10 New Year Resolutions for Fishkeepers

[00:00:00] Welcome to this episode of The Aquarists Edge, a podcast for home aquarists just like you.

[00:00:06] Learn more about how to keep a thriving aquarium and discover ideas and tips to give your aquarium the edge.

[00:00:12] And now, over to our host, Arthur Preston.

[00:00:18] It's the last day of the year, and as we look forward to another year just around the corner,

[00:00:25] I felt it would be appropriate for us to take a look at the hot topic of the day, and that is New Year's Resolutions.

[00:00:31] Are there things that we can do as fishkeepers that will help the following year be even better than the year before?

[00:00:37] So that's what this episode is going to be all about.

[00:00:40] I'm going to share 10 New Year's Resolutions for Fishkeepers with you today,

[00:00:43] and as I share each one, I'm going to share a bit about practical tips, give you some ideas, some inspiration hopefully,

[00:00:50] and we can start the year strong.

[00:00:52] So let's get into it, and let's see what we can do to make 2025 the best fishkeeping year yet.

[00:00:59] So let's start with number one, enhancing water quality.

[00:01:03] Well, water quality, that should be quite obvious.

[00:01:05] It's the cornerstone of a thriving aquarium.

[00:01:07] Without water, everything else falls apart, quite obviously.

[00:01:11] So this year, why not commit to stepping up your maintenance game?

[00:01:16] If you imagine your tank as a microcosm, an ecosystem with its own delicate balance that depends on you,

[00:01:23] you'll realize it depends on you to keep your water quality top class.

[00:01:27] So how do you do that?

[00:01:29] Well, you test your water weekly.

[00:01:31] If you haven't already got yourself a good test kit, make it your first purchase of 2025.

[00:01:36] These kits are like the dashboard of your tank.

[00:01:39] They tell you when something's off before it becomes a crisis.

[00:01:42] And we'll look at things, the essentials like pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate.

[00:01:47] Make it a habit to do weekly testing, maybe every Saturday morning with your coffee.

[00:01:52] It might be a good idea to write down your readings.

[00:01:55] That way you can track, you can see patterns over time.

[00:01:58] You could use a written notebook, good old pencil and paper or pen and paper.

[00:02:01] You could use an app.

[00:02:03] You might want to get a spreadsheet going.

[00:02:05] And if you notice, for example, that there's a pH drop every few weeks,

[00:02:09] it could tell you that there's a need to tweak your maintenance schedule

[00:02:11] and do something about changing the chemistry of your water.

[00:02:16] Also, don't skimp on those water changes.

[00:02:19] So in 2025, aim for regular water changes, perhaps biweekly, of 10 to 15%.

[00:02:25] Not only does this dilute the toxins,

[00:02:27] but it also refreshes your water with essential minerals.

[00:02:30] It's like giving your fish a spa day.

[00:02:34] Number two, learn about your fish.

[00:02:37] You often hear the term, do your own research.

[00:02:40] Well, that's exactly what this is.

[00:02:41] Knowing your fish is really important.

[00:02:43] The more you understand their quirks and their care needs,

[00:02:46] the better you can look after them.

[00:02:48] In essence, you could become a fish whisperer.

[00:02:52] So here's the plan.

[00:02:54] Then dedicate some time each month to learn about one species in your tank,

[00:02:58] or one that you're thinking about adding.

[00:03:00] Maybe you'll uncover a fascinating fact about their natural habitat,

[00:03:03] or find out that they're happiest with a particular type of plant.

[00:03:07] Go online, read a book,

[00:03:09] find information that'll help you to learn more.

[00:03:12] And as I've often said on this podcast,

[00:03:15] spend time watching your fish, just 10 minutes a day.

[00:03:18] It isn't just relaxing, it's insightful.

[00:03:20] Are the fish more active at certain times?

[00:03:23] Do they interact differently with each other when you feed them?

[00:03:25] Can you see any issues with those fish?

[00:03:29] Any signs of illness?

[00:03:31] These observations help you understand their needs

[00:03:33] and spot potential problems early.

[00:03:36] The third resolution.

[00:03:38] Upgrade your equipment.

[00:03:40] We all know that these are the things that cost a fair amount of money in this hobby.

[00:03:44] But it's really important that your filter, your heater, your lighting,

[00:03:48] and every other piece of equipment that plays a role in your tank's ecosystem

[00:03:51] is functioning well.

[00:03:53] And just like our phones or our laptops, sometimes they need an upgrade.

[00:03:58] So this year, try this approach.

[00:04:01] Audit your setup.

