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Is Your Biome Stable?

Is your tank really stable? How biomes change daily — and why no one knows the “perfect” bacteria! | Reefapalooza NY 2025

In this episode, Mark continues his conversation with Dr. Tim Hovanec, diving into biome testing — from how protein skimmers can alter bacteria to why test results can vary even around the same animal. They discuss when to test (since your biome changes throughout the day), whether biome testing should be like chemical testing, and why more diversity doesn’t always mean more stability. Learn what to do with your results, why no one knows the “perfect” bacteria, and how adding equipment or livestock can shift your tank’s balance.

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  • On Sale 15%
    Waste-Away Natural Aquarium Cleaner for Reef Aquaria (16 oz) - Dr Tim's
    On Sale 15%

    Waste-Away Natural Aquarium Cleaner for Reef Aquaria (16 oz) - Dr Tim's

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $17.99
    $15.29
    Sludge and organic busting beneficial bacteria will naturally dissolve the sludge and dirt that accumulates in an aquarium and prevent the build-up of debris when used on a regular basis. Also removes dissolved organics. Waste-Away is fast acting and...
  • On Sale 15%
    One & Only Reef Live Nitrifying Bacteria (2 oz) 30 Gallons - Dr Tim's
    On Sale 15%

    One & Only Reef Live Nitrifying Bacteria (2 oz) 30 Gallons - Dr Tim's

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $18.39
    $15.63
    We store this in a climate controlled environment to keep it fresh - Good for 6 months at room temperature, 1 year at 50°F. Best to keep refrigerated for longest shelf life. One and Only Live Nitrifying Bacteria prevents new tank syndrome by...
  • On Sale 15%
    Ammonium Chloride for Fishless Cycling - Dr Tim's  (4 oz)
    On Sale 15%

    Ammonium Chloride for Fishless Cycling - Dr Tim's (4 oz)

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $6.99
    $5.94
    This bottle of reagent grade ammonium chloride is for use when fishless cycling. Concentration is 50 mg/L of total ammonia-nitrogen (TAN). Dose 4 drops per gallon of aquarium water.  Use with One and Only Nitrifying Bacteria. Simple, easy to...
  • On Sale 15%
    Marine Eco-Balance Probiotic Bacteria (16 oz) - Dr Tim's
    On Sale 15%

    Marine Eco-Balance Probiotic Bacteria (16 oz) - Dr Tim's

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $15.99
    $13.59
    Choose the size best suited for your system:4 oz bottle treats 120 gallons (454 liters)8 oz bottle treats 240 gallons (908 liters)16 oz bottle treats 480 gallons (1,817 liters)32 oz bottle treats 960 gallons (3,634 liters)64 oz bottle treats 1,920...
  • On Sale 15%
    One & Only Reef Live Nitrifying Bacteria (4 oz) 60 Gallons - Dr Tim's
    On Sale 15%

    One & Only Reef Live Nitrifying Bacteria (4 oz) 60 Gallons - Dr Tim's

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $32.39
    $27.53
    We store this in a climate controlled environment to keep it fresh - Good for 6 months at room temperature, 1 year at 50°F. Best to keep refrigerated for longest shelf life. One and Only Live Nitrifying Bacteria prevents new tank syndrome by...
  • On Sale 15%
    Waste Away Time Release Gels Marine (100 Gallon) - Dr Tims Aquatics
    On Sale 15%

    Waste Away Time Release Gels Marine (100 Gallon) - Dr Tims Aquatics

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $21.69
    $18.44
    The gels are full of our Waste-Away Bacteria that are automatically and continuously released into your aquarium to consume nutrients and break down fish waste; keeping your tank clean and water clear. REEF SAFE. “Gets into the nooks and crannies...
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    Marine ReFresh (16 oz) - Dr Tim's Aquatics
    On Sale 15%

    Marine ReFresh (16 oz) - Dr Tim's Aquatics

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $34.99
    $29.74
    Re-Fresh revitalizes old, green/brown aquarium water. Re-Fresh is a potent combination of beneficial bacteria that work together to maintain clear water, clean aquarium surfaces and eliminate unpleasant odors. Revitalizes old, green/brown...
  • On Sale 15%
    One & Only Freshwater Live Nitrifying Bacteria (8 oz) 120 Gallons - Dr Tim's
    On Sale 15%

    One & Only Freshwater Live Nitrifying Bacteria (8 oz) 120 Gallons - Dr Tim's

    Dr Tim's Aquatics

    $29.99
    $25.49
    We store this in a climate controlled environment to keep it fresh - Good for 6 months at room temperature, 1 year at 50°F. Best to keep refrigerated for longest shelf life. One and Only Live Nitrifying Bacteria prevents new tank syndrome by...