Aquascaping-The process of arranging rock, sand, corals, and equipment to develop a

functionally aesthetic appearance in a aquarium. Focused on mimicking the beauty and functionality of the natural coral reef.

OverviewSafetyAquascaping ShapesAquascaping TechniquesPutting It all together

Safety FirstGogglesGlovesOld ClothesCommon sense

ShapesOne giant moundWalls CavesSpiresShelves/OverhangsOther- be creative, bonsai styles

One Giant MoundMost commonPros- extremely easy, filled look, hides back

wall(no cleaning back wall), hides power cordsCons- greatly limits water circulation/flow,

hard to clean detritus in the rockworkMethods–stacking against walls of aquarium

Walls Pros- filled look, hides part of aquarium

walls(no cleaning), hides power cordsCons- lack of hiding spotsMethods–stacking against walls of aquarium,

new ceramic insert or foam technique

CavesPros-swimming paths, natural

homes/protectionCons-detritus buildup, limit circulation/flowMethods- stack rock to make caves, zip ties,

acrylic rod

SpiresMini island of stacked rock.Pros-swimming paths, filled look with less rock,

not touching aquarium walls, 360 degree coral placement

Cons-heavy, stability issuesMethods- drill hole and stack rock on pvc or

acrylic rod

Shelves/OverhangsPros- hide outs, natural cleaning stations,

natural location for non-photosynthetic coral placement

Cons- heavy, stability issues, shaded areaMethods- drill hole and stack rock on pvc or

acrylic rod, zip ties

Other- be creative, bonsai stylesJust be creative

Methods/techniquesStackingRock ShelvesDrilling, rods, zip tiesFoam

StackingSelf explanatory

Rock ShelvesMade of egg crate and pvc pipe Stake rock on top or ziptie rock to structurePros: Supports rock from falling, allows better

flow and swimming pathsCons: Can be hard to hide all pvc pipe from all

angles

Drilling, rods, zip tiesShow how to drill rockMaterials to be used as rods can be pvc pipe or

rod and acrylic rod.Stack in a pyramid shape from heaviest/largest

to smallest/lightestShow how to drill small holes and use zip ties

FoamVarious uses

Spray directly on aquarium walls, permanent background

Fill in gapsPros: Can get away with less rock, easy to useCons: Must be covered in epoxy to protect from uv

rays (unless you are using the black pond version), not yet proven to be stable with the use of ozone.

Show how to make foam structures

Putting it all togetherLayout before you begin

Tip: To help with layout cut out cardboard sheet the size of area to be aquascaped. Draw several different layouts before you decide on the final layout.

Tip: Try to hide power heads and other equipment in your aquascaping. This will give a more finished look.

QUESTIONS??