How to Be Creative With Aquarium Decor

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.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Substrate
• Rocks
• Driftwood
• Décor made of clay, glass or plastic

1. 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. Also explore other materials such as glass marbles, which are available in more than just the usual spherical shape.

2. 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 locations to serve as borders or accents, or to help anchor aquatic plants.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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 fish 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 sacrifice the fishes' ideal water conditions when making aquascaping design changes. Never incorporate anything toxic (metallic, oily, water soluble or dirty) into your tank.

• 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.

Resources

• AquariumFish.net: Aquarium Decorations