Name:
Brad Muston
Country:
United States
Year Established:
In the hobby since 2000. IKON Aquatics established 2023
Contributions to the Shrimp Breeding Community:
Brad Muston is working to become the premier USA provider of hard-to-find foods, products, and supplies that are typically more readily available abroad. He founded IKON Aquatics as a family-owned business in the ornamental freshwater shrimp hobby. The company’s goal is to share products that Brad and his team personally like and believe will benefit other enthusiasts. IKON Aquatics focuses on quality and useful items to enhance the shrimp-keeping experience and help shrimp thrive.
With over 20 years of experience in the hobby, Brad is an active and valued member of numerous online shrimp communities. He is known for his consistent contributions and willingness to share his extensive knowledge. Brad’s active participation in these groups has made him a respected figure in the shrimp-keeping world, where he regularly offers advice, troubleshoots problems, and shares insights gained from his two decades of experience.
Variant Specialties:
Pure Red Line (PRL)
Current Projects and Future Goals:
Brad is currently working to further improve the IKON PRL Line, with a focus on quality rather than mass breeding. This approach demonstrates his commitment to advancing the breed’s characteristics and maintaining high standards in shrimp breeding.
Advice for New Breeders:
Brad emphasizes the importance of patience for newcomers to the hobby. He cautions against the common mistake of rushing to add shrimp to new, uncycled tanks, which often leads to shrimp deaths and discouragement. His key advice includes:
- Set up your tank and let it cycle for a minimum of 30 days before adding shrimp.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Brad notes that there are many experienced breeders in the hobby who are willing to help.
- Utilize online communities. He recommends joining online shrimp groups to connect with knowledgeable enthusiasts for advice, trades, or purchases.
Brad’s journey from a hobbyist since 2000 to founding IKON Aquatics in 2023 showcases his long-standing passion and expertise in the field. His focus on providing quality products, valuable advice, and active community engagement highlights his commitment to nurturing both the hobby and its enthusiasts. Brad’s continuous involvement and knowledge-sharing in online forums make him not just a business owner, but a true pillar of the shrimp-keeping community.