The HYDROS API gives customers and developers an official way to connect HYDROS with the applications, automation platforms, and services that matter to them.
An API, or Application Programming Interface, lets software systems communicate. The HYDROS API gives approved third-party software an official, supported way to work with HYDROS.
Access supported controller status and data for custom dashboards, home automation integrations, monitoring applications, and service tools.
Control supported HYDROS devices and outputs from authorized applications and incorporate them into larger automation systems.
Build centralized tools that help aquarium service companies and professional users monitor and manage multiple customer systems.
The HYDROS API is designed for individual customers, hobbyists, home automation enthusiasts, developers, aquarium service companies, local fish stores, and technology partners.
Using the HYDROS mobile app and HYDROS web app remains free. API access requirements apply only to approved third-party software, hardware, dashboards, and other integrations that access HYDROS through the API.
Starting January 1, 2027, API access remains free for Provider Keys with 20 or fewer billable Device Keys. If your integration will use more than 20, contact CoralVue to discuss access options.
The API uses two keys: a Provider Key identifies the approved integration, and a Device Key connects each HYDROS device or collective to that integration.
CoralVue issues Provider Keys to approved users, developers, vendors, and organizations. Approved third-party software and service providers may be listed so HYDROS users can choose the right provider when generating Device Keys.
Device Keys are generated in the HYDROS app. Each HYDROS device or collective requires its own Device Key. One collective uses one Device Key, regardless of how many HYDROS devices are in that collective. When generating a Device Key, the user selects the Provider Key for the integration they want to use.
API access is free for up to 20 billable Device Keys associated with a Provider Key. There is no fee simply to obtain either type of key.
A Device Key counts only when it makes at least one API call. Multiple calls from the same Device Key do not increase the count. Eligible aquarium service companies, local fish stores, installers, maintenance providers, and similar businesses may use the API at no charge for up to 1,000 billable Device Keys. API use is subject to the HYDROS API Terms of Service.
Visit the public developer forum to share what you are building, ask API questions, and help other HYDROS developers.
Users, developers, and organizations wishing to build a HYDROS integration can request a Provider Key from CoralVue.
Tell us what you plan to build, who it will serve, and the expected number of HYDROS devices or collectives that will connect to it.
Submitting a request does not guarantee approval or API access.
The API is intended for HYDROS customers, hobbyists, home automation enthusiasts, developers, aquarium service companies, local fish stores, and technology partners.
No. You do not need a Provider Key or Device Key if you use only the regular HYDROS app or web app. Keys are required only when connecting a HYDROS device or collective to an approved third-party API integration.
No. Using the regular HYDROS mobile app and web app remains free. API access applies only to approved third-party integrations and their Provider Keys. Provider Keys with 20 or fewer billable Device Keys remain free after January 1, 2027.
A Provider Key identifies the approved user, developer, vendor, or service using the API. A Device Key connects one HYDROS device or collective to that Provider Key. Generate one Device Key in the HYDROS app for each device or collective, then select the Provider Key for the integration you want to use. A collective uses one Device Key, no matter how many HYDROS devices it contains.
No. Device sharing lets other HYDROS customers access shared devices in the HYDROS app. The API is only for approved third-party software, applications, dashboards, home-automation platforms, and hardware. It is not used by the HYDROS app itself.
Yes. Eligible aquarium service companies, local fish stores, installers, maintenance providers, and similar businesses may use the API at no charge for up to 1,000 billable Device Keys and may charge for bona fide professional aquarium services that use HYDROS monitoring or control as part of delivering those services. This does not permit charging separately for access to HYDROS functionality through a software application, platform, or integration.
Some existing integrations use unauthorized methods to access HYDROS systems. Those methods will not be allowed going forward. CoralVue will help users and developers transition to the supported HYDROS API.
The API can be used to create home automation integrations and custom dashboards. Compatibility with a specific third-party platform depends on the integration being developed.
API use is subject to the HYDROS API Terms of Service. Approval to use the API does not automatically authorize resale of HYDROS connectivity or subscriptions for HYDROS functionality.