My new reef tank after three months

As we have all heard time and time again patience is a virtue, and in this hobby it is pretty much mandatory for long-term success. Truth be told, it is not really one of the virtues I am known for.…

The importance of testing reef aquarium water

During the first semester in my biochemistry class the professor started the class by bringing out two clear beakers into which he appeared to pour two identical clear fluids.  Once they were full, he pulled out a worm and placed it…

Things I hate in the aquarium hobby

In a recent psychology article I was reading about relationships, the author made an interesting observation. To paraphrase, the author basically said that our strongest friendships and most passionate love affairs may not simply be based on us liking the…

Why we love the reef aquarium hobby

While my daughter Catherine was home for Spring break last week, I took her out shopping one day, and I am happy to report there is something more addicting than this hobby: shopping for a teenage girl. While we drove…

New Year’s Resolutions for all aquarium keepers

With the start of a new year, it is traditional that we all try to begin it with resolutions that will make us healthier and happier throughout the year. So we all try to exercise more, eat healthier, drink less,…

The future of the saltwater aquarium hobby

Since this is my last piece for the year I thought rather than reflecting back on the past year, I would answer one of the questions I get asked the most: What do you see as the future of the…