Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Comfort Carrier Signature Series Large Ultramarine 19" x 10" x 13" up to 22 lbs by Bergan
USHIO Compact Metal Halide Lamp - 150W - Double Ended - 20,000K
- Features the best combination of color balance, color rendering and light output for healthy marine aquarium and reef system lighting.
- Simulates water color at deeper depths and with differing wavelength spikes
- Ideal for lighting and environmental conditions for reef systems
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
24 Watt 50/50 10K White, 03/Blue 420Nm Actinic Power Compact
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Petco Incandescent Aquatic Light Bulb
Friday, June 13, 2014
SmartBones Peanut Butter Dog Chew, Medium, 1-Pack
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Hagen Nutrafin CO2 Natural Plant System with CO2 Activator and Stabilizer
Remember, having 2-4 watts of "quality" fluorescent lighting per gallon (compact fluorescent fixtures seems to me to be the best choice) in your aquarium is even more important than adding CO2.
This off the shelf system should be sufficient for beginning aquarists who are starting out with plants (fish don't need extra CO2). While not as efficient or cheap as a DIY one, it does a decent job of putting a fair amount of CO2 in the tank for about 2 week periods at a time. People who also don't want to mix their own yeast mixture will find the packets more convenient (however less effective).
The Hagen diffuser (that dissolves the CO2 bubbles into the water) does a decent job. However, there is waste, meaning, CO2 bubbles escape to the surface before being dissolved. But you still will get a raise in the tank's CO2 level.
So, if you are new to CO2 systems and want something that is minimal investment ($35) and don't want to make your own system, then this is a no brainer system. I think you should get it and help your plants to thrive.
But if you want a cheaper, much more effective system, then do this: For 10-25 gallon tank, use one 2 liter soda bottle. For 25-50, use 2. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of bakers yeast in warm water and then let it sit for 5-10 min. Then dissolve 2 cups of sugar into filtered water and pour into soda bottle. Add the yeast. Drill a hole in the soda bottle cap and either glue an air line to run through it or buy a metal airline connector (like from Lowes or Home Depot) and glue it (using Goop) into the cap. After you have the air line running out from the soda bottle (if you have two then connect them using a T brass connector), run it into your aquarium and dissolve the CO2 using a diffuser (like this Hagen one, howbeit not efficient), an air stone (also not efficient) or into a small pop bottle that a Rio Power Head is forcing water into to completely dissolve the CO2 bubbles. You can search around and find photos on how this is done.
After all of my trial and errors, the above method using soda bottles with a metal airline connector in the cap (glued in with goop) and a Rio Power head is the best, cheapest and most effective system for pumping CO2 into your tank.
If you are purchasing this Hagen system, just remember that for every 20 gallons of water you have in your aquarium, you need to set up another Hagen canister. So for a 40 gallon tank, buy 2 of these. But remember, you will get a nice rise in CO2 levels but not near the level you would using a forced water reactor using a Power head. There are two parts to a CO2 system: the amount and quality of CO2 bubbles being produced and then also the amount those CO2 bubbles are being diffused into the aquarium water. The best is having the bubbles completely disappear into the water. Then you know there is no waste to your CO2 production.
To find out how much CO2 is effectively being dissolved into your tank, search online for the CO2 measurement calculator. This is measured by the ratio of KH and PH in your tank (as long as you haven't used PH buffers).
Hope this helps you in making a valued purchase.This system is simple to use and affordable compared to most CO2 systems, but if you're willing to put in a little effort and research you could build your own CO2 fermentation system that works just as well (if not better) for a fraction of the cost. Still, not everyone is willing to build their own, and this system is a decent compromise. It's also pretty safe, since the CO2 injection is slow and gradual and won't cause fast pH drops. Make sure you have a decent buffering capacity just in case.
My only criticism is the "activator" and "stabilizer" packets which Hagen sells for this product they are too expensive for what they are (basically yeast and baking powder) and a home-made mixture seems to work better for me anyway. With Hagen's mix, I couldn't get more than about 9 ppm CO2 in my 10 gallon tank (about 3 4 bubbles per minute) but a simple mixture of baker's yeast, sugar, and water gets me twice that and lasts just as long (2-3 weeks). Most people aim for 15 25 ppm or so (but no higher).
