How Pete’s Aquatics labels product testing, researched recommendations, affiliate links, and aquarium equipment review updates.

Review Methodology

Pete’s Aquatics separates personally tested gear from researched recommendations so readers can judge how much evidence sits behind each review.

Testing Labels

  • Personally tested: Pete used the product in a tank and the page should show notes, dates, setup context, or photos.
  • Hands-on inspected: Pete handled or set up the product but has not completed long-term tank use.
  • Researched recommendation: Pete has not personally tested the product and is relying on specs, aquarium principles, availability, and verified buyer patterns.
  • Not recommended: Pete would not use or buy the product for the stated aquarium use case.

What Reviews Should Explain

  • Best-fit tank size and use case.
  • Noise, flow, cleaning, media flexibility, shrimp or fry safety, and long-term maintenance cost where relevant.
  • Whether the product was bought, borrowed, gifted, sponsored, or only researched.
  • Last tested or last materially reviewed date when available.

Affiliate Policy

  • Some product links may earn a commission at no extra cost to the reader.
  • Affiliate links must be disclosed before the reader reaches the first purchase link.
  • Paid or affiliate links should use sponsored/nofollow handling in the rendered HTML.
  • New retailers are added only after the account and tracking format are verified.