Is your family thinking of adding a fish tank or pond to your home? Fish tanks and ponds are wonderful places to observe a habitat on a smaller scale. Its like having your very own window into a fresh water riverbed or saltwater ocean. Keeping aquarium fish is a pleasurable and educational hobby for…
Most common freshwater tropical fish are farmed, but originated from Asia, South America, Africa and Australia. But what about the native fishes here in the U.S.? Join us as Brian Torreano ichthyologist and owner of BTDarters explains why US native fishes truly are another great option for aquarium hobbyists. EPISODE NOTES: Going Native with Brian Torreano of BTDarters
Jellyfish exhibits in public aquaria have held a certain mystique and fascination for decades. Early jellyfish aquarium systems and hardy species became available to hobbyists with some success. As systems evolved further and more difficult species better understood, the interest in jellyfish keeping continues to expand. My guest today, Travis Brandwood, President and Founder of the Jellyfish Warehouse, has helped push jellyfish science and culture forward on many different fronts. Join us, as Travis shares his journey from jellyfish novice to expert and teaches us the basics of jellyfish biology and aquarium keeping. EPISODE NOTES: Talking Jellies with Travis Brandwood, President and Founder of the Jellyfish Warehouse
Reef aquaria - from nano tanks to large, complex, high-tech systems - have exploded in popularity with increased knowledge and more advanced lighting and filtration. My guest today, Dr. Alex Hall III, a recent vet school graduate with interest and growing expertise in reef diseases, has made a name for himself on social media as “thereefvet.” Join us, as we discuss Alex's journey from child hobbyist to aquatic veterinarian and scientist. EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Alex Hall, The Reef Vet, Shares His Approach to Reef Tank Diseases
My guest today, Nick Mayer, is an award-winning artist whose science background and passions for aquatic life and fly-fishing both inform and inspire his beautiful, vibrant works. Join us, as Nick explains his metamorphosis from child naturalist to globe-trotting marine biologist to, finally, celebrated nature illustrator - specializing in fish and other marine life.
The catfishes - members of the order Siluriformes - include over 3000 species that vary widely in size, appearance, biology, and ecology. So what do catfish eat? Fishkeepers are often confused and assume that a one-size-fits-all approach works. My guest today, Rebecca Bentley, has a lot to say on that subject! Rebecca is an ichthyologist with a broad understanding of catfishes but specializing in the feeding morphology of the loricariid, or “pleco” family of catfishes. Join us, as we learn more about the science of catfish nutrition from an expert on the subject! EPISODE NOTES: Cat-ching up on Catfish Nutrition with Rebecca Bentley
Aquarium retail stores are the primary ‘gateway' to the hobby for many beginners. How do large retail chains work to ensure quality animals and to provide good fishkeeping information? My guest today, Jay Springer, is Director of Pet Services and Live Animals for Pet Supplies Plus, one of the largest pet store chains in the U.S. Join us, as Jay discusses his professional journey, dedication to quality service, industry challenges, and the future of the hobby. EPISODE NOTES: Jay Springer Shares His Wet and Wild Path from SoCal to Pet Supplies Plus
Coral reef tanks continue to gain in popularity, and advances in technology and coral reef biology and ecology have made reef keeping much more accessible. My guest today is Chris Meckley of ACI Aquaculture, a well-known coral aquaculture and wholesale facility in Plant City, Florida. In Part 1 of our Reef and Coral Keeping 101 series we discussed tanks, equipment, and accessories. Join us, as Chris continues with Part 2: an Overview of Aquascaping and Water Chemistry. EPISODE NOTES: Chris Meckley of ACI Aquaculture - Reef and Coral Keeping 101: Part 2, Aquascaping and Water Chemistry Overview
Coral reefs are considered the rainforests of the sea – dense, hotbeds of biodiversity and beauty. Covering less than 1% of the ocean floor, they are believed to contain about 25% of all known marine species. It's no wonder that interest in reef-keeping, as well advances in reef tank technology have increased exponentially over the past 10-15 years. y guest today, Chris Meckley is an aquarist with a passion for the aquarium hobby and a blue thumb for coral keeping. Chris and his wife Amanda own and run ACI Aquaculture, a highly successful and well-known coral aquaculture and wholesale facility in Plant City, Florida. Join us, as Chris shares his story and begins Part 1 of our series, Reef and Coral Keeping 101. EPISODE NOTES: Chris Meckley of ACI Aquaculture's Reef and Coral Keeping 101: Part 1: Tanks, Equipment and Accessories
