What Our Customers are Saying…Part 2

More and more customers are loving our products, not only for their personal consumption but also for their aquatic pets and household consumption. We came across Raphael Santiago who has truly fallen in love with our water test kits. It’s definitely the only test kit he needs for himself and his hobby. Read on and let’s get to know more about Raphael.

Raphael works for an insurance company. Outside work, he is into Muay Thai and enjoys watching nerdy movies, shows, and anime. Despite his busy schedule, Raphael makes sure he spends time to hang out with his family and friends, and their dogs for that real work-life balance. For his creative side, Raphael expresses his love for the marine life through aquascaping where he is able to showcase his skills in providing a tranquil and captivating environment for his marine pets and plants.

What is Aquascaping?

Aquascaping is the art and practice of designing, arranging, and maintaining aquatic environments, typically within aquariums, to create visually appealing underwater landscapes. It involves the careful arrangement of plants, rocks, driftwood, substrate, and other decorative elements to mimic natural underwater landscapes, such as forests, mountains, or meadows.

Aquascaping requires a combination of artistic creativity, knowledge of aquatic plants and their growth requirements, and an understanding of aquascaping principles such as balance, proportion, and focal points. Aquascapers often use various techniques, such as layering plants, creating depth through strategic placement of rocks and driftwood, and incorporating contrasting textures and colors to achieve their desired aesthetic.

Importance of Testing the Quality of Water

Water quality is extremely important in aquascaping, as it directly affects the health and well-being of the aquatic life within the aquarium. Regular monitoring of water parameters and appropriate maintenance, such as partial water changes, substrate vacuuming, and filter cleaning, are essential practices in aquascaping to ensure optimal water quality. Failure to maintain good water quality can lead to health problems for aquatic life, algae outbreaks, and ultimately, the failure of the aquascape. Here are some factors that contribute to water quality in aquascaping:

pH Level

The pH level of the water affects the availability of nutrients to plants and the overall health of aquatic life. Most aquatic plants and fish thrive within specific pH ranges, so it's essential to monitor and maintain the pH at suitable levels.

Temperature

Maintaining a stable water temperature within the appropriate range for the species of plants and fish in the aquarium is crucial for their health and growth. Sudden fluctuations in temperature can stress or even kill aquatic organisms.

Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate Levels

Ammonia and nitrite are toxic to aquatic life, while nitrate, although less toxic, can still be harmful in high concentrations. Proper filtration and regular water changes are necessary to keep these parameters within safe levels.

Dissolved Oxygen

Adequate oxygen levels are essential for the respiration of fish and other aquatic organisms. Proper water circulation and surface agitation help maintain oxygen saturation in the water.

Nutrient Levels

Aquatic plants require essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for growth. However, excessive nutrient levels can lead to algae overgrowth, which can disrupt the balance of the aquascape. It's essential to provide the right balance of nutrients for plants while minimizing excess nutrients that promote algae growth.

Water Hardness

Some aquatic plants and fish species have specific preferences for water hardness (GH) and carbonate hardness (KH). Maintaining appropriate hardness levels can help support their health and growth.

Fun Fact about Raphael…

Raphael used to live in the Philippines and his parents always took him to the beach. Because of that, he has become pretty familiar with how underwater habitats look like in real life and he incorporates those memories when scaping... that and watching Chris Lukhaup videos.

Why Raphael Loves SJ Wave Water Test Strips?

Exactly, what SJ products are – beneficial to humans, therefore beneficial to fish. Our water test kits are keenly designed to give fast and reliable results in testing the quality of your drinking water, well water, aquarium water, pool water, and more. SJ Wave products gives you that peace of mind knowing that the water you drink or use at home or your aquatic pets are clean, safe, and healthy. Visit our website and find out more about our water test strips.