), Tropical Freshwater (reviews) , , , 13,542 Comments
[Latest 2023] Top 7 Best HOB Protein Skimmer For Saltwater Marine, Reef Tanks

Reef tanks and marine aquariums are some of the most fascinating microsections on Earth where we can observe these tiny fish and corals and other creatures at any time of the day or night.

Dirty your aquarium is nothing new, but you must take measures to ensure that the aquarium water is cleaned perfectly.

Comparison Table

Anyone who owns a reef aquarium knows that a protein skimmer is important for maintaining good water quality. No serious reef keeper would be without a protein skimmer.

But what if you don’t have a container or space under your tank for a protein skimmer? The good news is that there are Hang On Back (HOB) protein skimmers that are easy to install and don’t require a collection tray or can be placed underneath the aquarium.

Due to the dissolving of organic compounds in the water, it is difficult to clean the aquarium water. If it stays dirty for too long, it will be more of a problem for the inhabitants of your aquarium.

It is the reason why you should now buy the best HOB protein skimmer to remove organic matter. These machines use air bubbles to ensure that you get cleaner aquarium water every time.

The bright colors, fascinating shapes and unique creatures that make up our saltwater fish tanks are unlike any other type of aquarium.

And in order for our seawater aquariums to thrive, we need special equipment.

Familiar things like filters and water pumps are needed, but some lesser known things like protein skimmers are also necessary for a truly healthy and happy marine aquarium.

 

Top 7 Best Hang On Back Protein Skimmers For Aquariums

Today there are many hanging protein skimmers, but not all of them will help you get rid of dissolved organic compounds. It’s the reason why you need to find the best HOB protein skimmer for your aquarium.

Think about things like the type of aquarium you own, the capacity of the skimmer, the settings, the brand and the maintenance process. Consider choosing a model that will keep you having fun by keeping the aquarium water clean. There is no need to have a model that offers long-term performance.

 

Best HOB Protein Skimmer Reviews

1. AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Hang On Back Protein Skimmer

Best HOB Protein Skimmer

This model is often considered a superior model due to its powerful submersible pump and sensitive collection cup. These are two important features that you may always want to consider when you want to have the best protein skimmer.

For this model, it comes with a 90 gallon capacity, making it ideal for a variety of aquariums that humans may have. It is also designed to be thin and light so you can easily fit it into a small aquarium without worrying about it being too heavy.

The model is precisely designed by the computer so that it can deliver the performance in terms of performance. You will always enjoy the kind of performance you get from such a model. It ensures that the quality of the water always remains at its best.

There is also the maintenance problem for most people who own protein skimmers. That shouldn’t be a problem if you have this model as it is made to be easy to clean.

The compact design is another great feature you will love. The manufacturer designed this model from the beginning for aquarium enthusiasts. They are always looking for a model that works really well to their advantage and that’s it. Even if it can take up less space, it is also designed to reduce noise and make the model run as efficiently as possible.

The ease of use would make you want to use it even more. The installation process is simple for your protein skimmer. In a few minutes you should be easily done with the model and it will run successfully.

Benefits

  • It’s easy to use
  • Has a compact design
  • Has great performance
  • It is easy to manipulate

Cons

  • Tends to drip more often

2. Reef Octopus Classic 100 HOB Protein Skimmer

This is another popular type of rear-end protein skimmer you can get in the market today. If you go through multiple reviews of the same model, you will easily realize that the model has received positive reviews all over. This is because the model is efficient when it comes to a protein skimmer.

Starting with the design, the manufacturer has saved it space. This is due to the cylindrical shape that comes with the model. Keeping the design to a minimum should make it easier to use in many cases.

It only takes a few minutes to assemble this model. You shouldn’t have a problem with the installation process as it is very simple. The model is designed to filter many aquariums up to a capacity of 105 liters. You should find a model ideal for various home aquariums that most people own today.

The Aquatrance 1000 pump is impressive when it comes to performance. It will continue to work very well so that you can enjoy the model for longer.

Benefits

  • High filter capacity
  • Unique design
  • Save space
  • Excellent work for the pump

Cons

  • It has a cheap craft.

3. Coralife Super Skimmer with Pump

Walk into a house with a reef or saltwater aquarium and you will likely find a skimmer in the house. Most people like that they have the best performance when it comes to removing organic compounds in aquarium water. It is the same that you will enjoy using this model.

The model comes with a high-quality foam fractionator. This is important to ensure that you don’t have to worry about the production of bubbles that are important to the operation of the filtration process. The pump is also designed to conserve energy so you don’t have to worry about increasing your energy bill.

