This is where we announce what's new on the site. Whether they're new products, specials, general enhancements to the site or other 'newsy' stuff, you'll find those things listed here. It's a good page to bookmark!

Oct 31st, 2009 -- New Product Additions

VorTech MP10 Propeller Pump - Designed especially for nano-reef aquariums, the MP10 from EcoTech Marine is a small yet powerful pump. It is ideal for aquariums from 2.5 to 50 gallons and creates gentle flows of 200 to 1,575 gallons per hour. With all the electrical components outside the aquarium and a variety of easy-to-program modes, the VorTech is one of the safest, most versatile pumps on the market.

Mag-Flip Aquarium Cleaner - Revolutionary 2-in-1 aquarium cleaner from Gulfstream Tropical Aquarium. Ultra thin inner part goes through tight spots. Specially designed plastic scraper does the job and presents no risks to the aquarium. Use the scraper side to remove coralline algae. For glass pane thickness up to 10mm (3/8"). Glass and Acrylic replacement scrapers are also available.

Oceanic Chillers - Oceanic aquarium chillers provide accurate temperature control with durability and quality construction. Features one step temperature control on digital LED display, corrosion resistant titanium heat exchanger, watertight 360° adjustable inlet and outlet connections and washable air filter. Available in the following models: 01501, 01502, 01503, 01504 and 01505.

Aqualight T5 HO Double Strip - These low profile fixtures from Coralife provide significantly more light output than conventional fluorescent systems. Includes 1 10,0000K daylight lamp, 1 actinic blue lamp, adjustable mounting legs, acrylic splash guard, single power cord and built in on/off switch. For saltwater or reef aquariums. Available in lengths of 24", 36" and 48".

July 31st, 2009 -- New Product Additions

Bio-Active Pressure Filters - These filters from TetraPond force water through bio-activator media which trap dirt and debris. An easy, one-step back flush valve cleans and back flushes fast. Some of these filters also integrate a UV Clarifier that provides permanent control of suspended algae which cause green water. Available in 5 models: BP1500, BP2500, BP1500-UV, BP2500-UV, BP4000-UV.

Ready Fit T5 Fixtures - Retro fit kits from Sunlight Supply come completely assembled with TEK II reflectors, waterproof end caps, and an 8' power cord. Made from rust proof aluminum. Simply mount the Ready Fit T5 into an existing canopy and it is ready to go. Features major brand ballast. Available in 3 sizes: 24" (2 x 24 watt lamps), 36" (2 x 39 watt lamps), 48" (2 x 54 watt lamps).

Rena SmartHeater - 300W - The most technically advanced aquarium heater available delivering a wide temperature range (69 - 93° F) and an LED warning alert system. The LED alert flashes when water is +/- 5° F from the set point. It is made of unbreakable plastic resin and is safe to the touch, even when heating. It works in any position, horizontal or vertical, heating the aquarium by itself or when attached to a RENA filter.

ReVive Coral Cleaner - A new product developed by Julian Sprung for cleansing live stony corals. It is a surface cleaning formula based on plant extracts, not iodine. Use for all general purpose live coral cleansing, as a part of acclimation to aquariums when corals are first received, for rinsing prior to shipping, and for rinsing newly fragmented corals, such as at coral farming facilities.

Fungus Cure Powder Packets - This medication from Aquarium Pharmaceuticals effectively treats fungus (Saprolegnia spp. & Achlya spp.), mouth fungus (Cotton Mouth Disease), Body Slime & Eye Cloud and Fin & Tail Rot infections. Quickly controls contagious fungus and secondary bacterial infections. Helps prevent the growth of fungus on fish eggs prior to hatching.

VHO Fluorescent Lamp Ground Plane Kit - Ground plane kits from BlueLine Aquatics allow quick assembly of a fully functional ground plane that allows easy removal of the lamps when they need to be replaced. Features improved reliability in starting of lamps, a more uniform lamp output over length of tube, reduced starting voltages and improved dimming performance. Kit includes one roll of mylar tape that is 10 yards long by 2" wide, clips and grounding pins.

