If you’re considering GloFish gravel for your next aquascape, read on to learn the pros, cons, costs, and what actual users have to say about it.

What is GloFish Gravel?

GloFish gravel contains special luminescent pigments that absorb and reflect blue light, causing the pieces to glow in a range of bright colors. It comes in three varieties:

– Fluorescent Multi-Color: Mix of green, blue, purple/pink pieces
– Fluorescent Blue: All blue pieces
– Fluorescent Pink: All pink pieces

The gravel was co-developed by Spectrum Brands (who owns GloFish) and EcoTech Marine. It’s designed to complement and enhance the glow of fluorescent GloFish while providing a safe, non-toxic substrate bed.

Each piece is roughly pebble-sized and smooth-edged for comfort and the health of bottom dwellers like catfish and loaches. The included conditioner helps remove harmful metals and chemicals from tap water during initial rinses.

Pros of GloFish Aquarium Gravel

Vibrant Colors
The most obvious benefit is the sheer vibrancy provided by the glowing substrate. The pops of fluorescent color make ordinary tanks extraordinary and provide the ideal landscape for GloFish to shine.

Whether you prefer the mixture of the multi-color, all-blue, or all-pink gravel, each creates a beautiful shimmering riverbed under blue light. The color reflections even make the tank water itself glow.

Non-Toxic & Safe
GloFish gravel contains no harmful paints, dyes, or chemicals. The luminous pigments are embedded directly into the glass/ceramic pieces during manufacturing using a patented process. This ensures both long-lasting color and completely inert materials that won’t affect water quality or fish health.

The included water conditioner removes heavy metals, chlorine, and chloramines during the wash process as an extra safety measure before adding the gravel to your tank.

Good for Plants
The smooth, rounded gravel pieces provide plenty of crevices for healthy root development while still allowing water to easily flow through the substrate bed. This makes it a good option for planted aquariums.

The glass-based gravel is also heavier than some substrates, so it tends to stay put rather than getting uprooted by digging fish. Just be sure to use plant-specific fertilizers since the gravel itself provides no nutrients.

Easy to Clean
Clean-up is straightforward thanks to the 1/8″-1/4″ gravel pieces which don’t compact and trap large amounts of debris or mulm. Just hover a gravel vacuum over the bed monthly during water changes to remove any buildup.

For a deeper clean, you can stir up and swish the gravel around to dislodge gunk then siphon it out. The durable glass won’t fracture or degrade over time like some coated gravels can.

Cons of GloFish Aquarium Gravel

On the Downside…

No Nutrient Value
While the smooth texture encourages healthy root growth, the gravel itself provides no nutritional value for plants. You’ll need to regularly dose the water column with liquid fertilizers. Root tabs can also be added near especially hungry species.

Some users also note that while aesthetically pleasing, the uniform small size and rounded shape of the pieces don’t perfectly mimic a natural environment. This may matter more to some aquarists than others.

Blue Light Required
To unleash the full glowing effects, you MUST use a blue LED aquarium light. While the gravel appears colorful in ordinary white light, it won’t truly fluoresce without a blue spectral range to activate the pigments.

So you’ll need a suitable lighting system if you want the maximum scintillating appearance. This adds both expense and a slight limitation on lighting options.

Higher Cost
GloFish gravel runs $1 or more per pound, making it one of the more costly substrate options out there. You may pay upwards of $30-40 for enough to bed a 10-20 gallon tank. For larger tanks, expenses add up further.

While vibrant and unique, it does come at a premium price point. However, many users report that the visual impact is well worth the higher upfront investment to them.

What Real Users Are Saying

Most aquarists who take the plunge are delighted by the luminous results of GloFish gravel. Here are some actual verified purchaser reviews:

“This stuff is no joke…it GLOWS! I got the multicolor for my 20 gal GloFish tank. It looks so awesome under the blue light I can’t stop looking at it! Definitely took the tank to a whole new level.”

“Bought the pink gravel for my daughter’s 10 gallon GloFish tank. She is thrilled by how pink it is! We expected it to be bright but it is practically neon. Her 3 black skirt tetras and 2 danios really pop against it now. Great buy!”

“I’ve had this blue gravel for about 9 months now. Color has stayed very vibrant. No issues with quality or effects on parameters/fish. It does scratch kind of easily if you move stuff around in the tank a lot but doesn’t affect appearance. Overall still looks great and glow is still going strong.”

Where to Buy GloFish Gravel

You can find GloFish aquarium gravel at most major online retailers like Amazon and Petco. It’s also stocked at some pet stores and local fish shops.

On Amazon, prices break down as:

– Multi-Color: $28 for 5 lbs
– Blue: $30 for 5 lbs
– Pink: $33 for 5 lbs

For the best deals, check listing prices across multiple sites and take advantage of any sales or promotions you can find. With its uniqueness, GloFish gravel isn’t typically eligible for coupon codes or discounts.

The Verdict: Worth the Splurge for Most

At the end of the day, most GloFish keepers feel the higher cost is fully justified by the extreme glow and visual uniqueness offered by this fluorescent gravel. It’s an easy way to take your tank to the next level.

