6. Heater
Heaters For Your Aquarium “More Than Just a Warm Touch” Ah, Singapore—the land of kopi, hawker food… and relentless heat. 🌡️With average outdoor temps reaching 35°C, you’d think aquarium heaters are the last thing we’d ever need, right? Well—yes and no. Let’s break it down. Do You Really Need a Heater? Here’s how average aquarium temps stack up indoors: So while our climate keeps most tanks warm naturally, there are situations where a heater becomes essential: 💡 Pro Tip: Sudden drops in water temperature stress fish and suppress their immune systems—making them vulnerable to diseases like ICH (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis). Heaters in Disease Treatment: The ICH Case Let’s talk about white spot disease, a.k.a. ICH.This common parasite thrives when fish are stressed—and temperature swings are a top trigger. Here’s how your heater helps fight ICH: 🚨 How ICH Works: ICH has a life cycle: it attaches to the fish, drops off to multiply, then swims freely to find a new host. Most medications only work during the free-swimming stage—so speeding up the life cycle helps eliminate it faster. 🔥 The Treatment Strategy: Gradually raise the water temperature to 31°C (maximum). This shortens ICH’s life cycle, increasing medication effectiveness. For larger or more sensitive fish, always raise the temp slowly to avoid thermal shock. ⚠️ Watch the Oxygen! Warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen. At 31°C, your fish may struggle to breathe—especially bigger species. 💡 Play it safe: Always add an air pump or increase surface agitation to keep oxygen levels up during heat treatment. Don’t treat temperature like a cure-all—it’s one piece of the puzzle. Heater Wattage: Choosing the Right Power Yes, heater wattage matters—a lot. Too little and the tank won’t heat. Too much and… well, you might cook your fish. 😬 Here’s a quick wattage guide: ⚠️ Never use a 100W heater in a 10L tank—the risk of overheating (and killing your fish) is extremely high. 💡 Pro Tip: For large tanks, use two smaller heaters instead of one big one. That way, if one fails, the other keeps things stable until you notice. Heater Placement & Safety Tips Every tank layout is unique, and heater placement matters for even heat distribution. Here’s how to do it right: ✅ Place the heater near a filter outlet or water flow for consistent circulation. https://thataquarium.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1.Place-the-heater-near-a-filter-outlet-or-water-flow.mp4 ✅ For large tanks, place two heaters at opposite ends. 📹 Need help? Take a video of your tank setup and bring it to our store—our team will recommend the best heater type, placement, and backup strategy. Safety First: Common Heater Mistakes to Avoid 🔥 Use a heater guardProtect your fish from accidentally touching the hot surface—especially curious species like plecos or bichirs. Heater Guard https://thataquarium.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/How-to-Install-a-Heater-Guard.mp4 🧯 Switch off your glass heater during water changesWater change = lowered water level. If the heater remains on, it can overheat and crack, which can lead to electric shock or even harm your fish. 💦 Never change too much water at onceA drastic temp drop can shock your fish—keep water changes gradual to avoid stress. ⚠️ Danger alert: A running glass heater exposed to air can shatter. Always unplug it before maintenance! Recap: Key Takeaways ✅ Heaters aren’t always needed—but when they are, they’re critical. ✅ Use them in aircon environments, during rainy season, or for heat-loving species. ✅ ICH treatment relies on temperature to work—raise slowly, pair with medication, and boost oxygen. ✅ Choose the right wattage for your tank size—too strong = dangerous. ✅ Use two heaters for big tanks to build redundancy. ✅ Always switch off your heater during water changes, and use a heater guard for safety. ✅ Not sure what’s right? Our team is here to help—just bring a video of your setup. Need Help or Custom Advice? Still unsure which heater suits your tank, or how to place it for even heating? Need support for ICH treatment? Just visit any of our stores or send us a video of your setup—our aquarists will guide you through every step. 👉 Next Up: Acclimating New Fishes to Their New Homes 🐡 Puffed up with knowledge? Give us a like and keep floating along! Proudly presented by our That Aquarium Digital Team, where innovation meets aquatic excellence. Published on 13 June 2025 Author: Kelvin Phua Illustrator(s): Chai Minyu, Abbie Tan
