by AquaNerd | Mar 20, 2018 | Equipment
Some of the most fascinating aspects of owning and maintaining an aquarium involve the vivid colors and intriguing shapes of the coral, fish and other living organisms that you select. Whether filled with Boseman’s Rainbowfish, German Blue Rams or Flowerhorn Cichlids, you’re going to want to protect the inhabitants of the indoor fish tank that decorates your living space or entertains guests at the restaurant, bar or hotel that you own. You may already know that there are several factors that come into play when sustaining a healthy environment for aquatic plants and other marine life. However, when dealing with your viewing experience and the efficiency of an aquarium system, there is no denying the significant role that water quality plays in the scheme of things. And by ReefBum | Feb 10, 2018 | Fish
Some reef keepers out there are considered wrasse guys or gals and feature as many of these beautiful creatures as they can in their reef tanks. I don’t consider myself to be a wrasse guy or wrasse head (excuse the pun, but I like the Grateful Dead) but I do come close. The different species of Leopard Wrasse have always fascinated me with their striking colors and detailed patterns and, as a result, have always roamed my reefs. Generally, Leopard Wrasses can be tricky and difficult to keep but there are a few things one can do to optimize the chance for success. One key is having an established sand bed with a healthy pod population that will help keep these fish fat and happy. Leopard Wrasses by AquaNerd | Jan 2, 2018 | Science
In 1799, the Italian scientist Alessandro Volta fashioned an arm-long stack of zinc and copper discs, separated by salt-soaked cardboard. This “voltaic pile” was the world’s first synthetic battery, but Volta based its design on something far older—the body of the electric eel. This infamous fish makes its own electricity using an electric organ that makes up 80 percent of its two-meter length. The organ contains thousands of specialized muscle cells called electrocytes. Each only produces a small voltage, but together, they can generate up to 600 volts—enough to stun a human, or even a horse. They also provided Volta with ideas for his battery, turning him into a 19th-century celebrity. Two centuries on, and batteries are everyday objects. But even now, the electric eel isn’t by ReefBum | Oct 25, 2017 | Reef, Tanks
During my recent trip to New York I stopped in to visit another long-time reef keeping buddy, Mike Shur, to check out his amazing 280 gallon reef tank. I believe the last time I saw Mike’s tank was nearly three years ago and boy has it grown into a spectacular reef tank! It is just loaded with beautiful corals and some fantastic looking fish that are fat and healthy. Video Tour of Mike Shur’s 280 Gallon Reef [embedded content] As for his setup, the total system is 400 gallons, with water from the display upstairs traveling downstairs to an Elite Aquatics sump, which is home to a Bubble King Delux 300 skimmer. A separate sump filled with live rock and teaming with pods and sponges is also plumbed into the by danireef | Oct 18, 2017 | Fish
The color of the fish has a lot of useful functions, it’s one of the most interesting systems we have. For us reef enthusiasts, it’s a peculiar point of interest and wonder. The color is used to mimic, scare, and...