Fish medicine has come a long way in the past 30 years, with more and more pet owners seeking veterinary care for their sick fish. My guest today, Dr. Jessie Sanders, owner and chief veterinarian of Aquatic Veterinary Services, is helping lead the charge of this next generation of wet pet vets. Join us, as Jessie shares her professional and personal journey from marine biology in the Northeast to her mobile fish practice on the West Coast. EPISODE NOTES: Fish Veterinarian Dr. Jessie Sanders: From Marine Biology to Mobile Fish Practice
The aquarium hobby has inspired many, myself included, to careers in public aquaria, science, aquaculture, and/or conservation. My guest today, Chris Englezou, has fused his love of the hobby and science with conservation efforts through his business C.E. Fish Essentials and the non-profit Freshwater Life Project which he co-founded and for which he is currently acting chairman of the board. Join us, as Chris shares his journey from fish keeper to conservationist, and how and why he thinks hobbyists can help make a difference. EPISODE NOTES: Chris Englezou: Leveraging Hobbyist Expertise with Science and Conservation through the Freshwater Life Project
Among the most fascinating of aquarium fishes, the bichirs - including the “ropefish” and “dinosaur or dragon eel” – share primeval features with their ancestors, some of the earliest fishes on earth. My guest today, Josh Pickett, author of The Bichir Handbook, is obsessed with, and an expert of this group. Join us, as Josh digs up some ancient dirt on these prehistoric, yet modern fishes – and explains why you'll want to keep them, too! EPISODE NOTES: Rediscovering the Dragons of Gondwana with Joshua Pickett, Author of The Bichir Handbook
Childhood aquarium keeping has been an introduction and gateway for many professionals working in public aquaria, aquaculture, fisheries, and natural resource conservation. My guest today, Aaron Pilnick, has done all of the above – and today is a doctoral candidate at the University of Florida studying Diadema antillarum- the long spined sea urchin. Join us, as we learn about Aaron's journey from hobbyist to aquarist to scientist, and how his Diadema can help restore Caribbean coral reefs. EPISODE NOTES: Aaron Pilnick Raises a Prickly Subject: Diadema Sea Urchin Aquaculture for Coral Reef Restoration
We often use the term fish out of water to describe someone whose completely out of their element. But believe it or not, many fish have evolved with the biology, cues, and behaviors needed to move onto land and survive for long periods of time, when necessary. My guest today, Dr. Noah Bressman, is an avid fisherman, artist, blogger, and Assistant Professor of Physiology at Salisbury University in Maryland. Noah has studied a number of these so-called amphibious fishes – some of which are invasive – for many years. Join us, as Noah explains just how they do it – and why! EPISODE NOTES: Noah Bressman Describes His Work with Fishes that Walk On Land
Setting up an aquarium requires a lot of ‘homework.' You need to learn a lot about your fish and what kind of environment it needs to be healthy and thrive. So what goes into opening a whole new public aquarium – with many different systems and hundreds of species? My guest today, Steve Bitter, has worked for years in the industry developing and opening public aquaria in the U.S., Asia, and Europe. In November of 2020, he opened the Aquarium at the Boardwalk in Branson, Missouri, where he serves as Director of Husbandry. Join us, as Steve shares his journey from building systems in the Arizona desert to building Branson's newest aquatic animal oasis. EPISODE NOTES: Steve Bitter Promotes Education, Conservation, and Having Fun “Under” the Aquarium at the Boardwalk
The aquarium trade is a billion dollar industry with commerce of animals, plants, and goods supporting the livelihoods of people all over the world. National and international organizations play a key role in managing and improving this complex business. My guest today, Shane Willis, is Managing Director of the National Aquaculture Training Institute in Australia and President of Ornamental Fish International. Join us, as Shane discusses his journey and provides a global perspective on the complexities, challenges, and future of the aquarium fish hobby. EPISODE NOTES: The Aquarium Industry: A Global Look from Down Under with Ornamental Fish International President Shane Willis
