BeckyCats said:I think part of the problem is that there are so many different shapes. Each leaf shape is different, each overall plant shape is different, and the hardscape features all have different shapes. It is just higgledy-piggeldy. I did try to balance things, for example, I put water sprite on one side and wisteria on the other since they are both fluffy and fine-leaved; and I put tall thin grasses on each side as well. Unfortunately, the eel grass (on the right side but not visible in the photos above) is not doing well (I have since read it likes hard water - oops). I have giant hair grass for tall thin height as well (and to hide the filter intake and heater), but because it is stiff rather than flowing, I don't necessarily see it as being a good visual balance balance to the wavy tall grass on the left.
I am still very interested in hearing opinions on what I could do to improve the overall look without traumatizing the fish. The welfare of the fish is paramount, of course, and when a decision has to be made between aesthetics and what the fish like, the fish win every time.
Thank you so much! I have been meaning to look up Dutch aquascaping but haven't gotten around to it. You have reinvigorated my curiosity on it. In the pictures I have seen, I notice more red plants, which I have been interested in but have read that red plants require more light and co2, and I don't use co2. But maybe when I research further, I will find some overall strategies that I can use. Thank you for your considered reply. I really appreciate your input.fishmad135 said:
Can I just say, your tank is stunning! Soo many different componentsI'd keep it like this, it looks so vibrant and healthy! There are other approaches though if you're looking for more balance!! Have you ever heard of Dutch aquascaping? If you are looking for a less "higgledy-piggledy" this might be an approach to take some inspiration from. Using neat rows and single species groups of plants of varying textures and colours to create eye-catching focal points! I guess its all down to your set up, lighting, nutrients CO2 dosing etc. A mix between your current scape and a Dutch scape would give your fish a diverse habitat with lots of cover, like you have now, whilst maybe having more focal points for aesthetic purposes.
NickAu said:Looks great.
My advice is to just let it grow wild especially along the back something like Amazon sword, Only think about pruning when the fish tap on the glass asking for a chain saw, But thats just me.
BeckyCats said:Thank you so much! I have been meaning to look up Dutch aquascaping but haven't gotten around to it. You have reinvigorated my curiosity on it. In the pictures I have seen, I notice more red plants, which I have been interested in but have read that red plants require more light and co2, and I don't use co2. But maybe when I research further, I will find some overall strategies that I can use. Thank you for your considered reply. I really appreciate your input.
Okay, so I think they might need that chainsaw. These pictures were taken AFTER I pruned. Looking at the pictures from just 7 weeks ago, I am surprised at how much the water sprite and wisteria have grown. The lace leaf is still doing well so far, which makes me happy. I had read that they can be difficult, so I am pleased that so far it seems to like where it is.NickAu said:Looks great.
My advice is to just let it grow wild especially along the back something like Amazon sword, Only think about pruning when the fish tap on the glass asking for a chain saw, But thats just me.
More fish begging for food