ⒸAQUA DESIGN AMANO

common mistakes starting a fresh water aquarium

Creating a beautiful freshwater aquascape can be a rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and attention to detail. Many beginners make common mistakes that can harm their aquatic plants and fish. Here are five of the biggest mistakes people make when starting a freshwater aquascape, along with techniques from Takashi Amano, a renowned aquascaper and founder of the Nature Aquarium concept.

1. Overstocking and Overfeeding

One of the most common mistakes people make is overstocking their tank with too many fish or too much plant life. This can lead to overcrowding, excessive waste production, and algae growth. Overfeeding fish can also contribute to these problems, as uneaten food can rot and release harmful nutrients into the water.

To avoid overstocking and overfeeding is to start small and gradually add more fish and plants over time. This allows the tank’s ecosystem to establish itself and prevents the buildup of excess waste. He also recommends feeding fish in small amounts and removing any uneaten food after a few minutes to prevent it from decomposing in the tank.

2. Poor Lighting

Lighting is an essential element in an aquascape, as it is necessary for plant growth and health. However, many beginners make the mistake of using inadequate lighting or lighting that is too intense, which can cause plants to wither or encourage algae growth.

Easy Scape recommends using high-quality lighting that provides the correct spectrum and intensity for the plants in your aquascape. We also suggest using a timer to ensure that the lighting is consistent and doesn’t exceed 10-12 hours a day.

3. Incorrect Water Parameters

The water parameters in your aquascape, such as pH, hardness, and temperature, play a crucial role in the health and growth of your aquatic plants and fish. Many beginners make the mistake of neglecting these parameters, leading to stress or illness in their aquatic inhabitants.

We recommend testing your water regularly and adjusting the parameters as needed. We also suggest researching the ideal water parameters for the plants and fish in your aquascape and selecting species that can thrive in those conditions.

4. Neglecting Water Changes and Maintenance

Regular water changes and maintenance are essential for the health of your aquatic ecosystem. Many beginners make the mistake of neglecting these tasks, leading to a buildup of waste and harmful compounds in the water.

We recommend performing weekly water changes of 10-20% of the tank’s volume and using a high-quality water conditioner to remove any chlorine or chloramine from tap water. Regularly cleaning of the tank and equipment, such as filters and heaters, to prevent the buildup of debris is also an essential task to keep a clean and beautiful tank.

5. Lack of Planning and Design

Designing a freshwater aquascape is a creative process that requires planning and attention to detail. Many beginners make the mistake of randomly selecting plants and decor without considering the overall aesthetic or functionality of the tank.

You should research different aquascaping styles and techniques and create a detailed plan for your tank before adding any plants or fish. We also suggest selecting plants and decor that complement each other and contribute to the overall theme of the aquascape.

In conclusion, starting a freshwater aquascape requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from experienced aquascapers like Takashi Amano. By avoiding these common mistakes and following his techniques, you can create a beautiful and thriving aquatic ecosystem in your own home.