Help Guides

The Charterhouse Aquatics Help Guides Blog provides comprehensive and practical advice on maintaining aquariums, offering expert tips, step-by-step guides, and product reviews to ensure a healthy and thriving aquatic environment for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Freshwater Aquarium Accessories Explained: Complete Buyer’s Guide
Advice

Freshwater Aquarium Accessories Explained: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Learn about the most useful freshwater aquarium accessories including thermometers, fish feeders, air stones, breeding boxes, nets and maintenance tools. Discover how the right accessories can improve aquarium health and...

Freshwater Aquarium Maintenance Explained: Complete Care Guide
Advice

Freshwater Aquarium Maintenance Explained: Complete Care Guide

Learn how to maintain a freshwater aquarium with water changes, filter cleaning, substrate care, algae control and water testing. A complete maintenance guide for healthy fish and crystal-clear water.

Freshwater Aquarium Decoration Explained: Complete Aquascaping Guide
Advice

Freshwater Aquarium Decoration Explained: Complete Aquascaping Guide

Learn how to decorate a freshwater aquarium with rocks, wood, plants and ornaments. Discover aquascaping tips, decoration ideas and how to create a beautiful, fish-friendly aquarium.

Freshwater Aquarium CO₂ Explained: Complete Beginner's Guide
Advice

Freshwater Aquarium CO₂ Explained: Complete Beginner's Guide

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) supplementation is one of the most effective ways to improve plant growth in a freshwater aquarium. While many aquatic plants can survive without additional CO₂, a dedicated...

Freshwater Aquarium Food Explained: A Complete Guide to Feeding Tropical Fish, Coldwater Fish, Shrimp and Freshwater Invertebrates
Advice

Freshwater Aquarium Food Explained: A Complete Guide to Feeding Tropical Fish, Coldwater Fish, Shrimp and Freshwater Invertebrates

Proper nutrition is one of the most important aspects of freshwater aquarium care. The right diet supports healthy growth, vibrant colours, disease resistance, breeding success and overall wellbeing. However, with...

Freshwater Aquarium Conditioning Explained: A Complete Guide to Water Conditioners, Beneficial Bacteria, Dechlorinators and Water Preparation
Advice

Freshwater Aquarium Conditioning Explained: A Complete Guide to Water Conditioners, Beneficial Bacteria, Dechlorinators and Water Preparation

Conditioning is one of the most important aspects of freshwater aquarium care. Before fish, plants or shrimp can thrive, the water entering your aquarium must be made safe and stable....

Freshwater Aquarium Lighting Explained: A Complete Guide to Choosing, Using and Optimising Lighting for Freshwater Aquariums
Freshwater Aquarium Filtration Explained: A Complete Guide to Mechanical, Biological and Chemical Filtration for Freshwater Aquariums
Advice

Freshwater Aquarium Filtration Explained: A Complete Guide to Mechanical, Biological and Chemical Filtration for Freshwater Aquariums

Filtration is the heart of every freshwater aquarium. Whether you’re keeping tropical community fish, aquascapes, goldfish, cichlids or shrimp, an effective filtration system is essential for maintaining water quality, supporting...

Marine Aquarium Fittings Explained: A Complete Guide to Ball Valves, Pipework, Tubing and Plumbing Components
Advice

Marine Aquarium Fittings Explained: A Complete Guide to Ball Valves, Pipework, Tubing and Plumbing Components

The plumbing system is one of the most important yet often overlooked parts of a marine aquarium. Whether you’re running a small sump-equipped reef tank or a large custom aquarium,...

Marine Aquarium Accessories Explained: A Complete Guide to Essential Tools, Equipment Add-Ons and Reef Keeping Accessories
Advice

Marine Aquarium Accessories Explained: A Complete Guide to Essential Tools, Equipment Add-Ons and Reef Keeping Accessories

While filtration, lighting and circulation equipment form the foundation of a marine aquarium, accessories are often the items that make reef keeping easier, safer and more enjoyable. From feeding tools...

Marine Aquarium Decoration Explained: A Complete Guide to Aquascaping, Rockwork and Creating a Natural Reef Environment
Advice

Marine Aquarium Decoration Explained: A Complete Guide to Aquascaping, Rockwork and Creating a Natural Reef Environment

Decorating a marine aquarium is about far more than aesthetics. The layout of your aquarium influences water flow, fish behaviour, coral placement, filtration efficiency, and long-term livestock health. A well-designed...