Just be prepared to run blue lighting and dose fertilizers for optimal plant growth and health. As long as those needs are met, the pros seem to far outweigh any downsides for the majority of aquarists.

Your GloFish will shine brighter than ever over a dazzling bed of fluorescent gravel. It’s a simple step that makes tanks pop and creates a beautiful underwater vista to enjoy for years to come. I sincerely hope you find this “GloFish Aquarium Gravel Pros, Cons & reviews” article helpful.

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What is the WishLotus Fish Tank Air Valve?

The WishLotus fish tank air valve is a small plastic device that regulates and improves air flow in your aquarium. It attaches to the airline tubing from your air pump and helps provide steadier, more consistent aeration without requiring adjustment.

The valve utilizes an innovative, patented design that self-regulates air flow. As pressure builds, the valve automatically releases excess air to prevent too much from entering the tank. When pressure drops, it allows more air intake as needed. This keeps oxygen levels and water movement smooth and steady.

How Does the WishLotus Air Valve Work?

The WishLotus air valve utilizes a floating disc mechanism within its cylindrical body. The floating disc rises and falls with changing air pressure levels.

When pressure increases, the floating disc gets pushed up which closes off the air outlet hole inside the valve. This restricts air flow to prevent too many bubbles being released into the tank.

As pressure decreases again, the disc drops down to reopen the air outlet hole and allow more air intake. This compensates to maintain steady oxygenation.

The self-regulating action requires no setting, tuning, or ongoing adjustment on your part. The valve operates automatically as pressure changes occur. This provides seamless, optimized air flow control.

Installation is also quick and easy with universal airline tubing fittings. Simply attach it inline anywhere along your existing pump airline tubing route. No complicated set up needed.

Benefits and Advantages of the WishLotus Air Valve

Self-Regulating Operation: No adjustment needed, provides steady, consistent air flow automatically

Prevents Over-Oxygenation: Restricts air flow when pressure gets too high to avoid stressing fish

Compensates for Pressure Drops: Allows more air intake if pressure decreases to maintain oxygen levels

Durable & Long Lasting: Made from durable ABS plastic to prevent cracking and deforming over time

Universal Fit: Designed to fit all standard airline tubing (1/8” I.D. & 5/32” O.D.)

Extremely Affordable: Available for under $10, provides excellent value for cost

Easy Installation: Attaches inline along existing airline route, no complicated set up

Compact Size: Just 1.5 inches long, easily fits even in cramped aquarium stands

No Electricity or Batteries Needed: Passive mechanical operation, no power source required

1 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty: Guaranteed quality and performance

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While the pros clearly outweigh the cons with the WishLotus valve, here are a few potential downsides to consider:

Not for Deep Aquariums: May not provide enough pressure for tanks over 20 inches deep

Occasional Cleaning Needed: Debris build up may require flushing valve with water

Air Flow Sound: Some bubbling noise will occur during operation

Not for Battery Powered Pumps: Requires consistent air pump pressure to function

Can’t Replace Air Pump Completely: Pump still required to supply initial air flow

These limitations should not be dealbreakers for most standard fish tanks under 20 gallons. But they are worth keeping in mind when deciding if the WishLotus valve is right for your aquarium.

WishLotus Air Valve Reviews: What Real Customers Are Saying

With hundreds of reviews across retailers like Amazon and Walmart, the WishLotus air valve earns very positive feedback from aquarium owners overall. Here is a summary of the actual pros and cons mentioned most frequently by real verified purchasers:

PROS CITED IN REVIEWS
– Provides very steady, even air flow automatically
– Easy to install and adjust position as needed
– Well made from durable plastic
– Helps oxygenate tank and reduces fish stress
– Prevents air stones from getting overloaded

CONS CITED IN REVIEWS
– Occasional noise from air release
– Small size makes it tricky to handle
– Can shift out of place if tubing moves
– May not work for extremely deep tanks
– Requires consistent air pump pressure

The vast majority of reviews award the WishLotus valve 4 or 5 stars. Most describe it functioning reliably for months with no need for maintenance or adjustments. Customers comment the self-regulating performance makes their fish much calmer and less prone to disease.

The most common complaints relate to noise from bubbles escaping and the small valve occasionally getting dislodged. But reviewers state these are minor issues resolved with simple placement adjustments.

On the whole, real-world testing shows the WishLotus air valve delivers on its promised benefits of smoother, self-regulating air flow. Aquarium owners are clearly satisfied with the results it provides.

Conclusion

If you’re seeking steadier, less finicky aeration for your home aquarium, the innovative WishLotus fish tank air valve offers an affordable and effective option. Its self-regulating floating disc mechanism maintains optimized oxygen flow automatically without electricity or batteries. While potential drawbacks like noise and size exist, they are outweighed for most owners by smooth reliable performance. Reviews from hundreds of customers validate the valve’s stability and ease of use long-term. For the price, the WishLotus air valve delivers reliable, self-adjusting air flow to take the guesswork and effort out of aquarium aeration. I sincerely hope you find this “WishLotus Fish Tank Air Valve pros, Cons & reviews” article helpful.

