Aquatic Rhythm Lab

Build your
first tank.

Start anywhere. Choose fish you love and discover what they need — or build your equipment setup and see what it can support. The two panels work together, and the tank visual responds to both.

Start with fish Pick species you want to keep. See what equipment they need.

Start with equipment Build your setup first. See what species it can support.

WaterFiltration, flow, and water quality infrastructure

BiologicalBacterial colony and nitrogen cycle stability

EnvironmentalTemperature, light, and habitat conditions

LivestockSpecies compatibility and stocking demand

HumanMaintenance demand and keeper commitment

The five rhythms are an ARA interpretive model — a lens for thinking, not a scientific measurement. They reflect patterns observed across the freshwater hobby.

Filtration

🧽

Sponge FilterBiological, gentle flow

🌀

Internal FilterSubmersible, compact

📦

Hang-on FilterMechanical + biological

🛢️

Canister FilterHigh capacity, external

💧

Overflow FilterTrickle/wet-dry, high O₂

Circulation

⚡

PowerheadReturn pump / flow

🌊

WavemakerCirculation, dead zones

💨

Air PumpOxygen + agitation

🟣

UV SterilizerClarity + pathogen control

Environment

🌡️

HeaterStable temperature

💡

Basic LEDDay/night cycle

☀️

Plant LightFull spectrum, high output

⏰

Light TimerConsistent photoperiod

Cooling

❄️

Aquarium ChillerPrecise temperature control

💨

Cooling FanEvaporative cooling

Substrate

🟤

GravelNeutral, forgiving

🟡

SandNatural, soft substrate

🟢

Aqua SoilNutrient-rich for plants

Additions

💧

Water ConditionerNeutralise chlorine

⚡

Ammonia SourceFishless cycling

🧪

Bacteria StarterCycle head-start

🪩

Lid / CoverSafety + reduces evaporation

💧

Auto Top-OffReplaces evaporated water

Monitoring

🌡️

ThermometerVerify temperature daily

🔬

Test KitRead the nitrogen cycle

🧹

Gravel VacuumWater change tool

Build yourfirst tank.

Build your
first tank.