In any case, if you have adequate light (2.5 watts per gallon or more), your plants will benefit from CO2 injection and Hagen's system does what it advertises.
One tip: buy a simple air valve for the tubing so you don't get a siphoning mess when you're re-filling the CO2 cansiter.
Buy Hagen Nutrafin CO2 Natural Plant System with CO2 Activator and Stabilizer Now
This product works well, producing CO2 relatively easily and cheaply compared to having a pressurized CO2 canister and regulator (etc.) high-tech set-up. Be sure to educate yourself about CO2 in fish tanks. It's good for plants, but too much could be bad for fish. For example, I operate an airstone when lights are out at night only. This diffuses the CO2, which is not needed by plants in the dark, and plants are not producing oxygen in the dark. (Put air pump and airstone on a timer.) You need to learn the basics of CO2 injection, even for this simple system. If you do, you will have no problems, only great plants.I have only small fish (under 3 inches) in my 55 gal planted tank. Not one fish has ever suffered as a result of CO-2 fertilization, but the plants grow much, much better!
I see no reason why a DIY yeast+baking powder solution would not work -will be going to this. For the price, you get all you need to get started, to make your plants look great!
Update: In the years since I wrote this, I have lost a couple small fish (which are typical of planted tanks) getting trapped between the diffuser and the glass. Over time, the rubber suction cups fail. That solved the problem for me fish can no longer get trapped in that small space. I now use plants of other times in tank to secure the diffuser into proper position. Still like the product, been using it for years. CO-2 is a big help with the plants, which help control nitrates, add beauty, make fish happier.
Update 2 (2012): I would still recommend this product for anyone starting out with CO2 to stimulate a planted aquarium it works! I still use the container that comes with this kit to generate CO2 with sugar, yeast, baking powder, and water. Don't bother with Hagen's expensive powders they are just yeast in one, and baking powder (not baking soda) in the other. Get it at the grocery store. One container of each will last for years, cheap! The CO2 generator in this kit seals well better I imagine than a DIY soda bottle with silicon would. But I no longer use "the ladder" CO2 diffuser that came with this kit. It did work well for years, other than a few fish trapped behind (usually during a water change hiding). Now, I am experimenting with a glass and ceramic disc diffuser, which works well, and Fluval (Hagen) ceramic disc in round plastic diffuser which is working well as also. Just plug into the airtube, wait 12-24 hours (for pressure to build) and they work great! Be sure to learn the basic of CO-2 injection in aquaria. Co-2 should lower the pH gradually, so you need to be sure your water has adequate buffering agents as well as watching the pH to ensure it doesn't get too low. A cheap easy way to increase buffering capacity and pH is Baking Soda (Sodium BiCarbonate). When adding it, do so slowly and gradually (not too much in one day) to avoid sickening the fish. I use Mardel 5-in-1 test strips, but have some way to test Nitrite, Nitrate, Buffering Capacity, and pH of the tank water.
Read Best Reviews of Hagen Nutrafin CO2 Natural Plant System with CO2 Activator and Stabilizer Here
I have had the Nutrafin system for a few months now. I used the included Activator/Stabilizer packets for the first 3 months,then switched to molasses based sugar and yeast.
Some observations:
The ladder style CO2 diffuser really works well. Evidence of
this is the size of the CO2 bubble that is introduced into
the diffuser at the bottom compared to the size of the bubble
that comes out at the top. The bubble becomes an order of
magnitude smaller as it traverses the diffuserwhich is another
way of saying that CO2 is getting dissolved in the water. When
it is first introduced to a new aquarium, this observation alone could verify that it is working.
For anyone expecting quick results, it took about 15 days before
my plants showed "pearling" and about another week (around 21-22
days) before I saw the promised lush green plant growth. (Note
that I have 2.5 watts per gallon of light for 10 hours a day and
use Seachem Flourish once a week.)