The best part should be the filter capacity. It is designed to be available for different aquariums, in terms of capacity ranging from 65 liters to 220 liters. The model allows you to mount it on the crankcase or hang it on the mounting bracket.

Benefits

  • Strong needle wheel drive
  • Great bubble production
  • Simple installation
  • Impressive capacity

Cons

  • Slow customer service

4. Bubble Magus QQ1 Hang On Nano Protein Skimmer

The model may be small, but it will always deliver the right amount of power you need to meet the filtering needs of your aquarium. The small size is great when it comes to hanging it on your nano tank easily and conveniently. Many people would feel comfortable having this model in their home to aid in the filtration process.

The model can skim tanks up to a capacity of 25 gallons. Since it is made for nano tanks, it should be enough to handle such work.

The pump is ideal for providing the correct amount of water filtration you need for your aquarium. In addition, it is a quiet model that you can get today.

You should be aware that the model will be easy in terms of the installation part as you simply hang it on the back of the aquarium.

Benefits

  • It is easy to install
  • Powerful for its size
  • It is an affordable model
  • Faster operation

Cons

  • Low capacity when it comes to filtration.

5. Macro aqua m-50 hang-on external protein skimmer

For the smallest protein skimmer worth investing in, look for the Macro Aqua M-50 plate.

This tiny suction cup is designed for use in aquariums up to 60 gallons in size, with a water flow of 238 GPH, making it a pretty powerful option for your small saltwater tank.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Dimensions: 12.6 x 5.5 x 5 inches
  • Tank size: up to 60 liters
  • Additional Features: Works as a COOKING PLATE or a protein skimmer for added versatility

If you’re ready to use your protein skimmer right away, this no-prep protein skimmer is a great Macro Aqua option. You will find it effectively removes unsightly organic waste from fish and overfeeding, with an easy-to-remove catch pan for easy cleaning and maintenance.

This HOB protein skimmer is super small and fairly quiet so non-intrusive and ideal for use in smaller, tight spaces where big, noisy things can be a big hassle. It uses a needle-to-wheel impeller to drive the air-water contact and is made of very high quality material so it won’t break easily.

It’s actually quite small and incredibly easy to set up and use. Just snap it in and plug it in and let it do all the work.

6. Coralvue technology bh-1000 octopus with external 1000 pump for aquarium filter

For the quietest and smallest HOB protein skimmer, look no further than the Coral Vue Technology BH-1000 Octopus.

It has excellent performance ratings from professionals and hobbyists alike, and it comes in a fairly small size that won’t affect your aquarium’s internal aesthetics.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Dimensions: 19.3 x 10.6 x 9.4 inches
  • Tank size: up to 100 liters
  • Additional features: comes with external pump for filtration system

The Coral Vue Octopus is very easy to install, clean and generally maintain, making it ideal for long-time professionals and beginners alike. It doesn’t add heat to the aquarium, unlike many other models, and it just works well at a steady pace over the long run.

It is easily adjustable to meet your power needs and runs quietly in the background while providing excellent cleaning performance. It really is an obvious choice for anyone looking for a high quality two-in-one skimmer and filter pump system.

7. Instant ocean seaclone protein skimmer

Instant Ocean SeaClone Protein Skimmer is our top recommendation for an inexpensive model that anyone can use in their aquariums up to 150 liters.

It is simple to install, easy to use and clean, and powerful enough to keep your medium sized aquarium clean and healthy.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Dimensions: 18.5 x 6.2 x 4.5 inches (smallest model)
  • Tank size: 100 or 150 liters
  • Additional features: works in crankcase or COOKING PLATE skimmer

Instant Ocean SeaClone is an efficient machine that removes organic compounds from the aquarium quickly and efficiently. It uses a Turbo-Venturi injector system designed exclusively for the company.

The system mixes filtered water and air in the pump impeller chamber to create a swirling micro-bubble foam in the vortex reaction chamber.

The tornado effect provides the powerful skimming action that cleans and keeps your aquarium that way. This effect also provides increased gas exchange for the health of your aquarium life.

It works as a HOB protein skimmer or in the sump, which is great for versatility and is small enough not to alter the aesthetics of your aquarium.

What is the Best HOB Protein Skimmer?

The CaralVue Technology BH-1000 Octopus appears to be a superior model from the above list. The model is impressive in so many features that would please anyone with a tank.

The top pump is important to ensure that the model continues to deliver the best performance time after time. Moreover, it is made of the important high quality acrylic material to keep your model looking strong and working longer.

