AquaScapingWorldAquaScapingWorld Making Magic In Glass Boxes

The Iwagumi Style Aquascaping Competition Results Plant Anatomy: Part 2 The Leaf Grow Cryptocorynes Emersed How to Mineralize Soil Substrates Japanese Gardens and Aquascaping

www.aquascapingworld.com VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 APRIL 2008

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 1 Letter from the Editor

Welcome to AquaScaping World Magazine!

On the heels of our debut launch last month, ASW brings you another jam packed special of aquascaping inspiration and tutorials.

This month one of our feature articles include an in-depth analysis of the Veni Vidi Vissie Aquascaping Competition Results by Marco Aukes who was a competition judge, and a premier expert in our aquascaping world. We also continue a scientific exploration of the Anatomy of Aquatic Plants where last month we took a look at the stem, now we are dissecting the leaf. And as always, we have our Aquascape In Focus interviewing Peter Kirwan who demonstrates an effective use of rocks to create an aquascape that is unique and powerful.

I would like this opportunity to thank all the contributing writers for creating such wonderful articles for all of us to enjoy. I would also like extend a BIG thank you to all the readers for supporting the magazine, and helping promote its existence all over the internet world. Your continued support and attention has given us a tremendous amount of personal value and satisfaction for all of us who have worked tirelessly to bring you this premiere resource.

Without further ado, please enjoy reading all the articles and may you find a new source of aquascaping inspiration!

John Nguyen Editor in Chief AquaScaping World Magazine

2 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 TABLE OF CONTENTS

2 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Introduction for the April Issue of AquaScaping World Magazine. By John Nguyen

4 THE IWAGUMI STYLE: UNDERSTANDING THE TECHNIQUES Discover the inter workings of the Japanese Aquascaping Iwagumi Style and learn how to create a scape yourself with these simple guidelines. By Roy Deki

10 ANATOMY PART 2: DISSECTING THE LEAF The second part of an in-depth look at the anatomy of aquatic plants. This time we dissect the leaf. By Freemann

16 VENI VIDI VISSIE 2007 AQUASCAPING COMPETITION RESULTS Checkout the top winners if the VVV Aquascaping Competition, and find in depth analysis narrated by Marco Aukes. By Marco Aukes

24 HOW TO MINERALIZE SOIL SUBSTRATES Mineralized soil helps prevent and supplies essential nutrients to plants. It’s easy to do. Find out how to make this soil all on your own. By Aaron Talbot

28 AQUASCAPE IN FOCUS: “MOUNTAINSCAPE” This month’s feature aquascape demonstrates the effective use of rocks to form a hardscape that makes a distinctive statement.

36 THE ESTIMATIVE INDEX FERTILIZATION METHOD Discover the basics of this revolutionary fertilization method started nearly a decade ago. By Tom Messenger

38 GROWING CRYPTOCORYNES EMERSED This month’s plant profile investigates how to grow crypts effectively in emersed conditions. By Jose María Romero León

44 JAPANESE GARDENS AND AQUACAPING Find out how Japanese Gardens have inspired Aquascaping styles and discover the differences between the two arts. By Steven Chong

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 3 The Iwagumi Style By Roy Deki

4 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 any of you have heard Understanding the Techniques of the term Iwagumi, Japanese Art M especially if you frequent some of the more popular “forum” based web-sites associated with our aquascaping hobby. Many truly do not know what this translates to in English. The Japanese word “Iwagumi” literally means “rock formation.” In a , the rocks are the “bones” of the layout and usually consist of three rocks; one main or large rock flanked by two smaller rocks, but not of equal size. When the rock formation is placed properly, the rest of the layout will simply fall into place. In our hobby this has been taken far beyond three rocks but, the main principles should still be used.

Essential Iwagumi Principle In an Iwagumi aquascape you should always use an odd number of rocks of various sizes, and they should consist of the same type of stone. This will add continuity and provide harmony for the layout. One of the more difficult aspects of the Iwagumi Style is achieving visual balance through the aquascape. Many aquascapers follow the “golden triangle rule” which divides the layout into three equal segments from top to bottom, and from side to side. The focal point is where the different vertical and horizontal lines intersect. Placing rocks and groups of plants in theses areas will adds strength and focus to the Iwagumi aquascape. The sets the foundation for visual flow for the viewer. In Iwagumi aquascapes, the substrate should have

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 5 Hemianthus callitrichoides growing around carefully placed Seiryu-seki stones which are angled to point towards the opening. contours and texture to keep the selection of rocks. I recommend Select the Right Aquatic Plants eye moving and drawn into all having at least seven different Iwagumi style should give aspects of the aquascape. A sized rocks to select from. Find you a feeling of tranquility and strategically placed substrate will rocks that have character, the simplicity; therefore a limited also help create an allusion of more nooks and crannies your number of plant species are depth. Sloping upward from stones have the more detailed used. An aquascape will usually front to back is a great way to and complex your layout will consist of a single foreground achieve this depth. You can also appear. plant like Eleocharis acicularis have one side or your Some of the more popular (Dwarf hairgrass), Glossostigma substrate slightly higher than the stones to use are Seiryu-seki elatinoides, and Hemianthus other side. Each method will add stone, Maten stone, or Shou callitrichoides to name a few more personality and depth to stone. These rocks are excellent commonly used species. what seems like a simple design. rocks to use for your hardscape, The background should also The substrate once covered but your not limited to these only consist of one plant species with groundcover plants will types. The goal is to find group of and can vary based upon the create a sensation of fluidity and rocks that share the same color look and feel you want to obtain. movement with green rolling hills scheme, but are different in their The rocks are the focal point in and valleys. details, color patterns, shapes, an Iwagumi aquascape. So and contours. always use plants that will not Define Your Hardscape When put arranged in an over power the rock formation. When you start a layout you aquascape the rocks will appear should always have more than as a unified collection while still Harmony with Fauna enough hardscape material than maintaining their own distinct When selecting fish you want you need. This gives you more characteristics. The arrangement to emphasis simplicity, harmony, options when your initially of the hardscape should have a and unity between the fauna and planning your design. You don’t clear focus and dictate the the aquascape. Too many fish want to be limited by a small viewers’ perspective. species can cause discord and

6 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 This angle view of the stones and plants are to show depth within this 15 gallon tank. chaotic random movement Not as Easy as it Looks Seachems Excel, I managed to among the fish, which distracts It is a common misconception kill all the algae but, unfortunately from the aquascape. that Iwagumi style aquascapes the Heminathus callitrichoides Instead use a single species are easy to maintain due to its (H.C.) fell victim as well. I had to of schooling fish to add fluid simplistic look. It is in fact a more re-plant the H.C. and wait for it to movement and contentment to difficult style mainly because the fill in again. the aquascape. The most style involves only two plant common used species are species which require special Aquascaping Achievement Cardinal tetras, Rummy nose attention. The plants mentioned After accomplishing a tetras, or Harlequin rasboras. It previously are heavy root successful Iwagumi aquascape is important to use “schooling” feeders, so dosing the water that emphasizes the style’s main fish and not “shoaling” fish. This column should be done in aquascaping criteria (serenity, helps to maintain a more tranquil moderation. It is more important tranquility and vibrant movement) environment. to have a nutrient rich substrate I can honestly say I feel like I like the Caridina to help these specific plants grow am no longer a novice in this japonica (Amano Shrimp) are strong and healthy. Many hobby. most often use in the planted hobbyists overlook the I have learned so much aquarium and serve as an importance of a nutrient rich creating this little piece of nature excellent clean up crew without substrate, and may run into plant that it was well worth all the distracting the aquascape. Their health issues later as the frustration. So, whether you are small size and clear coloration aquascape develops. a novice or expert, everyone helps them blend well with the While attempting to create should experience the joys of plants. Other shrimp varieties can my first Iwagumi style scape, I fell successfully completing an be a distraction if they are too victim to all type of algae know to Iwagumi aquascape. colorful or too abundant. aquarists. This was by far the most difficult tank to “balance” nutrient wise. With the help of