[00:04:02] Take a critical look at what you currently have.

[00:04:04] Is your heater reliable?

[00:04:06] Is your filter running efficiently?

[00:04:08] Make a list of the things that might need replacing or upgrading,

[00:04:11] and then badge it to upgrade.

[00:04:13] Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a large shopping list,

[00:04:16] set aside a small amount each month.

[00:04:19] Maybe this month you'll upgrade to a more efficient filter,

[00:04:21] perhaps next month a new LED light, and so on.

[00:04:26] If you're feeling adventurous, look into what we would call smart aquarium devices,

[00:04:30] automatic feeders, app-controlled heaters,

[00:04:33] even smart lights that can make tank maintenance easier and more precise.

[00:04:38] Fourthly, if you are considering breeding fish,

[00:04:42] 2025 might just be your year.

[00:04:45] Breeding is just rewarding.

[00:04:46] It's a way to deepen your connection to the hobby.

[00:04:48] So here's how you get started.

[00:04:51] Again, research.

[00:04:53] Each species has its own breeding quirks.

[00:04:56] Some fish need specific water conditions,

[00:04:58] while others require elaborate court-tip rituals.

[00:05:01] Make sure that you understand what your fish need before you start.

[00:05:04] Then set up the perfect nursery.

[00:05:06] A separate breeding tank isn't just helpful, it's often necessary.

[00:05:09] You'll have more control over water parameters,

[00:05:11] and your fry will be safe from hungry tank mates.

[00:05:15] Keep records.

[00:05:16] Document everything.

[00:05:17] What you did, what worked, yep, and what didn't work.

[00:05:21] And over time, you'll discover a playbook for success.

[00:05:26] Number five, you could focus on fish health.

[00:05:30] It is true to say that healthy fish are happy fish,

[00:05:33] and that means being proactive rather than reactive.

[00:05:36] So in 2025, let's make fish health a top priority.

[00:05:41] So what can you do to ensure this happens?

[00:05:44] Well, as we said earlier, daily check-up.

[00:05:47] Spend a few minutes each day observing your fish closely.

[00:05:50] Look for anything unusual, like spots on their bodies,

[00:05:53] erratic swimming, or changes in their appetite.

[00:05:56] Make sure you have a quarantine protocol.

[00:05:58] New fish should always spend at least two weeks in a separate tank

[00:06:01] before joining the main one.

[00:06:03] It's a simple step that can prevent major headaches down the line.

[00:06:07] It's one that's often overlooked,

[00:06:08] but it's really important if you are bringing in fish from suppliers

[00:06:12] and other outside sources.

[00:06:16] Next one on the list, algae growth.

[00:06:19] Reduce algae growth.

[00:06:21] Now, some algae in your tank is not necessarily a bad thing.

[00:06:24] It's a natural part of any aquarium,

[00:06:25] but too much can be a real pain.

[00:06:28] So let's see how we can tame the green beast this year.

[00:06:32] So here's some ideas.

[00:06:34] Reduce your tank lighting to 8 to 10 hours a day.

[00:06:37] That's a simple step, and you'd be amazed at how much this can help.

[00:06:40] You could consider bringing in natural algae helpers,

[00:06:43] such as snails or autosyncras.

[00:06:46] They're like little janitors for your tank.

[00:06:48] And also make algae cleaning part of your weekly routine.

[00:06:51] It's easier to tackle when it's just a little build-up,

[00:06:54] rather than a complete takeover.

[00:06:58] The next one on the list is to join a community.

[00:07:01] Well, this could be a WhatsApp community.

[00:07:04] There are several of those available to you.

[00:07:08] Arts Fisherm has an active community.

[00:07:10] There are many others.

[00:07:11] And what it means is that you can find your tribe.

[00:07:14] Find people who have the same hobby as you,

[00:07:17] people who can share your enthusiasm,

[00:07:20] people who can help when there's a problem and you need advice.

[00:07:23] And you'll find these online.

[00:07:25] You'll find these, as I said, on WhatsApp.

[00:07:27] There are not many, there don't seem to be any local clubs,

[00:07:30] physical clubs here in South Africa.

[00:07:31] I know there's a very strong one in the Eastern Cape,

[00:07:34] but I'm not sure where else others exist.

[00:07:36] So if you know of any others, please leave a comment.

[00:07:40] And also keep an eye out for local aquarium events.

[00:07:43] Last year there was one in the Eastern Cape in Klabeja.

[00:07:46] That was great.

[00:07:47] But unfortunately in South Africa,

[00:07:50] we don't have the massive events like Aquaschella

[00:07:52] and some of the events in Europe.