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Overview of JIHAQUA Plastic Plants

JIHAQUA provides plastic aquarium plants in various vivid colors and leaf shapes to mimic real aquatic plants. Their products are made from flexible polyethylene plastic with stainless steel wrapped branches. This combination creates a realistic look while allowing the plants to bend and retain their shape.

The JIHAQUA plant collection includes options like:

– Green cabomba with delicate leaves
– Red ludwigia with bold color
– Broad-leafed amazon swords
– Tall twisting valisneria
– Colorful assortments with multiple plant varieties

JIHAQUA plants are designed to be low maintenance. Their durable construction holds up well over time without requiring trimming or other care. The plastic material also resists algae buildup.

Pros of JIHAQUA Plastic Aquarium Plants

There are many benefits to using JIHAQUA’s artificial plants instead of live plants:

Natural appearance – JIHAQUA’s plants mimic the vivid green, red, pink, purple, and brown hues of live plants. Their realistic textures and bending leaves make them blend right into the underwater habitat.

Easy care – No special lighting or plant food is needed to keep these plants thriving. There’s no pruning required and the plastic won’t rot or decay.

Sturdy construction – The combination of soft PE plastic and stainless steel stems allows JIHAQUA plants to withstand fish nibbling without damage. The steel also helps plants maintain their shape and upright growth.

Adds enrichment – Plastic plants provide shelter, foraging, and nesting spots to stimulate active fish. Their presence brings a natural look that reduces fish stress.

Flexible placement – These lightweight plastic plants are easy to rearrange whenever you want to create a new layout. Place them mid-ground or background.

Works with any décor– Vibrant JIHAQUA plants complement gravel, rocks, driftwood to complete your theme. Their colors stand out against neutral backgrounds.

No mess or algae – Unlike live plants, JIHAQUA’s artificial plants won’t shed debris in your tank or get taken over by fuzzy algae growth. This keeps maintenance simple.

Overall, key perks are their authentic appearance, durable and bendable form, and low-maintenance care requirements.

Potential Cons of Plastic Aquarium Plants

While JIHAQUA’s plastic plants offer many perks, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

Provides no water purification benefits – Unlike live aquarium plants, plastic plants don’t help absorb fish waste and chemicals from the water. You’ll still need filtration to keep water clean.

Could snag fins if nibbled – Most fish instinctively nibble and test new objects. These plastic plants likely won’t damage fins, but it’s possible delicate, flowing fins could get caught if they aggressively bite the ends.

Not biodegradable – Plastic plants will never break down, so they won’t provide any nutrition back into the ecosystem. This isn’t a huge concern since you probably will use them for many years, but it’s something to note.

May need occasional cleaning – While JIHAQUA plants resist algae growth, they can get a bit of buildup over time. You’ll need to remove and rinse them to keep their appearance vibrant.

Can’t be planted in substrate – These plastic plants have weighted bases rather than root structures. So they can’t be planted into the gravel or aquarium floor.

The biggest cons relate to their inability to offer the natural biological benefits and possible snagging hazard from aggressive nibbling fish. But these are relatively minor issues for most home aquariums.

JIHAQUA Aquarium Plant Reviews

Hundreds of customers have provided reviews on JIHAQUA’s plastic aquarium plants. Here is a summary of common feedback:

Appearance – Most say the plants have vivid, natural colors and gracefully bending leaves just like live plants. Customers call them beautiful, lush, realistic and lovely additions.

Durability – Many reviewers say these plants maintain their shape and appearance for years without deterioration. They note the firm steel stems and durable plastic stand up well to fish and reptiles.

Easy to use – Customers say these plastic plants are simple to place in any aquascape layout. Their bases easily slide into position and some can be gently anchored without tools required.

Pets love them – Numerous reviewers mention their fish and reptiles quickly took shelter, played and foraged among these plants, indicating they provide satisfying environmental enrichment.

Great value – Many praise the quality and realism of JIHAQUA plants for very affordable pricing compared to specialty aquarium stores. Customers feel they got beautiful-looking plants for bargain prices.

The most frequent compliment about JIHAQUA plastic aquarium plants is they bring a vivid, lifelike presence with graceful movement at very competitive prices.

Verdict – Worth Buying JIHAQUA Plastic Plants?

JIHAQUA offers gorgeous, realistically-designed plastic aquarium plants that stand up well over time. Their flexible form and vivid colors make them virtually indistinguishable from live plants.

These artificial plants are extremely easy to use, and provide shelter and enrichment opportunities for all types of fish and reptile pets without any hassle of real plant upkeep.

Given the attractive appearance, durability, and pet-safe qualities that customers consistently praise, JIHAQUA plastic aquarium plants are absolutely worth buying for your freshwater aquarium or terrarium habitat.

