When your fish tank starts to look a little off—cloudy water, slow-moving fish, maybe a strange smell—it’s often a sign your filter isn’t doing its job. While it might seem like a small issue, poor filtration can quickly mess up your water quality and stress your fish. That’s why knowing the basics of fish tank filter maintenance matters more than you think. At Monster Aquarium, we carry the best aquarium filters in NYC and offer expert tips to keep them running smoothly. Here’s what to look out for, how to fix common issues, and why it’s important to act fast. Common Signs Your Filter Isn’t Working Right Sometimes, the problem is obvious—your filter stops completely, or the tank fills with...

Getting a freshwater aquarium for your child is more than just a fun gift—it’s a chance to teach responsibility, introduce biology, and add a calming presence to your home. But while the idea of a fish tank sounds simple, the actual setup process can be tricky for first-timers. That’s where a freshwater fish tank setup service from Monster Aquarium really comes in handy. We’ve helped countless families in NYC build beautiful, beginner-friendly tanks that are safe for kids and healthy for fish. Here’s why professional help makes all the difference. Why Freshwater Fish Make a Great Choice for Kids Freshwater fish are some of the easiest pets to care for, especially when compared to other animals. They're quiet, clean, and...

Starting your first aquarium is exciting, but choosing the right fish makes all the difference. At Monster Aquarium, we’re here to help you build a tank that’s not only beautiful but also easy to maintain. If you’re just getting started, the best approach is to stick with hardy, low-maintenance species that don’t need a lot of special care. These beginner-friendly freshwater fish are perfect for creating a vibrant and stress-free setup. Betta Fish: Colorful and Independent Betta fish are a go-to favorite for new hobbyists. They’re known for their bold colors and flowing fins, and they don’t need a lot of space to thrive. You can keep a single male Betta in a small tank (at least 5 gallons), and...

Freshwater eels are fascinating creatures that can add a unique touch to your aquarium. But are they suitable for community tanks? Let's delve into their compatibility, ideal tank mates, and how to prevent potential issues. Understanding Freshwater Eels Freshwater eels, such as the Tire Track Eel (Mastacembelus armatus) and Fire Eel (Mastacembelus erythrotaenia), are elongated fish known for their burrowing behavior and nocturnal habits. They prefer soft substrates and require hiding spots to feel secure. These eels can grow quite large, with some species reaching up to 30 inches, necessitating spacious tanks. Compatibility with Other Fish Species When considering adding a freshwater eel to a community tank, it's essential to assess compatibility: Size Matters: Eels may prey on smaller fish...

When it comes to breeding freshwater fish, live plants can make all the difference. They don’t just add a touch of greenery—they play an active role in helping your fish breed successfully, keeping fry safe, and maintaining a stress-free environment. Whether you’re raising tetras, cichlids, or livebearers, the right plants can turn a regular tank into a thriving nursery. At Monster Aquarium, we’ve seen how powerful the plant-fish combo can be in breeding tanks, and we’re here to help you get it just right. Why Aquatic Plants Matter in Breeding Tanks Live plants provide a natural feel that encourages breeding behaviors in many species. For example, egg-layers like angelfish or zebra danios often need broad leaves or dense foliage to...

Living or working in New York City often means adapting to limited square footage. However, small spaces don't have to limit your aspirations for a stunning aquarium. At Monster Aquarium, we specialize in custom fish tank services that transform even the comfiest corners into captivating aquatic displays. Let's explore how tailored aquariums can enhance compact environments, bringing both beauty and tranquility to your space. Maximizing Small Spaces with Custom Aquariums In NYC's bustling environment, every inch counts. Custom aquariums offer a unique opportunity to utilize space creatively. Whether it's a wall-mounted tank, a coffee table aquarium, or a sleek column design, these installations serve as functional art pieces that elevate the aesthetics of apartments and businesses alike. Benefits of Custom...

At Monster Aquarium, we believe that your tank should do more than just look pretty—it should feel like home to your fish. That’s why we’re big on fish tank accessories in Queens, NYC that pull double duty. Sure, they add visual interest to your aquascape, but the best ones also support natural fish behavior, reduce stress, and create a healthier environment overall. Let’s talk about how functional décor like driftwood, caves, and leaf litter can upgrade your tank in ways that go way beyond aesthetics. Why Functional Decor Matters Fish aren’t just swimming around for fun—they’re constantly looking for shelter, staking out territory, or even scouting for a place to spawn. When you give them tank accessories that mimic their...

Looking to turn your tank into something unforgettable? The Jardini Arowana might be exactly what you need. Known for its striking looks and powerful personality, this fish doesn’t just swim—it owns the space. At Monster Aquarium, we’ve seen how this species can completely transform an aquarium into a bold and majestic underwater world. But is it the right fit for you? Let’s break it down. A Bold Look That Turns Heads The Jardini Arowana isn’t shy. With its sleek, metallic body and shimmery, silver-bronze scales, this fish makes a serious statement. Add in those graceful, dragon-like movements and you’ve got a showstopper that draws attention from every corner of the room. Whether you’re setting up a home aquarium or building...

Creating a stress-free environment is essential for keeping shy and timid fish comfortable in your aquarium. Fish like Discus, Apistogramma, and Gouramis often feel vulnerable in open spaces and prefer hiding spots where they can retreat when needed. Live plants play a crucial role in providing shelter, reducing stress, and encouraging natural behaviors. At Monster Aquarium, we offer a wide selection of aquatic plants and rare exotic freshwater fish for sale, helping you create the perfect environment for your tank’s residents. In this guide, we’ll explore the best aquarium plants for shy fish and how to arrange them effectively. Why Live Plants Are Important for Shy Fish Adding live plants to your aquarium does more than enhance its appearance—it directly...

If you're looking for a unique and eye-catching fish to add to your tank, the Blue Phantom Pleco is an excellent choice. Known for its stunning blue hue and peaceful nature, this pleco is a favorite among freshwater fish enthusiasts. At Monster Aquarium, we are proud to offer Blue Phantom Pleco for sale, along with a wide variety of other freshwater fish for sale to help you create the perfect aquarium setup. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aquarist, the Blue Phantom Pleco is a fantastic addition to any tank. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this beautiful fish and how to care for it. Why Choose the Blue Phantom Pleco? The Blue Phantom Pleco (Hemiancistrus...