 

How to Set Up a HOB Protein Skimmer?

The first thing to always do is familiarize yourself with the components of the included HOB protein skimmer. Usually, the manufacturer will send you all the accessories you need for the installation of the protein skimmer.

You will also receive a manual with the instructions and sometimes the schematics for assembling and installing that particular model of skimmer.

When assembly is complete, you can proceed to hang the model from the back of the tank using the mounting bracket. Make sure gaskets are tight so there is no water leakage.

 

How to Tune a HOB Protein Skimmer?

Most skimmers would be different in operation and would require different types of settings to work effectively. It’s about adjusting the protein skimmer.

You can also try modifying your model according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You usually have to wait up to 3 weeks before you can adjust the dials to find the optimal setting for your skimmer.

 

Conclusion

There are multiple models when it comes to the best HOB protein skimmers. This is common in every product category, but not all of them would be great. That’s why we’ve highlighted some of the best models available on the market right now.

Choosing between these models gives you the assurance that you are getting the best models of all time. You need to get the right model that always performs and keeps the aquarium water clean at all times.

Top 10 Best Guppy Food For Color, Growth & Immune Support

Trevor Aquatic Species (info and tips), Blog, Equipment Reviews, Guppy (info and tips), Tropical Freshwater (reviews) , , 8,610 Comments
Top 10 Best Guppy Food For Color, Growth & Immune Support

Guppies need a varied diet to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients. Here is the information you need to know so that you can get the best food and diet for your guppie.

When it comes to feeding guppies, we’re in luck because they’ll eat just about anything you feed them. However, if you want to grow beautiful and healthy guppies, you need to feed them high quality fish food. I always like to choose the best flake food from renowned brands.

Comparison Table

Guppies are active schooling fish that need the right kind of food to grow and maintain a healthy immune system. They also need a lot of protein to fuel their energy!

That’s why the Best Guppy Food growth contains a blend of real proteins and ingredients to help improve color. Texture is also important. Since guppies have their mouths up, they feed on the surface. Ideal guppy food for them will float, sink slowly, and be soft and easily digestible.

 

Top 10 Best Food for Your Guppy Fish Growth & Colors

There are many great options when it comes to guppy foods, but there are some differences between one formula and another. See the table below to see.

 

Best Food for Guppy Fish Review

1. Hikari USA Tropical Fancy Guppy for Pet Health

Best Guppy Food

This Hikari guppy food is the result of extensive research on guppy habits. Among other things, eating habits, growth rates, coloring and the health of the immune system were investigated.

The result is one of the smallest granules available, containing unique ingredients that give guppies everything they need to thrive.

One of the best things about this food is the texture. It acts almost like a sponge in water, absorbs water and softens without dissolving.

This is very important because it keeps food together so that important nutrients are not lost. It sinks slowly, giving the fish plenty of time to eat before reaching the bottom of the tank. Don’t worry, what isn’t eaten will not fog the water.

This formula contains everything guppies need for their health, including linolenic acid to promote growth and stabilized vitamin C to support a healthy immune system. In addition, to improve overall conditioning, they included iodine from seaweed.

2. Omega One Super Color Flakes

Best Guppy Food

For a guppy food with significant color boost, these Omega One flakes will do the trick.

They contain salmon skins with a high content of beta-carotene, which gives guppies a deep, intense color. Beta carotene is one of the most effective ways to promote these vibrant colors.

This formula does not contain fish meal or pre-processed proteins.

What’s in it?

Whole salmon, halibut and fresh seaweed provide guppies with real, natural fat. This food is rich in proteins, low in starch and does not cloud the water.

3. API Fish Food Pellets

Best Guppy Food

Another great guppy food option comes from API. These granules are rich in protein to promote healthy growth and also keep your water cleaner and clearer.

If some of the fish food is not eaten, there is a concern that it will sink to the bottom and decompose, releasing harmful ammonia into the water.

However, this meal is less likely. It is formulated to sink slowly and easily digest, leaving less waste in the water.

This formula contains algae, shrimp, worms and more.

One of the best things about this is that it not only keeps guppies healthy and strong, but it also helps improve their color.

4. Northfin Community Formula 0.5 Millimeter Pellets

 

Best Guppy Food

Main Ingredients: Whole Antarctic Krill Meal, High Omega 3 DHA Herring Meal, Whole Sardine Meal

Description: I am very impressed with this community formula from Northfin. The first three ingredients are very high quality protein sources.

They also have seaweed and spirulina to a good degree. This is another food that would make an excellent staple food for community fish such as guppies.