May 15th, 2009 -- New Product Additions

Calcium Reactors - These reactors from Saline Solutions provide a simple solution for maintaining and stabilizing calcium and alkalinity for maximum growth of corals. Featuring a compact design and the use of quality material and workmanship, they are a much needed addition to any reef aquarium. After initial set up, these units start working almost instantly and require minimal maintenance. Available in 4" diameter and 6" diameter models.

Check Valves - We've added a new sub-category to the Plumbing Parts section. These high-quality valves help prevent siphoning and backflow in case of a power outage or other plumbing problems. We're now offering various types including Wye, Swing and True Union Check Valves.

Reef-roids - Although originally engineered for feeding the Goniopora genus, this food from Polyp Lab has been very well received in the hobby as an excellent food source for all filter feeding corals. The particle size of Reef-roids is around 150-200 microns which is an ideal size for Goniopora and other filter feeding corals. It is a mixture of naturally occurring marine planktons including a specific species of zooplankton unique to this product.

New Life Spectrum Marine Fish Formula - Foods from NewLife International not only increase the color and vitality of both freshwater and marine fish, they provide essential elements found in the natural environment that are missing from aquariums. They contain absolutely no hormones. Available in a 300 gram container and 2.27 kg package.

April 15th, 2009 -- New Product Additions

Solar 1000 L2 VHO Lighting Controller - The Solar 1000 series of dimmers from BlueLine Products are microprocessor based controllers designed to simulate all the important solar and lunar events. They are designed to be used in conjunction with IceCap VHO electronic ballasts to dim VHO lamps. Includes a Ground Plane Kit that provides smooth dimming by allowing current to pass through the entire bulb when low voltage is applied.

S-gel - A cyanoacrylate gel type instant adhesive from CA PLUS Adhesives, Inc. that is excellent for gluing coral fragments to coral rock and other surfaces. Available in 3 gram and 20 gram tubes.

Coral Plugs - For the propagation of hard and soft corals, these plugs from Commodity Axis are self-weighted with no leaching or curing of the product. Available in singles or a bag of 100.

March 2nd, 2009 -- New Product Additions

Tek-Light T5 Fixtures - These high output fluorescent lighting fixtures from Sunlight Supply accomodate ultra efficient, high output T5 lamps (sold separately). The aluminum body is lightweight, heavy-duty, rust proof and features 95% reflective German aluminum reflectors that increase light output by over 300%. Sleek profile, only 2.5 inches high. Available in 24", 36" and 48" models. Accessories for the fixtures such as acrylic splash guards, socket protectors and a tank bracket kit are also available.

Reef Optix 1 Plus Reflector - Mogul base reflector from Sunlight Supply accommodates most mogul base lamps. It is rust proof & has a lightweight aluminum housing with a black powder coated finish. German made 95% reflective aluminum interior. Tempered glass for added protection is also available for the reflector.

November 19th, 2008 -- New Product Additions

Barracuda 100 gpd 4 Stage RO/DI System - The standard unit from Aqua-Engineering comes with a 1 micron sediment pre-filter, a carbon block pre-filter for VOC reduction, a DOW sheeted AquaEE membrane and a color indicating deionization (DI) resin cartridge. The system includes quick connect fittings, a shut off valve, a filter wrench for easy cartridge replacement and a feed adapter.

MagMounts - These magnets from AquaKit are covered in a waterproof coating to attach/mount rocks, corals, powerheads in an aquarium. The small magnets (4 x 10mm) are for attaching corals to existing rock structures. The large magnets (2 x 20mm) are for mounting corals, rocks, frags or powerheads through a pane of glass.

The 101 Best Tropical Fishes - This book from T.F.H. Publications presents 101 full-page species accounts of fishes that not only have high survival rates in captivity but also are appealing in appearance and behave well in community tanks. Also included are 33 species to avoid - fishes that most commonly wreak havoc in home aquariums because of their size or aggressiveness, or that tend to perish in the hands of inexperienced aquarists. Included are brilliant, full-color identifying photos.