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 7 Passage Beyond 2007 by Roy Deki

Dimensions: 24”x12”x12” Volume: 15 gallons Light: Coralife 65 watts power compact (6700k) in the front, Coralife NO T-5 28watt (6700k/10000k) over back Photoperiod: 10 hours per day. Filtration: Aqua clear 50 H.O.B. CO2: Pressurized system with ceramic diffuser @ 3bps Substrate: ADA Aqua soil with Power Special, TourmalineBC added at start-up. Fertilizer: Flourish comprehensive, Pfertz nitrogen and potassium Fauna: 11 Neon Green tetras, 7 Siamese Algae Eaters, 7 Amano shrimp Flora: Blyxa japonica and Hemianthus callitrichoides

8 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 9 Part 2 Plant Anatomy Dissecting the

Leaf By Freemann

10 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 Ill.1 Leaf Arrangement (phyllotaxis)

he leaf is a lateral line Phyllotaxis is the name given positioned on the shoot axis in organ springing from the to the arrangement of leaves in two exactly opposite longitudinal T axis of the shoot; it is the nodes of the shoot (Ill. 1). lines as with Potamogeton generally flat and its growth is On an elongated shoot axis species. limited. The leaves are essential the leaf arrangement shows an Many aquatic plants have a tools for collecting sunlight to use alternate pattern (Ill.1.1). Each decussate and opposite leaf in the process of node develops one leaf and the arrangement (Ill.1.3); each node and in emersed aquatic plant angle between the leaves of every produces two leaves, opposite to growth they regulate the loss of two nodes is always specific, often each other and forming an angle of water vapor. They also have other two fifths of a plant's 90° with the leaves of neighbouring functions such as food storage, circumference. This alternate leaf nodes. Examples for a decussate and they may form reproductive arrangent is rare in aquatic plants, and opposite leaf arrangement are cells. but it does occur, e.g. Lobelia found in the genera Hygrophila cardinalis. and Ludwigia. In two-rowed, alternate leaf If three or more leaves arrangement (Ill.1.2) the angle develop from one node they form a between leaves of each two nodes whorl (Ill.1.4), e.g. genus is always 180°. The leaves are Myriophyllum and species of

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 11 Ill.2 Leaf Composition

Limnophila. veins which encompass the time. The peltiphyllum is a special On a compressed shoot axis vascular bundles. type of foliage leaf; its petiole is the leaves are positioned close to In the group of plants positioned approximately in the each other; they are arranged like possessing only one cotyledon a middle of the leaf underside. rosettes (Ill.1.5). distinct midrib has parallel Examples for this type of leaf are The most common leaf , the pronounced, longitudinal veins seen in some Hydrocotyle species. foliage leaf occurs in a large running on either side. In Some leaves are modified and variety of shapes and sizes. It is dicotyledonous plants, transverse deviate from the characteristic composed of three main parts: the veins branch off from the midrib. foliage leaf, e.g. scale leaves— leaf-blade or lamina; the stalk or The length of the petiole can be often found on runners; bracts petiole; the leaf base or sheath very variable. It may be missing positioned near inflorescences; (Ill.2). The lamina is the actual leaf altogether in the leaves of some and—finally—the flower petals area and can have many different aquatic plants or, if the leaves are which are really transformed and shapes (Ill.3). elongated and tapering at the base, modified leaves. Apart from a characteristic the petiole may be just perceptible. There is a definite link between outline, the lamina tips, edges and A leaf without a petiole is often the habitat of a plant and the bases display marked differences referred to as a sessile leaf. On structure of its foliage leaves. If an and there are also variations in the other hand, the leaf-base may environment offers stable water structure. A lamina may be tender be of minor importance and conditions the leaves are usually and transparent; tough and appear as an elongation and composed of an upper epidermis, flattened; wavy or bullate. If a broadening of the petiole. palisade and spongy tissue, and a lamina is wavy or bullate the upper In some marsh and aquatic lower epidermis. Dense, longish and underside of the blade displays plants the leaf-base is so distinctly cells constitute the palisade tissue; protrusions (usually fairly dense), sheath-like in form that it is not the spongy tissue has a loose and e.g. Cryptocoryne aponogetifolia. always as discernible from the porous structure. The cells of the There are also variations in petiole as in Cryptocoryne species. spongy tissue are irregular in coloration on the upper and Such sheaths also fulfil another shape, and the tissue contains undersides of the lamina. The function; they enclose and protect cavities. Chlorophyll is not present leaf is traversed by a network of the succeeding young leaves for a in either the upper or the lower

12 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 Ill.3 Form of leaf laminae epidermis; the lower epidermis Typical water leaves do not Only the two epidermis layers possesses some localised stomata. possess any stomata, but the cells remain, e.g. the wa-ter-weed family Some evidence of this structure is of their epidermis layers contain (Ill. 4.8) but develop air spaces (Ill. noticeable in floating leaves grains of chlorophyll. The water 4.2, 4.3, 4.6. and 4.7). (although here the stomata are leaves are thinner; their inner Many marsh plants adapt well embedded in the upper epidermis) structure does not possess to a submerged habitat; it is (Ill. 4.1.) and the water leaves of palisade and sponge parenchyma characteristic for them that they those plants which grow primarily which gradually disappear in a are heterophyllous, meaning they in marshes (Ill. 4.4.). metamorphosis to a simpler state. are able to bear leaves of different

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 13 Ill.4 Inner structure of leaves, cellular 1 section of a lamina of floating leaf of Potamogeton natans, 2 pinna of a submerged leaf of Myriophyllum spicatum, 3 pinna of a leaf of Utricularia spec., 4 section of a lamina of a submerged leaf of Ludwigia repens, 5 section of a lamina of a leaf of Potamogeton gramineus, 6 section of a leaf of Vallismria spiralis, 7 section of a submerged leaf of Sagittaria subulata, 8 section of a leaf of Elodea canadensis forms depending on how they Occasionally, plants produce grow, i.e developing submerged, leaves with different blades if they floating and aerial leaves in certain grow submerged, e.g. Echinodorus conditions. berteroi and Hygrophila difformis. For example, Sagittaria species often develop slender, linear submerged leaves, but their floating and aerial leaves are distinctly divided into petiole and blade (Ill. 5). The leaves of many dicotyledons tend to become pointed and feathery when floating; Limnophila aquatica is a good example.

