How to Be Creative With Aquarium Decor

By Ruby Bayan

Be Creative With Aquarium Decor Be Creative With Aquarium Decor

Rate: (11 Ratings)

Aquascaping or decorating an aquarium involves the bringing together of various elements primarily to simulate the natural habitats of the resident fishes. Setting up aquarium tank décor is a basic task--and after you've done a few setups and seen others, they start to all look the same. How can you make your aquarium stand out? Here are a few suggestions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Substrate
  • Rocks
  • Driftwood
  • Décor made of clay, glass or plastic
Step1
Remember to never sacrifice the fishes' ideal water conditions when making aquascaping design changes. Never incorporate anything toxic (metallic, oily, water soluble or dirty) into your tank.
Step2
Consider eccentric substrate. The aquarium's "ground" is a good place to start when planning a creative aquascape. Sand and gravel now come in an assortment of colors. You are free to choose whatever suits your fancy. Or explore other materials, like glass marbles, which are available in more than just the usual spherical shape.
Step3
Work with rocks. Work with rocks. Green slates, riverbed stones and colorful rocks and pebbles work well with plants and other natural elements. Design columns and artistic formations by gluing pieces together with silicone sealant. Place pieces in strategic places to serve as borders or accents, or to help anchor aquatic plants.
Step4
Accent with driftwood. Accent with driftwood. The dynamic curves and artistic textures of driftwood pieces can make a huge impact on an otherwise ordinary aquarium setup. Driftwood arches and distortions can be used to form caves and hiding places for the shy members of the fish community.
Step5
Use clay and ceramic. Use clay and ceramic for a "historical" theme. Ordinary clay pots, as well as glazed, unleaded ceramics are safe for aquariums. Clay pots become "weathered" after being underwater for a while, which adds to the natural, ancient look.
Step6
Create a fantasy world with inert materials like plastic, glass and synthetic formations. Countless aquarium décor pieces from pirate ships to interlocking construction pieces are made from plastic. Glass figures and menageries can be the highlights of a dreamworld aquarium theme. Synthetic rocks, driftwood and other elements can be designed for a truly unique and extraordinary display.

Tips & Warnings

  • Eccentric substrate may come in various shapes and colors, but choose wisely because many of the radical options look very unnatural. Darker colors will be ideal for fishes that thrive in low-lit habitats. Sugar white substrate might look clean, but it may make the tank too bright for comfort for some species.
  • Always clean rocks, slates and pebbles before putting them in your aquarium.
  • Never lean or pile rocks against the aquarium walls. Rocks can break the glass or scratch the acrylic.
  • To ensure that rocks are safe and non-toxic, acquire them only from reputable sources.
  • Driftwood should be thoroughly cleaned before introducing it into the aquarium. Pieces picked up from the beach are not suitable for freshwater aquariums. Acquire only from reputable vendors.
  • When in doubt whether clay or ceramic is lead-free or not, err on the side of caution and choose a different décor.

Photo/Video Credit

Photos by Ronald Bayan

Comments

| View All Comments
gpcs

gpcs said

Flag This Comment

on 3/17/2008 Another winner, Ruby!
-George

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article: How to Be Creative With Aquarium Decor

eHow Expert: Ruby Bayan

Ruby Bayan

Expert: Home and Garden

Profession: Freelance Writer

Location: Florida

Related Ads