The Orinoco River – one of the longest in S. America, has tributaries and wetlands that spread throughout Venezuela and Colombia for hundreds of thousands of square miles. Among the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world and the native range for many aquarium fish species, the stability of the Orinoco basin and surrounding forests is under threat from a variety of natural and man-made challenges. My guest today, Ivan Mikolji, world-renowned naturalist, audio/visual artist, and author, returns to share stories from his new book, “Fishes of the Orinoco in the Wild.” Join us, as Ivan guides us through the stories, photographs, concerns, and hopes for a better future for this treasured natural resource. EPISODE NOTES: Naturalist and Explorer Ivan Mikolji, Part 2:Tales from His New Book “Fishes of the Orinoco in the Wild”
South American river systems, the native range for many aquarium fish species, are beautiful, biodiverse, and rich in complexity. My guest today, Ivan Mikolji is a world-renowned naturalist, explorer, researcher, audio/visual artist, and author. Ivan has been sharing his river adventures through breath-taking films and photographs of S. American species for the past 15 years. Join us, as Ivan explains how an early love of science and nature in his native Venezuela drove him to documentation of spectacular species and biotopes, education, and conservation efforts. EPISODE NOTES: How Ivan Mikolji Fuses Nature, Science, and Art to Foster Conservation of South American Waters
Good quality fish food is, of course, critical for the aquaculture and aquarium industries. Fresh and frozen options can supplement commercial pellets and flakes or may be important staples for some species. So how does one company’s fish food help save a land-locked salmon population which won’t eat it? My guest today is Nuri Fisher, President of Piscine Energetics, based in British Columbia, Canada. Join us, as Nuri shares his life story, and explains how his company uses an innovative solution to mitigate an ecological crisis. EPISODE NOTES: Nuri Fisher of Piscine Energetics: How An Innovative Fish Food Mitigates An Ecological Crisis
My guest today is 8-year-old Miles Fetherston-Resch, Founder and CEO of Kids Saving Oceans, a conservation lifestyle brand, and his mother Libby, who currently works for NOAA’s Marine Mammal Program. Join us, as Miles and Libby explain how Kids Saving Oceans is making a difference for ocean conservation. EPISODE NOTES: Kids Are The Future, But For Some Of Them, The Future Is Now!
Aquarium keeping, for many hobbyists, goes beyond the pet aspect and truly becomes a way to bring aquatic ecosystems into one’s home. But how do aquariums affect personal views on science and conservation? My guest today, Dr. Liz Marchio - long-time aquarist, ichthyologist, and social scientist - works for the National Park Service in New Orleans to educate youth in science and ecological restoration and to oversee citizen science programs. Join us, as Liz shares her own journey and thoughts on how aquarium keeping impacts the future of science and conservation. EPISODE NOTES: How Does Aquarium Keeping Affect ‘the Keepers'? Dr. Liz Marchio Shares Her Own Journey and Her Interests in Science and the Public
The lionfishes, known for their contrasting banded coloration and long, venomous fin rays, are beautiful and popular marine aquarium inhabitants. So what happens when they leave their native Indo-Pacific range and become established in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico? Join us, as my guest Alex Fogg - lionfish expert and Marine Resource Coordinator for Okaloosa County - describes the negative impacts of this non-native species and ongoing efforts to study and control this invader. EPISODE NOTES: Lionfish: Beautiful but Damaging Invaders from the Indo-Pacific
Sustainability and conservation of the earth’s aquatic resources are critical to our planet’s health. In the aquarium hobby, there is constant debate over the pros and cons of wild collection vs. aquaculture. Aquarium trade leaders understand that both, when properly managed, can be sustainable and promote conservation, and that industry and public education are key. My guests today are Alan Luken and Shelby Stensrud, Associate Brand Managers at Segrest Farms based in Florida. Join us, as Alan and Shelby discuss conservation and sustainability in the aquarium industry. EPISODE NOTES: Segrest Farms’ Alan Luken and Shelby Stensrud Discuss Conservation and Sustainability in the Aquarium Trade with Dr. Roy Yanong
Travel and technology have made our world seems smaller- but the aquatic realm continues to be a source of mystery. My guest today, Joe Cutler, a scientist and National Geographic Explorer, has made it his mission to catalogue freshwater fishes in Central Africa. Join us, as Joe shares his journey from California to Cameroon - and his hopes to preserve biodiversity in the region. EPISODE NOTES: In and Out of Africa: Joe Cutler’s Quest to Catalogue and Preserve Cameroon’s Freshwater Fishes with Dr. Roy Yanong
