Terms of Use

By using Closed Loop you agree to these terms. They are short, and the most important one is about the limits of what this site is: an educational resource on ecosystem design, not veterinary or professional advice.

Educational use, not veterinary advice

Closed Loop teaches ecosystem design and husbandry: plants, water chemistry, hardscape, cycling, and species compatibility. It is not veterinary advice and not a substitute for a veterinarian. If an animal is sick, injured, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian who treats aquatic or exotic species. We do not diagnose or prescribe treatment for a sick animal, and nothing on this site should be used to do so.

Live animals and your responsibility

Keeping live animals carries responsibility for their welfare. The parameters, stocking suggestions, and build plans here are general guidance based on common husbandry, not guarantees. Conditions vary tank to tank and animal to animal. You are responsible for researching the specific needs of any animal you keep and for its ongoing care.

Invasive species

Some plants and animals we describe are invasive in some regions. Never release any plant, fish, snail, or other organism into the wild or a natural waterway. Check your local rules before buying, and dispose of unwanted plants and animals responsibly.

The database and planner

The compatibility database and the build planner are decision-support tools, not a promise. A "will balance" read means the parameters are compatible on the numbers we hold; it is a starting point, not a substitute for your own judgment and observation of a living system.

Affiliate links

Some links are affiliate links. See the affiliate disclosure for how that works and the rule that it never changes what we recommend.

Content and changes

The content on Closed Loop is provided as is, without warranty. We may update guides, the database, and these terms as we learn more; the "last updated" date reflects the current version. Contact us at jeremy@sustainedecosystem.com.