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The Journal

The Journal

Field notes from YoloLife: species we keep, tanks we build, and the routines that keep them healthy.

A healthy planted aquarium with clear, conditioned water and small community fish
Algae & Water Quality2026.076 min read

Aquarium Water Conditioners in the UAE: What They Actually Do, and Which Ones You Need

Every fish shop has a shelf of bottles promising healthier water, and most of the labels assume you already know what they mean. Here is the honest sorting:...
Disease & Emergency2026.077 min read

How to Quarantine New Aquarium Fish: A 30-Day Setup Guide

A calm, practical quarantine routine for new fish—without turning every arrival into a medication experiment.
An aquarium starter kit laid out with tank, light, filter, submersible heater and accessories
Beginner2026.077 min read

Do You Need an Aquarium Heater in Dubai? Your AC Says Yes

It is 45 degrees outside, so buying a heater sounds absurd — but your fish do not live outside. They live in a room your air conditioning holds...
A betta fish in a transport cup among bagged and cupped community fish from an aquarium shop
Beginner2026.077 min read

Betta Fish Care in the UAE: The Cup Is a Taxi, Not a Home

The betta is the world's most popular first fish, and the most misunderstood — sold from a cup, marketed as a no-equipment pet. Here is what it actually...
Glass rectangular aquarium beside a curved acrylic planted aquarium in a bright Dubai apartment
Beginner2026.075 min read

Glass vs Acrylic Aquarium: Which Tank Material Fits?

A practical way to choose glass or acrylic for an aquarium without treating one material as automatically better.
A tortoise in a terrarium enclosure with hide, water dish and basking area
Care Guide2026.079 min read

Keeping Tortoises in the UAE: The One Reptile This Climate Actually Suits

After a dozen articles on fighting this climate, here is the animal that fits it. Tortoises want heat, dryness and sun — exactly what the UAE has. But...