The Florida Keys, a famous destination for snorkelers and divers, are home to the continental U.S.’s only living coral barrier reef. Unfortunately, since about 2014, the Florida Reef Tract has been in crisis, with numerous species of corals dying from Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, the cause of which is currently unknown. My guest today, Keri O’Neil, Senior Coral Scientist at the Florida Aquarium’s Center for Conservation in Apollo Beach, has been studying captive and wild corals for many years. Join us, as Keri describes her work at the Florida Aquarium and the work of hundreds of other collaborators who are trying to stop this devastating coral crisis. EPISODE NOTES: Keys in Crisis: The Florida Aquarium’s Keri O’Neil Discusses Multi-Institutional Efforts to Manage Disease Devastating Florida’s Coral Reefs with Dr. Roy Yanong
How does a Swiss aquarium fish enthusiast go from molecular cancer research to leadership roles for both Amazonas Magazine, a must-read resource for aquarium hobbyists, AND Swiss Tropicals, a company specializing in aquarium filtration systems? Join us, as my guest Dr. Stephan Tanner, Senior Co-Editor and Co-Publisher of Amazonas Magazine AND head of Swiss Tropicals, describes his aquarium fish journey from Switzerland to Minnesota. EPISODE NOTES: From Switzerland to the Wilds of Minnesota: The Aquatic Journey of Amazonas Magazine’s and Swiss Tropicals’ Stephan Tanner with Dr. Roy Yanong
Aquatic gardening, whether in ponds or aquaria, is both a science and an art. Just the right mix and quantity of plants and an expert touch can mean the difference between a tank with plants and a aquascaped masterpiece! My guest today, Sam Rutka, is the freshwater manager, aquascaper, and plant specialist at Easy Aquariums, a specialty aquatics and reptile store in Gorham, Maine, as well as a master undewater gardener. Join us, as Sam leads us through the art and science of aquascapes! EPISODE NOTES: Aquascape Artist Sam Rutka Sheds Light on Planted Aquaria with Dr. Roy Yanong
The Florida Aquarium – an inspiring and signature tourist destination in Tampa - highlights Florida native species and other aquatic animals from around the world. My guest today, Dr. Ari Fustukjian, oversees the health and welfare of this very diverse collection of organisms. Join us, as Dr. Ari shares his career path and discusses his role there as well as other amazing goings-on at the Florida Aquarium. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Dr. Ari Fustukjian: The Florida Aquarium’s Wet Vet with Dr. Roy Yanong
Most people don’t equate Lansing, Michigan with the tropics…but nestled within this city is Preuss Pets, a Caribbean-themed tropical store paradise and major animal destination, filled with high quality finned, feathered, and furred pets. My guest today, Rick Preuss, owner and operator of Preuss Pets, is a leading fish expert in Michigan who devotes much of his time to education to foster good pet care. Join us, as we learn more about Rick and his landmark store! More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Preuss Pets: A Tropical, Animal Lover's Paradise in Lansing, Michigan with Dr. Roy Yanong
African cichlids have been farmed in Florida for decades. But how did these popular, colorful fish find their way into Florida’s industry? My guest today is Rick Biro, well-known cichlid producer and head of Florida Exotic Fish Sales. Join us, as Rick describes his journeys from Florida to Malawi and back in his early quest to make these fascinating, colorful fishes a staple in the aquarium hobby. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Ancient Hobby History: How Florida Exotic Fish Sales’ Rick Biro Brought Cichlids to the U.S. with Dr. Roy Yanong
Barrett Christie, Director of Husbandry at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT, has worked with most major groups of aquatic animals, from seals to sharks to corals- but ironically- he has a strong passion for the desert…Desert fishes, that is. Join us as Barrett explains why-- AND why some of these fishes are in trouble. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Barrett Christie: Building An Oasis for Endangered Desert Fishes with Dr. Roy Yanong
SciFi enthusiasts may remember that in Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Captain Nemo’s submarine was the Nautilus. Named after one of the most beautiful creatures of the ocean - the chambered nautilus for many years was poorly understood. Today, more of its biology and ecology is known thanks to the work of dedicated marine scientists. My guest today, is nautilus expert, marine scientist and educator, Dr. Greg Barord. Join us, as Greg explains some of the mysteries of the nautilus. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Dr. Greg Barord Uncovers Mysteries of the Chambered Nautilus with Dr. Roy Yanong
