The Aquarist’s Edge [Weekly Aquarium Podcast]

GloFish Explained - Genetics, Care, Ethics - All You Need To Know

In this in-depth episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we uncover everything you need to know about GloFish – the genetically fluorescent fish that have captured both curiosity and controversy in the aquarium hobby. Whether you’re wondering how GloFish glow, whether they’re ethical, or how to care for them properly, this episode has the science, facts, and expert guidance you’ve been looking for.

We’ll walk you through the history of GloFish, how they differ from dyed or painted fish, what their genetic modification really means, and how to set up a thriving tank. We also tackle common problems, legal breeding limitations, and what responsible fishkeeping looks like in the age of glowing pets.

Whether you're a beginner aquarist or a long-time hobbyist, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the glowing truth behind GloFish.

The Clean-up Crew Myth

Are snails, shrimp, and algae-eating fish really the ultimate aquarium janitors, or have they been given an unrealistic job description? We uncover the truth behind the clean-up crew myth. 

We explore what clean-up crews actually do, why they can’t replace maintenance, and how to use them effectively in your tank. Learn about common myths, troubleshooting exploding snail populations, preventing shrimp die-offs, and practical steps to balance your aquarium ecosystem without relying on mythical solutions.

Are You Wasting Money on Gimmicks?

Are you spending hundreds on bottled bacteria, clarifiers, or pH adjusters without real results? In today’s episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we unpack the science behind these products, explore why biology, consistency, and husbandry matter more than marketing promises, and learn practical ways to keep your aquarium thriving. With insightful quotes from renowned aquarists like Diana Walstad, George Farmer, Rachel O’Leary, and Takashi Amano, this episode will make you think twice before buying another product to add to your aquarium. 

Goldfish Care Masterclass: Varieties, Tank Setup, Filtration, Plants, and Enrichment

Goldfish are often seen as simple starter pets, but they’re so much more. In today’s masterclass episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, discover the true world of goldfish care. Learn their thousand-year history, the biology behind their unique needs, and detailed insights into goldfish varieties – from Commons to delicate Ranchus. Explore practical tank setups, powerful filtration strategies, goldfish-safe plants, feeding science, enrichment ideas, and solutions to common health problems to keep your goldfish thriving for decades.

 

Solving 10 Mysteries That Baffle Fishkeepers

Ever feel like your aquarium has a mind of its own? In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we dive into the strange and puzzling phenomena that leave even seasoned aquarists scratching their heads. From vanishing fish to ghost algae that appear and disappear mysteriously, we're uncovering the science and offering real solutions to ten of the most bizarre aquarium mysteries.

Whether you’re haunted by cloudy water, dealing with plant meltdowns, or wondering how snails invaded your tank overnight, this episode delivers deep insights with practical advice.

* Mentioned in this episode: What Is Biofilm?

Vanishing Guppy Fry

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we unravel the mystery of disappearing guppy fry - why it happens, what you can do about it, and how to raise healthy, thriving generations of guppies. From the evolutionary biology behind fry cannibalism to practical, science-backed strategies that home aquarists can implement right away.

Whether you’re dealing with an unexpected population boom or trying to save every last fry, this episode is packed with advice that will take your breeding skills to the next level.

💬 Have you faced fry disappearances? Share your story in the comments or leave a review—we’d love to feature your tip in a future episode!

* Mentioned in this episode: Guppy Genetics Made Simple - Guppy Genetics Made Simple

Caridina vs. Neocaridina: Cracking the Code on Shrimpkeeping Success

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the key differences between Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp - two stunning genera that dominate the freshwater shrimp hobby. From water chemistry and care needs to breeding difficulty, compatibility, and strain variety, this guide is all about helping you figure out which shrimp are right for YOU. Whether you're a beginner setting up your first tank or an advanced hobbyist chasing high-grade Caridina, this episode will give you the clarity you need.

🎙️ Which type of shrimp fits your aquarium goals and skill level? Let’s find out.

Referenced in this episode: What is biofilm?

Inside The Fish Mind - Understanding Fish Behaviour

What if your fish could tell you how they feel?

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the fascinating world of fish behaviour; from ancient instincts to modern cognitive science. Discover what drives your fish’s actions, how to decode their body language, and what research (including the famous goldfish-driving-a-tank experiment) tells us about how intelligent and emotional these animals really are.

Whether you’re keeping bettas, cichlids, tetras, puffers, or clownfish, this episode is packed with expert tips to help you observe, understand, and enrich your fish’s world.

🔬 Learn how fish think, feel, learn, play, and communicate like never before.