The Father Fish Method

Who is Father Fish? What is a Natural Aquarium?

Who is Father Fish?

From Seminary to Substrate

Louis Foxwell, known on YouTube as Father Fish, is a seasoned fishkeeper with 70 years of experience. His simple, easy, and natural methods ensure healthy, happy tropical fish in your aquarium. Lou adopted the role of Father Fish many years ago when he opened a tropical fish store as a retirement business. Before this, he was a missionary for 25 years, following in his father’s footsteps by ministering to a congregation of deaf worshippers. He currently promotes the Father Fish Method on YouTube.

Lou fondly recalls his grandmother, Lena, from Berlin, Germany. She inspired his love for fishkeeping as a child. As a founder and original board member of the National Aquarium, Lou played a significant role in its development. He served as chair of the Community Relations Committee and participated in the Search Committees. With extensive experience across nearly every level of the fish industry, Father Fish offers a wealth of knowledge and products. Including plants, soil supplements, and more, to enhance your aquarium experience.

The Father Fish Method of Fishkeeping

Substrate

Soil, supplements, peat, compost, and sand. Together, these are the foundation that the plants use to grow.

Plants and Leaves

Plants maintain the water quality. Decaying leaves feed and provide shelter for the food web.

Food Web

Feed your fish and maintain your aquarium with the help of aquatic organisms.

Father Fish Method Substrate Components

The Supplements

Our mix of ingredients prolongs the ability of the soil to provide for the plants. Long enough for the aquarium to become self-sustaining.

The Natural Aquarium Substrate Supplements

You can mix your own or

Buy a mix from our store

Plants

Plants are the best keepers of your aquarium water quality. As a general rule, natural aquariums should have at least 50% of their substrate planted from the start. Aquatic plants and nitrifying bacteria will keep harmful nitrogen compounds and more from building up to toxic levels.

Pogostemon

Moss

Ferns and Rotala

Food Web

Want to learn more about the Father Fish Method?

Check out our book: The Natural Aquarium – A Complete Guide