The Tint

Lessons from earth...

 

Every once in a while, I find some lesson from some other aspect of life that can apply to something that we do in the aquarium culture.

I'm not sure what it is about maintaining your landscape and keeping an aquarium that seems to strike the same "neural connections"...but it's there!

Certain things we do in the yard are for sure the "terrestrial analog" to stuff we practice with our aquariums! And they bring about similar emotions.

Relaxation. Tension. Obsession. Concern.

Example?

The other day, while working on my backyard lawn, I paused just a few moments to reflect upon the (unfortunate) growth of weeds that appeared to be sprouting up in a lot of places I didn't want them (well, is there anywhere that you actually want weeds to grow?). And like gardeners worldwide, I cursed just a bit, and dutifully removed them, vowing to eradicate the little bastards each and every time they reappear! 

And I felt that sort of thing that we all feel- a tinge of anger, frustration, a bit of resentment that you get when you've went to a lot of effort to create something nice, only to have something opportunistic make its appearance and do its best to sort of "spoil your party..."

Where had I felt this before? Oh, yes, in my aquariums! You know- algae growth!

We've all been there.

Felt that.

Of course, algae are pretty much pervasive in every body of water on Planet Earth, and I can go through the usual correct rhetoric about them being a sign that the water might have an excess of nutrients that they are exploiting, and that their appearance is kind of a good indicator that your aquarium is more than suitable for a diversity of life forms, and...

Yeah.

But, shit- it's freakin' ALGAE! 

Right?

I mean, none of that really makes you feel all that great when your carefully planned aquascape is turning into a tank full of green, brown, or red goo.

Yeah...However,  I think that the interesting thing to focus on (outside of the eradication efforts you'll inevitably attempt) is the very fact that they DID appear, and where and how they are growing. Not so much for the reason that this will give you some clues in how to eradicate them (these factors could), but that studying these facts will give you a sort of- how do I put it gently- "appreciation" for them!

Yep. An appreciation.

An understanding about how these tenacious life forms arise and utilize space, light, and nutrients to survive- and even flourish in aquatic ecosystems of all types. Now, they may not look all that nice to us, because they tend to take over areas that we would rather see covered with plants, botanicals, or nothing at all...

But, hey- they really DO grow, right?

And studying where they appear- and why can sort of get us atuned to the fact that "desirable" organisms and aquatic plants will grow effectively in locations that provide them the conditions that they need- be they light, nutrients, flow, "territory", proper substrate, etc.

An important lesson, really.

Algae, like their terrestrial counterparts, weeds and mushrooms, are amazing at utilizing what is available to them. They're unabashedly opportunistic. 

That's pretty amazing. How can we learn from algae- to our benefit?

Well, when you're contemplating your next aquascape or overall tank configuration, it only makes sense to "set the stage" for the plants and other organisms you intend to keep, providing them optimum, specific  physical and environmental conditions.

Duh, right?

As we all know, our fishes and plants will adapt tp a variety of conditions, but they will really thrive when we provide them the right conditions. They'll seek them out. The plants will grow towards the light, take root in the substrate best suited for their growth, and spread into other areas that they can take advantage of.

Just like algae do. 

Fishes will migrate towards the section of the aquarium that provides the best shelter, foraging, or spawning site. Areas that offer them the best possible situation to flourish.

Just like algae do.

And, as aquarists, we re always advised to research and provide our fishes with an aquatic environment most reminiscent of the one they've adapted and evolved to over the millennia. It's pretty good advice to follow, IMHO.

When they have those things, they typically will  thrive.

Just like algae.

So, yeah, it's almost a ridiculously, insultingly simple idea...yet, algae can actually "teach" us a few things, right? Or at the very least, just reinforce what we already know to be correct.

So before you siphon out that algae patch, pull that group of weeds, or  blast that Aiptaisa anemone with kalkwasser (for you reefers out there), pause for a second to consider why and how the "offending" life form came to be in that location.

And reflect upon how we can benefit by designing our aquariums to provide the optimum environment for each and every fish and plant that we treasure to grow and thrive. To give them every opportunity to do so is our challenge, and our obligation.

Something we can learn from weeds, Aiptasia, or yeah...algae.

Lessons from...Earth.

Seriously.

Admire them. Study them...perhaps take a moment to appreciate their simple adaptability and tenacity...and then eradicate the f- - - ers from your tank! 😜

Stay open-minded. Stay philosophical. Stay grounded. Stay curious. Stay creative. Stay resolute. Stay calm...

And Stay Wet.

 

Scott Fellman

Tannin Aquatics 

The beauty of unpredictability!

I have to admit, if there is anyone in the hobby who preaches the virtues of consistency, it's me. I am a huge proponent of doing the same thing over and over. It's like my mantra.

Consistency in many aspects of our work is a good thing.

However, I think I've taken it a bit too far I the past...to my own detriment.

Yes, I'll admit it...

When it comes to my aquariums, I've always sort of been a serious creature of habit...Like, a ridiculously  habitual, "tidally locked", almost inflexible fish geek. Thursday is water exchange day. at my house. Sunday is filter sock replacement day.

Feeding times are 4PM and 8PM....

Like, it's kind fo weird...but it's how stuff has worked for me for...like, well- forever! 

Over the past few years, fortunately, I've broken out of some of these ridiculous scheduled habits. I realized that changing stuff up creates opportunities to create new things. It's always a good time to change it up a bit! I mean, life's too short, right?

I was getting into some serious habits, for no real reason.

And I found that switching things up isn't so bad! It's important to to that, and it's fun, too.

Like, the other day I did a rare Tuesday water exchange on my brackish-water aquarium. (usually, it's Thursday)...And guess what? Everyone did okay. The fish all lived. The tank is intact.

The world didn't stop rotating.

And water exchanges are one of the practices that we perform that I think are perfect examples of rituals which can and should be varied from time to time. I mean, as long as you're exchanging, say "x" percentage of your aquariums' water each month, is the schedule you perform the exchanges on really that critical? 

No, it isn't.

And it's better, I think.

I mean, think about nature. Rainstorms and weather patterns come at various times during the month, let alone, the week or the day...Nature has a sort of "predictable unpredictability" that I think we as hobbyists should consider switching up schedules on stuff like water exchanges. Altering flow within our aquariums. And we should vary lighting schedules- if only slightly- throughout the year.

Granted, we have personal schedule and viewing times, etc. which dictate some things, but wouldn't it be interesting to see if creating variations in our fishes' environments throughout the year makes a difference in their health and behaviors?

I think so.

It's long been known that manipulating photoperiod, temperature, etc. can induce spawning in some species of fishes. It's a sort of "thing" with fishes like killies that you can affect incubation and/or hatching schedules of eggs by varying incubation parameters, agitating them, wetting them and drying them again (in the case of the annuals), etc.

So, why not change up a few things from time to time? 

I think we sort of already do this with our botanical additions, removals, and utilizations, right? We knowingly or unknowingly simulate the regular addition and export of plant materials into blackwater habitats, and the impacts on the aquatic environment can vary from time to time.

Just like in Nature.

Seasonal changes, and even those which occur on a much shorter time schedule- like monthly, weekly- or even daily in some habitats, impact the life cycles and habits of the fishes which leave in them. They've adapted to these changes. What secrets about their habits, health, and spawning activities could we learn if we attempt to replicate some of these changes in our aquariums?