5. Lighting
Lighting “The Power to Grow… or Overgrow” Let’s talk about lighting. Because in the world of aquariums, light isn’t just for seeing—it’s for growing. It’s the fuel for photosynthesis, the spotlight on your aquascape, and—if misused—the fast track to an algae nightmare. What Is Light? Alright, science time—just for a second.Light is technically electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between 380 nm to 750 nm, visible to the human eye. Why does that matter? Because not all light is equal. Plants use specific light spectrums for growth, while nuisance algae also thrive on certain wavelengths (especially UVB). So while this might sound like a physics lecture, knowing your light = understanding your control panel for plant growth and algae prevention. Can I Use Sunlight in Aquarium Tanks? An indoor tank lit by sunlight Short answer: No.Long answer: Absolutely not. Here’s why using natural sunlight is a bad idea: 💡 Keep your tank away from windows and stick to controlled artificial lighting. You’re the ruler of your aquarium kingdom—take control. Evolution of Aquarium Lighting We’ve come a long way, and aquarium lighting has evolved incredibly over the decades. Modern RGB LEDs are now the gold standard. They’re energy-efficient, customizable, and bring out the best in both plants and fish coloration—while being easy to control with timers and apps. Duration & Intensity: Your Tools for Balance This is where many aquarists slip up. The amount of light and how long it’s on can either support a thriving planted tank or fuel an algae explosion (hello green water 👋). Green water in an aquarium. Source: The Aquarium Club Here’s a general lighting guide: ⏰ Use a timer. Let technology do the work—turn your lights on and off constantly every day. Temperature + Light in Planted Tanks In high-tech planted setups, light intensity alone won’t guarantee growth. Temperature matters too. 🌡️ Lower temperatures = slower plant metabolism🌡️ Higher temperatures = faster nutrient uptake, but can also lead to algae if unbalanced Aim for a consistent 22°C – 26°C for most planted tanks. Too warm, and you risk speeding up algae growth; too cold, and your plants may stall despite bright lights. Arowana Tanning: Light That Colors In fish-only tanks, lighting isn’t just for looks—it can shape how your fish looks. Arowanas, especially premium varieties like Red or Gold, need “tanning” lights to help bring out their scale coloration as they mature. 💡 Proper tanning lighting stimulates chromatophores (pigment cells), helping fish develop deeper, more vibrant colors—just like how some plants need intense light to turn red. Use dedicated tanning lights (e.g., full-spectrum LEDs or halogen fixtures designed for pigmentation) and follow a controlled photoperiod. Be careful not to overdo it—too much light without water changes = stress and algae. Light, Heat, and Algae: A Delicate Dance Light and temperature are accelerators in your aquarium. Used wisely, they help your tank thrive. Unchecked, they invite chaos (usually green and slimy). ✅ Match intensity to your tank goals✅ Stick to a fixed daily lighting schedule✅ Limit excess heat—especially in sealed or summer setups 👑 You’re the ruler of your tank. The light doesn’t control you—you control the light. Recap: Key Takeaways ✅ Lighting fuels your ecosystem—use it thoughtfully✅ Avoid natural sunlight—go for controllable, consistent aquarium lighting ✅ Use modern RGB LED systems for custom lighting tailored to plants, fish, and display goals✅ Stick to 8–10 hours max for high-tech planted tanks, 4–6 for low-tech planted tanks, and use timers✅ In planted setups, keep temperature stable—plant growth depends on it✅ Arowana? Use tanning lights to support pigment development during adult phase✅ Light + heat = algae if unmanaged—balance is everything Need Help Choosing the Right Light? Confused about which light fits your tank? Wondering what’s best for your plants, your Arowana, or your aquascape goals? Drop by our store or send us a short video of your setup. Our aquarists will help you light up your tank—without lighting up an algae bloom. 