14 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008

Ill.5 Different types of leaves Tip of a submerged leaf Lamina of a floating leaf Lamina of an aerial leaf

1 2 3

Ill.5 Different types of leaves 1 Tip of a submerged leaf 2 Lamina of a floating leaf 3 Lamina of an aerial leaf

Footnotes • Palisade: Elongated, the plant, frequently with • Decussate: arranged on tightly packed cells in the a basal enlargement a stem in opposite pairs upper region of the called pulvinus (petiole at right angles to those mesophyll of the are absent in sessile above or below, resulting leaf. This is where most leaves). in four vertical rows. of the trapping of light • Axil: the angle between • Bullate: having a energy occurs by the the upper side of the puckered or blistered chloroplasts stem and a leaf or appearance. • Lamina: the expanded petiole. • Cotyledon: a leaf of the portion or blade of a leaf. • Stem: (also called the embryo of a seed plant, • Leaf apex: the tip of a axis) from which the which upon germination leaf opposite to the leaves arise. either remains in the petiole. • Stipule: the pair of small, seed or emerges, • Midrib: the the central appendages one on each enlarges, and becomes vein of a leaf it is usually side at the base of the green. Also called seed continuous with the petiole. leaf. petiole. • Pinna: division of a • Dicotyledon: a flowering • Vein: the vascular usually pinnately divided plant with two embryonic structures on a leaf leaf seed leaves or which arrangement is cotyledons that usually called venation. References: www.cactus-art.biz/note-book/Dictionary appear at germination. • Petiole: the stalk or stem The Complete Guide to Water Plants - that connects the leaf to Muhlberg

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 15 eni Vidi Vissie 2007 Netherland Aquascaping Competition Results

16 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 he Veni Vidi Vissie In the five years since the Dutch influenced style. T h e recently announced their site started, the VVV has now judges also examined the T long awaited results of grown to be the largest aquarium selection and health of fish and their 2007 Aquascaping forum for the Netherlands and other fauna as secondary criteria. Competition. This year’s contest Belgium area with more than Besides healthy plants and boasts over eighty-six aquarium 5,000 active members. The species variety, many winning submissions in seven different annual aquascaping contest Dutch style aquascapes follow categories ranging from tank size began two years ago, and were “De Gulden snede” meaning “The categories to biotypes and designed to showcase the talent Golden Rule”. This rule is often paladariums. of Netherland aquacapers. used in photography to divide a According to Marco Aukes a Unlike their Japanse rectangular frame into thirds, judge for the competition and site aquascapers, the majority of the from top to bottom, and left to administrator, most of the contest aquascapers in this area right. Positioning the focal point entries reflected “the old Dutch embrace the lush, Dutch style of in these zones engages the School of Aquascaping, with a aquascaping. Aquascapers stick viewer and makes the slight influences of Takashi to rigid techniques that include composition more natural. Amano’s Nature Style here and design an aquarium with many Each year, the winner of the there.” colorful plant species that are completion receives the "Willem The Veni Vidi Vissie (VVV) is trimmed to perfection. van der Klooster" Trophy, named a Netherland based forum Aukes states the highly after a man who ignited community that started over five esteemed panel of judges inspiration among aquascapers years ago for Dutch and Belgian (Christel Kasselmann, NBAT as a judge from the NBAT. This aquarium hobbyists. Some might Judges: Ab Ras, Adrie van trophy is passed down to winner remember, the original name of Holstein, Erik Prins and himself) to winner. the forum as “Veni Vidi Vici”, looked for aquascapes that Marco Aukes discusses the meaning “I came, I saw and I represented a large diversity of results and offers commentary on conquered”. The word “Vici” was plant species that were in pristine the winners on the following later replaced with “Vissie” health. The aquascaper who pages. You can see the meaning fishes in Dutch. Put could accomplish maintaining completed results and all of the together, the new title “Veni Vidi these components demonstrated submitted aquascapes on the Vissie” literally means, "I came, I their expertise and mastery of Veni Vidi Vissie site: saw and I keep Fishes". designing aquatic plants in a www.vivariumbeurs.nl.

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 17 Willem van der Klooster 1st Place by Fluo

Dimensions: 170x70x70 cm Volume: 700 liters Light: 2 x Philips T5 - 80W - 830, 2 x Philips T5 - 80W - 865, 1 x Philips T5 - 80W - 840 Filtration: Overflow filtration Fertilizer: Profilux Plus II controls addition of fertilizers, Seachem Excel, KN03, KH2P04, and traces Fauna: 23 Sphaerichthys Osphromenoides, 80 Rasbora Heteromorpha, 25 Carnegiella Strigata, 3 Colisa Lalia 6 Colisa Chuna 15 Affinis, 7 Neocaridina Denticulata Sinensis sp. Flora: Glossostigma Elatinoides, Blyxa Novoguineensis, Eriocaulaceae sp. Type 2, Rotala sp. Green, Didiplis Diandra, Rotala Colorata, Ammannia Gracilis, Mayaca fluviatilis sp. Narrow, Alternanthera Splendida, Blyxa Vietii, Rotala macrandra, Tonina fluviatilis, Tonina belém, Rotala sp. Pink, Blyxa Japonica, Hygrophila balsamica, Proserpinaca palustris sp. Cuba, Ludwigia Inclinata sp. Cuba, Polygonum sp. Kawagoneum, Potamogeton Gayi, Vesicularia sp. Christmas

Judge Marco Aukes: This tank won the best of show award and the Publics vote. Why? Simply because the tank is astonishing. If you look at the plants used, you can see they all are difficult to keep, but the aquascaper Fluo keeps them not just alive but glowing with health. The judges loved the form of the aquascape and the flowing lines in it. The foreground and groups in the front are stronger in contrast than the backside. The judges all agreed that the plant groups in the right-backside optically blend to much in each other, without good contrast. But than again, that was the only downside of the tank.

18 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 Willem van der Klooster 2nd Place by W v Wezel

Dimensions: 180x55x55 cm Volume: 450 liters Light: 2 x Philips 58 - 830, 2 x Philips 58 - 840 Filtration: Eheim Pro 2028 Fertilizer: KN03, CO2, Iron with Reverse Osmosis water Fauna: 12 Epyplatus dageti, 16 Rasbora heteromorpha, 22 Hemigrammus rhodostomus, 6 Red koraalplaatjes, 6 Ottocinclus affinus, 12 Corydoras panda, Flora: Hygrophila guianensis, Bacopa amplexicaulis, Ludwigia glandalose, Glyceria maxima, Rotala indica, Saururus cernuus, Hydrocotyle leucocephala, Microsorium windelov, Vesicularia dubyana, Limnophyla aquatica, Monosoleum tenerum, Althernantera rosefolia, Althernantera specy, Cryptocoryne wendii, Hygrophila difformis,Nymphaea lotus green,Elatine diandra, Bacopa australis

Judge Marco Aukes: At this moment the best in traditional Dutch-style Aquascaping. Three times runner-up in the national championship, and now runner up in our contest. The judges all found the tank had good contrasts between the groups of plants. However, they also found the foreground a bit crowded. This point and the fact that most "streets" of plants are facing left, have cost him first place. High scores however for plant health.

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 19 1st Place in Category (100- 400 liters, 3rd place Willem van der Klooster) by Marlene

Dimensions: 160x43x50 cm Volume: 340 liters Light: 58 watts Arcadia Tropical, 58 watt Arcadia Freshwater Lamp, 58 watts Philips 840 Photoperiod: approximately 13 hours per day Filtration: Eheim Pro 2028 Fertilizer: KNO3, KH2PO4, and traces Fauna: 13 Dermogenys pusillus, 3 Betta Splendens, 3 Poecilia sphenops, 6 Xiphophorus maculates, 20 Celestichthys margaritatus, 20 Paracheirodon axelrodi, 5 Ottocynclus affinis, 5 Rhinogobius wui, 4 Pangio khulii sumatranus, 2 Atya Gabonensis, 2 Atya Moluccensis, Neo Caridina serrata var. bee Flora: Riccia fluitans, Microsorum pteropus windelow, Microsorium pteropus, Anubias nana var. barteri, Hydrocotyle leucocephala, Ludwigia glandulosa, Myriophyllum brasiliensis, Hygrophila guianensis, Nymphaea lotus var. rurbra, Cryptocoryne wendtii brown, Vesicularia dubyana, Alternathera rosaefolia, Rotala indica

Judge Marco Aukes: An original layout, loosely based on the Dutch-style. Strong contrasts in height, color and leaf shape between the groups of plants. Here again: very good health of the plants. Breaking the straight line in the foreground would rank this tank even higher in the overall ranking.

