Keeping fish simple involves focusing on natural, low-maintenance setups that mimic their natural environment and avoiding overcomplicated equipment or routines. Key practices include:

• Using natural media like sand and rocks from nature for substrate, creating hiding spaces and territories which reduce fish stress and aggression.
• Minimizing filtration or opting for gentle, biological filtration to keep the aquarium closer to a natural, balanced ecosystem that is easier to maintain.
• Keeping water changes moderate (around 25-50%) and using bioactive or aged water to promote a stable environment.
• Feeding simple, natural foods such as blanched canned vegetables (e.g., green beans) or cultured live foods for tiny fry.
• Allowing tanks to cycle properly and adding a few hardy fish or snails early on to kickstart the natural bioactivity of the tank.
• Keeping fish species that are easy to care for and compatible with each other, avoiding those that require complex or highly specialized care.

Overall, the goal is to reduce stress and frustration for the fish keeper by embracing simplicity in tank setup, maintenance, and feeding routines, creating a relaxing and enjoyable aquarium experience resembling a slice of nature indoors.