👉 Next Up: We’ll explore heaters — do you really need one? 🐡 Puffed up with knowledge? Give us a like and keep floating along! Proudly presented by our That Aquarium Digital Team, where innovation meets aquatic excellence. Published on 13 June 2025 Author: Kelvin Phua Illustrator(s): Chai Minyu, Abbie Tan
4. Water Quality
Water Quality & pH Management Build Stability Before Beauty: Why Is My Aquarium Water Cloudy? Let’s be honest—starting a new aquarium can feel like learning how to ride a bicycle… on a tightrope. Between pH swings, ammonia spikes, and wondering if your fish are actually smiling or stressed, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So let’s break this down step-by-step. The goal? Stable water, happy fish, and zero surprises. The First Few Weeks: Understanding the Cycle You’ve set up your tank. Equipment’s running. Water’s clear. Looks good, right? Well, not quite yet. In the first 2–4 weeks, your tank enters what’s called the cycling phase—a crucial biological process that establishes the nitrogen cycle. During this time, water parameters will fluctuate as beneficial bacteria (like those in Bacter⁺) begin to colonize your filter and substrate. Cycling Phase Nitrogen Cycle Can You Speed Things Up? If you’re eager to see fish in your tank sooner, there is a way to fast-track things—safely. Here’s what we recommend for those who can’t wait for the full cycle: 💡 Pro Tip: This gives you a buffer while your bacteria colony matures—but consistency is key. Don’t skip the water changes. This method also gives you more control—but you must be diligent. Frequent water changes and chemical support are essential. Smart Stocking Strategy To avoid crashing your tank, add fish in small batches. Example: For a 60L tank, aim for a final stock of 20 small community fish. ✅ Start with 4–5 fish (20%)✅ Wait 1–2 weeks✅ Test your water✅ If levels are stable, add the next group This allows your beneficial bacteria to adjust with each added load. Feed with Caution: The 15-Second Rule One of the most common mistakes new hobbyists make? Overfeeding. Too much uneaten food breaks down and releases ammonia, which can stall your cycle—or worse, kill your fish.always hungry! 😄 Here’s a simple feeding rule for small fish during the early stages: 🐟 Only feed what your fish can finish within 15 seconds. Once a day. ✅ Use quality food—small, easily digestible pellets or flakes✅ Remove uneaten food with a net or siphon after feeding✅ Avoid “topping up” just because they look cute and hungry—they’re always hungry! 😄 https://thataquarium.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15-secs.mp4 💡 Pro Tip: It’s easier to correct underfeeding than overfeeding. A little hunger won’t harm your fish—but ammonia spikes from leftover food definitely will. pH for Different Fish Species Different fish species prefer different pH ranges, but here’s the golden rule: pH stability matters more than pH perfection. 💡 Pro Tip: Only aim for specific pH ranges if you’re trying to trigger breeding behavior in sensitive species like: Discus Tetras Corydoras Recap: Key Takeaways ✅ Feeling eager? Use chemical pads + frequent water changes to safely speed things up✅ Add fish progressively—20% at a time to avoid overloading the system✅ Feed fish once daily, only what they can eat in 15 seconds✅ Remove uneaten food to prevent ammonia buildup✅ Use beneficial bacteria to establish your biofilter✅ Test your water weekly—or bring a 150ml sample to our store for free testing✅ Aim for pH stability, not textbook perfection✅ Always let the test kit be the one to say, “Yes, it’s time” Need Help Starting Off Right? Still unsure about your water parameters, feeding routine, or fish count? We’re here for you. Bring a water sample, your tank specs, or even a video to any of our stores—our aquarists will guide you step by step to ensure your tank starts right and stays healthy. 👉 Next Up: We’ll explore lighting — because in the world of aquariums, light isn’t just for seeing, it’s for growing. 🐡 Puffed up with knowledge? Give us a like and keep floating along! Proudly presented by our That Aquarium Digital Team, where innovation meets aquatic excellence. Published on 13 June 2025 Author: Kelvin Phua Illustrator(s): Chai Minyu, Abbie Tan
