Ben, owner of Water Colors Aquarium Gallery in Grand Rapids, MI is joined by his store managers Amy and Charles to discuss the aquarium hobby.
Some of the most exciting and diverse fish in the world come from South America, and we definitely have our favorites! In this episode, the Water Colors Team discusses our top 5 SA cichlids – as well…
The concept of biotypic aquariums is rarely, if ever, replicated in the reef hobby. While biotopes are common amongst freshwater hobbyists, the reef community seems to be lacking in this domain. In t…
In this episode, Ben hosts with a series of questions about the hobby’s perceptions; with special guest Johnathon Butkus! We often notice trends or generalities in the aquarium hobby. Ben aims to dis…
This week’s podcast is a long requested episode: a thorough guide to common freshwater fish diseases. Here at Water Colors we’ve helped and dealt with a huge variety of illnesses and related problem…
In this episode, the Water Colors Team answers questions submitted by the gallery staff! Our team members hold nothing back, and ask some hard hitting questions. Some of these even spark some great d…
This episode is dedicated to the hottest fish around! The Water Colors team lists their top 5 aquarium fish that like it hot, we’re talking 85 degrees F (29 C) and up! This can be useful information …
In this episode, the team is revisiting the famous rift lakes of Africa to rank their top 5 Rift Lake cichlids! These are some of the most well known and unique aquatic ecosystems known to the aquari…
The genus Cryptocoryne. From easy to easier. The episode is an introduction to plants from the genus Cryptocoryne. What are some of the available and not so available varieties and where are they fou…
This episode is a discussion on the difficult, yet necessary topic of conservation in the aquarium hobby. The Water Colors team, with special guest and staff member Calder Burton, have an open ended …
What fish are safe to keep in your beloved shrimp tank? It’s hard to resist the urge to add fish to a shrimp colony, but many species will turn your tank into an all you can eat buffet! In this episo…
In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses their top 5 picks for livebearing fish. Many of these wild type livebearers are certainly specialty fish, meaning they are often hard to find and have…
Predatory fish can be some of the most entertaining species to keep – but the same traits that make them fun can also pose a challenge! What tank mates do you keep with a fish predator? How do you fe…
Killifish make for great pets, display fish, and breeding projects. Some of the easiest types to keep and breed are known as non-annual killifish, or mop-spawners! This name comes from the strategy a…
Corydoras catfishes are some of the most universally loved bottom dwellers in the aquarium hobby. This genus is comprised of nearly 200 species and counting! In this episode, the Water Colors team ra…
Tub pond season is once again upon us! This is a fun and effective way to breed fish outside, with the added benefit of naturally occurring live food and a beautiful display to enjoy. What are the be…
You know that excitement you feel when you see fry appear in an aquarium? Followed by the panic of “now what?” Well in this episode, the Water Colors team discusses everything you need to know about …
Are you interested in starting a reef tank, but are intimidated by coral care? Well in this episode, we discuss the top 5 easiest corals to keep in your saltwater aquarium! Some species grow as fast …
Characins are a vast and diverse family of fish that are hugely popular in the aquarium hobby. With well over 1000 species, how could you ever pick a favorite? In this episode, the Water Colors team …
What are your favorite Water Colors Aquarium Gallery episodes? It’s like choosing a favorite child! Tune in to hear Ben, Amy, and Charles’ top 5 favorite podcast episodes ever recorded. Some make the…
This episode is all about the adaptive mouth brooding bettas! The Water Colors team discusses the various betta species that exhibit this fascinating strategy, and how you can keep and enjoy them at …