When decorate an aquarium, it is each person's personality that influences the design, as we usually decorate it to our taste, creating an attractive habitat for the fish but with a personal aesthetic. However, although it is not bad to have certain aesthetic preferences, it is essential that you always think about the needs of your fish, since incorrect decoration can affect their well-being. A common mistake is not considering that certain fish enjoy hiding in plants, and if these are placed in corners, they could frustrate the fish or, worse, cause them to uproot them.
Basic steps to decorate your aquarium
Before you begin, it is important to follow a series of steps to avoid mistakes that could be annoying or irreversible once the aquarium is full of water. Also, take into account the size of the aquarium since if it is too small, excessive decoration could limit the movements of the fish.
1. The use of stones and substrates
The first step in decorating an aquarium is choosing and placing the appropriate substrate. stones They are commonly used as a base. It is recommended that you do not make too many shapes with the stones, as when you fill the aquarium with water, they will probably move, even if you do it gently. It is important to remember that stones can also serve as shelter for fish, so having a balanced distribution is essential.
There are various types of substrates such as gravel, sand and rocks of different colors and textures. For freshwater aquariums, the natural gravel (brown, white or neutral tones) is the most recommended option, as it makes it easier to clean waste and food remains. Brightly colored stones are less functional and do not offer the same benefits to the dynamics of the aquatic ecosystem.
Some popular stone combinations include:
- Dragon stones
- Maple leaf rock
- Fossil stone
It is essential that the stones you choose do not have sharp edges to avoid accidents with the fish. Also, make sure that the materials are safe for the aquarium, avoiding elements that can alter the water chemistry.
2. Plants in the aquarium
The next step in placing the stones is to place the FacilitiesWhether you choose natural or artificial plants, it is advisable to make a small hole in the substrate so that the roots can settle and the plants remain firm. Some fish, when swimming, could knock over the plants, so it is useful to anchor them well to prevent them from changing position or being dug up.
Plants not only serve an aesthetic function, but also help maintain good water quality by absorbing harmful materials such as ammonia and nitrate. Among the most recommended plants for freshwater aquariums are:
- Anubias
- Bacopa caroliniana
- Limnophila sessiliflora
- Hygrophila polysperma
If you decide to go for artificial plants, make sure they are of good quality, non-toxic and soft to prevent your fish from getting hurt.
3. Decorative objects in the aquarium
Finally, we come to the decorative objects, which can include sunken ships, treasure chests, broken pots, and more. These objects are optional, but can add an extra touch of personality to your aquarium. It is essential not to overload the space with too many decorations. Remember that the most important thing is the well-being of the fish, and they need free space to swim and explore.
A couple of small items are enough for medium or small aquariums. If the aquarium is large, you can be a little more generous with the decoration, always taking care not to alter the natural behavior of the fish.
It is always preferable to choose items made specifically for aquariums, as they are made from safe materials that will not release toxic substances into the water. Avoid metal pieces, especially those that can rust and affect the water chemistry.
Additional Tips for Aquarium Decoration
In addition to these three steps, there are other key factors to consider when decorating an aquarium:
- Balance between decoration and functionality: Not only is it important for the aquarium to be beautiful, but it should also be functional. Fish, especially the more active ones, need space to swim. If the aquarium is cluttered with objects, this can increase their stress levels. Also, make sure to leave open areas at the bottom of the aquarium to make cleaning easier.
- Avoid overexposure to light: Although aquarium lighting can enhance the beauty of the decor, it is important not to overdo it with the amount of light, especially if you have live plants. Too much light can encourage algae growth.
- Place the aquarium in a suitable location: It's not just the interior decoration that is important. The location of the aquarium also plays a crucial role. Place it in a quiet area of the house, away from direct sources of sunlight that can heat the water undesirably or encourage algae growth.
Common mistakes when decorating an aquarium
It's easy to get excited when decorating an aquarium, but sometimes we make mistakes that negatively affect the health and well-being of the fish:
- Choose sharp objects: They can harm fish while swimming.
- Bright colors: Objects with very intense colors can hide the natural color of the fish and harm their well-being.
- Using items not designed for aquariums: Any item that is not manufactured for aquariums can release toxic substances.
Fish need an environment that is as close to their natural habitat as possible. By keeping this in mind, you will not only ensure that they look healthy and happy, but you will also enjoy a more visually appealing and relaxing aquarium.