Marine Aquarium Maintenance Explained: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Saltwater Aquarium Healthy and Stable
Advice

Marine Aquarium Maintenance Explained: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Saltwater Aquarium Healthy and Stable

Regular maintenance is the foundation of every successful marine aquarium. While modern equipment can automate many aspects of reef keeping, consistent maintenance remains essential for maintaining water quality, preventing equipment...

Marine Aquarium Food Explained: A Complete Guide to Feeding Marine Fish, Corals and Invertebrates
Advice

Marine Aquarium Food Explained: A Complete Guide to Feeding Marine Fish, Corals and Invertebrates

Proper nutrition is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a healthy marine aquarium. While water quality, lighting, and filtration are essential, providing the right food in the correct...

Marine Aquarium Conditioning Supplements Explained: A Complete Guide to Water Conditioners, Bacterial Additives, Trace Elements and Reef Supplements
Advice

Marine Aquarium Conditioning Supplements Explained: A Complete Guide to Water Conditioners, Bacterial Additives, Trace Elements and Reef Supplements

Marine aquarium conditioning supplements can play an important role in creating and maintaining a healthy environment for fish, corals, and invertebrates. From preparing new saltwater and supporting biological filtration to...

Heating and Cooling a Marine Aquarium Explained: A Complete Guide to Maintaining Stable Temperature in Saltwater and Reef Aquariums
Advice

Heating and Cooling a Marine Aquarium Explained: A Complete Guide to Maintaining Stable Temperature in Saltwater and Reef Aquariums

Temperature stability is one of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy marine aquarium. While many hobbyists focus on lighting, filtration, and water chemistry, temperature fluctuations can quickly stress...

Marine Aquarium Lighting Explained: A Complete Guide to Reef Aquarium Lighting for Fish, Corals and Marine Life

Marine Aquarium Lighting Explained: A Complete Guide to Reef Aquarium Lighting for Fish, Corals and Marine Life

Lighting is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a marine aquarium, especially if you keep corals. Modern reef lighting does far more than simply illuminate your aquarium—it...

Marine Aquarium Water Circulation Explained: A Complete Guide to Flow, Powerheads and Wave Makers in Reef Aquariums
Advice

Marine Aquarium Water Circulation Explained: A Complete Guide to Flow, Powerheads and Wave Makers in Reef Aquariums

Water circulation is one of the most important—and often misunderstood—aspects of marine aquarium keeping. While filtration removes waste and maintains water quality, water movement ensures oxygen exchange, nutrient delivery, waste...

Marine Aquarium Filtration Explained: A Complete Guide for Saltwater Aquarium Success
marine

Marine Aquarium Filtration Explained: A Complete Guide for Saltwater Aquarium Success

Maintaining excellent water quality is the foundation of every successful marine aquarium. Whether you’re keeping fish-only systems, mixed reefs, or demanding SPS corals, understanding filtration is essential for creating a...

Interzoo 2026: The Biggest Innovations in Aquatics
Scaling Up: Transitioning from a Standard Reef Tank to a UNS Full Reef System

Scaling Up: Transitioning from a Standard Reef Tank to a UNS Full Reef System

Thinking about upgrading to a premium reef aquarium? Discover how to successfully transition from a standard reef tank to a stunning Ultum Nature Systems full reef setup.

Precision Parameter Control: Dialling in Water Chemistry for High-Performance Reef Systems
Advice

Precision Parameter Control: Dialling in Water Chemistry for High-Performance Reef Systems

Learn how to master reef aquarium chemistry with this complete guide to alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nutrients, dosing systems, and precision parameter control.

Coral Zoning & Aquascape Layout in UNS Reef Systems: Maximising Growth & Aesthetics
Advice

Coral Zoning & Aquascape Layout in UNS Reef Systems: Maximising Growth & Aesthetics

Learn how to zone corals effectively within a UNS reef aquarium. Discover expert aquascaping tips, coral placement strategies, and layout ideas to maximise growth, colour, and aesthetics.

