In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the art and science of building a vibrant planted aquarium without CO₂ injection. Learn how to choose the right plants, lighting, substrate, and layout strategies to create lush growth with minimal tech and maintenance.
Whether you're a beginner or an aquascaper on a budget, this episode will help you build a tank that thrives naturally and looks amazing doing it.
📝 Feedback link as mentioned in the episode: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/contact
--------
15:04
Guppy Genetics Made Simple
In this week’s episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we’re taking the mystery out of guppy genetics and turning it into a clear, beginner-friendly guide for hobbyists who want to breed stunning guppies right at home. From dominant and recessive genes to punnett squares and strain development, this episode is packed with practical insights, scientific explanations, and real-world advice you can apply to your own tank.
Whether you’re curious why your fry don’t match the parents or you're ready to build your first breeding line, this is your go-to guide for understanding guppy heredity, trait tracking, and breeding strategy.
Arthur mentions Punnet Squares in this episode. You can read more about how to use these with your guppy breeding project here: https://artsfishroom.co.za/understanding-guppy-genetics-a-beginners-guide-to-punnett-squares/
Mentioned in this podcast: "Are Our Guppies Weak?"
--------
11:45
Aquarium Salt Explained - Hidden Benefits, Dangerous Myths, How To Use It Safely
In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the use of aquarium salt - one of the most powerful, misunderstood tools in freshwater fishkeeping. From the science of osmoregulation to practical treatment techniques, we break down what salt does, when to use it, and when it can do more harm than good.
Whether you’re dealing with parasites, stress, nitrite spikes, or simply wondering if salt belongs in your tank at all, this episode is packed with insights, real-life examples, and myth-busting clarity for hobbyists at every level.
🧂 Learn how to dose correctly, avoid common pitfalls, and understand the physiology behind salt use in aquariums.
Share the podcast: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io
--------
12:47
What Is Biofilm?
In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore the slimy, often misunderstood layer of microbial life known as biofilm. We learn that is absolutely essential to the health and balance of your aquarium. From its critical role in biological filtration and nutrient cycling, to how it feeds shrimp, fry, and snails - we go deep into the science and practical applications of biofilm in both planted and non-planted setups.
Whether you're cycling a new tank or fine-tuning a shrimp colony, this episode has everything you need to master the art of biofilm.
--------
10:51
10 Tips For Helping Cherry Shrimp Thrive
In today’s episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we explore 10 incredibly useful tips for keeping your Cherry Shrimp healthy, colourful, and thriving. Whether you're starting a new colony or troubleshooting mysterious disappearances, this episode explores everything you need to know - from tank setup to feeding, water quality, breeding, and more.
You’ll also learn how to avoid common mistakes, spot hidden dangers, and master the art of keeping shrimp safe in your community aquarium.
📝 Leave a review and tell us how your Cherry Shrimp are doing: https://theaquaristsedge.podcastpage.io/reviews
🐟 Check out Art’s Fish Room for all your shrimp supplies: https://artsfishroom.co.za
About The Aquarist’s Edge [Weekly Aquarium Podcast]
Keeping home aquariums is an exciting and fulfilling hobby. This podcast about freshwater aquarium keeping aims to share news, information, guides, and interviews with those who share in this aquatic pursuit. It will appeal to beginners and those with moderate experience and expertise, as well as those who have been at it for a long time and are very knowledgeable. It will cover all aspects of fishkeeping and include interviews with well-known aquarists within South Africa.
Listen to The Aquarist’s Edge [Weekly Aquarium Podcast], Focus on the Family with Jim Daly and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app