We've done some extensive research and experimentation with seasonal cycles with our "Urban Igapo" work, and the results have been very, very interesting! Seeing the way we can manipulate our aquarium's environments to recreate seasonal cycles is something that we haven't really begun to appreciate with our fishes!

What sort of other factors can you play with in your tanks to gauge impact? The list of possibilities is endless, isn't it? From hardscape to hardware...it's huge.

The whole idea of "breaking patterns" really dovetails nicely with our idea of the "evolving" aquatic environment, doesn't it?

Yeah it does! 

Something to think about from time to time!

Stay unpredictable...Stay experimental. Stay observant. Stay curious. Stay creative. Stay excited! 

And Stay Wet.

 

Scott Fellman

Tannin Aquatics 

No magic here.

After years of experimenting with leaves, botanicals, and other natural materials in aquariums, and with a growing global community of hobbyists doing the same daily, the mental roadblocks to this approach are starting to fall. We're seeing all sorts of tanks being created by all sorts of hobbyists, which in years past would garner far more hushed whispers and criticisms than any gasps of envy.

With all of the newcomers to our world, you'll inevitably find some confusion or misunderstanding about how these systems, filled with decomposing seed pods and leaves and such, are managed. Some think that these systems and their natural microbial /fungal populations render any concerns about accumulating organics irrelevant, and that you can relax on maintenance practices.

Others are concerned that the very structure of botanical-style aquariums renders them "ticking time bombs", teetering on the brink 24/7, ready to "crash" at a moment's notice. As with so many things in aquarium-keeping, the truth lies somewhere in between.

It boils down to observing many basic tenants of aquarium keeping. Like, as much as you'll see me occasionally throw shade on some long-held aquarium practices and beliefs, most of what we do in our world is based upon time-honored techniques of husbandry and such...because they work. 

Don't assume that, because we accept and foster some unusual natural processes, we categorically eschew the basics of aquarium keeping.

I may "trash talk" mindset and bad attitudes, but I will never downplay the virtues of stuff like regular water exchanges, proper stocking, feeding, and observation of our aquariums. This stuff is fundamental. And it always makes me laugh that, when contemplating trying any new type of approach to aquariums, a certain percentage of hobbyists almost always feel that this is the one which somehow exempts them from the basics of aquarium husbandry! It's almost predictable.

Why is that? 

I wish I knew.

And some of the generic descriptors we use in our practice might very well gloss over some of the subtle nuances...stuff that we all should have a basic understanding of.

Need an example?

The moniker "organics" that we have used as a metaphoric "red flag" to discourage throwing this stuff into tanks in years past is still important to understand. Not all organics are bad. "Organics" are defined as natural matter or compounds with a carbon base...That pretty much covers everything, right? Stuff like nitrogenous compounds, however, are detrimental to aquarium water quality when they accumulate in excess over time.

No "approach" to aquarium-keeping will render your aquarium completely immune to these negative impacts. A well thought-out, well-managed botanical-style aquarium can manage nutrient inputs and exports effectively. The key is balance. It's about making sure that you have a means to utilize or export excess organics in place, such as a healthy and diverse population of bacteria, fungal growths, micro-crusataceans, etc. in place.

These organisms, when coupled with common sense, tried-and-true methods of aquarium management, help you create a stable, healthy aquarium for the long run.

And sure, dissolved organics can accumulate and even be problematic in any kind of aquarium- if you don't have necessary control and export processes in place to deal with them. What would these processes be?

Well, to start with: Proper stocking. Careful feeding. Decent water movement and filtration, to physically remove any uneaten food and excess fish wastes. Use of some chemical filtration media, such as organic scavenger resins, which tend not to remove the "tint", but act upon specific compounds, like nitrate, phosphate, etc.

And of course, water exchanges. Yeah, the centuries old, tried-and-true process of exchanging water is probably the single most important aspect of nutrient control and export for any system, traditional, botanical, etc. There is no substitute for diluting organic impurities through regularly-scheduled water changes, IMHO.

Nothing crazy here, huh? Like, this is pretty much "Aquarium Keeping 101", right?

This isn't some revelation.

I'll say it yet again: In my experience, there is nothing inherently more challenging or more dangerous about these types of tanks than there is with any other speciality system. The fact that the water is brown doesn't mean that a well-managed tank is any closer to disaster than any well-managed clear water system.

There's no magic here.

We simply need to do the work necessary to keep our aquariums operating in a healthy state. Nope, nothing new here. In my opinion, NO aquarium of ANY type is "set and forget"; do that and you'll be in for a rude awakening with a blackwater, botanical-style tank- or any tank. You simply can't take that approach in this hobby, IMHO.

That being said, I commend many of you for forging ahead with new ideas and this approach that might not be familiar to you. Moving from the theoretical to the functional takes some courage, imagination, and most of all..impulse. When it comes to trying out exotic new concept aquariums, guys like me (as you all know by now) just need to get the damn thing started and stop musing on about it.

Others go full speed ahead...damn the torpedoes! These people are awesome.

Regardless, self-awareness is important! I think it's in my nature to get a bit too deep into the planning. The challenge for me is not to get so bogged down in an endless cycle of "analysis paralysis" that I never get projects off of the drawing board!

Don't get into this rut, okay? Understand what's involved, what's required of you as a hobbyist, and simply move forward.

Just remember one thing:

It's not a "plug-and-play" proposition. It requires some effort, thought, observation, and patience...

So, yeah...I'm glad you're here. Glad you made that mental shift...and have the courage to try something that might be new for you!

Enjoy. Learn. Practice. Explore. Share.

Stay thoughtful. Stay creative. Stay relentless. Stay undeterred. Stay diligent...

And Stay Wet.

 

Scott Fellman

Tannin Aquatics 

Opposite directions: Two little "case studies" on the influence of underwater nuances

As aquarists, we spend a good part of our time trying to figure out how to keep our fishes healthy and happy.  And as dedicated natural aquarium enthusiasts, we take it a level deeper, and try to re-create as many of the features of our fishes' natural habitats as possible.

Today, we're going to take the most cursory of looks at two unique habitats- pretty much polar opposites of each other- to facilitate the idea of topography and its influence on the aquatic environment. By studying these habitats, we're seeing for ourselves the unique possibilities that are out there to work into the aquarium.

And I think it goes beyond just creating a cool-looking habitat with wood or botanicals or rock, and calls upon us to investigate other factors, such as the currents and underwater topographic features of these ecosystems. It's about exploring how these features affect the life habits of our fishes.

There is a reason why fishes aggregate and live out their lives in specific environmental niches; and it goes beyond just the presence of leaves, or the acidity or alkalinity of the water.

The physical structures and flow patterns which make up the streams, rivers, and other aquatic habitats are a fascinating study in and of themselves. And yeah, there are many different habitats where physical barriers in the water affect the underwater environment.

 

For example, I'm fascinated by what stream ecologists call "riffles" (defined as shallow sections of a stream with rapid current and a surface broken by gravel, rubble or boulders), with a moderately-fast-flowing current and mostly sandy bottom with tree roots, leaves, driftwood pieces, and small rocks and pebbles. (ohh...home to Darter Characins! I'm thinking cool niche biotope aquarium here...)

These "riffles" are considerably more significant in the wet season, when the obvious impact of higher water volumes are present. They're fascinating habitats to explore- and interesting to replicate in our aquariums!

 

In many aquatic habitats, riffles have  well-defined margins and barriers which divert and alter water flow patterns. Often, these features are created by stuff like fallen trees or branches, and become semi-permanent or even permanent features to the underwater 'landscape."

