Aquascaping 101

When starting a planted tank it’s important to consider filtration, CO2 levels for photosynthesis, flooring or substrate, fertilization, lighting and algae control.  If you’re interested in starting one, come by the store. We’ve got all the filters, lighting options, tanks and plants that you’ll need for a successful aquascaping adventure! The following styles of aquascaping seem to be the most popular these days, though you can certainly create your own or google to find other ideas.

The Dutch style focuses on lots of plants with different types of leaves (broadleaf, narrowleaf, reds and greens, etc.  This style uses terraces to provide layers and has almost no hardscaping.  The example photos below are from aquariumguide.com.

The Iwagumi style is quite popular these days and works off of the “rule of thirds” using stones. You can have 3 or more stones, but always an odd number and always with one larger stone that should be the focus.  These aquariums provide a simple, open, almost stark landscape and do sometimes use small fish for effect.

In America, the “Jungle” style is also popular, because it is great for large tanks and allows for lots of plants.  Like the name suggests, these tanks are used to reflect rainforest-type jungles.

One final style worth mentioning is the Walstad style of aquascaping, which is designed to reflect an entirely natural environment. There’s no organization or planning to where plants go – it’s completely random. In this way it simulates for fish their own natural river or lake environment.

We hope our brief venture in Aquascaping 101 has helped you better understand planted tanks and the variety of styles that are out there. We’ve always got a great selection of live aquatic plants in stock, so come by and see them for yourself!