You may have to crush these kernels to get small guppies. It’s firmer than flakes, so you’ll probably need something like a mortar and pestle.

One thing about this: they sink very quickly. I would recommend feeding only a small pinch at a time. Make sure your guppies have time to come in and eat that portion and then add some more.

5. Cobalt Aquatics Guppy Ultra Pellets

Best Guppy Food

Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Dried Spirulina Seaweed, Giant Squid Meal, Whole Anchovies, Whole Sardines

Description: This is another well-balanced food that would make an excellent staple food. I love that the main ingredients are a blend of high quality protein sources and spirulina algae.

I also like that there are a wide variety of food sources used for this food. This will help feed your fish a varied diet, all in one convenient package.

This is a very small pellet that should be good even for guppy fry.

It should be a floating pill, but some users have noticed that it sinks quickly.

I recommend feeding this only a pinch at a time and adding more when eaten. If you throw out a lot of food at once, the food will likely sink before your guppies have a chance to eat it.

6. Omega One Color Mini Pellets

Best Guppy Food

Main Ingredients: Salmon, Halibut, Whole Herring, Cod, Shrimp

Description: This is another fantastic food from Omega 1. The main ingredients are top class.

These granules are said to be an excellent staple food, rich in aquatic proteins that fish can digest easily.

There is algae in this formulation, but you may want to supplement with some foods higher in spirulina and / or algae.

This is characterized as a slow sinking pellet, but in my experience “slow sinking” pellets still sink fairly quickly.

You may have to grind these kernels so that they are small enough to be eaten by the guppies.

7. Zoo Med Spirulina 20 Flakes

Best Guppy Food

Main ingredients: salmon flour, spirulina flour, soy flour

Description: Spirulina 20 flakes are an excellent supplementary food that is rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals.

I would use this more as a treat than a staple food. It’s rich in nutrients thanks to spirulina, but it only has one protein source.

However, I recommend feeding it along with other foods several times a week as spirulina is a great color enhancer, especially for blue and green fish.

This is especially good to add to your fish’s diet if your main ingredient is low in spirulina or kelp flour.

You will need to crush the flakes so that they are small enough for the guppies to eat. They are easy to press with your fingers and in my experience they float quite well.

8. New Life Spectrum Optimum Flakes

Best Guppy Food

NLF Optimium flakes are specially designed to promote the health and color of tropical fish. In my opinion, this is the best flake food for guppies. At least I use it daily and have very good results with your products.

This food contains krill, herring, squid, natural ingredients that help stimulate colors and develop a strong immune system.

It is rich in protein and contains all the necessary nutrients and vitamins that guppies need. It also contains garlic, which is a natural antibiotic that is really beneficial for fish health. Garlic can prevent or treat many diseases in both humans and guppies. Garlic has antioxidant, anti-cancer and antihypertensive properties.

New Life Spectrum Optimum Flakes is my first choice when it comes to guppy food, in addition to my home-grown live food.

I highly recommend this food, especially for guppy breeders.

9. Aquacarium Tropical Flakes

Best Guppy Food

Aquacarium Tropical flakes are designed for all types of tropical fish, including guppies. It’s a great option for community tanks, as well as guppy-only tanks.

This food contains salmon, shrimp, seaweed, krill and spirulina, making it a complete diet for guppies. It contains no fillers or natural dyes, unlike most other flake foods. It is also rich in vitamins (A, D3, B1, B12, C).

While this brand may not be that popular, it produces very delicious food. What I really like about these foods is that they don’t use additives or dyes to make your food “beautiful”.

Because this food contains only natural ingredients, it is easier for the fish to digest and get more nutrients. That is nice, because they produce less waste and the water is polluted less quickly.

Its high protein content (45%) also makes it an ideal food for guppy fry.

10. Aqueon Tropical Flakes

Best Guppy Food

Aqueon Tropical Flakes provides a balanced diet for guppies and other tropical fish. It contains natural ingredients, trace elements, minerals and vitamins that help in the development of a healthy immune system.

This food contains a higher concentration of spirulina, calendula powder and chili powder, which makes the colors of the guppies stand out well.

These flakes float to the surface longer, making it easier for guppies to consume them. Food that falls to the bottom is known to be ignored by guppy fish.

The food contains herring, wheat flour, soybeans, shrimp, gluten, dead yeast, squid, corn, garlic, spirulina, fish oil and many minerals (manganese sulphate, copper sulphate, ferrous sulphate, calcium) and vitamins (C, A, D3, B12, B6) .