And interestingly, in South America, you'll find an unexpected abundance of some species familiar to us as hobbyists in these "riffles."

Some scientists have postulated that the higher presence of nocturnal predators in the pools adjacent to the more active riffles might increase the number of species that seek refuge in the riffles to avoid them!

Fishes like Rivulus, which usually live in more intermittent pools along the stream edges, outside the main stream channels, are normally found at night in these riffles!  So, protection from predators- survival- is a powerful motivation for fishes to seek out these different habitats. Now, granted, in the aquarium we are almost guaranteed NOT to keep predators and prey in the same tank (at least, not for long-term display purposes!), but is there not something to be gained by replicating such environments? 

 

Reduction of stress. Fostering of natural behaviors...Even if they are not "necessary" for survival. I can't hope but wonder if providing some of these more specific environmental conditions (in concert with stuff like water chemistry and the presence of stuff like leaves, wood, etc.) could facilitate greater possibilities for spawning, long-term health, and greater lifespan?

Maybe?

Application of water movement-something we've embraced in reef aquariums for decades to facilitate natural responses and long-term health in our animals- has its place in almost every type of natural aquarium, doesn't it?

 

I'm thinking that it does.

So, dust off those powerheads. Reconsider the way you return water to your aquarium. Evaluate the underwater "topography" of the natural environments and the life habits of your fishes from these locales. 

Further, re-think how stuff like lighting patterns, rain, etc., influence our fishes. Consider how we might apply this information to better the lives of the fishes in our aquariums. These types of nuances play an important role in helping us re-create some of the more interesting aquatic habitats of the world. 

 

Let's go in the opposite direction now: The fascinating, sluggish, lagoon-like habitats of South America known as "morichals."

A "morichal" is a lowland stream found in Savannah areas of South America, Amazon River basin, the upper Negro River drainage in Brazil, the Orinoco River basin, and along the Orinoco River in Colombia and Venezuela, among other locales. The habitat is dominated by a certain type of palm tree, the "Moriche Palm" (Mauritia flexousa), and extensive riparium vegetation. This palm only grows were its roots can be underwate (love that!),and typically is found in groups- hence the term, "morichal", which refers to...a group of them!

Morichals are considered important systems for the maintenance of freshwater Neotropical fauna in lowland savannas. The monodominant stands of the palm and associated growths provide important food to a great number of species, ranging from Monkeys to birds to of course, fishes.

Although typically supplied with underground water sources throughout the year, these streams swell with water during periods of seasonal flooding. Riparian vegetation and sandy substrates abound. And when you have trees, vegetation, and seasonal influx of water, utilizing botanicals in your aquarium replication of this habitat is just "par for the course', right? 

The habitat itself has an abundance of botanical debris, leaves, macro algae, fallen branches, palm fronds, and a matrix of roots and such. And, with terrestrial plants growing right up to the water's edge, the possibilities to create a cool aquatic display are unlimited! With a little creativity, one could simulate the growth of the riparian vegetation and submerged terrestrial grasses, along with the unique underwater topography of the "morichal." 

And, incorporating riparian plants in our displays is something we've talked about and toyed with here for some time.

I've cultivated some riparian plants, such as Acorus, for the past couple of years, which "I'm gonna" use someday in a paludarium-type replication of this habitat! A paludarium would open up some unique aesthetic opportunities to really push the boundaries of creativity!

In the past, I've even experimented with small "Cat Palms" (Chamaedorea cataractarum) and rooted them in leaf-strewn, shallow sand substrates- a sort of "micro morichal" setup! I know this concept can work! Further experimentation in this area can no doubt yield some cool results!

And of course, whenever you have these rather complex physical habitats, you end up with a diversity of life and food sources- and hence, fishes which are suited to exploit them. This interesting summary from a study I encountered on Morichal habitats expands upon this:

"In structurally complex habitats, specialist species also can exploit specific food resources to which they are morphologically or physiologically adapted to utilize (Willis et al., 2005). For example, in vegetated patches we found a relatively high abundance of small cichlids and doradid catfishes with different body shapes and feeding habits (e. g., Apistgramma hoignei, Physopyxis ananas). But small omnivorous characids with less-diversified body morphologies (Characidae), such as tetras of the genera Moenkhausia spp. and Hemigrammus spp., dominated open and shallow beaches.

Littoral habitats containing woody debris and leaf litter also might support higher primary and secondary productivity which provides fishes with more foraging opportunities on a larger variety of substrates (Benke et al., 1985; Crook & Robertson, 1999). Relationships between fish structure and macroinvertebrate assemblages have been associated with habitat heterogeneity (Angermeier & Karr, 1984)."

Although the waters in these habitats are largely clear (as in, not turbid), they are stained with tannins and are typically acidic in pH (usually 6.0 or less), and have a significant amount of roots and such from the terrestrial and riparium vegetation surrounding. And there is not a huge amount of water movement. You'll find lots of palm leaves, fruits, and seed pods submerged on the substrate in morichals.

And of course, that's where we come in, right?

What would be good botanicals to utilize in an aquarium representing this habitat?Well, some of our palm-derived selections would be a good start! Since palms are an important part of this habitat, it would only make sense that these materials form an important part of your aquascape, right?

Scattering these materials along the bottom of the aquarium would create a pretty good replication of the morichal environment! I would probably not go too crazy, in terms of variety; rather, I'd limit my selections to a few of the above and just sort of "do it up" that way, so as to emphasize the abundance of several dominating plant species in the locale.

Although not as productive as the Amazon River itself, these environments often contain dozens of different fish species in relatively small areas, including characins, catfishes, and dwarf cichlids. Unusual characin species, such as Hemiodus, are often found in these habitats. Occasionally available in the aquarium trade, they would make really cool "stars" for a specialized display like this! The lovely "Green Neon Tetra" (Paracheirodon simulans), is a known (and super sexy!) denizen of this habitat, as well!

Oh, and Dwarf Pike Cichlids are often found in morichal habitats...hello!

Of course, some of the more popular characins, such as Pencilfishes (N. unifasciatus is notable), are found there. And Apistogramma, along with the beloved Mesonauta insignis, are found in morichals, which will lend a familiar, if not somewhat exotic look to your display!

As a subject for a riparium study, the morichal environment presents a near-perfect opportunity to stretch your aquatic creativity, while highlighting some well-known fishes in an unusual and not-often-replicated niche.

Think of the creative possibilities here! 

There you have it... a brief summary of two completely different- even opposite- types of aquatic habitats- seldom replicated, yet perfect for aquarium representations! Both influenced significantly by underwater topography.

We have no shortage of wood and botanical materials to experiment with to replicate these environments in our aquariums. Redirecting flow, creating hiding places for fishes, and fostering epiphytic growth of biofilms and such are just a few of the obvious items to check off the "to-do" list when recreating the functional and aesthetic aspects of these unique niches.

This is fun! 

Dive deeper. Consider the "complete package" the next time you set up an aquarium- not just the look. You might just find that you're pushing the needle on the state of the art of the aquarium hobby just a bit farther, right?

I think so.

Stay thoughtful. Stay creative. Stay motivated. Stay resourceful. Stay diligent...

And Stay Wet.

 

Where no one has gone before?

Okay, I admit, the title sounds a bit "Star Trek" like today...