YouTube has changed the way the world shares experiences and learns, and aquarium enthusiasts have taken advantage of this powerful tool. Big case in point- the incredibly popular aquarium channel, Dustin’s Fishtanks - with over 107,000 subscribers and millions of views - hosted by wild man Dustin Wunderlich. Join us, as Dustin shares his journey from European history major to YouTube sensation as well as his passions about the aquarium hobby and planted tanks. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - YouTuber Dustin Wunderlich of Dustin’s Fishtanks Talks Videos, Plants, and 107,000 with Dr. Roy Yanong
The marine aquarium and reef hobby continue to gain interest, as marine conservation concerns also increase. My guest today is Alan Luken, head of corals and marine organisms at Segrest Farms, who leads efforts on both fronts. Join us, as Alan describes his journey on the high C’s- from Cincinnati and the Caribbean to Coastal Carolina and Corals at Segrest. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Segrest Farms’ Marine Guru Alan Luken discusses the Reef Aquarium Hobby and Conservation with Dr. Roy Yanong
Most people think of aquaculture as farming fish for food. Some may even realize that many aquarium fish are cultured for the hobby. So what is ‘restoration aquaculture’ and what role does it play in conservation efforts? My guest today is Josh Patterson, Assistant Professor of Restoration Aquaculture at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, based at the Florida Aquarium’s Center for Conservation, in Apollo Beach. Josh studies the use of aquacultured species, ranging from fish to corals to seagrass, as a tool for restoring threatened populations and habitat. Join us, as we discuss his work in this fascinating area. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Josh Patterson: Corals and Restoration Aquaculture with Dr. Roy Yanong
What do the Divebar in Sacramento, Amazon.com, Aqua Planet Ilsan in Korea, Cabela’s, and Bigelow Laboratory in Maine all have in common? They all have unique and intricately designed aquaria and systems designed by Tenji, Inc., an aquarium design and build company with offices in California and Maine. Mark Faulkner, one of the principals and co-founders of this inspired and talented team of experts, transformed a shared dream into a powerhouse aquarium reality. Join us, as Mark and I discuss the complexities of aquarium building and design, Tenji-style! Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Mark Faulkner Talks Aquarium Build and Design, Tenji-Style with Dr. Roy Yanong
Most people think of shrimp as something you dip into cocktail sauce, or served in scampi-style. But over the past several years beautiful, ‘technicolored’ shrimp have burst upon the freshwater aquarium scene, adding to the diversity of species for aquarium keepers. My guest today is Grant Eder, owner and operator of ‘The Garden of Eder,’ an internet-based source of award-winning freshwater aquarium shrimp. Join us, as Grant describes his journey to the industry and educates us on shrimp varieties and keeping. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Garden of Eder's Aquarium Shrimp: Colors from Paradise with Dr. Roy Yanong
The summer of 2016 saw a major triumph for Rising Tide Conservation, with the successful spawning and rearing of Pacific Blue Tangs at the University of Florida’s Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory. "Breeding Dory" became the headlines and story for news outlets around the world. But commercialization is still in progress, and many other species are also in Rising Tide’s sights. Matt DiMaggio and Eric Cassiano, two UF scientists instrumental in the success of the Pacific Blue Tang project, continue their efforts to support aquaculture of aquarium species and support conservation. Join us, as Matt and Eric describe their Rising Tide research and the excitement of "Breeding Dory." Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Breeding Dory: Rising Tide Conservation Updates with Matt DiMaggio and Eric Cassiano with Dr. Roy Yanong
Many decades ago, keeping marine aquariums was a logistical nightmare, a feat only for the most advanced hobbyists. Over time, technology and science overcame many of the original environmental challenges, and aquaculture offered a few alternatives to wild capture fisheries. And now, Biota Aquariums plans to take the marine aquarium hobby to a more sustainable next level. My guest today is Kevin Gaines, CEO and co-founders of Biota Aquariums. Kevin has strong roots in the aquarium hobby, and a passion for aquaculture and conservation. Join us, as Kevin shares his hopes and dreams, and the story behind Biota Aquariums. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Plug and Play Sustainability: Biota Aquariums with Kevin Gaines with Dr. Roy Yanong
