designed to support simpler, more natural aquarium care
Aquatic Circle exists to make aquarium care simpler and more balanced for everyday freshwater tanks. Our focus is on filtration systems that work naturally and fit into real home aquariums without unnecessary complexity.
why the system was developed
This video shows an early development setup used to explore how aquaponic principles could be applied to home aquariums. It reflects testing and experimentation that informed the final production design.
The production version of Aquatic Circle has been refined for everyday aquarium use and is designed to work alongside responsible aquarium care.
From Research to Real Aquariums
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![Freshwater aquarium with colorful fish and decorative plants.]()
Founded Aquatic Circle LLC
October 1, 2021
During the pandemic, Minh discovered a love for fish tanks. Inspired to find a better solution to aquarium filtration, he designed his own aquaponic filtration system.
This first successful design became the foundation for Aquatic Circle.
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![A collage of images and sketches showing the development of a fish tank prototype. The top left photo shows the original prototype with plants under a LED light. Adjacent to it is a 3D schematic of the tank's structure. Below that is a more detailed fish tank with colorful fish and aquatic plants labeled 'Version 3.' To the lower left, there's a photo of a different fish tank setup with equipment on a windowsill labeled 'Version 5.' Lastly, there are two gray 3D sketches of the tank's early filter designs, labeled 'Version 4' and 'Early filter design.']()
Research and Development
October 7, 2022
Through countless prototypes, Aquatic Circle evolved from an initial concept into a polished, long-lasting solution. Minh worked closely with an industrial designer to refine every detail, ensuring durability, efficiency, and ease of use.
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![Hydroponic garden system with a black rectangular grow box containing green plants and a small black water pump with tubes.]()
Manufacturing Deal Secured
July 1, 2023
Partnered with a trusted manufacturer committed to quality and sustainability. This partnership ensures our patented filtration systems are produced with precision and durability, allowing us to bring our innovative aquarium care solution to homes and fishkeepers everywhere.
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![Room with several aquariums with fish and aquatic plants, chairs, and tables, at the Suwamt Station at Innovation Park.]()
Established Headquarters
September 2023
Aquatic Circle LLC proudly calls the Summit Station at Innovation Park home.
This remote work center and business incubator located on the Frostburg State University campus provides the resources and support needed to drive our mission forward.
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![Logo of Allegany County Economic and Community Development with blue, green, and white colors.]()
Selected for Startup Program
May 2024
Minh found his inspiration for the revolutionary filtration system, Aquatic Circle, in his desire to maintain a pristine fish tank for his family. This groundbreaking creation could transform the aquaculture industry, and Dung's journey to bring his idea to life began and continues in Allegany County.
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![TEDCO logo with the tagline 'Leading Innovation to Market' and a graphic element resembling an atomic model with orbiting rings.]()
TEDCO Invests in Aquatic Circle
April 10, 2024
TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces Rural Business Innovation Initiative (RBII) Rural Pre-Seed Fund investment in Aquatic Circle LLC.companies based in rural Maryland.
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![A multi-story office building with beige brick exterior, multiple windows, and a parking lot in front with several vacant spaces and a few parked cars.]()
Awarded Cleantech Grant
May 10, 2024
The Cleantech Research and Development (CRD) Grant program helps local firms, including those that have relocated to the county, access leading edge research services and facilities at the Appalachian Laboratory to meet a growing demand for research and development support.
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![Logo for Aquatic Circle featuring a stylized fish and underwater elements in a circular design.]()
New Logo/Branding Completed
August 2024
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![University System of Maryland logo with black, red, yellow, and white colors and text.]()
Awarded USM Launch Fund
October 28, 2024
The University System of Maryland (USM) Launch Fund has awarded a series of microgrants and grants to USM-affiliated entrepreneurs, in a bid to make critical early capital more accessible.
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![Two ornate discus fish swim in front of a blue background with green aquatic plants, a logo with fish and bubbles labeled "Aquatic Circle", and a small black aquarium filter with the text "effortless aquarium care".]()
Launched Kickstarter Campaign
A major milestone for Aquatic Circle as we introduced our innovative aquaponic planter, to the public.
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Announced Nano Aquaponic Kit prototype
August 1, 2025
Free one gallon test kit giveaway
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![appalachian lab]()
First Aquaculture Shrimp Harvest
November 10, 2025
We hosted guests, stakeholders, and funders at the Appalachian Lab to unveil our large-scale shrimp farm and mark our first full harvest. Visitors toured the system, saw our integrated aquaponics and natural filtration in action.
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![product]()
Began shipping product
December 14, 2025
Began shipping Aquatic Circle products across the United States today. Each package is built for easy setup, natural filtration, and long-term stability so customers can start sustainable aquaponics with confidence.
meet the team
Dung Minh Hoang, Founder/CEO
Engineer and aquarium hobbyist focused on applying aquaponic principles to home aquariums and beyond.
Chad Yoder, Marketing Manager
Design and brand strategy focused on practical communication, product clarity, and usability.
our partners
Aquatic Circle has been supported through research, development, and business incubation programs focused on innovation and sustainability.