Jason Baliban has been an avid aquarist since 1980, starting with a 10 gallon aquarium and blue gravel. Since that time, he has worked with saltwater aquariums, freshwater aquariums, and planted tanks. Over the last 4 years, Jason has focused primarily on planted tanks, approaching each planted aquarium as a piece of art. He strives to create compositions that inspire himself and others, while providing healthy environments for his plants and critters. Jason's talent has been proven worldwide by placing 2nd in the Aquatic Gardener Association's 2008 Aquascaping contest, and was the 3rd highest ranked U.S. aquascaper in ADA's aquascaping contest during the same year. His work has been featured regularly, both online and in print, which has opened the door for him to give several presentations over the past 2 years. Jason also maintains a website, Project Aquarium (http://projectaquarium.com), specifically dedicated to keeping planted aquariums.