Aqueon Tropical food is designed for better and faster digestion, resulting in less waste and cleaner water.

What is the Best Guppy Food?

Our pick for best guppy food is Hikari USA Tropical Fancy Guppy for Pet Health. Because the built the formula based on extensive scientific research about growth, coloring, and immune system health, it has everything it needs to help guppies thrive.

The texture is ideal, smooth and slow sinking so the fish can digest it easily and have plenty of time to get to it before sinking to the bottom of the tank. Not to mention, it also prevents anything you don’t eat from clouding the water.

 

What Are High Quality Fish Food Ingredients?

Whole fish

Whole fish is pretty much the gold standard when it comes to fish food. It gives you the most useful proteins and contains all the oils that are so important to fish health.

It’s also great to see lists of things like whole shrimp or krill. It means that the whole animal was used instead of just the leftover shells and heads obtained from the shrimp meal.

Shrimp and krill also have the added benefit of enhancing color. The red pigment that makes most shrimp and krill pink can help make red, yellow and orange fish more vibrant.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a freshwater cyanobacterium (also called blue-green algae) that is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It even has some protein.

And it is easy to digest, allowing the fish to absorb more nutrients.

It also has color enhancing properties that can help make your fish more vibrant.

Kelp

Kelp is a marine macro-algae that reaches enormous size. Like spirulina, seaweed is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals in a form that is easily digestible for fish.

This is a good substitute for any algae that guppies normally graze in the wild.

 

How Often to Feed Guppy Fish?

Adult guppies need to be fed two to three times a day. You can give them a little in the morning and a little in the evening to keep it evenly distributed.

It is important to note that guppies reproduce quickly and are carriers of life. That means that instead of laying eggs, they actually produce small swimming fish.

If you don’t separate them from the adults, the babies will quickly become a meal. Make sure your adult guppies are properly fed, especially if there are juveniles in the tank.

Another thing to consider is that baby guppies need to eat more often because they grow so quickly. They should actually eat four to eight times a day.

The best way to make sure they get the nutrition they need and to protect them from bigger, hungry adults is to separate them. This also prevents adults from getting extra food while feeding babies frequently.

If you’re worried about leaving your guppies on vacation, don’t be! Guppies can go without food for up to two weeks.

That said, if the thought of not eating fish for so long makes you feel uncomfortable, you can get a piece of food for the holidays. This is a preformed food block designed to dissolve slowly and dispense the food into the water a little at a time.

 

How Much to Feed Guppy Fish?

Guppies should only be fed as much food as they can eat in about two minutes with each feeding. Remember they are not big fish. They have a small stomach, but like to overeat, which can be very dangerous for fish.

If you find that your guppies seem to have a bloated or full stomach, skip the next feed and give them a little less when it comes time to feed them again. They probably won’t stop, so if you notice a problem, give them less food.

On the other hand, if you find that a large amount of food is not consumed and sinks to the bottom of the intake, it is likely that you are feeding too much. This can cause some problems. In addition to constipation of fish, making them sluggish and uncomfortable, it can also have a negative effect on the water.

While most of the guppy foods we choose are formulated so as not to cloud the water, you want to avoid accumulating in large quantities at the bottom of the tank. Ultimately, it will have negative effects.

 

Conclusion

In order for guppies to grow large and healthy, it is important to choose the right food. The right ingredients even provide an impressive color boost! Look for foods with a variety of proteins, as well as vitamins and minerals for immune system health. Omega One is also great, providing fast energy puppies with such an active lifestyle.

Remember that diets for adults and babies are different. If you plan on breeding or if it happens accidentally, babies need to eat much more often than adults. It’s best to separate them so babies can eat as often as needed without worrying about adults coming over and stealing their food or worse.

Our pick for the best guppy food is Hikari USA Tropical Fancy Guppy for Pet Health. Formulated on the basis of extensive scientific research, it not only helps guppies to grow, it also helps them develop a strong immune system and increase their color. In addition, it does not dissolve or cloud the water, and it is easy to digest, keeping the aquarium balanced and healthy.

Top 10 Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

Trevor Aquarium Plants (reviews), Blog, Equipment Reviews, Other (reviews) , , , 6,650 Comments
Top 10 Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

If you have an aquarium, you would know how adding a few plants can change the whole aesthetic of your tank for the better. So, we’ve put together a list of the Best Artificial Aquarium Plants here for those not interested in the maintenance that real plants usually require, but still wanting that greenery effect.