20 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 2nd Place in Category (100- 400 liters) by RPB

Dimensions: 120x50x50 cm Volume: 300 liters Light: 3x38Watt T8 (color 840, 865),1x54Watt T5 (color 830) 1x54Watt T5 (color 830) Photoperiod: approximately 10 hours Filtration: Eheim 2026 Professional II Fertilizer: KN03, KH2PO4 and traces Fauna: 40 Paracheirodon axelrodi, 4 Trichogaster trichopterus, 11 Carnegiella strigata, 2 Aplocheilus panchax, 4 Corydoras leucomelas, 3 Crossocheilus siamensis, 1Ancistrus dolichopterus, 7 Caridina japonica 100 Caridina serrata Flora: Microsorium pteropus "Brazil", Rotala sp. Pink, Blyxa japonica, Blyxa novoguineensis, Nymphaea glandulifera, Hygrophila balsamica, Cryptocoryne balansae, Limnophila aromatica, Pogostemon stellatus "Broadleaf", Elatine triandra, Pogostemon stellatus “Green”, Echinodorus bolivianus, Fissidens fontanus, Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata (sp. Cuba), Anubias barteri var. nana

Judge Marco Aukes: Just like Fluo's tank this aquascaper keeps the most difficult to keep plants healthy and thriving. Nice contrasts also in this tank, with the original wood with Fissidens element as an eye- catcher. The murky water and to many plant species (and therefore lack of serenity in the scape) cost him a higher ranking.

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 21 1st Place by Hans7

Dimensions: 250x85x70 cm Volume: 3600 liters Lighting: 5 x 80 Watt P1Dulux, 6x50 Watt P1 Dulux color 84, 2 x 35 Watt MH Photoperiod: approximately 12 hours Fauna: 50 Paracheirodon axelrod, 20 caregiella strigata, 6 copella arnoldi, 8 aequidens maronii, 10 annastomis anastomis, 9 corydoras punctatus, 2 L121 worm line peckoltia, 3 L81baryancistrus sp, 8 dendrobate leukomela, 7 philobatus vitatus, 2 tinctorius oelemarie, 7 otocinclus affinis, 3 Lepidodactylus Lugubris Flora: Nephentes bekerplant, Krulvaren, Fireball bromeliads, dwarf bromelias, Pleurothallis obovata, Scaphyalottis violacer, dwarf philodendron finger plant, tillandsia flabellate, Crypthantus zonata, Colunea hirta Tillandsia capitata, Vriesea scalifaris, Dischidia pectenoides, Polypodium formosanum, Pellionia deveauana, Syngonium rayii, Begonia schulzei, various ferns

Judge Marco Aukes: Our overall-champion of last year. The best of both worlds: both Aquarium and Paludarium. Judges all praised the natural look of the tank, both above the water as submerged. Not much room to improve, but better choices in animals with more in the jungle area and less in the aquarium was advised.

22 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 1st Place Aquarium by Fotobregman

Dimensions: 220x60x60 cm Volume: 800 liters Light: 4X58W and 1X15W fluorescent colors in the 830, 840 and 865 Photoperiod: 13 hours per day Filtration: Biological Filtration System Substrate: Filtersand and soil Fertilizer: Profito and Easycarbo Fauna: 11 aequifasciatus , 60x Paracheirodon axelrodi, 7 Corydoras sterbai Flora: Hydrocotyle leucocephala, Echinodorus amazonicus, Najas guadelupensis, Ceratopteris thalictroides Nymphaea Glandulifera, Potamogeton gayi, Echinodorus uruguayensis, Hydrocleis nymphoides, Echinodorus magdalensis

Judge Marco Aukes: An extremely nice Biotope. This aquascaper bred his own discus, and showcased them in a large group that the judges enjoyed . The back-wall with wood has a great natural look. This tank was still in the early stages of its development and the judges could see it. It needed more time to grow and would have ranked higher.

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 23 How to Mineralize Soil Substrates By Aaron Talbot

ver the years dedicated has been employing mineralized aquatic plant hobbyists soil in his planted for O developed many different nearly two decades now. He methods to maintain vibrant developed a “recipe” for the soil freshwater flora. After having substrate during his collegiate tried almost all of the popular studies of wetlands soils. It is his fertilization techniques, I have recipe that I have recently begun finally found one that produces using with great success. consistently healthy aquatic Using topsoil or potting soil plants. That fertilization method as a substrate is not a new idea. imparts essential nutrients by Aquarists have been using this using mineralized topsoil as a method to grow healthy aquatic substrate. plants for decades. However, this When I joined the method does seem to pose some Greater Washington Aquatic problems, namely algae Plant Association about four outbreaks resulting from light years ago, I attended my first intensity that is too strong. This is official meeting at the home of especially true when you first set Sean Murphy. Sean is a up your aquarium with this type of Fisheries Biologist by trade and substrate. The algae likely results

24 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 Top and Bottom Photos illustrate two aquascapes planted with a mineralizes soil base for their substrates.

from the excess nutrients that soil recipe. Clay provides a It is still possible to use decomposing organic materials source of iron. The clay also pressurized CO2 and high lighting release in the soil. The serves to bind with the soil as a with this method of fertilization. I decomposing organic materials flocculating agent. When plants have setup four tanks using this are not bio-available to the are uprooted or disturbed, the method and all of them have aquatic plants. As the tank added clay will help the soil to been high-tech setups using CO2 matures, the algae dissipate settle back to the bottom of the and high lighting. I rarely ever slowly as the organics in the soil tank. Adding Dolomite to the have to dose any supplements finish breaking down. base of the substrate will provide save for the occasional dose of Mineralizing the soil plants with the necessary calcium potassium. Use caution when beforehand helps to speed the and magnesium they need for dosing and dose very little breakdown of organic materials in healthy growth. The calcium and amounts at a time. the soil. In turn the mineralized magnesium in the dolomite will For those readers who would soil will help shorten the initial also help to keep the soil from like to try the mineralized soil algae outbreak period that many becoming too acidic. Lastly, add substrate method follow these aquarists experience when using soluble potash for an initial step-by-step instructions. a soil substrate. Soil potassium source. mineralization occurs from exposing bacteria, enzymes and other soil microbes to oxygen in a moist environment. The microbes break down the organic materials in the soil into bio-available minerals. As an added bonus these new bio-available forms of nutrients are generally only available to plants and not to algae. There are a few other components to the mineralized

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 25 could be done indoors. Though Materials Needed due to its messy nature, I suggest doing it outdoors if possible. • Cheap topsoil When the soil is completely dry, • Pottery clay add it back into the soaking con- • Dolomite tainer. • Muriate of potash The drying process is the • Fine gravel or coarse sand part that allows the microbes in • Container for soaking soil the soil to begin mineralizing the • Scrap wood nutrients. Exposing it to air oxy- • Chicken wire genates the soil. STEP 3: Mineralized topsoil in a separate container ready for preparation. • Nylon screening material • Large plastic tarp Step 3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 three to four times. Repeating the steps is necessary to further mineralize the soil and remove any lingering Step 1 fertilizers. The soil mineralizes Open the bag of topsoil and the most during the time while it distribute in the container of your is still moist and exposed to air choice for soaking purposes. I on the large tarp. By soaking it use large Rubbermaid containers over again we reintroduce the that are readily available from needed moisture for this process any mega-mart. You will want to to take place. When the soil is STEP 4: Screening setup made from use cheap topsoil and not potting near fully mineralized it will have scrap wood and chicken wire. soil. Potting soil has additives to a very grainy texture. Another avoid such as fertilizers, vermicu- way to tell that the soil is ready is Step 5 lite and peat . by smell. There will be virtually no Now that you have a miner- Fill the tub with water so the smell coming from the soil once it alized soil to use as the sub- water level is a few inches above is mineralized. strate, you will want to add in the the top of the soil. I like to stir it aforementioned clay. Estimate around a bit to help break up any Step 4 (optional) how much clay you will need so big clumps and evenly distribute Screening the soil can help that the resulting mixture of soil the water. Let this soak for a day to remove any large organic ma- and clay is about 5% to 10% clay. or two. Come back and slowly terials that the short mineraliza- If you prefer measurements I use dump the water off of the top. tion process employed thus far about ¼ of a pound of clay per Now add in more water so the cannot remove. I have setup square foot of tank bottom. soil is well covered. This water tanks where I skipped Step 4 and To add the clay you soak it in changing process helps to “rinse” others where I used it. I have a container of water to help emul- the soil of any possible fertilizers found that adding this step to the sify it and make it easier to incor- or other harmful water soluble process helps to further eliminate porate into the soil. A second op- chemicals. algae issues after a tank is newly tion to add clay is to dry the clay setup. in the open air and then crush it Step 2 You can use a wooden into a powder and add it to the Pour the excess water out of frame with chicken wire stapled soil. In either case you will want the container as you did when to four sides. Then place nylon to eventually add enough water changing the water. Lay out the screening material overtop. Place to the mixture to form a nice large plastic tarp, preferably in a few handfuls of soil on top and runny mud. direct sunlight. Dump out the gently push the soil across the muddy soil and spread it rela- surface of the screen. Make sure Step 6 (optional) tively thin over the tarp. Allow the to put a container underneath to Now comes the fun part of soil to dry completely. This can catch the sifted soil. Below is a setting up the aquarium. Add the take a day or two and depends picture of the sticks, leaves and gravel of your choice just along greatly on how warm the tem- stones that can be removed dur- the front and side edges of the perature is where you are drying ing this step. The resulting sifted aquarium bottom. Wet it just the soil. This part of the process soil will feel like airy sand. enough that it holds a slope and

26 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 STEP 5: Mineralized soil mud mixed with STEP 7: Sprinkling of Dolomite and STEP 9: Add gravel on the top layer and clay. Potash. begin planting

STEP 6: Optional sand based layer on STEP 8: Add mineralized mud the sides serves as a retaining wall. press it up against the sides. Do- Step 9 ing this step ensures that we will Cover the mud with more of not see the different layers of the same border gravel from step substrate when viewing the tank 6. If you skipped step 6 then sim- from the front and sides. In this ply cover over the mud with the instance I have chosen to use 3M gravel of your choice. Cover the Colorquartz T-Grade Black Sand mud by about 1” in the front to 2” as a substrate top layer. I prefer in the back of the tank to create a this coarse sand for many rea- nice sloping substrate effect. sons. It is very dense and holds a slope for a long period of time. Step 10 The finer granules also allow for Begin planting and filling the easy planting. aquarium as you would any other planted aquarium. Use caution Step 7 when filling the tank with water. Sprinkle a light dusting of Go slowly to avoid disturbing the both the dolomite and muriate of substrate and uncovering the soil. potash on the bottom glass of the tank. The bottom of the glass I hope this has inspired you should still be somewhat visible. to try something new. I know I had wanted to try mineralized soil Step 8 for some time after seeing Sean’s Fill in the borders you’ve cre- beautiful aquariums. I finally got ated with the runny mud mixture up the courage to set up a small of mineralized soil and clay. This 20 gallon tank last year and now layer should be anywhere from I’m hooked. With a little patience ½” to 1” deep. and trial and error, I think you’ll be pleased with the results.

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 27 AquascapeAquascape InIn FocFocuu

28 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 uuss

An Interview with Peter Kirwan

vercoming aquascaping boundaries and limits, O Peter Kirwan shares with us how he mastered creating the intricate hardscape seen in his featured aquascape entitled “Mountainscape”.

“Mountainscape”

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 29 Q: Tell me about yourself and After investigating a bit aquatic plants as fast as I could. I how you got into planted further I discovered a whole new put larger amounts of lighting aquariums. world opening up for me, a new over the tank that I had, put in a passion had begun. I found a few plants and within a short A: My name is Peter Kirwan, I am whole scene dedicated to aquatic space of time had lots of algae. I 44 years old and I am from plant and aquascaping. I found did not let algae defeat me Ireland. About 3 years ago I forums with aquascapers though. I persevered and spent became interested in the planted evolving the art of aquascaping some time learning the basics. aquarium hobby. During these in a way that I never imagined Once I managed growing healthy three years I have learned a existed. The more I looked at the plants, I then started my first real tremendous amount of journals and photos of these attempts at aquascaping. Its information, and with practice aquascapes the more I wanted to been an enjoyable journey since have accomplished some nice get involved. From looking at then. aquascapes. When I was some the pictures on the web younger, I had kept aquariums on and I knew almost immediately Q: Now all your perseverance and off but these were fish only that I wanted my own piece of and developing skills landed aquariums. I had always nature in my living room. you a spot as our Aquascape imagined plants as being too in Focus. How did you come difficult attempt so I never really Q: Looks like you got bitten by up with the idea for this bothered too much with them. the planted aquarium bug! How aquascape? Then one day while browsing the did you start out learning the web I came across some pictures art of aquascaping? A: My main idea for this of beautifully aquascaped planted aquascape was take a small tanks and they intrigued me, how A: Well like many other tank and give it a grand sense of had these been done I wondered. beginners, I set out to grow scale and perspective. I wanted

30 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 the make the aquascape resemble a real mountain scene. I knew that given the size of the tank, the planting options would be limited and better off kept simple with just one plant type. I imagined the mountain scene would have the feel of being off in the distance somewhere like looking at a picture of the Alps in spring or summertime. I could go on to describe how I was inspired by some beautiful landscape but this wasn't the case here. The inspiration came in part from a couple of rocks in my possession. I tend to do a lot of dry runs with different rock layouts, for future aquascapes, and it was during one of these exercises that the idea came to me of doing the mountainscape. These rocks had nice pointed features to them and after configuring them in different arrangements, I could see the potential for a mountain type scene. Once I came across the idea I knew immediately I wanted to try and portray a mountain scene in an aquascape.

Q: What types of rocks did you use and how did you manage to create the sloping effect in your aquascape?

A: The rocks used here are Seiryu rocks or mini landscape rocks that I have collected over the last couple of years. I would buy maybe 5kg's here and there until I had built up about 25kg's of rocks in total for my collection. In this layout I would say I have used about 20kg's of rock. The substrate is ADA Aquasoil, but it is basically mud at this stage. I used it in so many different rock layouts before this one, and because of my rough handling, the aquasoil has broken down, but it still grows plants (Top) Initial hardscape design with high peaks and valleys fantastically well. For this ((Middle) Small stems of Hemianthus callitrichoides ''Cuba'' cover the open areas aquascape the compacted (Bottom) One month later, the HC has spread and engulf the hills in green.

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 31 Aquasoil was perfect for me to the aquascape developed on in small bunches, at week 4 it use as I was able to tightly pack its own as opposed to you had fully carpeted the tank and at the mud around the rocks. I intervening? this stage I trimmed it back hard found if you let it dry out a little and about two weeks later I took before adding water it becomes A: The aquascape was built up the photographs. the right consistency for shaping over the course of a few weeks. and usually retains that shape As the HC grew in, the front Q: In a tank of your size, you under water. This allowed me to planted section with the large must have encountered some create the nice high slopes that I frontal rocks stayed intact the challenges, no? wanted. whole time; I didn't change Underpinning the aquascape anything here. The rocks at the A: The greatest challenge was are a couple of large rocks back section were swapped and the rock layout itself. This was against the tightly packed ADA changed around a few times as I challenging in a small tank and Aquasoil mud. I didn't have to tweaked the aquascape to find sometimes I wished I had used a use anything else to hold the the best combination of rocks for larger aquarium. The depth of the foundation together. Although it the scene. I would make changes tank from front to back was the only happened once, the only and leave it for a couple of days most limiting for me at only 30cm issue with using the Aquasoil and then come back and make so I made life hard for myself in mud was water clouding when more changes. It took quite a few that respect. Every centimeter of rearrange rocks and plants. But a goes to come up with the best retail space counted as I tried to a quick water change would put it combination. To finish off the achieve the feeling of depth and right. Other than that, the slope rockwork I broke up a couple of scale in the aquascape. grade has held its shape rocks in my collection with a Other than that, maintenance magnificently. hammer and chisel to fill in some on the tank was rather easy. I of the smaller pieces, this worked used a good amount of light over Q: Many aquascapers have quite well for me. the tank during the grow out tendencies to fiddle with their The HC was originally period which kept the HC aquascape. How did much of planted about a centimeter apart compact. I also performed 50%

32 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 Clouding of ADA Aquasoil during a water change causes a beautiful mist resembling low lying clouds descending through the Mountainscape.

water changes on this tank every Depending how it turns out I may surroundings, and notice the finer 3-4 days during this time. Though enter the “Mountainscape” details that provide inspiration for changing the water this frequently version 2 into this year’s ADA the next scape. is excessive, I wanted to avoid competition. Time will tell though. I would say that I am any potential algae issues. I only moved the aquascape a hooked on the aquascaping Because of the intense few weeks ago. hobby. I started off with one tank lighting scheme, and frequent Lock stock and barrel, I but now I have four tanks of of all water changes I was able to moved everything, made the sizes! I usually only manage time avoid algae problems throughout changes and replanted the HC. It for two smaller aquascapes at a the lifespan of the scape. is still early in the aquascape to time though. This hobby can Though I cannot say for certain see if it will work out the way I definitely grow in more ways than that water changes kept algae at would like it to. The new larger one if your not careful! bay, it certainly did not do any tank certainly gives me a lot more I admit the hobby does have harm either way. room to design more rock its frustrating moments, but with formations and patterns. patience the final product is very Q: What is in stored for the rewarding. future of this aquascape? Q: After a successfully completing your aquascape, A: Since these photos were how has your aquascaping tool taken I have moved this belt and outlook changed? aquascape into a bigger tank and hopefully I have made some A: I tend to look at nature in a improvements to it as well. The different way now than I did size of the original tank limited before I took up the aquascaping the ability to place the rocks and hobby. I think once you get into plants. Now that it’s in the larger the spirit of aquascaping, nature aquarium, I have made a few takes on a different persona. improvements to the aquascape . You become more aware of your

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 33 34 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 “Mountain Scape”

Tank Dimensions: 60 x 30 x 30 cm Plant Selection Volume: 54 liters Hemianthus callitrichoides ''Cuba'' Lighting: 3x24W Osram 6500k T5 Photoperiod: 8 hours Fauna Selection Filtration System: Eheim 2211 Aplocheilichthys normani Water Parameters: Softwater with low KH and GH Fertilization: 2ml Tropica + added daily C02 Supplementation: Pressurized CO2, off when lights are out Diffusion Method/Rate: Rhinox 2000 Glass Diffuser 1 bubble/sec. Substrate: ADA Aquasoil

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 35 The Estimative Index

Fertilization Method By Tom Messenger

36 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 he Estimative Index, or EI could safely add the Micros relatively high Nitrate levels used for short, is a reasonably without the fear of losing the Iron in EI, the acidifying effect is not T new method of dosing through a reaction with the as noticeable as it is with CO2 fertilisers in a planted aquarium. Phosphate. The dosing continues injection. You can use a solenoid The basic idea involves dosing like this on alternate days, until on a timer to turn off the CO2 more nutrients than the plants Sunday where you would do a supply at night which can help to actually need, but in such a 50% water change. This resets keep things stable. It should be balance that algae cannot take the nutrient levels in the turned on again an hour or two advantage. This includes the aquarium, and makes sure that before the lights come on again micro as well as macronutrients, the excess nutrients are in the morning to give the CO2 and works best for aquaria with removed. The cycle starts again levels a chance to build up again. high lighting and very dense on the Monday with the Macros. planting. This schedule can obviously be Proper Mixture Ratios Wait a minute. Doesn’t adjusted to suit your needs, but Having separate solutions for excess nutrients in the water these are the basic principles. NO3, PO4 and Micros will allow column led to increased algae Powdered fertilisers are most you to alter the concentrations of growth? Well no, not really. commonly used when using the each parameter, which is helpful Remembering that it is an EI method because they are easy when fighting algae or certain imbalance of nutrients, rather to administer. nutrient deficiencies. than an excess which causes Generally it is accepted that algae. In order for algae to Primary Fertilizers a ratio of 10:1 NO3 and PO4 proliferate it needs other excess The primary macro elements works well, but again, it differs for components such as lighting and consists of Nitrate (found in each plant species used. You C02 to consume the abundance KNO3), Phosphate (found in should look at around 20-30ppm of nutrients supplied by this KH2PO4), and Potassium (found of NO3, and so 2-3ppm of PO4. fertilization method. in both of these compounds as The Potassium (K) can be kept EI is based on the effects of K). The other primary class of the same as NO3, and the CO2 high lighting and stable CO2 elements is lumped in what is should be kept at a constant injection at around 30ppm. C02 known as micro elements which 30ppm. saturation levels can either be is a mixture of different minerals checked by comparing the pH i.e. iron, magnesium, boron, etc. and KH readings, or by investing Sometimes, but not in a CO2 Drop Checker. The necessarily, people will add latter is far more accurate and Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO4) to shows real time results with color help with the buffering capacity of changes based on low, medium the water (measured as KH). and high CO2 levels. When using R/O water or any water with a low buffering How does EI work? capacity, this will aid against pH A standard EI schedule works crashes overnight due to CO2 around a 7-day week, which build-ups (which can sometimes makes it easy enough to work form an excess of carbonic acid). out. On the Monday (the first Nitrates will also form nitric acid, day), you would add your which will try and push the pH Macros, and on the Tuesday you down as well. Even with the

10-20 Gallons 20-40 Gallons 40-60 Gallons 60-80 Gallons 100-125 Gallons

(38-76 liters) (76-152 liters) (152-227 liters) (227-303 liters) (380-473 liters)

