I decided to prioritize hygiene over aesthetics, it did look cool, but I noticed that any kind of decorative fixture in the pond including pebbles and gravel becomes a trap for dirt and debris. Any kind of crevice created by any kind of immobile item becomes a place where poop and other matter hang out and mess up my otherwise crystal clear water.
I take great pride in my water being pristine and clear, poop is quickly blown into the intake of the two pumps by a power head that is positioned at the bottom of the pond.
I perform 30-50% water changes at least once a month. I feed by fish 1-3x a week, depending solely on my mood.
Currently my other 30" aro has been fasting for a month of two, just decided to go on a diet, as in he avoids food altogether, whereas before he could down 4-5 3-4" frozen fish at a time, we'll see how long it will last.
Terrible news about the leak, but glad to hear you regained your sanity and jumped back in the hobby. You are truly an inspiring aquarist and I have high expectations for the continuation of this thread!!