LIke, multiple times in the course of a year, you'll hear me calling to you- our community (someone called it "Tint Nation" once, and I had to laugh) to really push it. I mean, to try stuff that's extremely unconventional; perhaps boundary-pushing...

Aesthetically uncomfortable...even unconvincing for some. But different. Functional. and yeah, I suppose, weird.

Stuff that pushes into "That's some strange shit!" territory. Stuff that, in previous years, would result in a lot of hobbyists telling you stuff like, "It can't work!" "You'll crash your tank!", "It can't be maintained long term!", etc., etc., etc. Stuff that, as a "disciple" of the natural, botanical-style aquarium, will leave (hopefully) asking these naysayers, "Why are you saying that? Because no one has done it before? Or, does the idea just not make sense to YOU?"

Yup. Pushing back on "conventionality" is often a good thing.

There is so much interesting stuff out there to study and replicate in our aquariums. Not just to "diorama it up" to win a biotope aquarium contest; no- but to replicate the form and function of these unique habitats. I say this over and over and over again, because it's a completely different mindset. I think we need to spend much more time really trying to get our hands around why these natural habitats are the way they are.  To understand why they formed, how they "operate", and what set of unique characteristics they possess which makes them home to our beloved fishes.

I feel like I have a "duty" to expose the aquarium world to these unusual aspects of Nature, because they just might lead to some "unlocks" about aspects of the aquatic world that will create beneficial outcomes for our captive fishes, too. Not just because they're weird.  

Not just because replicating them runs contrary to what we've been told is appropriate subject matter for an aquarium. In fact, not all of these things are "weird."Not all of them are impossible or "dangerous" to replicate in the aquarium. Some are simply ideas that have not been "played out" in the confines of an aquarium, for whatever reason.

These ideas-these habitats- are often simply overlooked.

Attempting to replicate the functional aspects of these habitats is simply a "due diligence thing to me. It will force us to push our skills out a bit; learn something. These ideas are fascinating...

These ideas are cool.

Cool, because they force us to look at Nature in a different way. Cool- because they make us consider not only the "appearance", but the (wait for it...) function of these features. Some may be really hard to replicate in the confines of the aquarium. Others may ultimately turn out simply be not all that exciting; perhaps more trouble than they're worth, although I doubt it. I've taken away something-good-or-bad- from every one of these crazy ideas I've embarked upon.

And I've done a few crazy ideas, trust me.

I think most-if not ALL- of these ideas will yield interesting insights into Nature, while pushing us along in the evolution of aquarium keeping. Even when they fail. It's time to breath life into such ideas. To encourage the hobby to push the boundaries back a bit further. Actually, a lot further.

It's time to go where no one has gone before.

And sure, because it's cool. 😎 

 

Literally, our Tannin "mantra" in 2020, as articulated to my team is, "Do cool shit."

And that's kind of what we're gonna do.I hope you join us there, too. At the place where what we know and what we think about meet. At that "delta" at the intersection of science and art.

As the world turns a more interested eye towards the idea of tanks with water in them that's not "crystal clear, blue-white", we at Tannin have an obligation to share some new ideas, to keep pushing the boundary forward. We can't just be content to "popularize" the idea of botanicals, blackwater and brackish aquariums.

So, yeah- we'll push out further.

I plan on playing with more representations of unusual "niche" habitats, like vernal pools, flooded rice paddies, blackwater mangrove thickets, muddy streams, etc. We'll see more tangles of roots, tree stumps, sediment-encrusted branches, and all sorts of stuff that we see in various natural habitats. More unusual brackish water stuff is coming...maybe even some marine aquarium work, as we take our "natural" case to the other side of the fence! Many of you have asked me to do that, so I'm willing to put my old reefing skills to the test again. 

My "salty" adventure will almost certainly center around mangroves.

We know the elements of our botanical-style world

Detritus. Bits and pieces of decomposing botanical materials. Mixes of sand, sediments, and leaves, aquatic plants, bark, etc. Oh, and we will likely see more work with rock, too. I'm more and more fascinated about rocky, sediment-and-leaf-strewn habitats- how they form, what influences their water chemistry, and what fishes reside there.

And yeah, we'll play a lot more with substrates. I promise- PROMISE that we'll be releasing the substrates soon. There have been a few issues to solve on that front; we're almost there!

I can't stress enough how important I feel that the aquarium version of "active substrates" (borrowing from our herp friends!) may be to aquairums. It's an area of the hobby which I think there will be far more interesting lessons to learn, and things to accomplish than you might think!

 Yeah, I'd like us to collectively push ourselves a bit more.

Do it for yourself. But do it visibly, to inspire, and bring light to the world. Do your best. Do what makes your heart sing. 

And occasionally, do "weird."

And do it well.

Regardless of what anyone says. Your vision just might inspire another hobbyist to do something that has never even been contemplated before. Those are the moments we live for. The moments that make facing challenges, fears, criticisms...all worth it in the end.

That's the real benefit of going where no one has gone before...

Take the journey.

Stay bold. Stay creative. Stay true. Stay engaged...

And Stay Wet.

 

Scott Fellman

Tannin Aquatics 

The breakdown on...the breakdown!

Of all the processes which we foster and observe in our botanical-style aquariums, none is more fundamental than the decomposition of the leaves, seed pods, and bark that we play with in our practice. And the most amazing thing is that the very processes that we see in our aquariums have been occurring in Nature for eons. 

By making those mental shifts to accept these process and foster them- as well as their rather unique "aesthetics"- we are helping to unlock potential benefits for our fishes as never before.

And it starts with stuff breaking down. The process of decomposition.

Decomposition is an amazing process by which Nature processes materials for use by the greater ecosystem. It's the first part of the recycling of nutrients that were used by the plant from which the botanical material came from. When a botanical decays, it is broken down and converted into more simple organic forms, which become food for all kinds of organisms at the base of the ecosystem.

In aquatic ecosystems, much of the initial breakdown of botanical materials is conducted by detritivores- specifically, fishes, aquatic insects and invertebrates, which serve to begin the process by feeding upon the tissues of the seed pod or leaf, while other species utilize the "waste products" which are produced during this process for their nutrition.

In these habitats, such as streams and flooded forests, a variety of species work in tandem with each other, with various organisms carrying out different stages of the decomposition process.

And it all is broken down into three distinct phases identified by ecologists.

It goes something like this:

A leaf falls into the water.

After it's submerged, some of the "solutes" (substances which dissolve in liquids- in this instance, sugars, carbohydrates, tannins, etc.) in the leaf tissues rather quickly. Interestingly, this "leaching stage" is known by science to be more of an artifact of lab work (or, in our case, aquarium work!) which utilizes dried leaves, as opposed to fresh ones.

Fresh leaves tend to leach these materials over time during the breakdown/decomposition process. Hmm, a case for experimenting with "fresh" leaves? Perhaps? On the other hand, this is yet another reason why it's not a bad idea to prep your leaves, because it will help quickly leach out many of the remaining sugars and such which could degrade water quality a bit in closed systems.

The second stage of the process is called the "conditioning phase", in which microbial colonization on the leaf takes place. They begin to consume some of the tissues of the leaf- at least, softening it up a bit and making it more palatable for the aforementioned detritivores.

The last phase, "fragmentation", is exactly what it sounds like- the physical breakdown of the leaf by various organisms, ranging from small crustaceans and shrimp to fungi- and even fishes, collectively known as "shredders." It has been suggested by some ecologists that microbes might be more important than "shredders" in tropical streams.