1/8 tsp KNO3 1/4 tsp KNO3 1/2 tsp KNO3 3/4 tsp KNO3 1 1/2 tsp KNO3 Dose Three 1/32 tsp KH2PO4 1/16 tsp KH2PO4 1/8 tsp KH2PO4 3/16 tsp KH2PO4 1/2 tsp KH2PO4 Times Per 1/32 tsp K2SO4 1/16 tsp K2SO4 1/8 tsp K2SO4 1/4 tsp K2SO4 1/2 tsp K2SO4 Week 1/32 tsp traces 1/16 tsp traces 1/8 tsp traces 1/4 tsp traces 1/2 tsp traces

50% Water Change on Day Seven

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 37 Growing Cryptoc

38 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 corynes Emersed

By Jose María Romero León

he cryptocorynes are For cryptocorynes plants of the aroid family enthusiasts, growing emersed T whose distribution extends plants is a great way to maintain through most of Southeast Asia, a large collection of species from India to the Philippines and without all the complications and New Guinea. This plant species care required to grow them in a is often found in rivers, streams, submerged environment. artificial canals, and swampy Emersed grown Cryptocorynes jungles. Many plants from this has the advantage when it comes species spends a greater part of to sexual and asexual the year in emergent growth. In reproduction (blooms and the midst of the end of the wet pollination). They will reproduce season, when water levels are in greater numbers and in less low, cryptocorynes species begin time. Most importantly, an to flourish with striking shapes, emergent crop and the flowers and colors. consequent flowering is the only Only a few species like reliable form of cryptocorynes crispatula, aponogetifolia, cordata identification in most cases. and a few others can be found with flowers while mostly What do cryptocorynes need to submerged. For this reason, to grow emergent? get the full flowering beauty from While for many who are the cryptocorynes family , it is familiar with aquatic plants, this important to have the grow question may seem obvious. But emersed so that they can achieve then again emergent growing their blooms. conditions are slightly different Another advantage of then a full blown planted emersed grown cryptocorynes is aquarium. Let’s first investigate they grow easier and require less the main factors influencing the maintenance their submerged growing a crop in emergent counterparts which require an conditions. aquarium habitat suitable for them with substrate, CO2, Humidity fertilization and so on. Not to The regions where these mention some species are nearly plants are found are typically in impossible to cultivate in a the tropics where there is submerged aquarium. constant rainfall and warm

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 39 plant matter, bark, leaves etc. Compost has a lot of nutrients, but the vast majority gives the soil a neutral pH. I also have used compost with some success both alone and mixed with other ingredients. A substrate mixture which has been proven great for most cryptocorynes species is a half and half combination of silica sand and compost.

Peat is formed by decomposing plant debris with an limited oxygen supply in an acid medium. There are two types of peat white and black. The white form is made by decomposing Sphagnum . While the Photo by Roland Seah black form is made up of slowly decomposing plant vegetation Cryptocoryne cordata growing its natural habitat in Sri Lanka found in marshes. In both cases, these peat forms are found naturally in weather. The vast majority of composition will work in most flooded areas, or places that crypt species live in deep jungles cases, but sometimes you must remain wet all the time with high with extensive vegetation cover, also mimic the full environment. humidity. The top portion of peat which provides protection against The main features of a great begins to dry while the bottom the sun. The combination of soil consists of a slightly acidic layer keeps on forming deeper shade, heat, and constant rainfall pH, and a soil that is able to layers of decomposing plant creates an optimal growing retain and drain water well at the material. This whole process environment of over seventy same time. The grain size is not enriches the peat, and makes it percent humidity. as important, but personally I an ideal material to use. prefer a particle size average. The white sphagnum peat Rich Soil presents a very low pH, around 4, Providing nutrient rich soil is What types of soils and and provides very few nutrients in a crucial factor for growing a substrates can you use? its composition and degrades healthy crop of emergent Silica Sand is an inert slowly. The black peat presents cryptocorynes. As a heavy root substrate that adds nothing to the a pH higher, around 5 and 6, and feeder, the soil is where the plant, and that only serves a base provides more nutrients and is cryptocorynes will get the most for the soil. It does not retains a more mineralized. In both cases, nutrients for their survival. lot of water with only a small the nutritional contribution is In the cryptocorynes their portion retained in the negligible. habitats are developed in a wide composition by capillary action. The black peat mixed with range of soils, clay, sand, drop This type is seldom used as a other soils should help facilitate litter, and decaying plant matter. single substrate (except if we are water movement because of its It is important to find an ideal to cultivate a hydroponic) and is small pore structure. You can composition for the soil if you usually found as part of a mixture mix it with a variety of other want the Cryptocorynes to with other elements. Its pH tends substrates such as clay and sand flourish. Generally, you want to to be neutral or slightly acidic, add acidity to the overall soil mimic the composition of the soil and there is a remarkable composition. of origin, but we must bear in presence of nutrients. mind that the living conditions in Humus Hayas of forest the wilderness, are not the same Compost is a general term (Fagus sylvatica) is a substrate as in a pot. With that said, for this man-made soil. Most highly recommended both by Jan copying the origin’s soil often it consists of composing D. Bastmeijer and Niels

40 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 Cryptocoryne wendtii growing in a coconut fiber based substrate.

Cryptocoryne walkerii root bundle wrapped around Akadama, a clay soil from Japan.

Flowering Cryptocoryne willisii

Jacobsen who are research Humus forest Castaño very well, but at the same time experts in cultivating crypts. (Castanea sativa) is the Spanish allows for draining and water According to Jacobsen, the version of the humus from the movement through the material. accumulation of leaves in deep forest floor. It is the most The pH ranges from 5.5-6.5. I layers and their subsequent accessible in the Spain (where I have noticed the plants have decomposition makes the live) and it is also sold in large wonderful growth and have composition of humus extremely garden centers as a substrate for produced healthy white root rich in humic acids which is one acidophilic plants. bundles. of the favorable conditions for crypts soils. Coconut Fibers is a Akadama it is a clay soil from This type of soil encourages substrate that I’ve had very Japan in a region of the same a more vigorous development satisfactory results with. It is a name. It is extracted by removing and better long-term plants than very inert substrate, consists the top organic layers, and is in substrates without. The pH of primarily of lignin from coconut found to be very granular with a this type of soil, it is usually quite shells and fibers grounds. The great resistance to desegregation low, ranging around 4-5. It can be fibers presents characteristics in its grain. It has a slightly acid used alone or mixed with soil well suited to our purposes and pH and roots develop minerals, clays and . has the capacity to retain water magnificently in this substrate.

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 41 water and move water. It is Importance of Water completely inert, and contributes Water as discussed limited nutrients including previously is an important aspect magnesium. The pH is neutral. of the creating a high humidity When mixed with other soils this environment. The best way to makes a great composition for a maintain this high humidity, is to substrate. have a layer of water covering part of the containers that the Moss is becoming plants are growing in. This helps increasingly popular among decrease evaporation and Cryptocoryne yujii planted in a live moss Japanese growers as a substrate increases humidity. The sheet of based substrate that is common practice by Asian crypt hobbyists due to its base because it offers a low pH water will also be the location superior growing abilities. and offers good aeration. I have where the roots will absorb many tested with live moss beds nutrients. The porosity of the akadama soil (Vesicularia dubyana), to The water must be as soft allows a large amount of water encourage the growth of new and acid since many crypt and nutrient movement. around seedlings in pieces of rhizomes species prefer softer water. We the roots. Healthy white roots of different species can use water for reverse indicators of great substrates. (aponogetifolia, wendtii, walkerii, osmosis water meets our needs, There is a variant of the becketii, pontederiifolia, spiralis, but we can also lower the pH by more acidic akadama called balansae, x willissi) with adding dry leaves in the water kanuma, which is harvested from considerable success. You can which will release humic acid. the same area, but at greater find live mosses in stores that Adding a small pump will help depth in the earth. My specialize in reptiles. circulate this layer of water, which experience with this clay is helps circulate nutrients and satisfactory when mixed with Other substrates out there that encourages root growth. coconut fiber and humus are not mentioned but could be Do not forget we also must chestnut. used include rock wool, pine also pay attention to water bark, flakes beechwood, and temperature, because in hot Sepiolit Clay is a mineral plant mulch to name a few. climates the water temperature widely used in the industry as an absorbent (marketed as absorbent sand for cats). It has a great capacity for ion exchange and high water-holding capacity. It is very grainy with the grains resisting dissolving or breakups. However, the pH is slightly basic, so the use is limited to cryptocorynes which are easy to cultivate and in a blend of soils.