Aquascaping, Livestock & Long-Term Care in Your UNS Dual AIO
Advice

Aquascaping, Livestock & Long-Term Care in Your UNS Dual AIO

Discover how to aquascape, stock, and maintain a UNS Dual AIO aquarium. Learn expert tips on coral placement, livestock selection, filtration, and long-term reef care.

Optimising Filtration & Media in the Dual AIO System

Optimising Filtration & Media in the Dual AIO System

Learn how to optimise filtration and filter media in your UNS Dual AIO aquarium. Discover the best mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration strategies for long-term success.

Getting Started with Your UNS Dual AIO: Setup, First Cycle & Expert Tips

Getting Started with Your UNS Dual AIO: Setup, First Cycle & Expert Tips

Learn how to set up your UNS Dual AIO aquarium with this complete beginner’s guide covering installation, cycling, aquascaping, filtration, and expert maintenance tips.

How to Switch Marine Salt Brands Safely (Without Crashing Your Tank)

How to Switch Marine Salt Brands Safely (Without Crashing Your Tank)

Thinking about changing marine salt brands? Learn how to switch reef salts safely, avoid parameter swings, and protect your fish and corals during the transition.

Troubleshooting Marine Salt Problems: Cloudy Water, Alkalinity Swings & More
Advice

Troubleshooting Marine Salt Problems: Cloudy Water, Alkalinity Swings & More

Experiencing cloudy water, alkalinity swings, or unstable salinity in your marine aquarium? Discover the causes of common reef chemistry problems and how to fix them effectively.

Marine Salt 101: Choosing the Right Salt Mix for Your Aquarium
Advice

Marine Salt 101: Choosing the Right Salt Mix for Your Aquarium

Choosing the right marine salt mix is essential for a healthy saltwater aquarium. Learn the differences between reef salts, fish-only salts, and premium formulations in this beginner-friendly guide.

Fluval Flex Maintenance Made Easy: Weekly and Monthly Tasks
Advice

Fluval Flex Maintenance Made Easy: Weekly and Monthly Tasks

Learn the essential weekly and monthly maintenance tasks for your Fluval Flex aquarium. Keep your fish healthy, water clear, and filtration running efficiently with this simple guide.

Best Fish and Plants for the Fluval Flex Aquariums

Best Fish and Plants for the Fluval Flex Aquariums

Discover the best fish and plants for Fluval Flex aquariums, including Betta fish, Ember Tetras, Corydoras, Cherry Shrimp, Java Fern, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, and more.

Fluval Flex Setup Guide: From Unboxing to Aquascaping
Advice

Fluval Flex Setup Guide: From Unboxing to Aquascaping

Learn how to set up your Fluval Flex aquarium from unboxing to aquascaping. A complete beginner-friendly guide covering filtration, planting, cycling, and livestock selection.

Freshwater vs Saltwater: Choosing the Right UNS Dual AIO Setup

Freshwater vs Saltwater: Choosing the Right UNS Dual AIO Setup

Freshwater or saltwater? Discover the key differences between freshwater and marine UNS Dual AIO setups, including costs, maintenance, livestock, and aquascaping possibilities.

Essential Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Dual AIO Aquarium Sparkling Clear

Essential Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Dual AIO Aquarium Sparkling Clear

Discover the essential maintenance tasks that keep your UNS Dual AIO aquarium crystal clear. Learn how to clean filters, manage algae, maintain water quality, and keep livestock healthy.

How to Set Up Your Dual AIO Aquarium for Beginners
Advice

How to Set Up Your Dual AIO Aquarium for Beginners

Learn how to set up your UNS Dual AIO aquarium with this complete beginner’s guide. From choosing a location and cycling the tank to adding fish and maintaining water quality.

Paludarium vs Aquarium vs Terrarium: Which One Should You Choose?

Paludarium vs Aquarium vs Terrarium: Which One Should You Choose?

Not sure whether to choose an aquarium, terrarium, or paludarium? Discover the differences, benefits, maintenance requirements, and which setup best suits your interests.

How to Set Up a UNS Foresta Paludarium: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

How to Set Up a UNS Foresta Paludarium: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Learn how to set up a UNS Foresta Paludarium with this complete beginner’s guide. Discover how to build drainage layers, create hardscape, choose plants, and establish a thriving tropical ecosystem.

