5 Things to Do When Creating a Reef Aquascape

A reef aquascape can be absolutely gorgeous and a lovely addition to any home if it’s set up and designed correctly. A poorly designed aquascape won’t do justice to the marine life in the tank. Whether you’re setting up your first one ever or just want to improve the setup you already have, here are five tips to creating an amazing reef aquascape, brought to you by the staff at Aquatic Warehouse, a leading provider of aquariums and fish tank supplies.

1. Use the Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is a tool used by photographers and landscape artists alike. It’s essentially a way to create a visually appealing environment, so it applies well to aquascapes. Use electrical tape to make a grid on the front of the tank. It should create three rectangles vertically and horizontally so the result is a nine-rectangle grid. 

Here’s a simple rule: basic elements of the aquascape should follow the lines of the grid. Strong and main focal elements should be placed where the lines intersect. The center square should be left largely empty of elements, as this creates a framing effect and draws the eye to your focal points.

2. Sketch the Aquascape

Take your time to make it right the first time. Sit down with a libation of choice and visualize where the rock will go. Many artists sketch out their ideas before beginning their final work. Since you’re working as an artist on your aquascape, put the same concept to work. Grab a piece of paper and sketch out the design you have in mind. Keep an eraser handy so you can make changes until you come up with something you think will be perfect for the tank. What we like to do at Aquatic Warehouse is get some cardboard and plastic trash bags, place them on the floor, and build a practice reef, with the floor acting as the back of the tank. Real Reef Rock looks and works the best—no hitchhikers, only beautiful colors.

3. Plan for the Future

Perhaps you only have a few corals right now, but you know you’ll be adding more at a later time. You aren’t just designing one world. You’re creating microcosms, so you need different layers, regions that offer all levels of lighting from high to low, and various levels of water movement. This way, no matter what marine life you choose to add in the future, you’ll be prepared.

4. Ensure Stability

Some fish and other types of marine life may knock over different elements of your scape if you don’t ensure everything is stable. Use HoldFast underwater epoxy to make sure everything is solid and sound. Nothing is worse than finally placing your stunning coral (from Aquatic Warehouse, of course) only to have it tumble and land face down. Be the artist. After you use epoxy to secure each piece of coral, add little pieces of the purple Real Reef Rock to camouflage where you added the epoxy. Once your reef aquarium begins to thrive, you won’t see those outside elements as they get crusted over.

5. Keep Cleaning in Mind

While you’ll want plenty of different eye pleasing elements in your aquascape, keep in mind it’ll only look beautiful if you keep the tank clean. When you add rocks or other elements, make sure you’re leaving yourself room to clean the corners and walls of the glass. Otherwise, you’ll end up disturbing the aquascape and ruining elements each time you clean. 

With the above tips in mind, you can create the beautiful type of reef aquascape you’ve always wanted, and you’ll absolutely love the focal style it adds to your home. Remember that beauty is only one element of a successful aquarium. You also need to keep sustainability in mind, which means acquiring all of the necessary supplies. Whether you need an aquarium temperature controller, beneficial bacteria, or a filtration system, Aquatic Warehouse has everything you need to maintain your fish tank. Give us a call today at 858-467-9297 if you have any questions.