AqAdvisor alternative: a practical comparison for stocking and compatibility
AqAdvisor has been the go-to free tool for fish stocking and compatibility checks since the early 2010s. It helps aquarists answer two questions: how many fish can I put in my tank? and which species get along? For thousands of hobbyists it was the first calculator they bookmarked, and we still recommend it as a starting point.
At the same time, the aquarium hobby has changed since AqAdvisor's last major update. Larger species databases, modern UI expectations, and deeper tool integrations are now the baseline. This page compares what each platform offers so you can pick the right tool for the size of your project.
What AqAdvisor does well
- Quick stocking percentage. Enter your tank dimensions and filter type, add fish from the dropdown, and get an instant "percent stocked" number. This single metric is why most people visit.
- Simple compatibility filtering. The tool flags known problem pairs automatically (cichlid aggression, fin-nipping triggers, size-predation risks).
- No account required. Everything works on the first visit.
AqAdvisor remains valid for rapid first-pass stocking estimates. Its weakness is that the species list is narrower and the water-parameter basis for compatibility is less granular than what modern databases can provide.
How Aquatic-Art compares
Aquatic-Art takes a different approach. Instead of a single "percent full" gauge, we offer modular tools that each solve one decision clearly, backed by a live-updated species database of 240+ freshwater fish with verified parameters from Seriously Fish and primary sources.
Species database
Where AqAdvisor relies on a static species set, Aquatic-Art maintains a continuously updated catalog across fish, plants, and equipment. Each species entry includes pH and temperature ranges, adult size, swim level, diet, temperament score, and shrimp-safety flags, all individually sourced and reviewed.
Stocking calculator
Our stocking calculator works the same way as AqAdvisor's: pick your tank, pick your fish, get a load estimate. The difference is that every compatibility factor is also exposed individually: temperature overlap, pH overlap, size ratio, territorial behavior, and fin-nipping risk, so you can see the reasoning behind each verdict.
Compatibility matrix
The compatibility checker shows side-by-side evaluations for any pair of species, with color-coded issue cards that explain why a pair is safe, cautionary, or risky. Each verdict is based on the same engine that powers our static pair pages, so the answer is consistent whether you use the interactive tool or read a pre-computed page.
Tank chemistry tools
AqAdvisor does not address water chemistry directly. Aquatic-Art provides a water chemistry calculator, a tap water matcher, a TDS calculator, and a lighting and CO2 planner, all integrated with the species database so you can compare requirements side by side.
Cost and setup
Both platforms are free. Aquatic-Art offers an optional Pro tier ($4.99/month) that adds tank-build tracking, reminders, and alerts. All compatibility and stocking tools remain free without an account.
Comparison table
| Feature | AqAdvisor | Aquatic-Art |
|---|---|---|
| Stocking percentage | Yes (single metric) | Yes, plus per-factor breakdown |
| Species count | ~150–200 | 240+ fish, 240+ plants, 140+ equipment |
| Data sourcing | Static database | Live-updated from verified sources |
| Compatibility pairs | Dropdown only | Interactive matrix + 100 pre-computed pair pages |
| Water chemistry tools | No | pH, GH, KH, TDS calculators integrated |
| Tank volume / substrate / CO2 tools | No | Dedicated calculators for each |
| Plant database | No | 240+ species with parameter requirements |
| Equipment database | No | 140+ products with verified specs |
| Account required | No | No (optional Pro for extras) |
| Mobile-friendly UI | Legacy design | Modern responsive layout |
Summary
AqAdvisor is still a valid tool for a quick stocking check. If you want a deeper, data-verified view of compatibility with modern tooling and a larger species set, Aquatic-Art gives you the same core functionality plus water chemistry, plant compatibility, and equipment matching — all free, all sourced, and all linked together.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aquatic-Art a direct replacement for AqAdvisor?
For basic stocking and compatibility checks, yes. The stocking calculator and compatibility matrix cover the same ground. You also get water chemistry, plant, and equipment tools that AqAdvisor does not offer.
Does Aquatic-Art have a mobile app?
Not yet. The site is fully responsive and works in any mobile browser. A dedicated app is not currently planned.
Is my data private when I use the compatibility tools?
Yes. Compatibility checks run on each visit and are not stored unless you save a tank build (optional, Pro feature). No account is needed for the free tools.
How often is the species database updated?
New species are added as part of the regular data pipeline, and existing entries are reviewed against published sources when updates become available.