If you're an aquarium enthusiast, you know that water movement is essential for a healthy aquatic environment. From oxygenating the water to supporting biological filtration and mimicking natural currents, a reliable pump is at the heart of any thriving tank. That’s why so many hobbyists turn to Hikari Rio+ Aqua Pumps—a favorite among freshwater, saltwater, and reef aquarists alike. 

 So, what makes Rio+ Aqua Pumps stand out from the rest? Hikari Rio+ Aqua Pumps are highly regarded among aquarium hobbyists for a number of practical and performance-based reasons. Let’s dive into the top reasons aquarium hobbyists trust and love them:

1. Reliable, Consistent Performance

Rio+ pumps have built a reputation for reliable and long-lasting operation. Hobbyists appreciate their consistent water flow, which is key to maintaining stable water parameters and supporting essential life systems. Whether you're powering a filtration system or circulating water in a reef tank, Rio+ delivers dependable performance day in and day out.

2. Versatility for Any Setup 

One of the most appealing features of Rio+ pumps is their versatility. They work great in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums and can be used as submersible or inline pumps. This flexibility makes them ideal for a wide range of setups—from nano tanks to large reef systems.

3. Quiet Operation

No one wants a noisy aquarium. Rio+ pumps are designed for whisper-quiet performance, making them perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. Their quiet motor technology ensures your aquarium is heard only when it should be—through the calming sound of gently moving water.

4. Energy-Efficient Design

Aquarium gear can rack up energy costs if you’re not careful. Rio+ pumps are built with energy efficiency in mind, helping hobbyists keep operational costs low without sacrificing performance. That’s a win-win for your tank and your utility bill.

5. Compact Yet Powerful 

Space-saving design meets serious water movement. Despite their small footprint, Rio+ pumps deliver impressive flow rates, making them ideal for tight sump compartments, back chambers in all-in-one aquariums, or discreet placement in larger tanks.

6. A Pump for Every Need 

With multiple models to choose from—including the popular Rio+ 600, 1100, and 1700—you can easily find the right pump for your tank’s specific needs. Whether you're gently circulating a planted tank or powering a protein skimmer in a reef setup, there’s a Rio+ pump for you. What's more, whether you’re connecting to tubing, a filter, or a protein skimmer, the included accessories make setup quick and frustration-free with useful fittings and adapters.

7. Backed by a Trusted Brand

Hikari is a well-known and respected brand in the aquarium world, celebrated for high-quality fish foods and aquatic equipment. The Rio+ pump line reflects that same commitment to excellence, giving hobbyists peace of mind with every purchase. *Plus, they back their product with a 3-year Guarantee if you sign up for one within 15 days of purchase!

8. Safe for Sensitive Systems

Constructed with non-corrosive, marine-safe materials, Rio+ pumps are reef-safe and built to last. Their magnetically driven motor ensures reliable function without interfering with the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

 9. Loved by the Community

From online forums to social media groups, Rio+ pumps consistently receive high praise from hobbyists for their durability, ease of use, and great value. Many aquarists have relied on these pumps for years and wouldn’t trust anything else. Hikari Rio+ Aqua Pumps offer the performance, versatility, and reliability that today’s aquarium hobbyists demand. 

10. It's Now Available and On Sale at Uncle Bill's!

When it comes to keeping your aquarium healthy and beautiful, the right pump can make all the difference. Whether you're just getting started or are a seasoned aquarist, the Rio+ series is a smart, proven choice for tanks of many shapes and sizes. Now, you can save 10% OFF (that's up to $8.50 OFF) now through 6/29/25 at Uncle Bill's Pet Centers with your Extra Value Card!

Electric Blue Acara Cichlids  

This species is an exciting, and fairly rare, fish to the aquarium hobby.  They are very beautiful, much like the Electric Blue Jack Dempsey, but with a much more peaceful temperament.  
These Cichlids can grow up to around 6" long, and require a minimum of a 29-50 Gallon tank to flourish depending on the number of fish in the community. They can eat various protein-heavy flake foods, frozen or freeze-dried diets.  These gorgeous fish can be great for those wishing to welcome the first Cichlid into their tank, and can be suitable for beginners to the hobby with care.

They usually may not bother other fish that keep from their territory, such as other Cichlids or similarly sized fish in your community.  However, based on their behavior, they appear to clearly be the dominant fish in most tanks.  If more than one is kept in the same community, the Electric Blue Acara will begin to form pairs with one another.  If female, the fish may turn more of a white or darker color to show that she wishes to protect her territory during breeding season.  They will attempt to breed every two weeks, and can be excellent parents as they will not harm their fry even if they are left with them in the same tank.
  
The Electric Blue Acara will even race to the glass to greet you for their meal, and will most likely eat anything in sight that they possibly can!  
 They will exhibit constant activity and will make use of your entire aquarium with their daily behaviors.  The Electric Blue Acara prefers strong water flow and very clean water, so a good filter is a must!  They enjoy fine sands for digging, plenty of hiding places and rocks, and potted plants for a stress-free lifestyle.

Now you can welcome your very own Electric Blue Acara into your aquatic community for only $19.99 until 3/30/25 at Uncle Bill's Pet Centers with your Extra Value Card!