Fauna composition differs between habitats, yet most studies I've found will tell you that Chironomidae ( insect larvae-think Bloodworms!) are the most abundant in many streams, pools, flooded forests, and "riffles" in the initial period of leaf breakdown! 

The botanical material is broken down into various products utilized by a variety of life forms. The particles are then distributed downstream by the current and are available for consumption by a variety of organisms which comprise aquatic food webs.

Six primary breakdown products are considered in the decomposition process: bacterial, fungal and shredder biomass; dissolved organic matter; fine-particulate organic matter; and inorganic mineralization products such as CO₂, NH₄⁺ and PO₄^3-.  In tropical streams, a high decomposition rate has been related to high fungal activity...they accomplish a LOT!

A lot of stuff going on in the litter beds of the world, huh?

This is a dynamic, fascinating process- part of why we find the idea of a natural, botanical-style system so compelling. Many of the organisms- from microbes to micro crustaceans to fungi- are almost never seen except by the most observant and keen-eyed hobbyist...but they're there- doing what they've done for eons. They work slowly and methodically over weeks and months, converting the botanical material into forms that are more readily assimilated by themselves and other aquatic organisms.

The real cycle of life!

And another reason why the surrounding tropical forests are so vital to life. The allochthonous leaf material from the riparian zone (ie; from the trees!) as a source of energy for stream invertebrates, insects  and fishes can't be understated! When we preserve the rain forests and their surrounding terrestrial habitats, we're also preserving the aquatic life forms which are found there when the waters return.

In our aquariums, we're just beginning to appreciate the real benefits of using leaves and botanicals. Not just for cool aesthetics or to "tint" the water- but to create truly natural, ecologically stable aquatic systems for the health and well-being of the fishes we love so much!

And it all starts with leaves falling into the water and...breaking down.

It's still early days.

There is so much to learn and experiment with. Every single one of us, when we embark on a botanical-style aquarium adventure- is playing a key role in contributing to the "state of the art" of the aquarium hobby! Every contribution is important...

Enjoy the process! 

Stay curious. Stay observant. Stay experimental. Stay bold...

And Stay Wet.

 

Scott Fellman

Tannin Aquatics 

 

 

 

 

The difficult decision to make decisions...

 

Yesterday, a customer asked me to help her decide which botanicals to buy for an aquarium she was designing for some wild Leopoldi Angelfish. She had a cool idea for her tank...And I was stoked to be able to be a part of the process!

Not an uncommon thing in my daily existence, both at Tannin and my personal hobby adventures...It's a fundamental thing that we do here.

Decision on seemingly esoteric, yet actually fairly critical stuff are not uncommon here. These kinds of calls are fun, but they used to scare the shit out of me. Like, I'd be agonizing over stuff...

Really.

Why?

Because making decisions about what to do in your aquarium can have consequences, right? Helping make decisions about someone else's aquarium- well, that's a whole different layer of craziness! Like, I'm bummed out if I kill my fishes...I'm devastated if I do something that leads to killing someone else's fishes!

 

The customer's call required a seemingly simple decision, actually- a choice between two different aquascaping materials; however, choosing one over the other would take the aquascape in a definite "direction", so I suppose the consequences of the decision would be lasting..We went back and forth over the pros and cons, and following our discussion, the customer, apparently pleased/impressed with how I helped her arrive at a decision, asked, "How do you arrive at these decisions with such confidence?"

It made me think for a minute. Fooled her!

After I laughed, of course...Because I have not always made easy decisions! I used to agonize over everything. "Analysis paralysis" was like my modus operandi. And also laughed because we spent 40 minutes discussing wood and seed pods! I love that. What I get to do is really cool...and it's important to some special people.

How to make better aquarium-related decisions is actually pretty easy, but you have to be honest with yourself and stay focused on the primary issue. Of course, just deciding to share my thoughts on the process involved me weighing the potential "risks." ("Oh, there goes Fellman spouting off more wannabe psychobabble stuff." or "See, he DOES think he's the most important person in the industry.." or "Anyways, on to the next blog!") 

It’s all about how you approach it, really. 

Yup.

Here's how I've stumbled through the aquarium decision making process after a lifetime of getting wet:


1) Deciding between, for example, two amazing fishes: A classic one, actually. Go with your first choice. Period. You can always get the other one another time. Think about it this way- If you’re taking all that time to mull over the decision, is it to gather data or to postpone a decision? Maybe the best decision is to pass on both? Maybe?

Or, better to purchase both! 

Yeah, I like THAT one! 

2) Make the most pressing decisions first: In other words, if you know that you have to replace that canister filter and you also have the opportunity to purchase that crazy rare pair of cichlids…get the canister filter first. Yeah, because you have a lot depending on that filter, whereas the fish can always be picked up at a later time. Really.

Of course, I say that now, because the last time I made one of these "decisions" it was 7 years before I found the goddam fish again...

Who the f-ck am I to be dispensing advice on THIS call? 😂



3) Don’t change your mind once you’ve made the decision:  Unless, of course, there is a very compelling (ie; vital) reason to change it. Like, the new addition is killing everything in the tank, or the plumbing modification you made is flooding your new hardwood floor. Or it's your anniversary and you forgot to get a gift! 


4) Avoid soliciting 5 different decisions on “Which one” to get, or “which way to go”: I absolutely lose it sometimes when I see hobbyists post those, "Which fish should I add to this tank?" posts on Facebook or wherever.  Like, "You're freaking out-sourcing the stocking decisions to people on Facebook? WTF?" Forums are great, but they create decision-making roadblocks, IMHO. Because, if you receive 19 answers, it's pretty likely that 16 of them will be different, and 13 of those would take you in a totally different direction than you ever intended for your aquarium...

So, yeah- Just don’t ask the world. Ask people whom you trust, who can bring specific value to their recommendations. Or make the decision yourself, and deal with the consequences- good or bad...You can always get another tank, right?

Sure! That's the way I look at it, anyways...😆

5) Blow through simple decisions with little reflection: Example: You need to get more carbon. You use a pound of the stuff a month. Should you buy one pound or two pounds of the same brand? Who cares? Just get the carbon! I mean, this kind of stuff ties up so much "mental capital" it's not even worth it. Look in your purse/wallet. Have enough cash to purchase the large size? No, then purchase the smaller size.

Done. Enjoy the pretty Spring sunshine.

OMG, how insultingly simple I'm making everything sound...And really, that's not my point. I guess, having been through a lot of personal changes in recent years (seeing life, death, relationships, business all change in a heartbeat) has given me a different perspective than I've had in the past.

Like, I know that you can screw up anything at anytime, so why sweat it, right?

I've learned that you need to spend more time doing something than deciding about it. Then you can move on and do something else (or fix your bad fucking decision, of course!)

I mean, you can grow old and die just deciding which Tetra to purchase...Why? 

Wait. Don't answer that.

I screw up. A LOT. Like, more than you do. Like, way more, I'll bet. I mean, I sell twigs and seed pods for a living, right? I know screw-ups! But you know what? I learn from every screwup.  I own them. And sometimes, I actually make changes.

It's not that bad. Seriously.

And, it gives me more material to share with you guys! 

So, next time you have a tough decision to make...just make it, move on, and enjoy whatever happens.

Really.

Anyways, a lot to do today- you guys have been ordering like mad!...

Enjoy your cup of coffee, go for a walk, and enjoy your Friday.

Stay decisive. Stay thoughtful. Stay resourceful. Stay bold...