3. Substrate
Substrate Material “The Foundation Beneath It All” When most people think of substrate, they imagine it as just decoration—maybe a layer of sand to complete the natural look, or colourful gravel to match their style. But as any aquarist worth their water changes will tell you… substrate is so much more than that. It’s not just the floor of your tank. It’s the foundation of your entire underwater ecosystem. Why Substrate Matters Your substrate isn’t just for looks or anchoring plants. Over time, it becomes a living, breathing part of your aquarium: ✅ It acts as a biological filter, housing colonies of beneficial bacteria that power the nitrogen cycle✅ It provides a root zone for aquatic plants to establish and grow✅ It affects your tank’s pH, water clarity, and ion balance✅ It plays a role in your fish’s comfort, health, and even stress levels So yes—it’s a big deal. Let’s explore your options. Want to Grow Plants? Use Soil-Based Substrate If you’re planning to grow aquatic plants and not keeping “tank busters” like stingrays, Oscars, or Arowanas, we strongly recommend using aquarium soil. Aquarium Soil Here’s why aqua soil rocks: 💡 Pro Tip: Combine aqua soil with gentle plant-friendly species like tetras, rasboras, shrimp, and dwarf cichlids for a thriving planted aquascape. Substrate Safety for Sensitive Fish Not all substrates are safe for all fish. Some fish—especially bottom dwellers—are prone to injury when kept on sharp or jagged substrates like lava rock or coarse gravel. Lava Rock / Coarse Gravel ⚠️ Avoid sharp materials like lava rocks, crushed coral, or coarse gravel. These can cause abrasions, infections, and unnecessary stress. For instance: Quick-Glance: Fish vs Substrate Compatibility 💬 Still unsure? Every tank setup is different—if you’re not sure which substrate suits your fish and plants, feel free to chit-chat with our friendly staff. We’re happy to help recommend a setup that keeps your aquarium beautiful and your livestock safe. Bonus Tips for a Healthy Substrate Bed Use substrate depth wisely: 3–7cm is ideal for planted tanks Don’t over-clean the substrate—you want to preserve the good bacteria Layering tip: Some hobbyists use an inert bottom layer and cap it with soil for better balance Recap: Key Takeaways ✅ Substrate isn’t just cosmetic—it’s the foundation of your aquarium’s ecosystem✅ Aquarium soil is best for planted tanks and improves water chemistry✅ Fish with sensitive undersides (like goldfish, rays, and catfish) need smooth or soft substrate✅ Sharp substrates = higher risk of stress and injury✅ Not sure what to get? Bring your ideas, videos, or questions to our store—we’ll walk you through the best fit Need Help Choosing the Right Substrate? Still scratching your head about which substrate works best? Whether you’re planning a lush aquascape or just want to keep your bottom-dwellers happy, our team is ready to help. Show us a video of your setup, tell us what fish you’re keeping, and we’ll match you with the right base layer for success. 👉 Next Up: We’ll explore water quality — because healthy water means healthy fish and a thriving aquarium. 🐡 Puffed up with knowledge? Give us a like and keep floating along! Proudly presented by our That Aquarium Digital Team, where innovation meets aquatic excellence. Published on 13 June 2025 Author: Kelvin Phua Illustrator(s): Chai Minyu, Abbie Tan
2. Filter