There is no easy way to turn off CO2 diffusion with the system.
Once the lights turn off and unless the water is sufficiently buffered, pH can be dramatically and dangerously reduced. Start
with buffered, neutral water and after 3 weeks it may have turned
slightly acidicwhich is an ideal environment for many aquatic
plants.
Want Hagen Nutrafin CO2 Natural Plant System with CO2 Activator and Stabilizer Discount?
I have used this system for two years. It works pretty well. Hagen's yeast and 'stabilizer' last about a month in the winter, 2-3 weeks in summer, when the yeast seems to burn off quicker. I did once lose a fish that got trapped in the diffuser, but that fish had been looking unhealthy (inactive, not feeding) anyway. You can use bread yeast and baking soda instead of Hagen's expensive yeast, but it doesn't last as long.The important thing is that CO2 is released into the tank and the plants look healthy. I don't bother to test my PH in my 20 gallon tank, so I don't know the effect on acidity..
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Timber Tent® Hide-A-Way® Natural Wood Huts for Small Pets
Avoid buying Timber Tents for your hamster or gerbil or guinea pig or whatever. The hamster-sized tents have hamster head sized holes as well. Buy houses with only arches instead of windows."
-quote from Tumblr user necrophilofthefutureMy guinea pig was playing in this house and it tipped over and snapped his neck! A small animal toy should not be able to kill small animals so easily.
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My 3 chinchillas really like this hide a way. They have already made the entrance and "window" bigger from chewing. It has held up well so far. They enjoy sitting on the top and inside the Timber Tent, and the only reason I rated it 4 stars instead of 5 is I think they would enjoy a bigger size more. One of them fits inside just fine, but they tend to snuggle together and its not quite big enough for two, let alone three =)Read Best Reviews of Timber Tent® Hide-A-Way® Natural Wood Huts for Small Pets Here
my pet mice love this thing they are all ways playing in it, you can wash it to because lets face it mice can be messy so soap and water cleans it off like its brand newWant Timber Tent® Hide-A-Way® Natural Wood Huts for Small Pets Discount?
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Marina Naturals Malaysian Driftwood with Plants
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I am very happy with this product. My gecko loves it. He can climb all the way inside it. It's made pretty well. I recommend it.Read Best Reviews of Marina Naturals Malaysian Driftwood with Plants Here
for my daughter's fish my grandchild....Marina Naturals Malaysian Driftwood with Plants, MediumHagen...nice size great price... very happy with purchase
Want Marina Naturals Malaysian Driftwood with Plants Discount?
Bought the medium for my ten gallon tank. Fits beautifully and looks great, no regrets. Be sure to rinse it out before adding it to your tank and check for strands of left over glue.Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Acurel F250 Millimeter Water Clarifier, Aquarium, Treats 2, 650 Gallons
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I have had aquariums for over fifty years. I have rave reviews for this product, it works perfectly every time I use it, crystal clear water within two hours.Read Best Reviews of Acurel F250 Millimeter Water Clarifier, Aquarium, Treats 2, 650 Gallons Here
Greetings. I have maintained upwards of 320 aquariums in my commercial facility. Additionally, I do a fair amount of high-end tropical fish photography. Used as directed this product exceeds all expectations and makes the water look like it is not even there. It does not get any better than this and I have used this product for many, many years without losing a single fish. What more could you possibly ask for? Cheers. FrankWant Acurel F250 Millimeter Water Clarifier, Aquarium, Treats 2, 650 Gallons Discount?
I don't write product reviews. Ever. Until now. Acurel F Water Clarifier works. Used as directed, it has taken on the murky water of my 90 gallon tank (two 13" Oscars, and a couple of plecostomus bums (15" and 12") who apparently hate algae--but I digress). I've taken to closing the door to the room with the tank because I was embarrassed about the murky water. I've worked on this problem for months--lots of clarifiers offering promises without success. Water changes lasted a day or two--but not a permanent solution. In all of my decades of fish tank experience, I've never had this problem last as long as it did.I used Acurel F AS DIRECTED and went to bed. The next morning the tank was so clear I was in disbelief. The door once again stays open. Acurel doesn't just kinda work. It really works.
