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The Tint

The Tint

By Scott Fellman

"The Tint" is a podcast dedicated to lovers of natural aquariums. A place to discuss unusual aquarium concepts and ideas; a jumping-off point at the aquarium hobby's "bleeding edge." Join us for inspiration, ideas, and a sometimes provocative point of view!
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The “bottom up evolution” is here!

The Tint Dec 22, 2019

00:00
15:11
The Romance of the Aquarium Hobby

The Romance of the Aquarium Hobby

There is something amazing about going to the LFS and stumbling upon fishes that you’ve read about for years, but have never seen.. or just acquiring that fish you’ve been coveting for so long.. hers to the “romance” of our hobby…
Dec 05, 202310:26
When is Enough, “Enough?”

When is Enough, “Enough?”

When we create aquariums based on that idea in our heads- or that natural ecosystem that we’re enthralled by, we sometimes need to grasp restraint. We need to hold ourselves back.. let’s discuss this and other great ways to bring your dream tank to life!
Oct 30, 202323:44
The journey is the fun part…

The journey is the fun part…

We as a hobby don’t do enough to share the basics.. there, I said it. We’re too caught up in making cute social media posts without disseminating more than superficial information. There’s a real hunger- and need- for us to go beyond the basics…
Oct 30, 202323:50
Changing Course or Staying Put?

Changing Course or Staying Put?

Reversing course, changing direction, and rethinking our aquariums are par for the course in the hobby. When is it appropriate to hold on.. or to switch direction?
Oct 17, 202312:08
Tanks…A LOT

Tanks…A LOT

I have thousands of tank ideas. Why am I not able to find execute on them?
Oct 10, 202321:24
“Lessons learned on the road to global domination…”

“Lessons learned on the road to global domination…”

People ask me all the time how Tannin started; what the ideas that drove- and do tie to drive it- are. How lessons I’ve learned along the way validated thoughts I had, and challenged me to improve. And we look at how the mindset I’ve learned on my journey can help you with yours..
Oct 10, 202319:24
Where the magic lies…

Where the magic lies…

As botanical method aquarium fans and vendors, we tend to speculate quite a bit about what exactly is in those botanical we use. One thing we don’t speculate about is what they do ecologically when they’re in our tanks…
Oct 04, 202318:03
Streaming along…

Streaming along…

Of all of the habitats we play with in botanical method aquariums, few are as compelling as tropical streams. Let’s take another look at streams and the opportunities they offer to replicate them in aquariums..
Oct 03, 202313:26
Ecology First.

Ecology First.

When we eschew ecology, we’re setting ourselves up for difficulties with our aquariums. It’s a lesson learned throughout hobby history. One which, as botanical method aquarium lovers, we need not be destined to repeat!
Sep 27, 202316:01
The Risk of the New?

The Risk of the New?

There is always risk to trying new stuff in the hobby. There is risk in collecting your own botanicals. Hell, there’s risk in keeping an aquarium, for that matter. Don’t be overly risk adverse!
Sep 25, 202319:52
Like What Nature Does

Like What Nature Does

I’ve pounded it into your heads before: Our botanical method aquariums are little microcosms; beholden to Natural processes just like their wild brethren. And how we manage them and indeed, perceive them, is as important as anything else we do in the hobby.
Sep 18, 202317:56
It’s not “dirty”- it’s Perfect!

It’s not “dirty”- it’s Perfect!

Your botanical method aquarium is an elegant, simple to manage, yet complex ecosystem. It can run with a minimum of intervention on your part. They key is to understand what’s happening, why it’s beneficial- and to make the mental shifts necessary to make it all work.
Sep 13, 202317:45
IS bigger “better?”

IS bigger “better?”

For some reason, a lot of people in the aquarium hobby seem to feel that you need to have a large aquarium to be considered a “serious” hobbyist- or a “successful” one. Where the hell did THIS idea come from? Let’s discuss…
Sep 13, 202310:40
The Change is Here..

The Change is Here..

How do hobby practices develop? What makes us do things the way that we do? And why are we sometimes hesitant to change, to learn, to evolve? What kinds of changes have we made in the hobby- and what kinds of changes will we do tie to make?
Sep 11, 202326:06
What we do is cool.

What we do is cool.

We do this incredible thing- we replicate the function of natural aquatic habitats in our aquariums. And we’ve had to adapt, evolve our techniques, and take criticisms from others to do it. Yet, it’s all worth it.. we just have to look at the “how and why” of what we do sometimes to appreciate it!
Sep 05, 202330:08
A big idea for small fishes?

A big idea for small fishes?