Aquarium Filtration System “The Heart and Kidneys of Your Tank” Let’s talk filters Think of the aquarium filter as the heart and kidneys of your setup. It keeps the water clean, oxygenated, and safe for your fish—by filtering out waste and circulating clean water throughout the tank. Simple in theory, but there’s a lot more beneath the surface (literally). When choosing a filter, keep two key factors in mind: 🐟 What kind of fish you’re keeping 📐 Your tank size and stocking level (i.e., how many fish you plan to keep) The 4 Core Functions of Aquarium Filtration: 💡 Pro Tip: A well-rounded filter should include at least mechanical and biological filtration. Chemical and buffering media are optional but helpful depending on your livestock and water source. Let’s explore the most common filter types you’ll find in the market. Common Types of Aquarium Filters: Filters in Action! https://thataquarium.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/HOB-clip.mp4https://thataquarium.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Internal-power-filter-clip.mp4https://thataquarium.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Overhead-trickle-filter-clip.mp4https://thataquarium.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/sponge-filter.mp4 Matching Filters to Your Goals Let’s make this super relatable: Small community tank?→ An internal power filter, sponge filter, box filter, or HOB is a great choice for smaller or lightly stocked tanks. These filters are compact, easy to maintain, and provide adequate mechanical and biological filtration—perfect for everyday setups, gentle-flow environments, or beginner aquariums. Keeping large, messy fish like Goldfish, Parrot fish, Oscars or Arowana?→ You’ll need a more robust filter—like an Overhead Trickle Filter, Canister, or Sump—to handle the high waste output. These filters offer larger media capacity, stronger flow rates, and superior biological filtration, making them ideal for heavily stocked or large fish tanks. Quarantine Fish, Breeding fish or caring for fry?→ A sponge filter is perfect for quarantine tanks because it provides gentle water circulation, which is important for stressed or sick fish. When fish are stressed, they tend to secrete more mucus as a protective response. Strong currents can strip this mucus layer, making them more vulnerable to disease. Sponge filters offer safe, low-flow filtration while still maintaining good oxygenation and biological support—creating a calm and stable environment for recovery.. It provides gentle flow and won’t suck in tiny fish. Real Talk from the Store At our stores, we’ve tested and trusted just about every filter type out there. Whether it’s a simple sponge setup or a multi-tier sump with reactors and UV sterilizers, we always match filtration to the specific needs of your fish, plants, and tank goals—not just the latest gadget. 💡 Pro Tip: A “bigger” filter isn’t always better. Choose one that matches your tank’s load, offers balanced filtration, and fits your maintenance style. And if you’re not sure where to start? That’s what we’re here for. From custom filtration builds to complete setups, we’ve got your back. Recap: Key Takeaways ✅ Aquarium filters do more than clean—they support life in the tank.✅ Understand the 4 types of filtration: mechanical, biological, chemical, and pH buffering.✅ Match your filter to your fish species, tank size, and stocking level.✅ Some filters are better for strong currents, others for gentle, stress-free environments.✅ We offer custom setups, advice, and installation—just speak to our team in-store! Ready to Build Your System? Need help selecting or customising your filter? Want to know which media best supports your fish or water source? Talk to our friendly aquarists or head down to any of our stores—we’ll guide you step by step, from filtration to full tank setups. 👉 Next Up: We’ll explore substrate —because it’s the foundation of the entire underwater ecosystem. 🐡 Puffed up with knowledge? Give us a like and keep floating along! Proudly presented by our That Aquarium Digital Team, where innovation meets aquatic excellence. Published on 13 June 2025 Author: Kelvin Phua Illustrator(s): Chai Minyu, Abbie Tan
1. Aquarium Placement