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Cobalt Aquatics Algae Wafers, 6-Pound
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Not the same wafers as what we were used to yet the plecos don't seem to mind so much and they do get soft so the babies can eat as well.Read Best Reviews of Cobalt Aquatics Algae Wafers, 6-Pound Here
Friday, December 20, 2013
Aqueon Hang-On Overflow Box
Pros:
Works as described
Good capacity (Can not validate 2200 GPH clam as I only us a 900GPH pump)
Easy to setup
So far has not lost siphon
dual drain, great if one get clogged and can handle a lot of water
Cons:
Black acrylic would have been better for the in tank part as algae will quickly rune the appearance of the clear acrylic.
Drain connector could be better. I would have rather screw on type, these ones require a clamp and rely on fiction.
Overall I am very happy.It works great when you first start it. After ONE day the filter gets dirty. I don't care how clean your tank looks. The filter gets dirty fast and you have to clean it. If you don't the siphon slows down and the return pump you have in your sump is now too powerful. Clean the filter and your back in business. Kinda sucks after you do it everyday almost.i have no idea how it work. i make my own protein skimmers, drill tanks, make awesome wet drys, & understand them all. this blows me away. i can make it now that i see it but understand it no i do not. easy set up & instructions. got it running and stopped all pumps for 4 hours. plugged every thing in again and away it went.? this thing rocks & i will be making my own to added new tanks to my set up soon. price point is spot on, be leave me i looked , add a tank to your wet dry or added a wet dry to your tank. for the people that have had issues with it didn't us it right.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Como 30mm Dia Ball Shaped Fish Tank Bubble Release Air Stones Gray 5 Pcs
Sunday, October 6, 2013
All Glass Aquarium AAG25916 Fluorescent Strip Light, 16-Inch
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Friday, September 6, 2013
Simple Solution Washable Diapers Cover-Ups, XX-Small, Pink/Purple 2 pack
She looks adorable in the diaper but also prevents accidents in the house with using a disposible liners in them.
I bought two sets, and hand wash them as needed and hang to dry. The service was quick and a fair price for the product and the colors are adorable for a female.i ordered the pink/purple color for my little yorkie, but received ungly grey and black. other than the wrong color, the diaper works great. it's very small which fit my 2lbs yorkie perfectly.
Buy Simple Solution Washable Diapers Cover-Ups, XX-Small, Pink/Purple 2 pack Now
this product although made well did not really work for me..would probably work nicely for someone who has a more sedate puppy..could not get it to stay on..had more to do with the puppy than the product .Read Best Reviews of Simple Solution Washable Diapers Cover-Ups, XX-Small, Pink/Purple 2 pack Here
I bought these for our very small toy rat terrior that doesn't like going out in the cold, so has some "accidents" in the winter.. unfortunately these are made from a very heavy, unflexible material that did not fit her little butt well at all, and did not stay on -when she walked across the floor they would slide down her back. Or she would rub up against a chair and rub them off. They may work for certain dogs that have the perfect body type, but we could not keep them on our little oneWant Simple Solution Washable Diapers Cover-Ups, XX-Small, Pink/Purple 2 pack Discount?
These run really small. I got this for my 5lb chihuahua and this was a pain as everytime she tried to run it would fall off.Friday, August 23, 2013
Hagen A1589 14-Watt Sun-Glo Fluorescent Bulb, 15-Inch
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I couldn't find a replacement bulb for my aquarium light anywhere this did the trick. It has been working everyday for 6 months or so now.Read Best Reviews of Hagen A1589 14-Watt Sun-Glo Fluorescent Bulb, 15-Inch Here
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Marineland Perfecto Glass Canopy Hinge Large 1 in. x 36 in. (3/16 in. thick)- Black
Buy Marineland Perfecto Glass Canopy Hinge Large 1 in. x 36 in. (3/16 in. thick)- Black Now
The hinges were exacting what I wanted. The first two came in quickly. We had no problem cutting them to size and fitting our hood. We received two hinges and had order two. After three phone calls and two promises to ship the other two hinges, the company no longer caries the hinges and will refund the cost. Three phone call?this works good for my aquarium. I do not know why the local store does not keep this on hand as it is a much needed piece. Nevertheless, I was glad to find this online.Want Marineland Perfecto Glass Canopy Hinge Large 1 in. x 36 in. (3/16 in. thick)- Black Discount?
