ABOUT DAS
DAS Aquariums designs and manufactures custom animal and aquatic systems for professional environments. Our systems are engineered to be low maintenance, easy to install, and built for long-term reliability, reducing operating costs over time.
FOUNDER
DAS Aquariums was founded by Lambert deHaan, the inventor of the Wet Dry Filter, a biological filtration method still widely used in modern aquarium systems.
In the 1960s, Mr. deHaan operated one of Europe’s most recognized pet stores in the Netherlands, combining retail, education, and animal care under one roof. His experience managing large-scale aquatic systems exposed major shortcomings in existing filtration technology.
DEVELOPMENT
To solve these limitations, Mr. deHaan began designing and manufacturing his own aquariums and filtration systems under deHaan Aquariums. A collaboration with a research laboratory studying turtles led to advanced biological filtration research and multiple patented designs.
This work resulted in the invention of the Wet Dry Filter, which helped define modern reef-ready aquarium systems by improving water quality, biological efficiency, and long-term system stability.
EXPANSION
The company later expanded into professional pet store enclosures for fish, birds, reptiles, and small mammals under the name Minireef BV. Growing demand from U.S. retailers led to relocation and manufacturing in Dallas, Texas, where the company became Dutch Aquarium Systems, Inc. (DAS Aquariums).
TODAY
Today, DAS Aquariums designs and builds custom systems for pet stores, animal rescues, veterinary clinics, educational institutions, museums, and nature centers. Our products are manufactured using durable materials such as glass and ABS plastic and are designed for easy installation, long life, and professional use.
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to design custom animal and aquatic systems that are easy to install, low maintenance, and built for long-term professional use.