Central and South American cichlids include some of the most behaviorally complex and colorful adult species in the hobby displaying vibrant turquoise, fluorescent reds, oranges, and yellows, especially during breeding. These species are prized by intermediate and advanced fishkeepers, who know their species by scientific name, locale, and strain. My guest today is Dan Sharifi, owner of Cichlids of the Americas, an internet-based source of some of the most beautiful and difficult to find species and strains of New World cichlids. Join us, as Dan explains how a former financial services manager became a premier source of New World Cichlids in the U.S. today! Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Cichlids of the Americas with Dan Sharifi with Dr. Roy Yanong
Segrest Farms, one of the world's largest wholesale ornamental fish distributors, supplies over 1,000 pet shops, public aquariums, and research institutions each week with aquarium livestock, aquatic plants, herps and other small animals, and live food. Sandy Moore, President of Segrest Farms, has been a hobbyist her entire life and also has been at the forefront helping to keep the aquarium trade alive nationally and internationally. Join us for a fascinating conversation, as Sandy discusses Segrest Farms, her career, and the many challenges the aquarium industry is currently facing. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - All in A Day’s Work: Industry Insights from Sandy Moore of Segrest Farms with Dr. Roy Yanong
Ever wonder if you should try a different fish food, or if that new aquarium gadget really is something you should look into? Perhaps, like many hobbyists, you haven’t keep up with the latest trends, but would like to expand your horizons. My guest today is Mike Haynes, self-proclaimed fish geek, YouTube educator, and co-founder of My Aquarium Box, an aquarium supply subscription service. Join us, as Mike explains how he and his three "fellow fish geeks" came up with this great idea, and how you can plug in! Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Open Up Your Aquatic Horizons with My Aquarium Box with Dr. Roy Yanong
Although most common freshwater aquarium fish are farm-raised, many others are collected by world-wide by artisanal fishermen. Good habitat and sustainable practices are key to the longevity of these species and the hobby. My guest today - Mike Tuccinardi, is an aquarium fish expert, sustainable fisheries advocate, and Senior Editor for Amazonas and Coral Magazines. He has explored fisheries all over Asia and South America to foster and improve sustainability and has documented his insights in reports, articles and travelogues. Join us, as Mike shares his fishy experiences from the field. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Following the Fish: Mike Tuccinardi’s Sustainability Stories from the Field with Dr. Roy Yanong
Jellyfish have mesmerized us for centuries. Their beauty, fragility, and grace, combined with a stinging defense, have made jellyfish keeping a major challenge and, for a time, only possible at public aquaria. My guests today - Jeff Turner, his son Joe Turner, and Jon-Michael Degidio - through their company Jellyfish Art, have changed all of that. This amazing group of innovators and life-long hobbyists has untangled the mysteries and brought jellyfish keeping into our homes, offices, restaurants, and schools. Join us, as we discuss this hypnotic new wave and the secrets of jellyfish with Jeff, Joe, and Jon. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - The Hypnotic New Wave of Aquarium Keeping: Jellyfish Art with Dr. Roy Yanong
When you think of an aquarium, you don’t usually think of aquatic beetles. My guest today, Dr. Jiri Hulcr, Assistant Professor of Forest Entomology at the University of Florida, and long time aquatic beetle hobbyist, however, thinks people have things all wrong. He says that beetles are much more interesting than fish! So why is a forest insect expert such a big bug lover? Join us, as we learn more about keeping aquatic beetles from entomologist Jiri Hulcr. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Diving into Aquatic Beetles with Dr. Jiri Hulcr with Dr. Roy Yanong
