The Aquarist’s Edge [Weekly Aquarium Podcast]

The Secret Language of Fish (Part 1) - How Your Fish Recognise and Communicate With You

In this first part of The Secret Language of Fish series, Art explores one of the most fascinating mysteries for home aquarium keepers: how fish recognise and communicate with their keepers.
Discover the science behind memory and perception in aquarium fish, learn to decode subtle body language, and understand how your daily rhythm shapes the way your fish respond to you.

Whether you keep angelfish, bettas, or goldfish, this episode will help you see your aquarium in a whole new light; as a world of quiet signals and intelligent responses.

⭐ Topics include:
• The myth of the “three-second goldfish”
• How fish use sight, vibration, and chemical cues to recognise you
• Reading fin posture and swimming patterns as communication
• The beginnings of trust and fish-human interaction

💬 If you enjoy the show, please leave a review and help other aquarists find The Aquarist’s Edge.

Keywords: fish recognition, freshwater aquarium behaviour, fish communication, aquarium tips, aquarist education, Art’s Fish Room

Music: "Hold You Heart" - Epsilon Wave (Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/a0a53696-a0ec-4a55-959a-e899edcd9b3a/)

The Healing Power of Aquariums: How Fishkeeping Improves Your Body, Mind, and Spirit

From lowering blood pressure and improving sleep to easing anxiety and nurturing emotional balance, this episode investigates the research and shared experiences that show how aquariums affect the body, mind, and spirit. Drawing on studies from the University of Plymouth, Purdue University, and experts like Diana Walstad and Takashi Amano, Art reveals why the simple act of keeping fish can bring profound peace and wellness to your life.

Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or just starting your first tank, this episode offers practical insight, reflective storytelling, and real scientific evidence that will deepen your appreciation of the hobby and yourself.

🌿 Listen and learn how:

• Watching fish reduces stress and blood pressure

• Tank maintenance doubles as gentle, mindful exercise

• Aquariums provide emotional grounding and structure

• Fishkeeping fosters patience, empathy, and perspective

• Your aquarium can become a personal sanctuary for stillness

💬 Join the conversation:
Has your aquarium helped your health or mental wellbeing? Share your story in the comments for this episode. 

Referenced Studies & Sources

• Cracknell D. et al., “Viewing aquarium displays elicits a physiological and behavioural response.” Environment & Behavior (2015). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5081108/

• Edwards N.E. & Beck A.M. “Animal-assisted therapy and nutrition in Alzheimer’s disease.” American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (2002). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12365769/

• Edwards N.E. et al., “The influence of aquariums on weight in individuals with dementia.” Journal of Nutrition Health & Aging (2013). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23138175/

• University of Plymouth, “Aquariums deliver health and wellbeing benefits.” (2015). https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/news/aquariums-deliver-health-and-wellbeing-benefits

• European Centre for Environment & Human Health, “Attention Restoration Theory – A Systematic Review.” (2017). https://www.ecehh.org/research/attention-restoration-theory-a-systematic-review/

 

⭐ Call to Action:
If this episode brings value to your day, please leave a rating or review. This helps The Aquarist’s Edge reach more fishkeepers around the world!

 

🎵 Music Credit: “Hearts” – Erik Fernholm (Epidemic Sound)
https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/f073c9bd-8d62-4831-a631-bf7af7c3dcfd/

 

 

Snails In Freshwater Aquariums - Friends or Foes?

Art explores the fascinating world of freshwater aquarium snails. Are they helpful allies or invasive pests? The truth lies somewhere in between.

From Malaysian trumpet snails and ramshorns to nerites and mystery snails, this episode explores the most common species aquarists encounter, their benefits to aquarium ecosystems, and the potential problems they can cause. You’ll learn practical snail control methods, prevention strategies, and even how to care for snails as intentional pets.

Whether you’re battling an unexpected snail invasion or considering nerite snails for algae control, this episode provides practical, science-backed advice to help you manage your freshwater tanks with confidence.

📌 Key Topics Covered:

• Types of freshwater snails in aquariums

• Benefits of snails: algae control, detritus removal, substrate aeration

• Problems with overpopulation and plant damage

• Snail invasion troubleshooting and population control methods

• Caring for mystery and nerite snails as pets

• Prevention: quarantine, plant dips, and smart feeding

• Snails as ecosystem indicators and their role in nature

💬 Enjoyed this episode? Please leave us a review and share your snail experiences with the community!

