How to Make a Freshwater Aquarium Naturally: A Complete Guide

Creating a freshwater aquarium using the natural method is a unique experience that allows you to replicate the balance of an aquatic ecosystem, using only natural materials and real plants. With this method, your aquarium will not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also a healthy environment for your fish. In this guide, you'll discover how to set up a natural aquarium, following the techniques we use in our Animal Instinct store.

Layout Planning

A natural aquarium requires careful planning to create a harmonious and functional landscape:

• All-natural materials: No fake objects; use real plants, natural sand, and rocks.
• Layout structure:
  • Rocky back and sides: Natural rocks to contain the fertile substrate.
  • Sandy Front: A beach of inert sand for a clean, natural look.

  • Driftwood: If you want the most natural look possible, consider using driftwood that releases tannins into the water, turning it amber. This effect not only gives your aquarium an authentic look, but is also beneficial for the fish's mucous membranes, creating an environment similar to their natural habitat.

Essential Equipment

With the natural method, we aim for simplicity and self-sufficiency in the aquarium. Here's what you'll need:

• Aquarium: Preferably large to accommodate many plants and fish (60 litres or more).
• LED lighting: Essential for photosynthesis; choose full-spectrum lights.
• Biological filter: Essential for water recirculation and maintaining balance.
• Heater: For tropical fish, keep the temperature between 24-26°C.
• CO2 (optional): If you want more demanding plants, a CO2 system improves growth.
• Japanese allophane sand: For the fertile bottom and the front part.
• Fertile substrate: To be placed only in planted areas, contained by the rockery.

Setting up the Fund

Prepare the base:

1. Allophane sand on the back:
   At the back of the aquarium, spread a layer of allophane sand. This fertile substrate is perfect for plants, promoting lush growth and a stable environment.

2. Containment with natural rocks:
   Use natural rocks to delimit the planting area, creating a visually harmonious and practical boundary.

Creating the beach:

In the front, set up a "beach" with inert (non-fertile) sand. This area not only gives the aquarium a clean and tidy look, but also prevents visible nutrient buildup, maintaining a natural and elegant layout.

Inserting Plants

With the natural method, plants play a crucial role in the balance of the aquarium.

• Fertile area (back and rocky):
  • Echinodorus , Vallisneria , Cryptocoryne : ideal for fertile bottoms.
  • Fast-growing plants such as Hygrophila and Limnophila help stabilize the system.
• Inert zone (front):
  • Dwarf Anubias or Bucephalandra , which do not require fertile substrate and can be fixed on rocks or wood.

Water Filling and Treatment

• Fill gradually: Pour the water slowly to avoid disturbing the layout. You can use a plate to spread the flow.
• Treat water: Use a water conditioner to remove chlorine and heavy metals.

Stabilization and Nitrogen Cycle

• Before adding fish, let the aquarium mature for 3-4 weeks.
• Introduce beneficial bacteria or use fast-growing plants to aid nutrient absorption and speed up the cycle.

Inserting Fish

With a natural layout, it is important to choose fish that are compatible with the environment:

• Schooling species: Neon Tetras , Cardinals or Rasboras .
• Bottom fish: Corydoras or Otocinclus , excellent for keeping the sandy area clean.
• Avoid digging fish , such as cichlids, which may disturb the layout.

Natural Maintenance

One of the best things about the natural method is that it requires less maintenance than other styles:

• Water changes: Replace 20-30% every 10-15 days.
• Bottom cleaning: Avoid siphoning the fertile area to avoid disturbing the substrate.
• Pruning: Keep plants healthy by removing damaged pruning and regulating growth.

Creating an aquarium using natural methods allows you to bring a true slice of nature into your home, respecting the environment and the fish that inhabit it. For everything you need, from substrates to plants, visit our Animal Instinct online store.

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