And Stay Wet!

Scott Fellman
Tannin Aquatics

The call of catappa...those "health benefits" re-thought...

We know that I'm obsessed with leaves. I love leaves and the benefits they offer for aquariums.

Conversely, I hate exaggerations, the perpetuation of myths, and the attribution of capabilities to techniques, products, etc. in the hobby which are only marginally based in fact. Especially when these ideas are pushed out by people who may not have all of the facts, the personal experience, and/or the background to back it up. 

These things become very detrimental to the hobby.

Now look, I realize that many of these things are offered up with good intentions; not with some nefarious purpose in mind. I mean, sure, sometimes you'll see someone who has a vested interest in selling something proffer these kinds of things, which flat-out sucks.

On the other hand, many of these offerings are simply "regurgitations" by well-intended hobbyists who simply didn't bother to do their "due diligence" and research the facts before pushing it out on the web.

Well, that sucks, too. Right?

As a guy who sells leaves for a living, I've had to be careful to not ascribe miraculous attributes to the stuff I sell- because it's not only not helpful- it can be downright misleading and certainly counterproductive for the hobby and industry by doing so!

And I see a lot of counterproductive garbage being put out there at scale. It's important to address some of this stuff from time to time, especially when it's about our use of botanicals in natural-style aquariums. We have an obligation, of sorts, to elevate our practice of utilizing natural materials in aquariums, and that often means diving just a bit deeper when seemingly "too good to be true" assertions are made.

 

Here is one of the most misunderstood botanical claims:

Catappa leaves can "cure fish diseases."

This is one which has been perpetuated for years (often by people who sell leaves online and elsewhere -hey, I'm in that group, huh? Yikes! 😳 ).

This assertion bothers the shit out of me.

Although, it actually has some validity to it. I said "some"- because we in the hobby and industry tend to selectively "cherry pick" stuff we like from science and run with that, often overlooking some of the more sobering realities in favor of the "sizzle."

Yup.

Clarification is required.

It has been known for many years by science that botanicals like catappa leaves (and others) have compounds in their tissues which do have some potential medicinal functions, like saponins, phytosterols, punicalagins, etc.  Fancy names that sound really cool- these compounds found in Catappa leaves are often bounced around on hobby sites as the "magic elixir" for a variety of fish ailments and maladies.

That's where the danger of regurgitation sneaks in.

Now, I can't entirely beat the crap out of this idea that Catappa leaves have some health benefits for fishes, as these compounds are known to provide certain health benefits...in humans. And for a long time, it was anecdotally assumed that they did the same for fishes. Now, sure, humans aren't fishes, as we all know...Yet, believe it or not, there have been studies that show benefits to fishes imparted by substances in Catappa and other leaves.

I stumbled across a university study conducted in Thailand with Tilapia which concluded that Catappa extract was "useful" for eradicating the nasty exoparasite, Trichodina, and found that the growth of a couple of strains of Aeromonas hydrophila was also inhibited by dosing Catappa leaf extract at a concentration of 0.5 mg/ml and up. In addition, this solution was shown to reduce the fungal infection in Tilapia eggs!

And it is now widely accepted by science that humic substances (such as those present in Catappa leaves and other botanical materials) are thought to have a wide range of health benefits for fishes in all types of habitats. We've covered this before in a great guest blog by Vince Dollar, and the implications for the hobby and industry are profound.

Although they are not the "cure all" that many vendors have touted them as, leaves and other botanicals do possess a wide range of substances which can have significantly beneficial impact on fish health.

 

So, these claims are not entirely erroneous; however, it's important NOT to make over-inflated assumptions about Catappa, and to assume that they are "miraculous things" that we can add to our tanks to do achieve smashing success at curing sick fishes. They are NOT.

Some of the stuff attributed to catappa is outright bullshit- cobbled-together  "benefits" taken from studies of these things on humans, and then ascribed to fishes, mixed with a hearty dash of aquarium lore, rumor, assumptions, and half-truths.

So, yeah, there is some good stuff there. Yet, I am curious how some of these things really "translate" over to fishes, you know? I mean, there must be more to it than simply reading that they are good for humans and implying without hesitation that the same benefits apply to fishes. Right? I mean...

The practice of using catappa leaves in aquariums is quite old.

And there is a certain logic to their use, which is hard to question. For many years, Betta breeders and other enthusiasts in Southeast Asia added catappa leaves to the tanks and containers that held their fishes, and noticed a lot of positives…Those who actually fought their fishes seemed to feel that, when kept in water into which catappa had been steeped, their fishes recovered more quickly from their injuries. Those who simply kept fishes (not for “blood sport”) noticed increased overall vigor, appetite, and health among their fishes. 

Okay.

Anecdotal? Perhaps.I mean, probably...

However, one thing I've learned about the early aquarists is that they employed very keen power of observation. They were a practical lot, if nothing more, who didn't have the internet and cool gadgets and stuff to rely on for information. It was more about trying stuff and going with things that seemed to work for them. They were obviously seeing something- or a combination of things, which led them to believe that using catappa leaves was beneficial to their fishes.

Now, this makes a lot of sense, right?

I mean, the natural habitats of many of the fishes of Southeast Asia are blackwater, botanical-influenced waters, rich with tannin from decomposing vegetation and naturally occurring peat. We’ve talked a lot about the benefits of “humic substances” for fish health, and, not surprisingly, there has actually been a fair amount of scholarly research into this area. As discussed above, many of the humic substances and compounds which benefit fishes are found in these natural waters.

As Catappa leaves and other botanical materials break down in our aquariums, they impart some of these beneficial compounds into the water, fostering a more healthy environment for fishes which are accustomed to blackwater conditions. Perhaps they perform an almost "prophylactic" role at preventing disease and supporting overall fish health, as opposed to functioning as some sort of "cure all." 

And that leads to more questions, of course:

What "dosage" do we apply? How many leaves steeped in how much water yields aconcentrated solution of 0.5 mg/ml or more? How long do these materials need to be in the aquarium to accomplish this? And is there truly some measure of effectiveness?

We're learning the answers to some of these questions together. Catappa keeps calling...

Breaking through the barrier of assumptions, hyperbole, and fluff that has often clouded this tinted world before we all came together and made a real effort to understand the function as well as the aesthetics of this dynamic, engrossing hobby niche. 

Let's keep working together to push the state of the hobby farther than ever, backed up with facts and personal experiences! When we aren't sure about something, there is absolutely no shame in saying, "We're just not sure..."

Everybody wins that way.

Winning is cool.

Stay curious. Stay resourceful. Stay engaged. Stay bold...

And Stay Wet.

 

Scott Fellman

Tannin Aquatics 

You've got the look. What about the function?

One of the things that I find sort of interesting to contemplate is the fact that, when you think about it- virtually all freshwater fishes come into contact with some botanical materials throughout their existence. In virtually every body of water, you'll find some sunken branches, tree trunks, leaves, roots, seed pods, etc.

It's something that fishes are completely familiar with. They've adapted over eons to co-exist with and utilize these materials as hiding places, areas to forage, and sites to spawn. Literally, a part of their daily existence.

And when you think about it from such a standpoint, you can ask yourself another basic question about our hobby: What is the purpose of an aquascape in the aquarium...besides just aesthetics? Well, it's to provide fishes with a comfortable environment that makes them feel "at home", right?

Exactly...so when was the last time you really looked into where your fishes live- or should I say, "how they live" - in the habitats from which they come?

Well first off...unless you're talking about large, ocean going fishes, or fishes that live in enormous schools, like herring or smelt- fishes like structure. Structure provides a lot of things- namely protection, shade, food, and spawning/nesting areas.

Yet, the structure that we are talking about is not just rocks and wood, in the context of aquariums. It can be plants, algae, twigs, pebbles, and botanicals.

Think about how fishes act in Nature.

They tend to be attracted to areas where food supplies are relatively abundant, requiring little expenditure of energy in order to satisfy their nutritional needs. Insects, crustaceans, and yeah- tiny fishes- tend to congregate and live around floating plants, masses of algae, and fallen botanical items (seed pods, leaves, etc.), so it's only natural that our subject fishes would be attracted to these areas...I mean, who wouldn't want to have easy access to the "buffet line", and the protection that it affords, right?

Another interesting phenomenon that any fisherman will tell you is that fishes also like to gather under trees. Not only do trees provide a respite from the bright light, they provide an opportunity to grab a meal of insects, fruit, and other materials which might fall from the trees throughout the day. By providing both food and shelter, the overhanging trees and plants provide an interesting place for fishes to hang out.

So, where does this leave us in terms of creating an aquascape for our fishes in the aquarium? Can we create systems which have both unique aesthetics and impressive function by using botanicals and other materials? How can we adapt this idea?

Well, for one thing, we can look to Nature to see just what it is that falls into the water! In many wild habitats, it's leaves, seed pods, branches, etc. All sorts of stuff. And what about how these materials are oriented in the water after they fall?

For example, when a tree branch falls into the water, gravity, current, wind, etc influence how it lays on the bottom of the stream. Often times, in shallow streams, the branch extends partially out of the water...kind of like what we do in 'scaping, right? Yet, somehow less "contrived."

As aquarists, we put an amazing amount of time into trying to achieve a perfect placement for wood, when the reality is that, in Nature, it's decidedly random. Is there not beauty in "randomness", despite our pursuit of the "Golden Ratio", etc? Just because last year's big 'scaping contest winner had the "perfect" orientation, ratios, and alignment of wood and stones within the tank, doesn't mean it's a real representation of the natural functionality of "randomness." 

When you think about how materials "get around" in the wild aquatic habitats, there are a few factors which influence both the accumulation and distribution of them. In many topical streams, the water depth and intensity of the flow changes during periods of rain and runoff, creating significant re-distribution of the materials which accumulate on the bottom, such as leaves, seed pods, and the like.

Larger, more "hefty" materials, such as submerged logs, etc., will tend to move less frequently, and in many instances, they'll remain stationary, providing a physical diversion for water as substrate materials accumulate around them.

A "dam", of sorts, if you will.

And this creates known structures within streams in areas like Amazonia, which are known to have existed for many years. Semi-permanent aquatic features within the streams, which influence not only the physical and chemical environment, but the very habits, distribution, and abundance of the fishes which reside there.

Most of the small materials, like branches, seed pods, and leaves may tend to move around quite a bit before ultimately settling and accumulating in a specific area. One might say that the "material changes" created by this movement of materials can have significant implications for fishes. In the wild, they follow the food, often existing in, and subsisting off of what they can find in these areas.

Now, in the case of our aquariums, this "redistribution" of material can create interesting opportunities to not only switch up the aesthetics of our tanks, but to provide new and unique little physical areas for many of the fishes we keep. So-called "microhabitats" that facilitate interesting behaviors and habits in our fishes, while supporting their grazing and spawning activities.

And, as you suspect, the benthic microfauna which our fishes tend to feed on also are affected by this phenomenon. They go where their food sources are, too. And as mentioned above, the fishes tend to "follow the food", making this a case of the fishes learning (?) to adapt to a changing environment.

And perhaps...maybe...the idea of fishes sort of having to constantly adjust to a changing physical (note I didn't say "chemical") environment could be some sort of "trigger", hidden deep in their genetic code, that perhaps stimulates overall health, immunity or spawning?

Something in their "programing" that says, "You're at home..." Triggering specific adaptations and behaviors?

I find this possibility utterly fascinating, because we can perhaps learn more about our fishes' behaviors and what it might be that triggers them-in the comfort of their own aquariums.

And of course, we can create really interesting physical and chemical environments  for them simply by adding botanicals to our aquariums and allowing them to "do their own thing", redistributing throughout the aquarium as they decompose and move about as we change water or conduct maintenance activities, or add new pieces from time to time.

Again, much like Nature.

The interaction between the terrestrial elements and the aquatic ones is really interesting, because it presents unique opportunity to observe how these familiar (to the fishes) combinations of materials foster these behaviors in the aquarium. It's something that we already have some "practice" with in our world, right?

Allowing terrestrial leaves to accumulate naturally among the "tree root structure" we have created fosters this more natural-functioning environment. As these leaves begin to soften and ultimately break down, they will foster microbial growth, biofilms, and fungal growths- all of which will provide supplemental foods for the resident fishes...just like what happens in Nature. 

Taking a more "functional" approach to creating our aquariums and their  aquascapes is something that I think we need to spend more "mental capital" on. The typical aquarium hardscape- artistic and beautiful as it might be- generally replicates the most superficial aesthetic aspects of such habitats, and tends to overlook their function- and the reasons why such habitats form.

When I see such beautiful aquascapes, I'm almost always thinking to myself, "Damn, they're sooo close to being able to create something really natural here!" If I had one of these tanks, it would literally take every bit of resistance I can offer to avoid tossing in some leaves and botanicals into the nooks and crannies that are formed where substrate, stones, and roots meet. Purely aesthetic 'scapes to me are like "missed opportunities" to me to learn more about these fascinating microhabitats!

The real "blurring of the lines" between Nature and aquarium is already underway. We've come pretty far, challenging ourselves as a community, and now we're definitely ready for a move to the "next level" of natural, botanical-style aquariums. Aquariums that, by virtue of the unique materials they utilize and the habitats they try to replicate, look and function in a radically different manner than those we've worked with before.

 

 

The canvas is blank.

Simple iterations to aquascaping configurations we've played with for decades can unlock many potential breakthroughs. And it all starts with embracing the concept of functional aesthetics when we create our aquariums.   

The web of life...and food. And botanicals.

After almost two decades of playing with botanical-style aquariums, I've come to a conclusion that likely will not surprise any of you:

These systems are biologically diverse, and, if given the chance, are more than capable of meeting some of the nutritional needs of the resident fishes.

"Biologically diverse." That's the key.

There is a web of life out there, ready for us to embrace in our aquariums.

If you've followed us for any length of time, you're well aware that we are not just pushing you to play with natural, botanical-style aquariums only for the pretty aesthetics. I mean, yeah, they look awesome, but there is so much more to it than that. We are almost as obsessed with the function of these aquariums and the wild habitats which they attempt to represent!

And one of the most important functions of many botanically-influenced wild habitats is the support of food webs. As we've discussed before in this blog, the leaf litter zones in tropical waters are home to a remarkable diversity of life, ranging from microbial to fungal, as well as crustaceans and insects...oh, and fishes, too!  These life forms are the basis of complex and dynamic food webs, which are one key to the productivity of these habitats.

By researching, developing, and managing our own botanically-infleunced aquaria, particularly those with leaf litter beds, we may be on the cusp of finding new ways to create "nurseries" for the rearing of many fishes!