Aquarium Setup Guide: Step by Step Foreword: Let’s Go Shopping! Now, before we get carried away, here’s a quick look at what you’ll need in your cart: ✅ Fish Tanks ✅ Stand or Cabinet ✅ Filter (Click to read) ✅ Aquarium Light (Click to read) ✅ Substrate (Click to read) ✅ Hardscape Materials (wood, rocks, decor) ✅ Water Conditioner and Additives ✅ Live Plants (Click to read) ✅ Live Fishes ✅ Heater (Click to read) ✅ Chiller / Cooling Fan Let’s break this down section by section so you know exactly what to look out for. Ready? Let’s dive in! 2.1 Choosing the Right Location “Location, location, location!” It’s not just a real estate thing—it matters a lot for aquariums too. Where you place your tank affects not only how it looks but also how well your fish will thrive. 🚫 Places to Avoid: Near windows → Sunlight = algae + temperature spikes Under aircon vents → Constant cold drafts = stressed fish Next to doors/TVs → Loud noises = jumpy fish Kitchens, balconies, bathrooms → Just…no 😅 ✅ Best Practice: Pick a quiet, cozy spot where you enjoy relaxing. Your tank should feel like a piece of living art, not a stressor for you or your fish. ✨ Pro Tip: Use a spirit level to check if the surface is flat before placing your tank. For larger tanks (1m and above), double-check your floor’s load capacity—especially in apartments! Spirit Level Types of Aquariums: Know Your Tank Now, let’s talk tanks. You might think, “Aren’t all aquariums just glass boxes?” But there’s more than meets the eye! Materials: Acrylic vs Glass Glass Types: Not All Glass Is Equal! Let’s geek out a little (in a fun way). Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types of aquarium glass: 🔍 Pro Tip: Clear glass makes a world of difference—especially if you’re keeping colorful fish like neon tetras, discus, or bettas, and vibrant plants like Rotala or Ludwigia. Opti-white or crystal glass removes the green tint you’d get from regular glass, so every shade of red, blue, orange, and green pops just the way nature intended. It’s like switching from SD to full HD. 🔍 Pro Tip: While ultra-clear glass like opti-white and crystal glass offers stunning clarity that makes fish and plant colors pop, don’t worry if you’re using a float glass tank—most of the tanks we use in our stores are float glass too! With proper water quality, good lighting, and a well-matched background or base wallpaper, your tank can still look absolutely vibrant. Many hobbyists choose to save on glass type and instead go for higher glass thickness and Euro bracing—a smart move that enhances both the safety and durability of the tank over time, especially for larger builds. 🔧 Need something more tailored? Whether you’re looking to customise your tank size, add a bracing system, or even build in a full filtration setup, just speak to any of our store team members. We offer custom tank builds and installation packages to help bring your dream aquarium to life—from glass to greenery. 💡 Which One Should You Get? Going all-in for aquascapes or display tanks?→ Go for Opti-White or Crystal Glass On a budget or using a black background?→ Float Glass is perfectly fine! Also, keep an eye on the silicone work: Black Silicone pairs well with black backgrounds. Transparent Silicone gives a cleaner, minimalist vibe. Either way, fish often feel safer with a dark background—so don’t be surprised if they show off their best colors! 🧠 Recap: Let’s Wrap This Up! Here’s what you’ve learned in this chapter: ✅ Location matters—no direct sun, drafts, or noise.✅ Check floor level and weight capacity—especially for large tanks.✅ Acrylic—clearer, lighter, pricier, scratches easily.✅ Glass—heavier, affordable, great for most setups.✅ Float vs Opti-white vs Crystal—choose based on clarity needs and budget.✅ Backgrounds & silicone types affect both looks and fish comfort. 🗣️ Got Questions or Need Help? Still unsure which tank suits your space, style, or setup goals? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Come chat with our in-house aquarists! We’ll help you find the perfect tank to kickstart your aquatic journey. 👉 Next Up: We’ll explore filtration systems—because clean, clear water is the lifeblood of every healthy aquarium. 🐡 Puffed up with knowledge? Give us a like and keep floating along! Proudly presented by our That Aquarium Digital Team, where innovation meets aquatic excellence. Published on 13 June 2025 Author: Kelvin Phua Illustrator(s): Chai Minyu, Abbie Tan