Clownfish, the first marine aquarium fish in commercial production, have been a staple of the industry for decades. Soon, the thirst for 'designer' clownfish took hold, and, just like with koi, goldfish, and angelfish, an explosion of varieties has now occurred. My guest today is Matt Pedersen, hobbyist for over 30 years and Sr. Editor & Associate Publisher with Reef To Rainforest Media LLC, intimately involved with CORAL & AMAZONAS Magazines, as well as their online presence at Reef2Rainforest.com. Matt started the Marine Ornamental Fish & Invertebrate Breeder's Association, sits on the Marine Breeder’s Initiative Council, and was 2009 Aquarist of the Year by IMAC West and MASNA. Join us, as Matt continues our discussion of the past, present, and future of clownfish varieties. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Picasso, Snowflake, Black Ice, and Lightning: The Art and Science of Designer Clownfish - PART 2 with Dr. Roy Yanong
Clownfish, the first marine aquarium fish in commercial production, have been a staple of the industry for decades. Soon, the thirst for 'designer' clownfish took hold, and, just like with koi, goldfish, and angelfish, an explosion of varieties has now occurred. My guest today is Matt Pedersen, hobbyist for over 30 years and Sr. Editor & Associate Publisher with Reef To Rainforest Media LLC, intimately involved with CORAL & AMAZONAS Magazines, as well as their online presence at Reef2Rainforest.com. Matt started the Marine Ornamental Fish & Invertebrate Breeder's Association, sits on the Marine Breeder’s Initiative Council, and was 2009 Aquarist of the Year by IMAC West and MASNA. Join us, as Matt discussed the past, present, and future of clownfish varieties. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Picasso, Snowflake, Black Ice, and Lightning: The Art and Science of Designer Clownfish - PART 1 with Dr. Roy Yanong
Improvements in the science of fish-keeping have been only part of the hobby’s success. Advances in aquatic pet products, including aquarium systems, nutrition, water quality, and salts have been critical to driving both fresh and salt water fish interests. My guest today, Tim Plafcan, is Senior Product Manager at Spectrum Brands, which includes Marineland, Tetra, Instant Ocean, and Jungle products. Join us, as we discuss aquatic pet products: past, present, and future. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Aquatic Pet Products: A Past, Present, and Future Look with Tim Plafcan of Spectrum with Dr. Roy Yanong
Just Keep Swimming is not only the name of Andres’ Ryan’s fish farm, it is also his creed. Andres is an aquarium fish farmer in Florida who has bred and raised literally hundreds of species, but now concentrates on the more delicate and difficult-to-spawn aquarium fish, including clown loaches, cardinal tetras, Galaxy rasboras, fancy plecos, and freshwater ornamental shrimp. Join us, as Andres and I discuss fancy fish, the challenges of commercially raising new species, and the future of the hobby! Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - JUST KEEP SWIMMING: Andres Ryan’s Fish Farm and His Creed with Dr. Roy Yanong
Coral reefs are among the most beautiful and biologically diverse communities in the world. Yet corals are in decline globally. Although some disease syndromes have been identified and described by researchers over the past few decades, many factors contributing to coral health and disease- both in the field and in aquaria- are still poorly understood. Dr. Michael Sweet, the lead researcher in the Coral Health and Disease Laboratory at Derby University, UK, uses innovative techniques to better study coral health and disease, and has helped bridge the gap between researchers and reef hobbyists. Join us, as Dr. Sweet discusses coral health and disease both in the field and in your home reef tank. Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Coral Diseases and Syndromes: A Primer, with Dr. Michael Sweet with Dr. Roy Yanong
When the first transgenic red zebra danio first lit up the U.S. aquarium hobby in 2004 amidst great controversy, naysayers thought this would be just a passing fancy. Ten years later, Yorktown Technologies’ highly successful "GloFish" line has expanded to ten lines, six colors, and three species. My guest today, Alan Blake, CEO of Yorktown Technologies, is the man who started it all. Join us, as Alan discusses the past, present, and fluorescent future of the GloFish! Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - After Ten Years, Yorktown Technologies’ GloFish Continue to Glo-On! with Dr. Roy Yanong
What do upside down catfish, electric blue Jack Dempseys, and eartheaters all have in common? They are all bred and raised by my guest today, aquarium fish producer John Skidmore of Golden Pond Tropicals. For 15 years, John raised shrimp in the Caribbean and Hawaii, before moving to Florida to start aquarium fish farming. Join us, as we learn more about the fascinating species bred and raised at Golden Pond Tropicals! Questions or Comments? Send them to: DrRoy@petliferadio.com. More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Upside Down, Electric Blue, and Chocolate: Some Cool Fish from John Skidmore of Golden Pond Tropicals, Inc. with Dr. Roy Yanong