[00:07:54] But certainly there's nothing to stop you from having get-togethers,

[00:07:59] get people together, talk about fish,

[00:08:02] talk about fish keeping, learn from each other.

[00:08:04] You might want to find people in your local area

[00:08:06] who just want to have a get-together,

[00:08:09] to share ideas, tell stories and to learn.

[00:08:12] Number eight.

[00:08:13] You could try something new with aquascaping.

[00:08:16] Why not get creative?

[00:08:18] In 2025 could be the year you unlock your inner artist.

[00:08:21] And so how would you do that?

[00:08:23] Well, you could experiment with styles.

[00:08:25] Maybe a Dutch aquascape or a minimalist Iwagumi setup.

[00:08:29] There's no right or wrong way.

[00:08:30] Just do what you enjoy.

[00:08:32] Experiment. Have fun.

[00:08:34] And if you've been sticking with plastic plants,

[00:08:37] please consider going live.

[00:08:39] Plants not only look amazing,

[00:08:40] but they also help with water quality.

[00:08:42] And there are plenty of people in those communities

[00:08:44] we've just spoken about

[00:08:45] who will be able to assist you with what plants you need for,

[00:08:49] which kind of tank and what animals and what livestock.

[00:08:52] Adding live plants is a game changer.

[00:08:54] Please consider doing that

[00:08:55] if you only have plastic in your tank currently.

[00:08:58] Number nine is an interesting one.

[00:09:00] I actually don't do this,

[00:09:02] but I know of people who do,

[00:09:03] and that is to keep a journal,

[00:09:04] to document their fish keeping journey.

[00:09:07] It can be very useful.

[00:09:08] It's fun to look back and to see how far you've come.

[00:09:10] You could include photographs and stories

[00:09:13] and just notes about your fish keeping.

[00:09:16] So it'll be things about your water testing,

[00:09:19] things you've noticed in your tank,

[00:09:21] lots of visuals,

[00:09:23] and it shows your progress in the hobby over time.

[00:09:26] And the last one,

[00:09:27] and this is one certainly where this podcast comes into play,

[00:09:30] and the blog that is on ArtsFishRoom,

[00:09:32] and many other things that are part of

[00:09:35] just being in this hobby,

[00:09:37] and that is to educate others about fish keeping.

[00:09:39] Why don't you make 2025 a year

[00:09:42] where you take it upon yourself to teach others,

[00:09:45] to show others the joy of keeping fish?

[00:09:48] Sharing your knowledge doesn't just help others.

[00:09:50] It deepens your own understanding.

[00:09:52] So this year,

[00:09:53] be a mentor in the fish keeping community.

[00:09:55] Share tips and tricks and tank photos

[00:09:58] on Instagram or TikTok.

[00:09:59] You'd be surprised how many people you can inspire.

[00:10:02] That doesn't mean that you're a guru.

[00:10:04] I certainly don't see myself as an expert or a guru.

[00:10:07] I'm just a guy who enjoys fish keeping,

[00:10:09] and I like to share what I've learned

[00:10:11] and to share with others

[00:10:12] and help others in the hobby.

[00:10:14] You could host a workshop.

[00:10:17] It could be a casual gathering with friends

[00:10:19] or a more formal event.

[00:10:20] Sharing what you know is always rewarding.

[00:10:22] Don't be scared to take that first plunge.

[00:10:25] Get on with it.

[00:10:26] Make it happen.

[00:10:27] You can do it.

[00:10:29] And so there we have it.

[00:10:31] 10 resolutions to make 2025 your best fish keeping year yet.

[00:10:36] Remember that every small change you make

[00:10:38] can have a big impact on your tank's health

[00:10:40] and your enjoyment of the hobby.

[00:10:42] So here's to a year ahead with vibrant colors,

[00:10:45] happy fish,

[00:10:46] and thriving tanks.

[00:10:47] Thanks for tuning in to the Aquarius Edge.

[00:10:50] Share this podcast with others.

[00:10:52] I will see you on the next one.

[00:10:53] I will see you in 2025.

[00:10:56] That's it for this episode of the Aquarius Edge.

[00:10:59] Please consider subscribing to this podcast

[00:11:01] so that you don't miss further episodes.

[00:11:03] We would love it if you would also rate and review the podcast

[00:11:06] as this helps make it visible to others.

[00:11:08] Until next time,

[00:11:09] keep learning and discovering

[00:11:11] and keep finding your Aquarius Edge

[00:11:13] in this captivating and fascinating hobby.