How to Make a Fish Tank Look Natural: Your Ultimate Guide

Emulate nature’s beauty in your aquarium. Our guide on how to make a fish tank look natural can show you how.
Have you ever seen an underwater world teeming with life and wished you could replicate that serene, natural environment in your home? Today, we will unveil the curtain and guide you on a journey to transform your conventional fish tank into a natural aquatic paradise.

Understanding the Basics of a Natural Fish Tank

Before diving into the how-to’s, it’s crucial to understand what a natural fish tank is and why it’s worth considering. A raw fish tank or a “biotope aquarium” aims to imitate the specific natural environment of its inhabitants. It’s not merely about aesthetic appeal but about creating a healthier, more comfortable space that stimulates your fish’s natural behaviors.

What does this mean for you and your finned friends?

For your fish, this means a tank that feels like home, where they can behave as they would in the wild. For you, it means a stunning, vibrant underwater scene right in your living room.
The magic of a natural fish tank is in its balance. A well-designed natural fish tank creates a self-sustaining ecosystem where plants, fish, and beneficial bacteria work together to maintain the tank’s health. Essentially, you’re not just building a fish tank but creating a slice of the natural world.
We aim to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on this exciting venture. So, are you ready to dive in? Let’s get started.

Choosing the Right Substrate

Think of the substrate as the foundation of your natural fish tank. The layer covers the bottom of your tank and serves multiple essential roles. It enhances your tank’s appearance, supports plant life, hosts beneficial bacteria, and can even serve as a food source for certain species.

When creating a natural look, your substrate choice matters. The type of substrate you select should match the natural habitats of your fish and plants.

Sand Substrates

Sand is an excellent choice for many freshwater tanks, primarily if you’re housing bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish that enjoy sifting through the sand in search of food. It also provides a smooth surface that won’t scratch delicate bellies or barbels. A finer substrate like sand can create a natural riverbed or beach-like aesthetic.

Gravel Substrates

Gravel is another popular choice for tank housing plants. The larger particle size allows water to flow freely, preventing the buildup of harmful anaerobic bacteria. It also offers ample space for plant roots to take hold. A gravel substrate can mimic a rocky riverbed or lake bottom and is available in various natural colors.

Soil Substrates

Consider a soil substrate for a truly natural look and a plant-friendly environment. Aquatic plant species thrive in soil substrates, as it closely mimics their natural growing conditions. Just bear in mind soil substrates can be messy and require a cap of sand or gravel to prevent the soil from clouding the water.

To install your chosen substrate, spread it evenly along the bottom of your tank. Aim for a depth of at least two inches (more if you’re growing plants) to create a realistic look and provide plenty of room for plant roots.

Selecting the suitable substrate is your first step in creating a natural fish tank. However, your substrate is more than just ‘dirt’ or ‘rocks’ at the bottom of your tank. It’s the canvas upon which you’ll paint your underwater landscape.

Incorporating Live Plants

To further enhance the natural aesthetic of your fish tank, nothing beats the addition of live plants. They contribute to the visual appeal and play a vital role in creating a healthier environment. Live plants absorb harmful toxins, produce oxygen, and even serve as a food source or breeding ground for some fish species.

However, the world of aquatic plants is vast, and the choice can be overwhelming. To simplify, consider the following factors:

Lighting Conditions

All plants need light to photosynthesize, but not all require the same amount. Assess the lighting conditions of your aquarium and choose plants accordingly. For instance, Anubias and Java Ferns are low-light plants that can thrive even in shaded areas of your tank.

Fish Species

Consider your fish species. Some fish, like goldfish or certain cichlids, are known to uproot or munch on plants. In such cases, opt for hardy plants or those that can be anchored onto rocks or driftwood.

Maintenance Level

Some plants require more care than others. If you’re new to keeping plants, start with easy-to-care species like Java Moss or Hornwort that are less demanding in light, substrate, and nutrient requirements.

Once you’ve chosen your plants, it’s time to get planting. For stem plants, plant them individually to allow room for growth. For rhizome plants (like Anubias or Java Fern), attach them to rocks or driftwood instead of burying them in the substrate.

And remember, variety is the key to a natural look. In nature, plants grow in different sizes, shapes, and colors. Try to replicate this in your tank for the most authentic look.

Adding Natural Décor

Natural décor takes your fish tank closer to a real aquatic habitat. By strategically placing items like rocks, driftwood, or shells, you can create a landscape that closely mimics a riverbed, lake bottom, or a piece of the ocean floor.

Rocks

Rocks are a fantastic addition to any natural tank. They can be used to create caves, cliffs, or boundaries between different ‘zones’ in your tank. You can find suitable rocks in pet stores or in your backyard, but ensure they’re thoroughly cleaned and free of sharp edges.

Driftwood

Driftwood adds a striking visual element to your tank and provides hiding and breeding spots for fish. Some types of driftwood can also release beneficial tannins into the water. Like rocks, ensure any driftwood is thoroughly cleaned and prepared before adding it to your tank.

Shells and Corals

Shells and corals can be a great addition, especially for saltwater tanks. They provide hiding spots for fish and add a unique, natural element to the aquarium. However, they can alter the water’s pH, so they may only suit some tanks.

Maintaining a Natural Fish Tank

Creating your natural fish tank is just the beginning – maintaining it is an ongoing journey. Regular water changes are crucial to keeping your tank healthy. Aim for a 10-20% water change each week, and remember to condition the new water before adding it to the tank.
Monitoring the water parameters is another crucial part of maintenance. Monitor the pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. These should remain safe for your specific fish and plant species.

Maintaining a Balanced, Healthy Environment

A natural fish tank isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a balanced ecosystem that closely mimics the conditions found in nature. This balance is crucial for the health and well-being of your fish and plants.

The Nitrogen Cycle

Understanding the nitrogen cycle is critical to maintaining this balance. Fish waste and leftover food produce ammonia, which is harmful to your aquatic pets. Luckily, beneficial bacteria convert this ammonia into nitrites and nitrates, which are less dangerous. Live plants then absorb these nitrates, using them to grow and, in turn, produce oxygen for your fish.

Feeding and Cleaning

Overfeeding your fish can disrupt this cycle, leading to excess waste and a spike in ammonia levels. Stick to a regular feeding schedule, giving your fish as much food as possible in a few minutes.

Regular cleaning is also crucial. While a natural tank has self-cleaning elements, removing any uneaten food or visible waste is essential, and checking your filter to ensure it works efficiently.

Testing the Water

Regular water testing is vital to monitor ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and pH levels. Many easy-to-use testing kits are available to help you monitor these parameters.

Conclusion

Creating a natural fish tank can be a rewarding experience. It’s a labor of love that goes beyond mere aesthetics, offering an opportunity to make a self-sustaining ecosystem in your home. With a suitable substrate, live plants, natural décor, and regular maintenance, you can create a slice of the natural world that will be a source of relaxation and enjoyment for years.