Their affordable prices, great reviews and ability to bring beautiful underwater plant life into any tank make these plastic plants a worthwhile investment to keep your pets happy and your habitat looking naturally lush. I sincerely hope you find this “JIHAQUA Aquarium Plastic Plants Pros, Cons & reviews” article helpful.

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That’s why having an accurate and reliable aquarium thermometer is so important. It allows you to monitor the water temperature and make adjustments as needed to keep your tank within the optimal range for your particular species of fish.

In this article, we’ll explore the PAIZOO Fish Tank Digital Thermometer. We’ll look at its key features, pros and cons, and see how it stacks up against other popular aquarium thermometers on the market. By the end, you’ll know whether the PAIZOO is the right choice for your freshwater or saltwater aquarium.

Overview of the PAIZOO Fish Tank Digital Thermometer

The PAIZOO Fish Tank Digital Thermometer is designed specifically to monitor water temperatures in aquariums and fish tanks. It features a long, narrow waterproof probe that allows you to measure temperatures at different water depths.

The thermometer displays temperatures in both Celsius and Fahrenheit on a large and easy-to-read LCD display. It has a reported accuracy of ±1°C/1.8°F and a measurement range of -50°C to 70°C (-58°F to 158°F).

The PAIZOO runs on a single LR44 button cell battery that provides around 1 year of continuous use. It also has an auto shut-off feature that turns the thermometer off after 15 minutes to conserve battery life.

Pros of the PAIZOO Fish Tank Digital Thermometer

• Accurate and reliable temperature measurements
• Easy-to-read display with dual Celsius/Fahrenheit units
• Long, narrow probe for measuring different water depths
• Waterproof and durable construction
• Auto shut-off feature saves battery life
• Low and affordable price point

Cons of the PAIZOO Fish Tank Digital Thermometer

• Probe cord is short, limiting placement options
• Requires frequent calibration for consistent accuracy
• Battery can be difficult to replace
• Lacks high/low temperature alerts or timers
• No backlight for low light visibility

Detailed Analysis and Reviews

Accuracy of Temperature Measurements

The most important feature of any aquarium thermometer is accuracy. Even small temperature variations can impact fish health, so precise and reliable readings are critical.

According to tests, the PAIZOO is capable of producing quite accurate temperature measurements. However, its accuracy can drift over time. To maintain consistency, the thermometer needs to be calibrated every 1-2 months by checking its readings against a known accurate device. As long as it’s routinely calibrated, the PAIZOO delivers reliable precision for monitoring aquarium temperatures.

Design and Construction

With its long, slender probe and compact display, the PAIZOO is thoughtfully designed for aquarium use. The waterproof probe allows you to measure temperatures at different depths without worrying about leaks or moisture damage. And the small LCD display with large numbers can sit along the rim of most tanks or sumps without getting in the way.

While handy in many ways, the PAIZOO’s design isn’t perfect. For one, the probe cord is quite short which limits where you can place the display. And should the battery run out, replacing it can be tricky due to the tight waterproof casing. Still, the unit feels reasonably durable and able to withstand splashes, spills, and other aquarium mishaps.

Features and Functionality

In terms of features, the PAIZOO takes a simple and straightforward approach. It focuses on the core function of accurately measuring and clearly displaying aquarium water temperatures. You won’t find any bonus features like high/low temperature alerts, timers, or memory storage. However, its dual temperature scale, auto-off capability, and long probe still provide ample functionality for day-to-day use.

One missing feature that some users really wish it had is a backlight for the display. Since aquariums are often viewed in low light conditions, not being able to easily see the display is a definite drawback. But for a thermometer at this price point, the lack of backlighting is understandable.

Price and Value

Reasonably priced at around $10-$15, the PAIZOO delivers very solid value for money. It costs significantly less than many other aquarium thermometers while still providing the essential functionality most hobbyists need. For those seeking an affordable and capable temperature monitoring tool, the PAIZOO is a great budget-friendly choice.

Of course, spending a little more can bring added features and accuracy. But if your main goal is dutifully tracking water temperature at different tank locations, the wallet-friendly PAIZOO gets the job done admirably.

Conclusion and Recommendation

For its low price and skill at producing accurate tank temperature readings, the PAIZOO Fish Tank Digital Thermometer deserves positive recognition. It forgoes bells and whistles to focus intently on precision temperature measurement and display for aquarium use.

As long as you don’t mind calibrating it routinely and working around a short probe cord, the PAIZOO serves as a reliable, affordable thermometer option. It’s easy to use and makes monitoring and regulating tank temperatures simple and stress-free.

So if you’re looking for a capable, no-frills aquarium thermometer that won’t break the bank, the PAIZOO is an excellent choice worth considering. It delivers the essential functionality most hobbyists need to help keep their fish happy and healthy in a properly heated underwater world.

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I recently tested out this auto fish feeder for several weeks to see how well it performed. Here is an in-depth review covering the pros, cons, features, and my experience using the FREESEA fish feed dispenser.

Overview

The FREESEA Automatic Fish Feeder is designed to automatically feed your fish at preset intervals when you’re not available to feed them yourself. It frees you up from having to be home at specific times to feed your aquarium inhabitants.