The 101 Best Saltwater Fishes - This book from T.F.H. Publications presents 101 full-page species accounts of fishes that not only have high survival rates in captivity but also are appealing in appearance and behave well in community tanks. Also included are 33 species to avoid - fishes that most commonly wreak havoc in home aquariums because of their size or aggressiveness, or that tend to perish in the hands of inexperienced aquarists. Included are brilliant, full-color identifying photos.

The 101 Best Marine Invertebrates - This book from T.F.H. Publications presents 101 full-page species accounts of invertebrates that not only have high survival rates in captivity but also are appealing in appearance and behave well in a community tank. Also included are 33 species to avoid - creatures that most commonly wreak havoc in home aquariums because of their size or aggressiveness, or that tend to perish in the hands of even experienced aquarists. Included are brilliant, full-color identifying photos.

Reef Aquarium Fishes - A Pocket Expert Guide - The third book in the Pocket Expert Guide Series from T.F.H. Publications covers the best and safest fishes for the reef aquarium. Organized by family for easy reference, each profile includes all essential care, feeding and husbandry advice. The species profiled include all available reef aquarium choices, with scores of seldom seen, rare and recently discovered species.

Reef Fishes Volume 4: Damselfishes and Anemonefishes - The much-anticipated fourth volume in Scott Michael’s landmark Reef Fishes Series from T.F.H. Publications brilliantly profiles hundreds of the species that are very popular with marine aquarists of all skill levels. The book covers the sprawling Family Pomacentridae - the brilliant damsels, chromis, sergeants, demoiselles and gregories as well as the many species of alluring anemonefishes (clownfishes) and their host anemones.

The Conscientious Marine Aquarist - Second Edition - This bestselling guide from T.F.H Publications has been an essential reference for saltwater hobbyists since it was first published in 1998 and now it returns with a revised and expanded second edition. Bringing the ethics and curiosity of a marine ecologist to the home aquarium field, Robert Fenner provides new standards and fresh insights into the intelligent selection and care of captive saltwater fishes and invertebrates.

August 15th, 2008 -- New Product Additions

Auto-Waste Collector - Made from high quality cell-cast acrylic materials and equipped with a carbon cup to eliminate odors, this collector from Reef Concepts is an excellent addition to a protein skimmer configured reef system. Designed for the Aerofoamer line of skimmers, it can also be used with any pressurized protein skimmer.

Aquarium Hy-Drive Water Pumps - The Supreme Hy-Drive pumps from Danner Manufacturing were designed for submersible or in-line use in freshwater or marine aquariums. They combine the benefits of magnetic and direct-drive technologies to deliver an extremely quiet, energy efficient, low maintenance pumping source. The following models are now available: 1600, 2100, 2500, 3200, 4000, 4800, 6000.

Infra-Red Quick Nets - These nets from Penn Plax work on a very basic scientific principle: the red end of the light spectrum does not penetrate very far in water. As a result, most fish are not very sensitive to infrared and red light, making them easier to catch. Available in 2", 3", 4", 5", 5" (Long Handle), 6", 8", 8" (Long Handle) and 10".

Tropica Product Catalogue (2007/2008) - This catalogue takes you on an inspiring journey to the underwater world of aquatic plants so you can create your own Amazon at home. Each product sheet contains information on the plant itself, its physical and chemical requirements, as well as tips about how to plant it and its everyday care.

Bendable Bubble Walls - These air diffusers from Penn Plax are made from an extremely porous polymer that produces an uninterrupted flow of bubbles. They bend and conform for easy in-tank placement and are weighted to stay put in the aquarium. The following lengths are now available: 15", 23.5", 35.5" and 48".

Premium Activated Carbon Bags - Designed specifically for Marineland Canister Filter models 160, 220 and 360. Removes odors, discoloration and impurities through easy to use carbon bags. Add to stack n' flow filter trays for optimum chemical filtration.

