Hardscape Aquarium – It is a relaxing view to see the fish swimming in aquarium,
and it can be your mood booster whenever you are feeling exhausted.
However, you need to ensure the fish get perfect artificial habitat to live.
That’s why the hardscape materials for aquarium should be put on the first list.
Some important hardscape materials are substrate, rocks, wood, gravel, and other decorative items.
Here are some essential materials for creating your hardscape aquarium.
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Substrate
This is important in creating aquascape layout since substrate functions as source of nutrition for plant roots.
It should be placed at the bottom of aquarium, precisely under the gravel.
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Gravel
Another important element is gravel.
After covering the bottom of aquarium with substrate, place the gravel on it.
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Rocks
Another essential material for creating hardscape aquarium is rocks.
You need to choose the rocks carefully, so they won’t affect the water quality.
There are some types of rock which do not influence the quality of water, such as dragon or lava stones.
Grey mountain stones or Seiryu rocks can affect the water quality because they contain a little lime.
It is highly suggested to clean each piece of rock before placing them in the aquarium.
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Therefore,
you need to apply carbon dioxide injecting system to dissolve any lime deposits.
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Wood
Wood is also important to create aquascape layout.
Choose the types of wood with proper level of density.
For example, riverwood or mangrove wood have higher density than talawa or red moorwood.
You can use some pieces of stone to weigh the wood with low density down.
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However, the woods with higher level of density usually create a brownish stain to the water.
Therefore, you may use a filter medium to make the water clear.
You need to be patient in choosing the proper materials for hardscape aquarium.
It is recommended to maintain the cleanliness of water frequently to keep the natural habitat of your fish.