Yeah, it’s been a while since I’ve talked about tearing fry a more natural way. Fish breeders won’t like this, I’m sure, but for “casual” breeders like me, the idea of incorporating a botanical method aquarium to feed young fish fry is amazing!
Sep 01, 202316:30
Keeeping a good thing going: Thoughts on Long Term Management of Botanical Method Aquariums

Keeeping a good thing going: Thoughts on Long Term Management of Botanical Method Aquariums

The beauty of our approach to aquariums is that they are perfectly optimized for operating indefinitely…if we manage them in a way that’s consistent with our understanding of their ecological function…
Aug 25, 202317:17
Wherever Nature Takes Us…

Wherever Nature Takes Us…

We at the stage in our aquariums so to speak. We deliver a “stage” for Nature to perform Her work. We shouldn’t resist this.
Aug 22, 202310:23
Beyond the “sexy looks”…again!

Beyond the “sexy looks”…again!

We have been preaching for almost a decade about the concept of “functional aesthetics”- an appreciation for the function of natural habitats , understanding that the function contributes to the aesthetics. And it’s time once again to elaborate on my theory..
Aug 17, 202312:29
Who’s accommodating who?

Who’s accommodating who?

It’s amazing how adaptable fishes are, isn’t it? However, I’m more convinced than ever that, just because fishes CAN adapt to conditions that are easier for us to provide, doesn’t mean that we should force them to. Let’s discuss..
Aug 12, 202311:44
“Project 18”: The Turning Point

“Project 18”: The Turning Point

Okay, it sounds like a bad sci-fi movie, but it’s just a designation given to one of my aquariums..a system that changed my practice and evolved my thinking about botanical method aquariums. Everyone likely has their own “Project 18”- that tank which pushed boundaries for them. Let me share what this tank did for my aquarium hobby practice… then please reflect upon yours…
Aug 11, 202317:35
A Steady diet of…

A Steady diet of…

Our fishes have evolved to consume all sorts of foods. And they often shift their feeding habits throughout the year, as a response to seasonal changes, abundance, etc. And our botanical method aquariums, with their leaves, seed pods, etc. are fantastic producers of supplemental nutrition…
Aug 10, 202320:09
The “Acid Trip”

The “Acid Trip”

Okay, sounds a bit 1960’s psychedelic, right? But it’s a good descriptor of where we are in the aquarium hobby when it comes to approaching low pH aquariums. By “low”, I mean below 6.0ph. A “frontier” that we as a hobby largely have no experience with. Yet, I think we’re getting to the point where creating and managing low ph systems (ph in the 5’s and 4’s) might become practical. We just have to understand these environments chemically, and grasp the ecology which drives them. It’ll require a new approach and way of thinking about how we do stuff…Are YOU experienced?
Jul 28, 202312:58
"The Tint" Special Edition with Mark Chen of Nature Design Studio- "The Ultimate Beauty Resides in Nature"

"The Tint" Special Edition with Mark Chen of Nature Design Studio- "The Ultimate Beauty Resides in Nature"

Today, in a special expanded episode, I have a great discussion with Mark Chen of Nature Design Studio here in So Cal. You've probably seen his videos on Instagram and Tim Tok, showcasing his beautiful work. Mark and his partner create amazing custom aquarium displays which incorporate his unique take on the natural aquatic environments of the world. Mark has a gift for being able to infuse his design assets and a deep understanding of atheistic into creating different natural worlds and environments within aquariums. We cover a lot of ground in our discussion, including how Mark creates some of his amazing displays, and what techniques, philosophies and design approaches he uses to construct them. He even shares some tips from his experience which's everyday aquarists can leverage to create our own unique work! Mark is incredibly smart, gifted with a talent for sharing abstract concepts in a relatable manner. Follow him on Instagram (tmk_aquarist) to see some of his amazing work. A great listen!

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Jul 27, 202301:31:24
Letting Nature Sort it Out

Letting Nature Sort it Out

We love to control everything in our aquariums, don’t we? We’ll, it seems like a good idea, but the reality is that we don’t have to. The idea of throwing your materials into your tank and letting Nature sort it out isn’t laziness. Not some crazy, alternative approach. It’s a slightly different take on what hobbyists have been doing for generations. It’s a way to create a truly dynamic ecosystem in your tank by letting Nature get to work immediately. Taking a longer, less conventional road may unlock tons of secrets that we can use to our advantage!
Jul 25, 202311:31
More wood in our aquariums? Why not?

More wood in our aquariums? Why not?