Polishing Filter Pads - Replacement polishing filter pads for the Marineland Canister 360 filter take out fine particulate matter from aquarium water and provide surface area for bacterial colonization.

Filter Foam - Replacement filter foam for the Marineland Canister 360 filter helps remove larger particulate matter for optimal mechanical filtration. Also provides ideal area for bacteria colonization.

June 30th, 2008 -- New Product Additions

Aqualog books - During the hots days of summer or on a rainy afternoon, sitting down with one of these premium reference books will make for an interesting read. They'll tell all one needs to know on a specific subject or species. We're now carrying titles on African, South American & dwarf cichlids, goldfish & koi, L & C number catfish, etc.

Plant Nutrition (500 ml) - Liquid fertilizer from Tropica contains the most important nutrients for healthy and sustained aquarium plant growth but does not contain nitrogen (N) or phosphorus (P). Recommended for aquariums with few plants and a relatively large number of fish.

Plant Nutrition Plus (500 ml) - Liquid fertilizer from Tropica contains all essential nutrients needed including nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). It is suitable for aquariums with many plants in relation to the number of fish, where plants can lack nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) which otherwise would be supplied by fish excrement and food remnants.

Plant Nutrition Plus capsules - Capsulized fertilizer from Tropica supplies waterplants with all the nutrients they need for healthy and sustained growth over a long period of time. Suitable for stem plants and for larger rosette plants (such as the Echinodorus species). Available in packages of 12 and 36 capsules.

MaxPure Three-Stage MPRO RO Systems - Water purification units from SpectraPure produce reverse osmosis pure water at an economical price. They feature a high-silicate removal TFC membrane, 1 micron sediment filter, carbon block filter, pressure gauge, filter wrench and garden hose adapter. Available in 60, 90 or 180 GPD models.

MaxPure Four-Stage MPDI RO/DI Systems - Water purification units from SpectraPure maximize pure water production through application of laboratory grade deionization resins. They feature a high-silicate removal TFC membrane, 1 micron sediment filter, carbon block filter, SilicaBuster deionization cartridge, pressure gauge, filter wrench and garden hose adapter. Available in 60, 90 or 180 GPD models.

Strontium Concentrate (250ml) - Formulated for reef aquariums with a dense growth of reef building corals, this supplement from Two Little Fishes provides an extra boost of strontium that enhances the deposition of calcareous skeletons. Does not contain molybdenum.

Iodine Concentrate (250ml) - Reef formula supplement from Two Little Fishes made from potassium iodide and seaweed extracts. Provide an extra boost of this important element to observe the positive effects in the growth of Xenia, other soft corals and delicate red and brown seaweeds.

CO2 Indicator - Real time CO2 monitor from Red Sea gives an easy-to-read, continuous, qualitative visual indication of the current CO2 level in a freshwater aquarium. Set up and install the indicator as described and simply compare the colour of the liquid in the indicator to the integrated colour scale. A refill is also available

Aiptasia X - Highly effective, long sought-after Aiptasia treatment from Red Sea. Natural components form a uniquely thick, adhesive material, eliciting a feeding response in Aiptasia. The adhesive form also seals the anemone's mouth, preventing the release of planula, or larval stage anemones. Within minutes, the Aiptasia will implode, eradicating the anemone and the planula.

T5 Super Actinic lamps - True 100% 420nm, blue spectrum. Useful life: 4500 hours. UV Lighting, formerly known as Ultraviolet Resources International (URI) are the pioneers in duplicating the natural environment for fish, corals, plants and reptiles. They've established themselves as the hobby favorite with their popular VHO lamps and now they're continuing this with their T5 line. Available in 22" (24w/40w), 34" (39w/60w) and 46" (54w/85w).