Other types of clay found in home garden centers or locally can be used. Most varieties are more neautral in pH, but can easily be mixed with other materials. It is important to look for pesticide free soils.

Vermiculite is a mineral laminar very close to the mica. It is created by baking the mineral Diagram illustration of adding a water pump to a minigreen house. The idea here is to at high temperatures. This allows keep the flow of nutrients circulating around the base of each plant to encourage the final structure to become very healthy root growth. porous with the capacity to retain

42 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 (Right) Mini Greenhouses made from boxes and a plastic cover help retain a high humidity and moisture for the

will determine by the ambient air temperature and raise the temperature rapidly. Maintain the water temperature at around 20 degrees Celsius.

Nutrients and additives As explained above, water is a very important nutrient transportation system. If our substrates are not very rich in macro nutrients, we need to add some into the water. It is also important to provide enough nitrogen, potassium and phosphate, as well as micronutrients, specifically iron. I use a conventional fertilizer for houseplants, but with a dose less than that recommended by the manufacturer. Also once or twice a week I apply the same fertilizer with doses much more diluted directly to the leaves with a misting spray bottle. so that it circulates the water sunlight and help regulate properly. And lastly, if you are temperature as well. Select a Making a Greenhouse not growing the crypts outside, shaded area for your system, and Building a small greenhouse you will need to find a lighting remember the sunlight can to grow cryptocorynes is easy.. fixture to supply light energy. increase the interior temperature You will need an airtight An outdoor setup is harder to quite rapidly, so choose your container that can open and maintain due to fluctuating location wisely. close, and can have a cover to temperatures outside. You want shield sunlight. An old aquarium to keep the temperature about 20 works very well. Place a few degrees Celsius, so you may inches of water to cover the crypt need a heater or foam insulation pots slightly. Then, take a to help retain heat. A opaque submersible pump and position it cover will help block direct

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 43 Japa Gar Aqu

44 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 By Steven Chong

hayou~san!! Mina moukari makka? O “Morning!! How are you all doing?” in Kansai Dialect. Since the beginning of March I have been touring around western Japan, staying with various relatives in Kansai and Okayama Ken, though spending the most time in Kyoto. I spent most of my free time touring places with great gardens and scenery-- searching for aquascaping inspiration. When it comes to Japanese temples, shrines, and their gardens, Kyoto is rightfully well renowned. Outside of Kyoto though, I also made my way out to Kanagawa and Okayama in order to see 2 of the “3 Great Large Gardens” of Japan called Kenrakuen and Kourakuen respectively. (The 3rd is Mito’s Kairakuen in Kantou, eastern Japan). Of course I also took the anese chance to take plenty of photos. Omoroi kara, mina ni misetaru de! (It’s been a blast so I’ll show y’all!) Looking through the photos of the Japanese gardens the first rdens and thing you will notice is the lack of grass and instead an abundance of mosses. The primary ground cover is moss, and there is a large variety of moss species, liverworts, and allies cultivated in the gardens. These delicate uascaping plants are maintained by careful gardeners who can be seen wearing leather boots with softened rubber soles to avoid excess damage to the ground cover. Their brooms are even

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 45 made with light tree twigs in place of a standard iron rake to avoiding injury to the mosses. Daily they sweep fallen leaves from the moss to ensure it will not be covered and killed. Aside from rocks and sand, a number of trees and bushes form the other visual elements of the garden. Matsu (pine), takei (bamboo), sakura (cherry), kaede (maple), and momo (plum) take the place of stem plants. The tough and stiff Matsu with needle leaves is resembles twisted moss-covered wood in our aquascapes. Kaede and softer trees remind me of Rotalas and Ludwigias species. Ferns, smaller bushes and a number of other plants find their places. While Aquascaping and are obviously different disciplines with obviously different available elements, it is clearly visible how they can be connected. Aquascaping design guides and tutorials from the planted aquarium community cover similar features found in Japanese gardening. Aquascapers frequently references visual techniques that include an off-set positioning of rocks and the use of negative space. I noticed that while the basic composition (types of plants and materials used) are clearly different in Japanese Gardens and our aquascapes, the basic artistic principles are essentially the same. The elements used in both fields serve to present a variety of types, contrast is built in the contrasting textures/impressions overall layout, much like in the bloom or autumn color, the to the viewer. aquarium. Similarly to how overall impression of the gardens For instance, the wide and Japanese-style Aquascapes are remains the same. A Japanese spacious areas in the Kenrakuen designed considering the need to Aquascape or Garden is Garden consists of few plants trim stems, and thus rely on the designed a similar way to outside of moss, pines, ferns hardscape to provide the overall showcase the overall beauty of (growing on their own), and small shape, in a real garden the same the scape despite not having all bushes. There are only a few hardscape and foundational the aquatic plants trimmed or the areas designated for displaying structures maintain the overall in full show. showier trees like ume. Despite shape of the garden. Even when However not all elements this lack of variation in plant a certain tree is not in perfect found in Japanese gardens

46 AquaScaping World APRIL 2008 plants appear to have less presence than their comparative aquatic plant counterparts. HC or mosses attached to driftwood take up more space in an area, but their impact is not as dramatic as small maple trees consisting of small leafs found in gardens. There are some garden elements absent in aquascapes that could be incorporated to reinvent aquascaping as we know it. One example that comes to mind is the use of thin branches, which is usually not present in aquascapes but abudnant in Japanese Gardens. This is the point where an aquascaper should consider what he can do to imitate the things he feels, because it may require innovation from the norm, and the invention of a new way of presenting aquatic plants. coexists with aquarium than adding a small plant like Japanese gardening and aquascapes. While many Hemianthus callitrichoides (HC) aquascaping are different art aquascapes rely on plants like can build one more level of forms with different resources, Anubias and Cryptocorynes to variation to the scape. You can but the visual rules and doctrines break up the monotony that continue to build upon the are shared by both and can give results from using only small contrast levels. For example, rise to ingenuity in artistic design. leaved species, Japanese sand > HC > Hair grass > Crypts It is up to the aquascaper of how gardens thrive by using a variety > Hardscape > Background much and how to follow. The of small leaf plants that do not Plants. The more levels that are best way to understand and require a large center piece plant possible, the more contrasting appreciate is to see it for oneself. or tree. I thought that was points of interests can be Itsuka Kansai he asonde kite strange. achieved. na~. Honma shizen de In terms of building contrast Real Japanese gardens kandousuru ya wa. “Come hang though, the more levels of have water, sand, and moss that out in Kansai! You’ll truly be differentiation one can make in resemble what we use as our touched by the nature there.” the aquarium, the more visual foreground plants. The interest is possible. For instance, difference is garden plants, if one has a sand foreground, despite their size, these terrestrial

APRIL 2008 AquaScaping World 47 www.aquascapingworld.com