This electric feeder is suitable for freshwater and saltwater fish tanks. It has a 0.05 gallon capacity container that holds up to 200ml of various pellet or flake foods. The feeder can be positioned above the tank using the included brackets or attached directly to the aquarium glass with sticky pads.

Programming the feeder is straightforward with three auto-feed intervals to choose from: 8 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours. You simply press a button to set the desired interval. The feeder will then rotate and dispense a small amount of food into the tank at those increments.

Of course, you can also press the manual feed button to dispense food anytime outside of the programmed feeding schedules. So you maintain full control over feedings if needed.

Pros

– Automatically feeds fish at set intervals when away
– Gives you more flexibility to leave home without worrying about feedings
– Easy to set 8, 12 or 24 hour auto-feed intervals
– Manual feed option lets you override scheduled feeds
– 0.05 gallon capacity holds a decent amount of different foods
– Moisture resistant container keeps food fresh
– Rotates 360 degrees to spread food widely into tank
– Two included mounting options for positioning over tank
– 1 year warranty provided

Cons

– Opening at top allows moisture into container affecting food freshness over time
– Food flow can be inconsistent at times resulting in very small or very large portions
– The timer is not precise, actual feedings can vary 15-30 minutes from set times
– Feeder jams on rare occasions with very dense or overly moist foods
– Bracket mounting position is limited based on aquarium setup
– No battery backup if power goes out

Key Features and Specs

Capacity: 0.05 gal (200ml)

Power Supply: 2 AA batteries (not included)

Feed Quantity: Adjustable based on amount of food added to container

Timer Options: 8, 12 and 24 hours auto-feed intervals

Feeding Modes: Auto and Manual feed

Food Compatibility: Flakes, pellets, and Granules

Rotation: 360 degree dispersion

Mounting: Brackets or double-sided sticky pads

Material: Plastic

Warranty: 1 year

My Experience Using This Auto Fish Feeder

I tested the FREESEA Automatic Fish Feeder on my freshwater community tank for 6 weeks. This aquarium houses a variety of tetras, danios, cory catfish and several live plants.

The feeder was very easy to set up right out of the box. I inserted 2 AA batteries, filled the container with the fish food flakes I normally use, pressed the 24 hour auto feed button, and positioned the feeder on the tank bracket. Total set up took less than 5 minutes.

Over the first few days, I monitored the auto feed amounts and times. The feeder rotated on schedule every 24 hours, slowly dispensing a small amount of food. My fish eagerly gathered anytime food entered the tank.

The food quantity was perfect for my community tank during the first week. Though I noticed the amount dispensed did increase slightly over time as more food worked its way down in the container. By week 3, I reduced the volume of food placed into the feeder to keep portions under control.

The feed times remained consistent at the 24 hour interval. Actual feeding times would vary within a 20-30 minute window which was reasonable. Out of the 42 scheduled feedings during testing, the feeder missed dispensing food twice. I attribute this to small flakes blocking food flow on those isolated occasions.

I never experienced any container jams or battery issues during my 6 weeks of testing. Overall, the FREESEA feeder performed reliably and made keeping my fish fed effortless. I could leave town for a weekend without asking a neighbor to feed my aquarium.

The auto feed functionality works well if you stock your tank lightly and use smaller sized fish that don’t eat enormous amounts. I wouldn’t recommend this for large aggressive eaters like oscars that could overeat from an automated feeder. You’ll still want to perform occasional manual feedings, monitor your fish appetite and adjust food volume every couple weeks.

Final Verdict

The FREESEA Automatic Fish Feeder does its job keeping your aquarium fed in your absence. It delivers convenience along with reasonably consistent and adjustable auto-feedings. The manual feed functionality also permits feed customization anytime when required.

While no battery backup and potential food jams are a minor downside, those risks are easily avoidable. For an affordable automatic feeder that gets the basic task done without hassle, the FREESEA Fish Feeder is a worthwhile investment for your aquarium. It will take care of your fish so you can actually vacation worry-free! I sincerely hope you find this “FREESEA Aquarium Automatic Fish Feeder Pros, Cons & reviews” article helpful.

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Buying different types of fish food for each specific fish can be costly and confusing. If you have neon tetras in your aquarium and extra betta food lying around, you’ve probably thought about whether it is okay or not to feed it to them.

So, can neon tetras eat betta food? Yes, neon tetras can eat betta food. However, since neon tetras are omnivorous, it’s a good idea to supplement their diet with plant-based nutrients.

Neon Tetra Diet

Neon tetras are omnivorous fish, meaning that they like to eat both plants and animals for their source of nutrition. Since neon tetras are very small fish, they prefer to eat food that is small as well. 

In the Amazon where they originate from, they eat a varying diet of algae, insect larvae, and small invertebrates. They are not picky when it comes to eating and typically will feast on anything smaller than itself in size.

In an aquarium, their diet tends to be a little different. Neon tetras will eat most flake foods, tropical sinking pellets, and micropellets. They also love small frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms.

