Keeping guppies with shrimp sounds simple. Both are small, colorful, and common in beginner aquariums. Many stores even suggest them together. In reality, this mix can succeed or fail depending on how the tank is set up, what shrimp species you choose, and what expectations you have. This guide explains what actually works and what […]
Keeping shrimp is one of the most rewarding parts of the freshwater aquarium hobby, especially for beginners. Shrimp are small, active, and fascinating to watch, but they are also more sensitive than fish. One of the best ways to keep shrimp healthy is by choosing the right live plants. This guide covers the best beginner-safe
Water Sprite is one of the most forgiving freshwater plants available. It grows fast, adapts to different setups, and works equally well rooted in the substrate or floating at the surface. Because of this, it’s widely used in beginner tanks, low-tech aquascaping, and breeding setups. This guide covers how to grow Water Sprite properly, how
A low-tech planted shrimp tank is one of the easiest and most stable aquarium setups you can build. It does not require CO₂ injection, advanced equipment, or constant adjustments. For beginners and long-term shrimp keepers, this type of tank offers stable water conditions, natural food sources, and far fewer problems compared to high-tech planted tanks.
Aponogeton crispus is a graceful freshwater plant known for its long, wavy leaves and steady growth. Unlike fast stem plants, it grows from a bulb and follows a natural cycle of growth and rest. When cared for properly, it becomes a strong focal plant that adds movement and height to planted aquariums. This guide explains
Anacharis is one of the most forgiving aquarium plants you can keep. It grows fast, tolerates mistakes, and survives in conditions that kill more delicate plants. Because of this, it’s often recommended for beginners, goldfish tanks, and low-tech setups. You won’t grow Anacharis for looks alone. You grow it because it works. This guide explains
Duckweed is one of the most controversial aquarium plants. Some hobbyists love it for fast nutrient removal and fry cover. Others hate it because once it’s in the tank, it feels impossible to remove. The truth is simple: Duckweed is easy to grow, but hard to control. If you understand how it behaves, it can
Giant Hygro is one of the most reliable background plants you can add to a freshwater aquarium. It grows fast, tolerates beginner mistakes, and fills empty space quickly with large, healthy leaves. While it doesn’t have the delicate look of fine-leaf plants, it brings balance, structure, and stability to planted tanks. If you want a
Dwarf Ambulia is one of those aquarium plants that looks delicate and high-end but behaves like a tough survivor. Its soft, feathery leaves and bright green color can turn a plain tank into a lush jungle in just a few weeks even without CO₂ or fancy gear. Because of this balance between beauty and toughness,
Many fish sold in pet stores are labeled as “easy” or “beginner-friendly,” but that label is often misleading. Some fish grow too large, produce excessive waste, become aggressive, or require stable conditions that beginners struggle to maintain. This guide explains which fish beginners should avoid, not because they’re bad fish, but because they’re poor matches