T5 Aquasun lamps - 100% tri-band white spectrum. Color temperature: 10,000K; Useful life: 4500 hours. UV Lighting, formerly known as Ultraviolet Resources International (URI) are the pioneers in duplicating the natural environment for fish, corals, plants and reptiles. They've established themselves as the hobby favorite with their popular VHO lamps and now they're continuing this with their T5 line. Available in 22" (24w/40w), 34" (39w/60w) and 46" (54w/85w).

T5 Actinic White lamps - 50% actinic/50% tri-band white spectrum. Color temperature: 12,000K; Useful life: 4500 hours. UV Lighting, formerly known as Ultraviolet Resources International (URI) are the pioneers in duplicating the natural environment for fish, corals, plants and reptiles. They've established themselves as the hobby favorite with their popular VHO lamps and now they're continuing this with their T5 line. Available in 22" (24w/40w), 34" (39w/60w) and 46" (54w/85w).

T5 75.25 lamps - 75% Actinic O3/25% tri-band phosphor. Color temperature: 14,000K at 420nm; Useful life: 4500 hours. UV Lighting, formerly known as Ultraviolet Resources International (URI) are the pioneers in duplicating the natural environment for fish, corals, plants and reptiles. They've established themselves as the hobby favorite with their popular VHO lamps and now they're continuing this with their T5 line. Available in 22" (24w/40w), 34" (39w/60w) and 46" (54w/85w).

February 29th, 2008 -- New Product Additions

Foam Inserts - High quality foam pads from Imagine Gold sized for AquaClear Power filters. They provide both mechanical filtration and areas for culturing bacteria to aid in biological filtration. Available for the 20/Mini, 30/150 , 50/200, 70/300 and 110/500 AquaClear filters.

Activated Carbon Inserts - High grade activated carbon from Imagine Gold provides optimal chemical filtration and is available in just the right quantities to fit any AquaClear Power filter. Available for the 20/Mini, 30/150 , 50/200, 70/300 and 110/500 AquaClear filters.

Digital Aquarium Thermometer - Thermometer from Zoo Med Laboratories is fully submersible. The digital readout faces forward in the tank and suction cups to the glass inside the aquarium. Safe for fresh and marine aquariums. A replacement battery is included.

Koralia Nano Circulation Pump - An innovative range of aquarium powerheads from Hydor designed to be super efficient and long-lasting with very low energy consumption compared to traditional circulation pumps. This new model has a flow rate of 900 l/h (240 gph).

MagClip (Magnetic Suction Cups) - Features a pair of industrial strength magnetic suction cups from Zoo Med Laboratories with 6 assorted sizes of interchangeable nylon clips.

January 30th, 2008 -- New Product Additions

Sure Flow 1600 Kit - Designed to increase the flow of Maxi-Jet 400, 600, 900 & 1200 powerhead pumps, this upgrade kit from Algae Free LLC., provides excellent wide and gentle water movement for reef tanks. It works with Sure Grip magnet holders and original Maxi-Jet brackets.

External Thermal Heater - 200 watts - This ETH in-line heater from Hydor uses the advanced PTC system, which is a special polymer sheet silk-screened with heating ink instead of metal coils. Includes a hanging hook for easy placement outside the aquarium. For use with 1/2" hose.

Koralia Nano Circulation Pump - An innovative range of aquarium powerheads from Hydor designed to be super efficient and long-lasting with very low energy consumption compared to traditional circulation pumps. This new model has a flow rate of 900 l/h (240 gph).

Flourite Black - A specially fracted stable porous clay gravel from Seachem for the natural planted aquarium. Although it may be mixed with other gravels, Flourite Black is best used as an integral substrate bed. Any mixture should be at least half flourite.

Flourite Black Sand - A specially fracted stable, fine porous gravel from Seachem for the natural planted aquarium. Most effective when used alone as an integral substrate bed, but it may be mixed with other gravels.

WaterWonders Plants - Available in a variety of types and sizes, these plastic plants from Tetra are specially designed for ease of installation and ongoing beauty. They feature a plastic anchor that disappears from view in the gravel.

What's New pages from other years are also available: 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000.