For Alan soy as long as we’ve done this podcast, I’ve talked about flooded forests, fallen trees, and the unique habitats which arise from them. There is something fascinating and compelling about the idea of replicating one in an aquarium. We just need to overcome our fear of taking up precious water volume with big pieces- or a lot of pieces- of wood…let’s discuss…
Jul 25, 202309:42
Fools rush in…

Fools rush in…

I keep getting asked: “can a beginner in the aquarium hobby start right out of the gate with a botanical method aquarium?” Well, my first thought is to say “No!” However, the reality is that, if one is willing to take the time to get past the superficial aspects of what we do, and learn the methodology, the “how’s and whys”- the craft- it is possible. Of course, you need a few philosophical anchors, too…
Jul 20, 202317:51
Origins and Evolutions…And You.

Origins and Evolutions…And You.

When did you know you had that “thing” for aquariums? Was it a gradual transition from other hobbies and interests, or was it this thing that just hit you one day? What kind of impact does aquarium keeping have on your life. Deep thoughts…
Jul 19, 202310:30
Of Mangroves and Macroalgae with Tyler Wells (aka "Inland Reef")- EXTENDED SPECIAL EPISODE!

Of Mangroves and Macroalgae with Tyler Wells (aka "Inland Reef")- EXTENDED SPECIAL EPISODE!

In this edition of "The Tint', I chat with hobbyist Tyler Wells (better known as "Inland Reef" on Instagram and hobby forums0. Tyler and I met on Instagram because of our mutual passion for mangroves (although he's probably forgotten more than I'll ever know!). We talk about his hobby journey, and his incredible, inspiring work with mangroves, macroalgae, and high biodiversity saltwater aquariums. If this episode doesn't make you want to start a saltwater aquairum, I"m not sure what will! NOTE: We had a few tech glitches that forced me to break up the episode into two segments, and I awkwardly edited together the best that I could...Hang in there and enjoy!

Jul 11, 202301:24:46
It’s a “Jungle” in There! (And What’s Wrong With THAT?)

It’s a “Jungle” in There! (And What’s Wrong With THAT?)

A botanical method aquarium is more than just a display or “scape.” It’s an amalgamation of numerous life forms, working together to form the basis of a closed ecosystem. What happens if you let Nature go unchecked?
Jul 11, 202310:44
Existential Crises… of My Own Making?

Existential Crises… of My Own Making?

Okay, I admit.. for a lot of my fish keeping “career”, I wasn’t the relatively calm, we’ll adjust aquarist you hear everyday. I was a bit of a nervous wreck.. almost a “drama queen” about stuff with my tanks. Then, I turned to the botanical method aquarium and things changed…
Jul 11, 202307:03
Past Perfect. Future Fantastic!

Past Perfect. Future Fantastic!

The aquarium hobby progresses constantly- borrowing from past discoveries, techniques, and technology. It’s how the hobby moves forwards. Think about some of the stuff from the past that still drives progression in the hobby today…
Jul 10, 202313:27
The Wisdom of the Ages

The Wisdom of the Ages

Our hobby has an amazing history. A history formed by thousands of unnamed hobbyists plying their craft- and by a few legendary “players” making breakthroughs that transcend time. Who are your hobby “influencers? What did they teach you which resonates with you?
Jul 09, 202311:13
Events which Shape Us

Events which Shape Us

Sometimes, unexpected stuff happens in our aquariums. Stuff way beyond our current skill set of body of experience. Stuff which pushes us- and shapes us.
Jul 08, 202308:03
Considering the “a biological Operating System” of our Aquariums…

Considering the “a biological Operating System” of our Aquariums…

The foundation for all that we do is ecology.. And the systems that we create in our aquariums are absolutely dependent upon an “operating system” which a nature creates and manages. We need to play nice with Her…
Jul 08, 202309:53
The “Expectation Refresher”- Yet Again…

The “Expectation Refresher”- Yet Again…

Most of us know what to expect when getting into botanical method aquariums. Some of us don’t.. and this one’s for you.
Jul 07, 202311:23
Good Clean Fun?

Good Clean Fun?

With all of the new exposure of botanical method aquariums in our world, we keep getting questions from this unfamiliar to our practice about the “cleanliness” of our botanical method tanks. Let’s clarify it!
Jul 07, 202309:07
Tempting Fate…Rolling the Dice..Trying to Beat the Rare “Sure Things” in our Hobby!

Tempting Fate…Rolling the Dice..Trying to Beat the Rare “Sure Things” in our Hobby!

You think there are no “sure things” in the aquarium hobby? I beg to differ with you. There ARE “sure things” in abundance- and most of ‘em ain’t good! Let’s go over a few “certainties” that you just don’t want to go up against!
Jul 06, 202308:56
“Attitude Adjustments?”