Comparison Table

 

Planted tanks are beautiful, but the time and effort it takes to maintain them is not always enjoyable or possible. Luckily, there are some great alternatives to decorate your tank, without the stress or fuss of keeping everything running smoothly.

Keep reading for our Best Recommendations of Artificial Plants for your Aquarium.

(We have provided a recommended list of plants specific for long finned betta fish. Learn more HERE)

 

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants for Your Aquarium Reviews

1. Smarlin Aquarium Plants Decoration

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The Smarlin Aquarium Plants Decoration is the perfect non-toxic and ‘fish-safe’ plant for your tank. It’s a gentle option that is guaranteed to not be harmful to your fish.

This product has different sizes and heights of the blades available. For most people, they consider it good for most betta fish. They can always rest on these aquarium plants.

The blades give that realistic look as they are easy to move. They offer a lovely green color to be added to the tank too, creating a more natural look.

The presence of a heavy base helps keep the plant in place. Even if the water moves a little, the base will prevent the plant from moving through the aquarium.

4.3/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Sturdy
  • Value for money
  • Lots of green
  • Non-toxic
  • Large 10″

Cons

2. CNZ Aquarium Fish Tank Green Lifelike Underwater Plastic Plant

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

Coming from a leading brand, the CNZ Aquarium Fish Tank Green Lifelike Plant is expected to be good quality and beautiful. And this model does not disappoint as it offers good looks and overall durability.

Most artificial underwater plants will need a clean from time to time, and most find this plant easy to clean thanks to the materials used to make it. Creating a fast and simple process.

Having the ceramic base also gives it great stability to stay strong in your tank.

Some find it an excellent hiding place for fish along with making a nice decoration for the aquarium.

4.5/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Large 13″
  • Good stability
  • Aesthetic look
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Leaf color fades over time

3. CNZ Aquarium Decor Fish Tank Decoration Ornament Artificial Plastic Plant

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The CNZ Aquarium Decor Fish Tank Decoration has been designed with vibrant green colors to add life to your tank. It has a well thought-out natural look, being hard to distinguish from the real thing once placed in the aquarium.

This plant model requires very minimal maintenance, only cleaning irregularly to keep it looking good for a longer period of time.

The base is made of ceramic material. It is heavy enough to keep the plant from moving in the aquarium. Along with being a safe, non-toxic option for your fish.

4.3 STARS

Benefits

  • Wide variety to select from
  • Minimal maintenance
  • Ceramic base
  • Non-toxic

Cons

  • None that we can see

4. Jardin Plastic Aquarium Tank Plants Grass Decoration

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The Jardin Plastic Aquarium Tank Plants Grass Decoration is an excellent addition to give your tank a bit more character. Plus, the vibrant green color doesn’t fade easily in its underwater environment.

Size-wise, these plants are ideal for most aquariums. Setting up is easy as they also come with a heavy duty base, preventing the plants from swinging around the aquarium.

You can get a lot of plants for the price, enough to decorate an entire aquarium of a medium size. These plants can also provide a resting place for the fish in your tanks or ponds.

Benefits

  • 10 piece set (fill tank)
  • 6.5″ tall
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Color lighter than advertized
  • Quality not the best
  • Not suitable for large finned betta fish

5. Tacobear Artificial Aquatic Plastic Plant

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The Tacobear Artificial Aquatic Plastic Plant is another popular option due to their resemblance to real plants. It’s soft and a friendly choice for your fish, and won’t add any toxins to the tank environment.

The manufacturer uses high-quality materials in combination with a ceramic base. The material is good for flexibility, which gives the plant a realistic influence in the water.

The deep green color is fade resistant, making it good for your aquarium for years to come.

4.6/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Tall 20″
  • Ceramic base
  • Flexible and realistic
  • Gradient color
  • Soft plastics

Cons

  • Recommended to leach new plants before placing in aquarium

6. Pietypet Artificial Aquatic Plants

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

Are you looking for a set with more variety, we recommend Pietypet Artificial Aquatic Plants. The set comes with 7 pieces, each offering different heights, colors and shapes.

All of the plants in the set are bright, vibrant colors, including purple, pink and green. This provides a dramatic and eye-catching aesthetic to your aquarium.

By using plastic material you don’t have to worry about maintenance, all they need is a little regular cleaning. In addition, the plants are rust and rot free compared to other alternatives.

The plants are also supplied with a pedestal. It is placed on the bottom of the aquarium to hold them tightly.