The Best Plants for Your UNS Paludarium (35E & 60E Models)

The Best Plants for Your UNS Paludarium (35E & 60E Models)

Discover the best plants for your UNS 35E or 60E Paludarium. Learn which mosses, ferns, epiphytes, and tropical plants thrive in humid paludarium environments.

Optimising Lighting Schedules for Healthy Aquariums
Advice

Optimising Lighting Schedules for Healthy Aquariums

Learn how to create the perfect aquarium lighting schedule. Discover recommended photoperiods for freshwater, planted, marine, and reef aquariums while reducing algae and improving livestock health.

Freshwater vs Marine: Which Lighting Setup Do You Need?

Freshwater vs Marine: Which Lighting Setup Do You Need?

Freshwater and marine aquariums have very different lighting requirements. Learn how spectrum, PAR, colour temperature, and photoperiods differ between planted tanks and reef aquariums.

How to Choose the Right Aquarium Light: Spectrum, PAR & Colour Temperature
Advice

How to Choose the Right Aquarium Light: Spectrum, PAR & Colour Temperature

Learn how to choose the perfect aquarium light by understanding spectrum, PAR, and colour temperature. Discover expert lighting advice for freshwater plants, reef corals, and tropical fish.

Oase vs. Eheim vs. Fluval: Which External Filter Fits Your Tank?

Oase vs. Eheim vs. Fluval: Which External Filter Fits Your Tank?

Comparing OASE, EHEIM, and Fluval external filters? Discover the strengths of each brand and find the ideal canister filter for your freshwater or marine aquarium.

Setting Up Your Oase BioMaster² Thermo: Step-by-Step

Setting Up Your Oase BioMaster² Thermo: Step-by-Step

Learn how to set up your OASE BioMaster² Thermo external filter with this step-by-step guide. From media placement and priming to heater settings and maintenance, we've got you covered.

5 Reasons to Choose Oase External Filters for Easy Maintenance
Advice

5 Reasons to Choose Oase External Filters for Easy Maintenance

Looking for an external filter that's easy to maintain? Discover five reasons why OASE BioMaster² filters have become a favourite among aquascapers and aquarium hobbyists.

How to Measure Salinity Using a Refractometer
Advice

How to Measure Salinity Using a Refractometer

Learn how to measure aquarium salinity accurately using a refractometer. This beginner-friendly guide covers calibration, testing, ideal reef tank salinity, and common mistakes to avoid.

Aqua One OakStyle vs AquaNano – Which Aquarium Is Right for You?
Advice

Aqua One OakStyle vs AquaNano – Which Aquarium Is Right for You?

Trying to choose between the Aqua One OakStyle and AquaNano? Compare features, sizes, livestock options, maintenance requirements, and aquascaping potential in this complete buying guide.

Beginner’s Guide: How to Set Up an Aqua One Freshwater Aquarium
Advice

Beginner’s Guide: How to Set Up an Aqua One Freshwater Aquarium

New to fishkeeping? Learn how to set up your Aqua One freshwater aquarium step by step, from choosing a location and installing equipment to cycling the tank and adding fish....

Top 10 Freshwater Fish for Your Aqua One Aquarium
Advice

Top 10 Freshwater Fish for Your Aqua One Aquarium

Discover the best freshwater fish for your Aqua One aquarium. From Neon Tetras and Corydoras to Honey Gouramis and Bettas, find the perfect species for your tank.

Aquarium Cooling Systems Explained: What’s the Difference Between Fans, Chillers, and Evaporative Coolers?
Advice

Aquarium Cooling Systems Explained: What’s the Difference Between Fans, Chillers, and Evaporative Coolers?

Learn the differences between aquarium cooling fans, evaporative coolers, and chillers. Discover which cooling solution is best for your freshwater or marine aquarium.

How to Choose the Right Aquarium Chiller or Fan for Your Tank Size and Setup
Advice

How to Choose the Right Aquarium Chiller or Fan for Your Tank Size and Setup

Discover how to choose the best aquarium cooling solution. Compare chillers and cooling fans for freshwater, marine, reef, and planted aquariums.

How to Integrate the Red Sea ReefMat with Your Existing Sump System
Advice

How to Integrate the Red Sea ReefMat with Your Existing Sump System

Learn how to install and integrate a Red Sea ReefMat into your existing sump system. Discover compatibility tips, plumbing considerations, setup steps, and maintenance advice.

Explore the collections