November Issue
The November edition of The Weekend Aquarist brings together some of our most compelling stories yet—ranging from rare native fish rediscoveries to cutting-edge aquascaping, entrepreneurial journeys, and field notes from India’s most captivating waters.
Explore what’s inside this month’s issue:
- Up Close with Channa amphibeus
Lost & Found After 85 Years
A detailed look at the rediscovery of one of India’s most elusive snakeheads and its significance for native fish conservation.
- Visiting the Ochiba Koi Studio
How Two Motorcycle Designers Are Building One of India’s Most Promising Koi Enterprises
A behind-the-scenes feature on a design-led Koi facility shaping the future of premium Koi breeding in India.
- Native Fish Spotlight: Sisorid Catfishes of India
By Balaji Vijaykrishnan
An introduction to some of India’s most remarkable native catfish species and the river systems they inhabit.
- TIAS 2025 – The Indian Aquascaping Summit
Coverage of the launch of TIAS 2025, including highlights from an exceptional live aquascaping workshop conducted by Adip Sajjan Raj.
- Entrepreneur Spotlight: Nikhil Sood of India Gills & Best4Pets.in
An inspiring journey of an ex-banker who built one of India’s most diverse fish-breeding and distribution facilities.
- Plant Spotlight: Pogostemon helferi – The Little Star of Aquascaping
A closer look at this compact, elegant plant and why it remains a favourite among aquascapers.
- Marine Chronicles: Life in a Pool
Beta Mahatvaraj shares field notes from Havelock Island, exploring the life and challenges within tidal pools.
- Aquascaping 101: Decoding Josh Sim’s Winning Work of IAPLC 2025
By Debraj Ghosh
A practical breakdown of the techniques and visual philosophy behind this year’s world-winning aquascape.
- Beginner’s Guide to 10 Japanese Koi Varieties
By Siddharth D’Souza
A beginner-friendly introduction to classic Koi varieties and what makes each one unique.
A sincere thank you to our readers, contributors, and supporters whose encouragement continues to strengthen this independent publication.