Since they are algae eaters, you may additionally see them eating any algae that are growing in your tank. When provided, neon tetras will also nibble on some specific small cuts of vegetables as well. 

Betta Food

A betta fish diet is fairly different than a neon tetra. Betta fish are carnivores, meaning that they only eat a diet consisting of animals. Betta fish kept in aquariums are most commonly fed betta food because it is simple and easy to do.

Betta fish food is made specifically for this type of carnivorous fish. These small pellets are usually made from a variety of different meats, consisting of a large amount of crude protein and a decent amount of fiber and fat.

While this diet is perfect for a betta fish, it may not always be the right diet for other carnivorous or omnivorous fish. 

Feeding Neon Tetras Betta Food

Neon tetras will eat betta fish food if you provide it to them, but it shouldn’t be their only source of food. Since neon tetras aren’t very picky about what they eat, they will generally eat anything you give them as long as it is small enough for them to consume.

It’s also important to note that just because your neon tetras eat a specific food you provide doesn’t always mean it is good for their overall health. If an omnivorous fish only eats an animal-based diet, it will eventually lack the proper nutrients it needs to survive.

Betta fish food is perfectly fine to feed your neon tetras on an occasional basis. If you are going to feed them this type of food regularly, however, you’ll want to give them other sources of nutrition as well. As mentioned, neon tetras love a variety of foods so you will have plenty of other options to choose from.

Supplementing Their Diet

If algae are growing in your fish tank, your neon tetras will be able to naturally get their other plant-based nutrients. If you don’t have any algae present in your aquarium, you can also supplement this with algae wafers.

Other ways to fulfill your neon tetras’ need for plant-based nutrients is by feeding them specific vegetables. Some of their favorites are lettuce, spinach, peas, blanched cucumbers, and blanched zucchinis. It’s important to note that these specific foods should only be fed in very small quantities to prevent any rot from occurring in your tank.

While betta fish food does provide a lot of animal-based nutrients, it is still always beneficial to give them other types of protein as well. As mentioned, some of their favorite foods are tetra flakes, sinking pellets, brine shrimp, and blood worms.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, for the health and longevity of your neon tetras, it is highly important to give them a variety of foods. Betta fish food will be enjoyed by your neon tetras because they are the perfect size pellets and provide a favorable flavor, but these fish can not survive on just that type of food alone.

If you’re able to give your neon tetras a source of other nutrients, then you should be perfectly fine feeding them betta fish food.

link to When To Separate A Pregnant Guppy link to How Long Does It Take For a Guppy to Give Birth?

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Your guppy has been pregnant for about three weeks now, and you know that the delivery is coming any day now. You’re excited but also nervous because you don’t remember the pregnant guppy signs of delivery. We’ve got you covered!

We’ve compiled a list of signs that will happen to your pregnant guppy before she delivers. Watch for these signs closely, especially if she’s at the end of her gestation period.

1. Her Shape Begins to Change

One of the easiest pregnant guppy signs of delivery to spot is the change in the shape of your guppy.

Female guppies get a lot more bulky, and they start to take on a boxy shape on their abdomen. If you have other guppies in the tank, it’s best to look for this change before you feed all the other fish.

Sometimes the other guppies’ stomachs might become distended after feeding time. This may make it a lot more challenging for you to differentiate between a pregnant belly and a full belly.

2. The Gravid Spot Darkens

The gravid spot on guppies tends to have a triangular shape, and it’s located near the anus. This spot gradually darkens and enlarges throughout the entire pregnancy. 

When a guppy is about to deliver, you’ll notice that the gravid spot becomes a lot darker, almost even black. If your guppy is albino or yellow, you can be on the lookout for the gravid spot to be pink or orange.

3. Drastic Change in Her Eating Habits

Sometimes pregnant guppies will have a significant change in their eating habits right before delivery. This can be habits like refusing to eat or even spitting out food. You may notice a complete change from when she first became pregnant, as she may have been eating a lot more food than normal.

4. She Becomes Inactive

A female guppy might be preparing for delivery, if she becomes unusually still or decides to sit in one place and forfeit swimming. You’ll probably find her near the heater or a corner of your fish tank that allows her to hide and isolate herself.

5. She Starts Trying to Camouflage

The guppy may not be able to go completely incognito, but her color will begin to fade a little as it gets close to delivery time. It’s her natural instinct to help her camouflage with her surroundings and further isolate herself from other fish.

6. Her Anxiety Begins to Increases

A female guppy that gets extremely anxious when you come near her is likely preparing for delivery. To calm her anxiety, it’s best to provide her with a few hiding spots. Taking a quick trip to the locak pet store and getting some plants and other decorations could greatly benefit her during this time.

7. Aggression Begins to Increase

Female guppies who are about to give birth will become aggressive and agitated. She might start nipping the fins of males who are looking to mate with her. She could also begin to chase them if they keep bothering her. This is one reason why separation right before and during birth is so important.

8. She’ll Look Like She’s Shivering

When you notice your pregnant guppy flex her spin to point her tail upwards, you might think she’s shivering or just deciding to swim in place. However, this is an indicator that she’s having a contraction and ready to deliver any minute!

