Diatom blooms in new tanks: normal cycle or problem?

Diatoms—brown, dusty, or “varnish-like” algae—are among the most frequent surprises in new aquariums. They often show up after the first water changes and as the tank’s biological filtration begins to mature, leading many aquarists to ask whether the bloom is part of the normal cycle or a sign something is off.

In most cases, a diatom bloom is not a disease. It’s typically the result of “fresh tank” conditions: surfaces are new, microbes ... Read more »

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Me & Velvet Sickness on the Reef: Safe Treatments

Me & Velvet Sickness on the Reef: Safe Treatments White spots, mucus coating, rapid weight loss: When Ich or Velvet disease (velvet disease) appear in a reef aquarium, every hour counts. Both diseases are caused by parasites that infest fish – while corals and invertebrates can be affected to varying degrees depending on the treatment. Therefore, it's crucial not only to know "what helps," but also "what is demonstrably safest for the reef." The following overview categorizes the typical symptoms, explai ... Read more »

Frag Tank Setup Guide for Coral Propagation

Frag Tank Setup Guide for Coral Propagation Frag tank setups are designed to stabilize conditions for small coral colonies (frags) while keeping growth predictable. Whether you’re growing SPS, LPS, or soft corals, the goal is the same: consistent water quality, low stress handling, and the right light and flow from day one. Start with the right tank and stability Choose a tank size you can maintain easily—many successful frag systems start modestly and scale up. Focus on stable salinity and temperature mor ... Read more »

Coral Bleaching: Early Warning Signs and What to Do

Coral Bleaching: Early Warning Signs and What to Do Coral bleaching—when corals lose their colorful symbiotic algae—often reflects heat stress and other environmental pressures. While some reefs can recover, repeated or severe bleaching events can cause long-term damage, including slower growth, disease vulnerability, and declines in fish and tourism. With ocean temperatures rising and marine heatwaves becoming more frequent, early recognition and rapid response are increasingly important for reef resilience. Early ... Read more »

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