Music: "Coffee Shop Date (Instrumental)" - Jaydan Talley (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/a856a9ec-35d6-313e-9178-c25534c8a33a/)

 

Planaria in Shrimp Tanks: Causes, Identification, Safe Removal & Long-Term Prevention

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we examine the world of planaria in shrimp tanks - what they are, why they appear, and how to keep them under control. If you’ve ever spotted these flatworms gliding across your aquarium glass and worried about the safety of your shrimp colony, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need.

From identifying planaria versus harmless detritus worms, to understanding how they impact baby shrimp, to proven natural and chemical control methods, this episode is packed with expert guidance and practical tips. You’ll also learn long-term prevention strategies to keep your shrimp tanks balanced and thriving.

Whether you’re struggling with a current infestation or simply want to be prepared, this is a helpful guide for every shrimp keeper.

Music: "Swaying" - Candelion (Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/b99559b7-b6ca-4bd8-b1d0-682f3c9411bf/)

 

How to Set Up the Perfect Guppy Tank - Temperature, pH, Hardness & Tank Size Guide

We take a look at how to set up the perfect guppy tank. From the ideal tank size to the right temperature, pH, and water hardness, you’ll learn everything you need to create a stable environment where guppies thrive.

Whether you’re a beginner struggling with constant guppy losses or an experienced aquarist looking to refine your setup, this episode is packed with scientific explanations, practical home aquarist tips and advice to help you succeed.

Click here for more guppy care episode: Guppy Care Playlist on YouTube (Aquarist's Edge episodes)

Music: "Just One More Day" - Kikoru (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/b59a9f47-4f3f-3dd2-85be-c8d1fab2f725/)

Tannins Explained: Blackwater Aquariums, Fish Health, and the Science of Tea-Stained Water

“Tannins Explained” takes you into the science and beauty of blackwater aquariums. In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, Art explores what tannins are, where they come from, how they influence water chemistry, and why so many softwater fish thrive in tannin-rich environments. From driftwood and Indian almond leaves to peat and alder cones, learn exactly how tannins transform your tank and how to use them safely.

Whether you’re curious about why your driftwood stained your tank, how tannins lower pH, or which fish species benefit most from blackwater setups, this episode is packed with clear explanations, troubleshooting advice, and practical aquascaping tips.

Mentioned in this episode: The Tint podcast: https://tanninaquatics.com/pages/inspiration

Music: "West Coast Dreams" - Ben Curtis (Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/07feeb8f-922a-4e5c-9a99-6737dba094f1/)

Betta Sorority Tank Guide: Proven Do’s, Dangerous Don’ts & Science-Backed Success

Art breaks down everything you need to know about setting up and maintaining a Betta sorority tank; with a focus on real-world success and scientific accuracy. Whether you're planning your first Betta community or you've tried before and struggled, this episode provides a guide into female Betta behavior, tank setup requirements, and the critical do’s and don’ts that make or break a sorority.

From territorial psychology to line-of-sight aquascaping, we explain why most Betta sororities fail and how yours can succeed. You’ll also learn how to troubleshoot aggression, interpret tank dynamics, and know when to pull the plug on a failing group.

🎧 Perfect for beginner and intermediate freshwater hobbyists looking to keep multiple female Bettas in one tank, the right way.

 

Music: "Evergreen Fields" - Tape Machines (Epidemic Sound -https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/dbb5e762-9514-4f84-a6c1-1ba9f274ec2b/)

Live vs. Fake Aquarium Plants: Pros, Cons, and Care Tips for Every Aquarist

In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, Art explores one of the most debated questions in freshwater fishkeeping: live plants vs. fake plants. Should you choose natural greenery that supports your aquarium’s ecosystem, or go with artificial plants for convenience and simplicity?

We break down the pros and cons of each option, from aesthetics and maintenance to water chemistry and fish health. Learn why live plants help reduce nitrates, improve oxygen levels, and control algae. Discover when fake plants might actually be the better choice. Plus, we troubleshoot common problems like plant melt, algae overgrowth, and cleaning artificial plants so you can avoid the most frustrating pitfalls.

Whether you’re setting up your first aquarium or upgrading to a lush aquascape, this episode is packed with practical tips, scientific insights, and aquascaping strategies to help you succeed.

Music: "We Were Dancing In The Dark" - Loving Caliber (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/swLZ5f3Aa5/)