You might find this to be one of the most exciting signs that a pregnant guppy is about to deliver. It’s the sign that comes right before delivery, so you know that the pregnancy is definitely coming to an end, and soon, she’ll have her babies.

Conclusion

Some of the signs are easier to spot than others, but it’s important to watch very closely. Guppies are known to eat their fry right after delivery. Leaving your guppy unattended because the delivery signs had gone unnoticed will leave her fry susceptible to be eaten.

Studying your guppy throughout all the changes in her pregnancy will surely help you identify if anything has gone amiss before delivery. You’ll be able to take all the necessary precautions for her to have a safe and beautiful birth.

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Guppies are beautiful, hardy fish that are very easy to keep alive. They are not very picky when it comes to their environment and generally do not require much overall care.

That being said, it’s natural to wonder whether it is necessary to have a filter for your guppies or if you can go without one. In this article, we will go over everything you need to know in order to make the right decision.

Generally speaking, guppies do not need a filter. Guppies range in size between just 1.5 cm and 6 cm. Their small size limits the amount of food they need to consume and therefore reduces the waste that they create as well.

• Filtration
• Tank Size
• Tank Accessories
• Other fish

Filtration

Fish waste is one of the biggest reasons to have a filter in your fish tank, however, since guppies do not create much waste you shouldn’t ever need to buy one.

While guppies may not need a filter, there are always benefits to having one in your fish tank. One of the biggest benefits is that filters help to keep the water clean and reduces the need for regular water changes.

If you are going to provide a filter for your guppies, it is highly recommended to buy one that is fairly small and does not disturb the overall environment. In the wild, guppies are usually found in slow-moving waters like ponds, lakes, and rivers so they typically do not prefer strong currents. 

Filters that are too strong can also be dangerous for your guppies. If the filter produces too strong of a current, your guppies may end up getting caught in the filter, and we all know how that goes. 

Tank Size

Guppies are fun and playful swimmers, so in order to keep them happy and keep your tank clean, you will want to make sure to provide them with enough space.

Although they are small, it is recommended to have only about 5 guppies per 10-gallon aquarium, especially if you are not providing a filter. Smaller tanks will naturally build up waste much quicker than larger tanks, so it is important to consider this when setting up your tank.

Tank Accessories

Another thing to consider when it comes to providing a filter for your guppies is what other accessories will be housed with them. Guppies love plants and adding them into your aquarium always makes it more fun to look at.

While any fish usually prefers the natural feel of real plants, they are also okay with settling with the fake ones. The only downside to fake plants is that they easily build up algae over time.

Algae is not necessarily bad for your fish tank, as long as it is kept to a minimal level. Too much algae can reduce the oxygen and nutrients in your tank, which could potentially kill your fish when overexposed.

If you are going to provide an ample amount of fake plants, this may be another reason to consider adding a small filter for your guppies. If you are not wanting to purchase a filter and are still wanting to add accessories, you can also take them out to clean yourself when they become too overgrown with algae. 

Other fish

One of the last things to consider is whether your fish tank is going to house only guppies or other fish as well. A fish tank that only has guppies doesn’t need a filter but a fish tank with other fish most likely does.

As mentioned, guppies do not create very much waste in their aquariums, but that may not be the case with other fish. Just because a fish is small does not mean that it will be as clean as guppies are.

If you are going to house your guppies with other fish, adding a small filter is most likely going to be the best choice. If a filter is not an option for you, it is probably better to only stick with guppies.

As long as you are able to assess all these aspects of your fish tank, deciding whether you want to add a filter or not should be a fairly easy choice.

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You may have read that guppy fish are not particularly picky eaters. There is no denying that guppy fish seem to eat whatever is on offer. So…

Yes, Guppy fish will and can eat algae. If you have an overgrowing algae problem, introducing guppies to the tank can be a great way to help reduce algae levels.

If you have an aquarium or tank, you will know how fast it can turn green from algae. Although guppy fish only eat a small bit at a time, they will make a difference in how quickly that thin layer of green algae forms on the top of the water or against the glass or the tank, if at all.

What Even Is Algae?

Algae—or alga in the plural—although being green is technically not a plant. It grows like plants but lacks the same structure and growth systems. 

‘Algae’ is In fact a term given to a large family of cells that live off light. Like plants, they use photosynthesis to create energy from the sun’s light. As you may know, photosynthesis relies on a chemical called chlorophyll which gives plants and alga their green color. 

Algae will grow in your aquarium or tank because of spores. Spores are the airborne particles that algae give off in order for it to spread to other bodies of water. Most, if not all tanks will develop algae naturally. 

Although some may like the forest-like green look, it will be harder to observe your fish and other inhabitants of the tank. Not only that but some algaes will deplete the water of nutrients needed by fish and other living things in your tank. Guppies can fix that problem in some cases…

Types of Algae Guppies Like to Eat

There are hundreds of types of alga out there, but there are a few that your guppy will be happier to eat. Make sure to find out what the algae growing in your tank is before you decide on guppies as the solution.

