How to Set up a Natural Aquarium

Natural aquariums are typically set up with select live underwater plants and fish to form a habitat that is symbiotic and more closely mimics the aquatic environment in the wild. The complementary relationship between plants --- which supply oxygen and biological filtration for fish --- and fish --- which provide carbon dioxide and vital nutrients through their waste for healthy plant growth --- can make the natural aquarium healthier for both plants and fish and easier to take care of for you.

Things You'll Need

  • 20-gallon aquarium with fluorescent light
  • Aquarium stand
  • Mineral-rich substrate
  • Filter
  • Heater
  • Plants
  • Fish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your 20-gallon aquarium on its stand. The stand and aquarium should be located near power outlets for convenient plugging in of lights, filter and heater. Don't place the aquarium near a window or it may get too much light, which can cause problems regulating water temperature and an overgrowth of algae.

    • 2

      Rinse high-quality substrate well before placing a 2- to 3-inch layer on the bottom of the tank. Dark, natural looking gravel is best for a natural aquarium. Use tank gravel designed for living plants because it is rich in minerals and can make plant growth more successful.

    • 3

      Fill the tank with water to about 3 inches below top of the tank. Slowly pour water into the tank so you don't disturb the gravel. Allow the water stand in the tank for a week at least before adding plants and fish to allow it to naturally dechlorinate and for PH levels in the water to balance.

    • 4

      Assemble the filter and heater according to manufacturer's directions. For a natural aquarium you don't need a strong filter since the plants and fish will help keep the water quality right. A small submersible filter that causes a gentle current will do. The heater will need to have the capacity to keep the tank stable at 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Turn on the heater and the filter.

    • 5

      Start off by placing hardy, easy-to-grow aquatic plants in the tank. Look for plants with firm stems, established roots and good color. Ceratophyllum demersum is a hardy, quick-growing floating plant; cryptocoryne wenditii is easy to grow and tolerates low light; aponogeton crispus is another plant that will grow in almost any reasonable conditions. Separate plant bunches to free up the roots and plant deep enough that the crown is just above the gravel.

    • 6

      Wait at least two weeks for plants to get established before introducing between six to a dozen small fish to the tank. Choose hardy, less active fish that won't be destructive to plants such as tetras, neons, platies and guppies. Add a couple small catfish or ghost fish for algae control.