Well of course there is going to be good and bad about a show like this. Hopefully people will do their homework when starting an aquarium and hopefully they will come here to get the info! :)
Revhtree,
Wholeheartedly agree with your statement; there will be good and bad. However, the question we should be asking about this show is; shouldn't we make an attempt at showing the proper procedures in not only building an aquarium, but also the proper methods of cycling, and conditioning the system, proper introduction of the livestock, and the reasons for using these methods. Don't say, "Thats boring and not for TV." There are many programs on TV that go into detail about the work necessary to accomplish something. This certainly is important, since we are dealing with living organisms.
The show can still have lighter moments, yet still show some responsibilities of owning and maintaining a saltwater aquarium. To just be silly, and joke around, like this show, so far, seems to concentrate on, is irresponsible. Then to say showing the setups in this manner, doesn't have a negative effect on "newbies" in my opinion is a big mistake.
I have been in this hobby for many years, (45+) both as a hobbyist, as well as owning and running a saltwater retail/wholesale operation. I've seen what things like "Nemo" and even the "Ninja Turtles" do to people. It creates a sudden desire to have something like this. And if they get the wrong impression about the care/maintenance of something as complex as a saltwater aquarium, then it only causes problems for everyone associated with that field. The saltwater hobby has come under ecological scrutiny, and it doesn't benefit any of us, if we take a flip attitude about it.
I'm sure the gentlemen at ATM must be knowledgable about the proper ways of a saltwater aquarium. However, so far with the episodes shown, it sure doesn't come across that way. Some airtime should be used to explain the proper procedures. A little less practical joking, would do wonders for our hobby. I'm sure you're aware, there are many out there, that would love to shut this whole industry down. Getting the idea that setting up one of these systems is a snap from start to finish doesn't help.
Lets get TV exposure, but lets do it right!!!!!!!!!!
Marinworld:bigsmile: