Mossy Tank Guides
Everything we've written, newest first.
- Troubleshooting
Types of Aquarium Algae: How to Identify and Fix Each OneNot all aquarium algae is the same — and the fix depends entirely on which type you have. Here's how to identify every common algae type and what actually works to clear it.
- Troubleshooting
Aquarium pH Explained: What It Means and How to Adjust ItpH is one of the most misunderstood water parameters in fishkeeping. Here's what it actually means, what range your fish and plants need, and when (and when not) to adjust it.
- Troubleshooting
Why Are My Aquarium Plants Turning Yellow or Brown?Yellowing or browning aquarium plants are usually a nutrient deficiency or lighting problem — but the specific fix depends on which plants are affected and what the yellowing looks like.
- Gear & Buying Guides
Best Aquarium Light for Low-Tech Planted Tanks (2026 Guide)Low-tech planted tanks need moderate light — not the most powerful. Here's how to choose the right light without triggering algae, and our top picks for every tank size.
- Gear & Buying Guides
Best Beginner Aquarium Starter Kits: What to Buy (and What to Skip)Starter kits look convenient but most include equipment you'll want to replace. Here's an honest assessment of what's worth buying as a kit, what to build yourself, and our top picks.
- Gear & Buying Guides
Best Filter for a Planted Tank: Top Picks for Every BudgetThe right filter makes or breaks a planted tank. We break down the best options for low-tech setups — sponge filters, HOBs, and canisters — with honest recommendations for every tank size.
- Planted Betta Tanks
Best Plants for Betta Tanks: Low-Tech Picks That Actually WorkThe best plants for a betta tank are hardy, low-light tolerant, and create the natural cover bettas need. Here are our top picks — all thrive without CO2.
- Shrimp & Nano Tanks
Best Plants for Shrimp Tanks: Safe Low-Tech PicksThe best shrimp tank plants provide biofilm surfaces, cover for moulting, and a safe environment — all without CO2. Here are our top picks for Neocaridina and nano shrimp setups.
- Gear & Buying Guides
Best Substrate for Planted Aquariums: Aquasoil vs Gravel vs SandYour substrate choice affects plant growth, water chemistry, and how your tank looks for years. Here's an honest comparison of aquasoil, gravel, and sand — and which to use for a low-tech setup.
- Planted Betta Tanks
Betta Fish Care for Beginners: Everything You Need to KnowA complete beginner's guide to betta fish care — tank setup, water parameters, feeding, common diseases, and how to keep a betta healthy for years.
- Planted Betta Tanks
Betta Tank Mates: What Can (and Can't) Live With a BettaBettas can coexist with certain tank mates — but individual temperament varies a lot. Here's what generally works, what doesn't, and how to reduce the risk of aggression.
- Shrimp & Nano Tanks
Cherry Shrimp Care Guide: Neocaridina for BeginnersCherry shrimp are one of the best beginner invertebrates — colourful, useful, and easy to breed. Here's everything you need to keep and breed Neocaridina shrimp successfully.
- Troubleshooting
How to Cycle a Fish Tank (The Right Way, Explained Simply)Cycling a fish tank is the single most important thing you can do before adding fish. Here's how to do it correctly — fishless cycle, fish-in cycle, and how to know when it's done.
- Troubleshooting
How to Lower Ammonia in an Aquarium (Emergency Guide)High ammonia is the most dangerous water quality emergency in a fish tank. Here's exactly what to do in the first 24 hours, and how to prevent it happening again.
- Low-Tech Planted Tanks
Low-Tech Planted Tank: The Complete Beginner's GuideEverything you need to set up a thriving low-tech planted aquarium — no CO2, no complex dosing, no experience required. Covers equipment, plants, setup, cycling, and maintenance.
- Shrimp & Nano Tanks
Nano Planted Tank Setup Guide (10–40L)Nano planted tanks are beautiful, space-efficient, and surprisingly achievable for beginners. Here's how to set one up correctly — plants, filtration, stocking, and the mistakes to avoid.
- Troubleshooting
New Tank Syndrome: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Fix ItNew Tank Syndrome kills more fish than almost anything else in the hobby. Here's exactly what causes it, how to recognise it, and how to save your tank if it's already happening.
- Planted Betta Tanks
Planted Betta Tank Setup: The Complete GuideEverything you need to set up a planted betta tank — tank size, plants, filtration, water parameters, and how to create an environment where a betta genuinely thrives.
- Shrimp & Nano Tanks
Neocaridina Water Parameters: The Numbers That MatterCherry shrimp are more tolerant than most dwarf shrimp, but water parameters still matter. Here's exactly what to aim for, what each parameter does, and how to test reliably.
- Troubleshooting
Why Is My Aquarium Water Cloudy? (Causes + Fixes by Colour)Cloudy aquarium water is almost always harmless — but the fix depends on the colour. White, green, brown, and yellow cloudiness all mean different things. Here's exactly what to do.