even though it took forever to get to my house it was in ok condition and an ok product over allMonday, August 5, 2013
Tetra Replacement Foam Flat Box Filter
when it is time to replace the first one that this one will be just as good.
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long lasting if you clean them regularly and it will hold a lot of waste before needing a good cleaning used for the tetra 150-500 gallon pond filter set up and im very happy with the performance of the product and have ordered several extras for laterRead Best Reviews of Tetra Replacement Foam Flat Box Filter Here
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Fish Mate 6000PUV Pressurized UV+Bio Pond Filter
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We have a 3000 gallon pond with 20 koi and goldfish. The water got so dark we could only see the fish when the sun was shining into the pond. This system cleared it up in 2 days! Now it is always crystal clear.We had an issue with a crack and a leak, damaged in shipping most likely. They sent us a new one before we even had the first one packed up and ready for the return pick up.
We are VERY pleased and definately recommend the product AND the company.
Read Best Reviews of Fish Mate 6000PUV Pressurized UV+Bio Pond Filter Here
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Hydra Aquatic CO2 Paintball Adapter
Update: 3/21/2013 Things are still running smoothly and the adapter is working well--no problems (knock on wood).Although the description does not say it, this product was made to work with the throw away type cartridges (Fluval 88g and Gulfstream 95g) it will not work for other reusable types. If you own a cartridge system and want to use a paint ball canister, this is your product.
Buy Hydra Aquatic CO2 Paintball Adapter Now
THIS IS NOT A CGA-320 ADAPTER!!! I have no idea what it fits (must be some proprietary solenoid).AMAZON PLEASE TAKE NOTE!!!
To review...
I have a planted fish tank, which I assume you do too if you are looking at this item. Like me, you are probably interested in using a paintball CO2 tank to provide your CO2 (maybe it's a cheaper tank, maybe it's easier to refill, maybe the smaller CO2 tank fits your cabinet better all the reasons I need to ditch the huge 5lb CO2 tank). Here's the problem... the paintball tank has a needle valve, so you can't just screw on your usual regulator (the needle needs to be pushed in, which would have happened by squeezing the trigger on the paintball gun, for CO2 to be released typical regulators and CO2 tanks don't have any needle). Thus the need for an adapter, which screws onto the paintball tank, pushes in the pin, and then you hook up your regulator to the other end.
The problem... the standard size screw fitting in the US is CGA 320. Tanks have the male end, regulators have the female end, all fits together well. CGA 320 is just under an inch in diameter (sometime like 0.8). The description of this product says CGA 320. Sounds good right? WRONG the paintball side is CGA 320, but the regulator side is way smaller, something like 0.5 inch. Standard regulators wont fit. Maybe I got the wrong one, but do yourself a favor and buy the aquatek version (which is a few $$ more expensive... serves me right for trying to go for the cheapo version without ratings).
Otherwise, this thing looks pretty nice and seems sturdy. Might be useful if you actually have the appropriate regulator...
Read Best Reviews of Hydra Aquatic CO2 Paintball Adapter Here
Yes, it's supposed to be a paintball adaptor, which it is, it'll fit on a paintball tanks threads just fine.But, when I purchased it, it was with the intention of using it with a CO2 regulator for my planted aquarium. No such luck. It didn't fit my regulator at all.I bought this thinking that it had the same threads as the disposable 88-gram CO2 cartridges. The threads are very close to the same, but not quite. Although it does work great if you just want to vent your reusable paintball-type CO2 tank (not recommended, it gets VERY cold).