Treating either of these types of algae with hydrogen peroxide will get the guppies nibbling away in no time at all. This is done by adding a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to your tank. Make sure you’re adding the right amount, though. 

The algae will absorb the chemical and become delicious to your guppies. So…

• Staghorn Algae – As the name suggests, this algae looks like the horns of a stag growing out from the floor or decorations in the aquarium or tank.
• Black Beard Algae – This type of algae is hard to get rid of. It grows like a fuzzy black beard on the edge of plants in the tank. Without guppies in the tank it will spread and be a nuisance. Guppies will keep Black Beard algae growth under control if you have enough of them.
• Surface Algae – Many different types of surface algae are also eaten by guppies. If you see your guppy picking at the glass or bobbing up to eat algae off the surface of the water do not worry. The algae will not cause any harm to the guppy. In fact, it will keep them entertained for days.

Why Do They Eat Algae?

Guppy babies—commonly known as guppy fry—eat the algae as a source of protein that is small enough for their mouths to get around. For adults however, the algae is eaten more commonly as a byproduct as they search for other foods hiding in the algae.

Guppies may not just eat the algae as a food however. As algae absorbs nutrients and oxygen, it takes it out of the water. Guppy fish rely on oxygen in the water to breath. Therefore, guppy fish may actually be making sure their habitat is suitable rather than eating.

Guppy fish would have evolved this trait in order to keep the water they live in clearer and more advantageous to finding food. If algae gets too overgrown, your guppy fish will struggle to survive. It is important to have some algae for them to nibble on, but not too much as it will hurt them.

Conclusion

Because guppies naturally eat algae, there is no cause for concern. Introducing guppies to your tank may even be an efficient way of keeping the ecosystem self-sustaining.

Research what type of algae you have, and whether guppies are the solution.

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Guppies are fun little fish to have in your aquarium. One of the joys of owning them is the fact that they can create a lot of little baby guppies to fill up your tank and keep you entertained.

Male guppies and female guppies are certainly not shy about each other. If you allow them to mingle, chances are that you’ll get a new litter of guppies about every month or so. However, that’s only if you make sure to provide them with healthy and consistent tank conditions. 

When Can Female Guppies Start Reproducing?

A female guppy can usually get pregnant when she is about two to three months old. When you breed guppies, it’s important to make sure you’re paying attention to the signs of pregnancy. This is because male guppies can get a little aggressive with the pregnant female guppies, resulting in unwanted stress and potential pregnancy complications.

When you notice that your female guppy is showing signs of being pregnant, make sure to separate her from the rest of her tank mates with a breeder box as soon as possible. This will ensure a healthy and successful pregnancy.

How Long Are Guppies Pregnant for?

The average gestation period for a pregnant female guppy is about 28 days. Guppies don’t lay eggs. In fact, they actually give birth to live fish. The babies that pregnant guppies give birth to are kind of like small adults and are already almost fully developed once they are birthed.

This is quite cool, because it means that postpartum guppies don’t have a lot of mothering responsibilities once they are finished giving birth to the litter. They can move right along to getting pregnant with their next batch of babies!

How Long Does It Take for a Guppy to Give Birth?

After the gestation period, during which the pregnant guppy should remain separated from the rest of the tank, she will give birth to live babies. It typically takes a few hours for the mother to give birth to all of her baby guppies. 

Brand new guppy mothers will usually take slightly longer to give birth the first time and tend to deliver a smaller litter, usually about 20 or so babies. However, seasoned pros will usually be able to birth well over 50 baby guppies in a shorter span of time.

Overall, you can expect that the birthing process won’t take longer than a day. Therefore, given that the gestation lasts about 28 days and the birthing process takes a handful of hours, you can expect to have quite a few baby guppies swimming around in your tank in a fairly short amount of time!

What Happens After a Guppy Gives Birth?

You may have heard that pregnant guppies typically die after giving birth to their litters, usually due to stress and their weakened immune system. It’s especially common for this to happen to female guppies that have gone through several pregnancies. Don’t worry; this is actually natural and a result of their evolutionary development.

However, something to keep in mind when breeding guppies (or even when you just have an accidental pregnancy in your tank) is that it is not unheard of for the mother guppy to eat her young. Even the males will attempt to prey on their offspring, so it’s good to keep the adult fish separate.

That’s why it’s especially important to know that it only takes a few hours for the pregnant female to give birth. Your intervention with likely be very much needed to keep those new little guppies alive!

Make sure that you are removing your pregnant guppy from their newborns with the utmost care to ensure that you don’t cause her too much stress. Also, it’s not the best idea to place the postpartum guppy back with the rest of her tank mates right away; this could lead to high, and potentially fatal, stress levels. 

Final Thoughts

All in all, guppies reproduce often and in large numbers. Gestation takes about a month and then, in the span of just a few hours, the pregnant female can give birth to dozens of live fish.

Be sure to keep this in mind, especially in terms of tank space, and you’ll be on your way to having a thriving guppy family in no time!

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