“Attitude Adjustments?”

The aquarium hobby is supposed to be fun. It’s not supposed to be a competition, or pressure and anxiety-inducing venture. Yet, for many hobbyists, it’s become just that. Here’s some tips on how to avoid getting caught in that nasty spiral- from a guy who’s been there- so that you can have an e table lifelong hobby experience!
Jul 06, 202313:25
Power from the Palms!

Power from the Palms!

Palm trees are pretty much the “Official Symbol of The Tropics!” They are fascinating trees, and the sheer number of materials and uses they can provide for the botanical method aquarium enthusiast is enormous. Let’s look at what the plans provide, and how we can incorporate them in a realistic representation of the (aquatic!) habitats in which they are often found!
Jul 05, 202316:18
Constantly Changing. Persistently Evolving.

Constantly Changing. Persistently Evolving.

My entire hobby experience is based upon evolution of ideas, and changes to “iconic” beliefs and practices. I feel that adaptation of these concepts have been the key “ingredients” which have brought botanical method aquariums to the place they’re at now. We’ve all forced ourselves out of our comfort zones and evolved our thinking, processes and practices along the way, pushing the “state of the art” in our hobby sector as we go. I share a few of the changes and evolutions in my thinking and practice which are pushing the boundaries even further…
Jul 05, 202325:48
My confusing delusional obsession…

My confusing delusional obsession…

Avid listeners of “The Tint” probably recall me obsession, several years ago about finding blackwater livebearers. We talked about this- looked into some intriguing candidates, debunked a few others- yet never found the one we were looking for. Yet, I never let up.. and more recent research might yield some tantalizing leads! Yeah, I’m obsessed….
Jul 04, 202312:49
The Intersection of Function, Form…and “Weird” Ideas…

The Intersection of Function, Form…and “Weird” Ideas…

The natural world is literally filled with thousands of unique aquatic habitats which no one has ever thought to replicate in an aquarium before. Perhaps they seem so unachievable that they’ve literally scared us off from trying. Let’s not let “weird” keep us from pushing the limits of what’s possible in the aquatic world!
Jul 03, 202315:09
Just…Don’t…

Just…Don’t…

The botanical method aquarium isn’t difficult. It’s not some mystery; some exclusive enclave of the “cool kids.” However, it requires a certain mindset- a discipline; and understanding. If you go into this world with the wrong expectations or mindset, you’ll likely hate it. So, our advice to you? Just..don’t!
Jul 02, 202315:49
Steps along the way…

Steps along the way…

Botanical method aquariums are a journey.. a slow, methodical evolution. The idea of “finished” is just a human construct. We need to reprogram ourselves to understand an appreciate this. Moving along the road on an enjoyable and never ending journey…
Jul 02, 202307:15
Yes, you can! But, should you?

Yes, you can! But, should you?

We all want to provide the best possible conditions for our fishes. However, we also want to make our work easier…So, isn’t adapting fishes to environmental conditions that are easier for us to provide a better thing? I mean, fishes breed in conditions dramatically different from those in which they evolved, so isn’t that a good thing? Likely.. however…
Jun 30, 202308:58
Call it what you want to Call It…

Call it what you want to Call It…

“Biotope Aquarium.” A term which shouldn’t rally any hard feelings among hobbyists. But, you know.. it does. And sure, I need to chime in with my two cents worth…a rant for sure..
Jun 30, 202307:52
So, you’re thinking of starting a reef tank? Can we talk first?

So, you’re thinking of starting a reef tank? Can we talk first?

As you know, I come from the alluring world of reefkeeping. Before there was a Tannin Aquatics, that was my main jam. And in decades of playing with corals and reefs, I learned a few “sacred truths.” Stuff that I really need to share with you before you give in to the social media hype and jump in to the splashy world of reefkeeping. It’s fun, and rewarding.. but it’s also humbling. Just like botanical method aquariums, a successful reef experience starts with the right mindset…Let’s talk about this…
Jun 29, 202312:50
More than just the obvious…

More than just the obvious…

Botanical method aquariums offer us a lot as hobbyists- challenge, education, interest… and they ask us to make mental shifts to accept the work of Nature. Yet, the also provide some unique benefits for our fishes- benefits which we may not have previously thought about….
Jun 29, 202312:01
“Fixes” for “Problems” that are Not Problems!

“Fixes” for “Problems” that are Not Problems!

Sometimes, we look at things that happen in our botanical method aquariums with the wrong point of view- out of context. And we convince ourselves that there is something wrong with our tank. The reality is it’s usually just a case of “Nature being Nature…”
Jun 28, 202313:16