At least upon superficial examination, our aquarium leaf litter/botanical beds seem to function much like their wild counterparts, creating an extremely rich "microhabitat" within our aquariums. And initial reports form those of you who breed and rear fishes in your intentionally "botanically-stocked" aquariums are that you're seeing great color, more regularity in spawns, and higher survival rates from some species.

We're just beginning here, bit the future is wild open for huge hobby-level contributions that can lead to some serious breakthroughs! 

Let's consider some of the types of food sources that our fishes might utilize in the wild habitats that we try so hard to replicate in our aquariums, and perhaps develop a greater appreciation for them when they appear in our tanks. Perhaps we will even attempt to foster and utilize them to our fishes' benefits in unique ways?

Maybe we will finally overcome generations of fear over detritus and fungi and biofilms- the life-forms which power the aquatic ecosystems we strive to duplicate in our aquariums. Maybe, rather than attempting to "erase" these thing which go against our "Instagram-influenced aesthetics" of how we think that Nature SHOULD look, we might want to meet Nature where she is and work with her. 

And then, we might see the real beauty- and benefits- of unedited Nature.

One of the important food resources in natural aquatic systems are what are known as macrophytes- aquatic plants which grow in and around the water, emerged, submerged, floating, etc. Not only do macrophytes contribute to the physical structure and spatial organization of the water bodies they inhabit, they are primary contributors to the overall biological stability of the habitat, conditioning the physical parameters of the water. Of course, anyone who keeps a planted aquarium could attest to that, right? 

One of the interesting things about macrophytes is that, although there are a lot of fishes which feed directly upon them, in this context, the plants themselves are perhaps most valuable as a microhabitat for algae, zooplankton, and other organisms which fishes feed on. Small aquatic crustaceans seek out the shelter of plants for both the food resources they provide (i.e.; zooplankton, diatoms) and for protection from predators (yeah, the fishes!).

I have personally set up a couple of systems recently to play with this idea- botanical-influenced planted aquariums, and have experimented with going extended periods of time without feeding my fishes who lived in these tanks- and they have remained as fat and happy as when they were added to the tanks...

Something is there- literally!  

Perhaps most interesting to us blackwater/botanical-style aquarium people are epiphytes. These are organisms which grow on the surface of plants or other substrates and derive their nutrients from the surrounding environment. They are important in the nutrient cycling and uptake in both nature and the aquarium, adding to the biodiversity, and serving as an important food source for many species of fishes.

In the case of our aquatic habitats, like streams, ponds, and inundated forests, epiphytes are abundant, and many fishes will spend large amounts of time foraging the biocover on tree trunks, branches, leaves, and other botanical materials. Although most animals use leaves and tree branches for shelter and not directly as a food item, grazing on this epiphytic growth is very important.

Some organisms, such as nematodes and chironomids ("Bloodworms!") will dig into the leaf structures and feed on the tissues themselves, as well as the fungi and bacteria found in and among them. These organisms, in turn, become part of the diet for many fishes.

And the resulting detritus produced by the "processed" and decomposing pant matter is considered by many aquatic ecologists to be an extremely significant food source for many fishes, especially in areas such as Amazonia and Southeast Asia, where the detritus is considered an essential factor in the food webs of these habitats. And of course, if you observe the behavior of many of your fishes in the aquarium, such as characins, cyprinids, Loricarids, and others, you'll see that in between feedings, they'll spend an awful lot of time picking at "stuff" on the bottom of the tank. In a botanical style aquarium, this is a pretty common occurrence, and I believe an important benefit of this type of system. 

I am of the opinion that a botanical-style aquarium, complete with its decomposing leaves and seed pods, can serve as a sort of "buffet" for many fishes- even those who's primary food sources are known to be things like insects and worms and such. Detritus and the organisms within it can provide an excellent supplemental food source for our fishes!

Just like in Nature. 

It's well known that in many habitats, like inundated forest floors, etc., fishes will adjust their feeding strategies to utilize the available food sources at different times of the year, such as the "dry season", etc. And it's also known that many fish fry feed actively on bacteria and fungi in these habitats...so I suggest once again that a blackwater/botanical-style aquarium could be an excellent sort of "nursery" for many fish species! 

You'll often hear the term "periphyton" mentioned in a similar context, and I think that, for our purposes, we can essentially consider it in the same manner as we do "epiphytic matter." Periphyton is essentially a "catch all" term for a mixture of cyanobacteria, algae, various microbes, and of course- detritus, which is found attached or in extremely close proximity to various submerged surfaces. Again, fishes will graze on this stuff constantly.

And then, of course, there's the "allochthonous input" that we've talked about so much here: Foods from the surrounding environment, such as flowers, fruits, terrestrial insects, etc. These are extremely important foods for many fish species that live in these habitats. We mimic this process when we feed our fishes prepared foods, as stuff literally "rains from the sky!" Now, I think that what we feed to our fishes directly in this fashion is equally as important as how it's fed.

I'd like to see much more experimentation with foods like live ants, fruit flies, and other winged insects. Of course, I can hear the protests already: "Not in MY house, Fellman!" I get it. I mean, who wants a plague of winged insects getting loose in their suburban home because of some aquarium feeding experiment gone awry, right?

That being said, I would encourage some experimentation with ants and the already fairly common wingless fruit flies. Can you imagine one day recommending an "Ant Farm" as a piece of essential aquarium food culturing equipment?

Why not, right?

And of course, easier yet- we can also foster the growth of potential food sources that don't fly or crawl around- they just arise when botanicals and wood and stuff meet water...We just need to not snuff them out as soon as they appear!

As many of you may know, I've often been sort of amused by the panic that many non-botanical-style-aquarium-loving hobbyists express when a new piece of driftwood is submerged in the aquarium, often resulting in an accumulation of fungi, algal growth and biofilm.

I realize this stuff can look pretty shitty to many of you, particularly when you're trying to set up a super-cool, "sterile high-concept" aquascaped tank.

That being said, I think we need to let ourselves embrace this stuff and celebrate it for what it is: Life. Sustenance. Diversity. Foraging. I think that those of us who maintain blackwater. botanical-style aquariums have made the "mental shift" to understand, accept, and even appreciate the appearance of this stuff.

We look at Nature.

Natural habitats are absolutely filled with this stuff...in every nook and cranny. It's like the whole game here- an explosion of life-giving materials, free for the taking...

A true gift from Nature. 

Yet, for a century or so in the hobby, our first instinct is to reach for the algae scraper or siphon hose, and lament our misfortune with our friends.

It need not be this way. Its appearance in our tanks is a blessing. 

Really.

You call it "mess." I call it "food."

Another "mental shift", I suppose...one which many of you have already made, no doubt. Or, I hope you have..or can.

I certainly look forward to seeing many examples of us utilizing "what we've got" to the advantage of our fishes! AGAIN:

A truly "natural" aquarium is not sterile. It encourages the accumulation of organic materials and other nutrients- not in excess, of course. Biofilms, fungi, algae...detritus...all have their place in the aquarium. Not as an excuse for lousy or lazy husbandry- no- but as supplemental food sources to power the life in our tanks.

Real gifts from Nature...that you can benefit from simply by "working the web" of life which arises without our intervention as soon as leaves, wood, and water mix.

Keep making those mental shifts. Meet Nature where it is. She won't let you down. I promise.

Stay brave. Stay inquisitive. Stay open-minded. Stay grateful. Stay methodical...

And Stay Wet.

 

Scott Fellman

Tannin Aquatics