In this episode, we reflect on our experience visiting Plant Fest 2026 hosted by Fitz’s Fish Ponds — an event that turned out to be very different from what we expected.
What we thought would be a traditional aquarium-style expo became something much more focused on ecosystems, pond keeping, aquatic plants, greenhouse growing, and the broader connection between all areas of the aquatic hobby.
We discuss:
- large-scale koi pond filtration systems
- greenhouse aquatic plant cultivation
- simple shrimp bowl ecosystems
- biological filtration at different scales
- the overlap between pond keeping and aquarium keeping
- why simplicity and long-term stability matter more than constantly chasing new equipment
One of the biggest takeaways from the event was realizing that the same principles apply whether you’re managing:
- a planted shrimp bowl
- a freshwater aquarium
- or a large koi pond
Balance, biology, plants, and patience connect all of it.
We also talk about our current 29-gallon ecosystem balance project, reducing maintenance over time, and why sometimes the best thing you can do for a tank is simply leave it alone and let it mature.
If you enjoy ecosystem-style fishkeeping, planted tanks, aquatic plants, shrimp keeping, pond systems, or thoughtful conversations about long-term aquarium stability, this episode is for you.
🌿 Full Plant Fest 2026 blog now live on TheTankGuide.com
#AquariumPodcast #PlantedTank #ShrimpKeeping #KoiPond #AquaticPlants