4.5/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Soft leaves
  • 10 piece set
  • Heavy pedestal (stay in substrate)
  • Vibrant colors
  • Rust and rot free

Cons

  • Plastic leaves harder than advertized

7. Marina Naturals Foreground Silk Plant

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The Marina Naturals Foreground Silk Plant is a brightly colored, high quality choice to assist in an aquarium makeover.

The colors on this product don’t fade so you don’t have to worry about buying a new plant every few months. Cleaning is also an easy process and is the only maintenance they should need.

Setup is quick and easy, with a weighted base will always prevent it from swinging around, giving the aquarium a natural, secure look.

Due to its size, many consider it good for tanks of many sizes.

4.4/5 STARS

Benefits

  • 6″ tall
  • Soft
  • Vibrant color

Cons

  • None that we could see

8. biOrb Easy Plant Sets

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The biOrb Easy Plant Set is a 12 piece of aquarium set decoration. It is enough to decorate the entire aquarium and make it look great. This model also contains sculptures to give the aquarium a unique look.

This model is full of vivid colors, great for eye-catching and aesthetic purposes.

Because the decoration is made of high-quality materials, durability is always guaranteed. The materials are still safe for the fish to play with.

This model is safe for saltwater, freshwater or tropical aquariums.

4.4/5 STARS

Benefits

  • 12 piece set
  • Sculptures included
  • High grade material
  • Decorate an entire aquarium

Cons

  • Not suitable for long finned betta fish
  • Not as soft as advertized
  • Some reviews say green dye leaches

9. Ecoscaper Lobelia Silk Plant

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

This Ecoscaper Lobelia Silk Plant is relatively inexpensive, has a good foundation and we find has a touch more color compared to other realistic fakes.

In aquatic landscapes it can be used as an alternative to plants such as Cryptocroyne sp. to create relatively dense foliage. The stems tend to be a bit drooping, but the use of hot water seems to reset the thermoplastic material used in their construction to counteract this. Just heat, dip and straighten.

There are some complaints about quality control on all Marina artificial plants. However, the vast majority of the plants seem to look great in the tank.

This Lobelia art is an excellent example of a realistic silk plant.

4.2/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Silk
  • Undulates with current
  • Translucent color
  • Won’t fade
  • 8″ tall

Cons

  • Not best quality
  • Some reviews say not realistic

10. MyLifeUNIT Artificial Seaweed Water Plants

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

Realistic plants are not limited to silk versions. The MyLifeUNIT Artificial Seaweed Water Plants soft PVC material are a great addition to most tanks. You can use the entire set to dense part of your tank, with the same uses as plants of the genus Vallisneria.

The most popular color to get is green for its bright, cheerful look, but there are a few other color variations too if you want to get psychedelic. The fish can move between the leaves, so it does not deny them the use of any part of the tank.

As with all plastic plants, the shipping climate is important. A quick dip in hot water will help resolve any warping that occurs during hot weather shipping.

Other than that, these are a great way to get a tall, grassy look in the tank.

4.5/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Sways in water
  • Soft leaves
  • Grassy effect
  • 10 piece set

Cons

  • Color washes out over time

11. MyLifeUNIT Artificial Aquariums Plants Plastic Fish Tank Plants

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The MyLifeUNIT Artificial Aquariums Plants are made of cheap plastic, but are relatively soft. We would recommend skipping them for a Betta tank, but they are an excellent candidate for a peaceful community tank.

This is a cheaper option for tank decorations and you receive a lot of plants for the price. Considering, they are worth the price for creating an attractive busy water landscape with a variety of colors.

Unfortunately, they don’t look realistic. I would also take a look at the edges where they broke from the mold.

But they are the cheapest way to populate the water landscape from a large tank, and some of the “ground covers” are elegant.

4.5/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Set of 7
  • Multicolored
  • Ceramic bases
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Not best quality
  • Unrealistic look

12. Fluval Anubias Plant

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

The Fluval Anubias Plant comes from a brand that create some of the most realistic artificial plants we can find.

The Anubias variation is a great one, closely resembling an undefined Anubias species. Which is a smart move as even a real Anubias plant can look like plastic when it’s completely clean.

This plant is a longer lasting option with colors that won’t fade, and soft leaves for your fish to play in.

4.4/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Won’t fade
  • Long lasting
  • 12″ tall
  • Soft
  • Realistic

Cons

  • Tends to pull out of substrate
  • Quality issues

13. SunGrow Plastic Leaf Plant for Freshwater

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants

This SunGrow Plastic Leaf Plant for Freshwater is over 10″ tall, making it too big for small aquariums, but perfect for those with a larger tank.

It doesn’t look much like a plant. Instead, it looks more like a composite of many of the plants available for use in aquariums. It also stands out on its own, making it a good choice for nurseries.

