- Air Breathing FishAnatomy
- Air breathing fish are species capable of absorbing oxygen directly from the air in addition to using gills. Learn more
- Air PumpEquipment & Hardware
- An air pump supplies air to the aquarium, increasing oxygen exchange and powering devices like sponge filters and air stones. Learn more
- AmmoniaWater Parameters
- Ammonia is a toxic waste compound produced by fish and decomposing matter, and even small amounts can be lethal. Learn more
- Ammonia SpikeAquarium Problems
- An ammonia spike is a sudden rise in toxic ammonia levels in an aquarium, often caused by biological imbalance or excess organic waste. Learn more
- Bacterial BloomAquarium Problems
- A bacterial bloom is a rapid growth of free-floating bacteria that causes cloudy water, usually triggered by excess nutrients or a new aquarium setup. Learn more
- Biological FiltrationFiltration & Water Flow
- Biological filtration uses beneficial bacteria to convert toxic ammonia and nitrite into safer nitrate, maintaining a healthy aquarium environment. Learn more
- Canister FilterFiltration & Water Flow
- A canister filter is an external aquarium filter that provides powerful mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration for medium to large tanks. Learn more
- Chemical FiltrationFiltration & Water Flow
- Chemical filtration removes dissolved impurities, odors, and toxins from aquarium water using media such as activated carbon or resins. Learn more
- Fish GillsAnatomy
- Fish gills are respiratory organs that extract oxygen from water and remove carbon dioxide from the bloodstream. Learn more
- Flow RateFiltration & Water Flow
- Flow rate is the amount of water a filter or pump moves per hour and determines circulation, oxygenation, and waste removal. Learn more
- Freshwater vs SaltwaterTank Setup
- Freshwater and saltwater aquariums differ in salinity, fish species, plants, and maintenance requirements, affecting tank setup and care. Learn more
- Gasping at SurfacePhysiology
- Fish gasping at the surface is a distress sign where they breathe at the water’s surface, usually caused by low oxygen, poor water quality, or toxins. Learn more
- GH (General Hardness)Water Parameters
- GH measures the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in aquarium water, influencing fish health, osmoregulation, and plant growth. Learn more
- Gill FilamentsAnatomy
- Gill filaments are thin, feathery structures within the gills that allow oxygen exchange between water and blood. Learn more
- HeaterEquipment & Hardware
- An aquarium heater maintains stable water temperature, ensuring tropical fish remain within their safe and healthy thermal range. Learn more
- KH (Carbonate Hardness)Water Parameters
- KH measures carbonate and bicarbonate levels in water and determines how stable pH remains in an aquarium. Learn more
- Labyrinth OrganAnatomy
- The labyrinth organ is a specialized respiratory organ that allows certain fish to breathe atmospheric oxygen directly from the air. Learn more
- Lateral LineAnatomy
- The lateral line is a sensory system that allows fish to detect vibrations, water movement, and pressure changes around them. Learn more
- LED LightingEquipment & Hardware
- LED lighting provides efficient, adjustable illumination for aquariums, supporting fish visibility, plant growth, and natural day–night cycles. Learn more
- Mechanical FiltrationFiltration & Water Flow
- Mechanical filtration physically removes debris, uneaten food, and waste particles from aquarium water, improving clarity and reducing pollution. Learn more
- NitrateWater Parameters
- Nitrate (NO₃⁻) is the final product of the nitrogen cycle; moderate levels are safe, but excessive amounts harm fish and plants. Learn more
- NitriteWater Parameters
- Nitrite (NO₂⁻) is a toxic compound formed from ammonia by bacteria and must be converted to nitrate for a safe aquarium. Learn more
- OperculumAnatomy
- The operculum is a bony flap that covers and protects a fish’s gills while helping regulate water flow for breathing. Learn more
- OsmoregulationPhysiology
- Osmoregulation is the process by which fish regulate water and salt balance in their bodies to maintain stable internal conditions. Learn more
- Partial Water Change (PWC)Tank Setup
- A Partial Water Change (PWC) is the routine removal and replacement of a portion of aquarium water to dilute toxins, stabilize parameters, and maintain fish hea Learn more