So whilst it’s big and doesn’t resemble specific individual plants, it can be a great centrepiece in your aquarium.

4.4/5 STARS

Benefits

  • Silk leaves
  • Fin safe
  • Showpiece
  • Heavy ceramic base (holds down)

Cons

  • Leaves are darker than advertized

Aquarium Plants Artificial vs. Real: Which Is Better?

It is common to find aquarium owners who have some difficulty in choosing between artificial and real plants.

Many people who have real plants tend to be proud of how they took care of them. Real plants can grow easily, filling up aquarium space with ease, and creating that natural tank look.

Real plants can also function by absorbing CO2 and greatly helping to purify the water. They have a symbiotic relationship with the fish by releasing oxygen, and some can reduce algae growth, providing services artificial plants can’t.

However, artificial plants might be beneficial due to the fact that they need next to no maintenance, apart from a bit of cleaning. You don’t need to worry about keeping a balanced nutrient environment for the plants, and you can always switch out plants for ones that suit your desired aesthetic more.

So which one is the best? It all comes down to personal preference. For those people who may not have enough time to care for the tank, it is better to use artificial plants. Make sure to get one that is made of safe materials to keep your fish safe.

 

How Do You Decorate the Aquarium with Artificial Plants?

Best artificial aquarium plants

First, you need to get the best artificial plants for your specific aquarium. This means that you choose the right plant shape, size, color and type. You can get several if you want to give your aquarium a dynamic look.

Once you have the plants, you have the creative control over where and how you want to decorate your tank.

Now is the time to place the plant in the bottom of the aquarium. Most would come on a weighted base. Check if they need to be buried or are able to just sit on top of your tank substrate.

Some add pebbles around the plants as a way to keep it low. Now let your fish enjoy the new environment.

 

How Do You Clean Artificial Aquarium Plants?

It is common for algae to accumulate around artificial plants, but the process of cleaning is simple.

First, you should rinse the artificial plant under running hot water. The hot water quickly removes algae and other dirt.

Next, you can whiten the plant to further remove any debris from the plants. Don’t worry about bleach as the plants should have a protective coating to prevent discoloration.

Always wear gloves and eye protection when using bleach. Rinse the plants in hot water again before placing them back in the aquarium.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Artificial and Silk Aquarium Plants

Are silk plants different from artificial plants?
  • Silk plants are considered a type of artificial plant. Silk plants move with the flow of a tank, unlike standard artificial plants that tend to get stuck in water. They are usually made of plastic or silicone cloth.
Are silk aquarium plants made from silk?
  • In most cases no. Artificial plants of all kinds were originally made from silk. In the modern world it is much cheaper and easier to use plastic. As long as the plastic is correctly woven, there is no difference in the properties of the plant.
Can I combine artificial and real plants?
  • Absolutely. It is usually done by those who want an aquarium to look “finished” when they first put their flora in the aquarium. Combining them can also be done long term, allowing the hobbyist to focus on easy plants such as Echinodorous sp. while still creating a lush water landscape.
Can I place silk plants with aggressive fish?
  • This is one of the most common uses for them. Cichlids, for example, are smart, get bored quickly and powerfully, making them plant killers. Well-made plants can withstand punishment, giving you the illusion of an aquarium planted with very aggressive fish.
What can I do with the spikes on an artificial aquarium plant?
  • I don’t recommend buying hard plastic plants, especially for fish that like to rub. If you do and you can’t get rid of it, you can often file the problem area with a steel needle file.
What if my fish keep moving my artificial plants?
  • It happens from time to time. You may want to stick with tough landscaping items for these fish. Those like African cichlids don’t really need plants. On the other hand, you can use solid wood elements to secure the base. Make sure to use stone instead of driftwood, most fish are surprisingly strong.

What is the best material for artificial aquarium plants?

  • Silicone is the high-quality material used today. It creates a safe and rubbery texture on plants and lasts a long time, although more difficult to clean if algae gets into pores. Plastic “cloth” is also a good idea because it flows naturally in water and looks great.

 

Best Artificial Aquarium Plants- Final Comments

The Best Artificial Aquarium Plants are often preferred over real plants for the many low-maintenance benefits they offer. It is easy for you to transform your aquarium with good quality aquarium plants in an instant without having to wait for them to grow. There is no limit to the vibrant colors, shapes and sizes when choosing artificial plants from our list above.

You may be interested in reading our reviews and guide on Best Live and Artificial Plants for Betta Fish HERE.

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