Guide to Aquascaping Nano Aquariums

The great thing about the aquarium hobby is that there is something in it for everyone. Many of us do not have the space to keep a large aquarium. It can also be true that we just want to keep a small aquarium. Either way, nano aquariums are perfect for such use cases. Smaller tanks will have their limitations but getting around these limitations to create something beautiful is very fulfilling. One way to do this is by aquascaping the nano tank. Before we look at how to do that, let us get a few basics out of the way.

What Is A Nano Aquarium?

Nano aquariums are the smallest aquariums that can humanely house fish and aren’t astronomically difficult to take care of. Typically tanks between 5 and 10 gallons are considered nano tanks.

They are meant for people who want to keep fish or other aquatic creatures in a smaller space, such as an apartment or a small room, or for people who want to keep many aquariums in a limited space. These tanks are also great for those who simply love a challenge or the unique visuals that can be created with a small tank.

They are often used to keep smaller species of fish, such as bettas or shrimp, and can also be used to grow live plants creating what is known as a nano aquascape. Due to the limited space and water volume, nano aquariums require more frequent maintenance and water changes than larger aquariums.

Nano Aquariums Are Challenging

There is a common misconception that nano aquariums are very easy to take care of especially when compared to a larger aquarium. The opposite is actually true.

Nano aquariums can be challenging to keep for several reasons:

Limited space: The small size of a nano tank makes it difficult to maintain a proper balance of water chemistry and pH. Also, the limited space makes it hard to keep large numbers of fish or invertebrates.
Water quality: Because of the limited volume of water in a nano tank, water quality can change quickly and drastically. This can be caused by overfeeding, overstocking, or inadequate filtration.
Temperature fluctuations: The small size of nano tanks can make it difficult to maintain a stable water temperature, which can be harmful to fish and plants.
Algae growth: Algae can quickly overgrow in a nano tank due to the high levels of light and nutrients per gallon of water. This can be difficult to control and can lead to a decline in water quality.
Maintenance: The small size of a nano tank makes it difficult to perform regular maintenance, such as water changes and cleaning the filter without bringing about a drastic change in the water chemistry.
Limited options: Due to the limited space and water volume, there are fewer options for plants and fish that can thrive in a nano tank.

Overall, nano aquariums require a higher level of attention and care to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem. It’s important to research the specific needs of the plants and animals you plan to keep in a nano tank and make sure you are able to provide for them properly.

Advantages Of Aquascaping A Nano Tank

Obviously, I do not want to discourage you away from keeping a nano aquascape. I just wanted you to be aware of the challenges involved. If you are still up for the challenge, then here are a few reasons why keeping a nano aquascape can be a positive experience

The cost: You can save money on the décor, fish, plants, and equipment as everything is smaller or needed in fewer numbers.
Setup and maintenance is less labor intensive: While nano aquariums require more attention, the intensity of effort required is low. As everything is small, transporting and moving things around isn’t as back-breaking at it would in a regular-sized aquarium
Easy to customize: Due to their small size, nano tanks can be easily customized with different plants, rocks, and other decorative elements.
Portability: Nano tanks are easy to move around and can be placed in different locations in a home or office, allowing you to enjoy your aquatic plants and fish in various settings.
Easy to monitor: Due to their small size, nano tanks are easy to monitor and keep track of the water parameters and inhabitants.
Space-saving: Nano tanks are smaller in size, making them ideal for people who have limited space in their homes.

Now that we have gotten the basics out of the way, we can take a closer look at how to actually go about setting the nano aquascape.

Choosing The Right Décor For A Nano Aquascape

Start by choosing the right décor for the nano aquascape. It is important to create a visually pleasing and functional environment for the inhabitants. Here are some tips on how to choose the right décor for a nano aquascape:

Consider the narrow confines of the tank

Choose decorations that fit comfortably in the tank without overcrowding it. Use decorations sparingly as space is at a premium here.

Consider the inhabitants

Since the choice of inhabitants will be limited to small fish and invertebrates, you will want to avoid decorations with sharp edges or small openings that they could get stuck in.

Think about the overall aesthetic

Consider the overall aesthetic you are trying to achieve with your nano aquascape. Do you want a natural, planted look or a more contemporary or whimsical design? Pick décor accordingly.

Use detailed ornaments

Whether you use natural ornaments such as rocks, wood, and shells or artificial elements, choose ones that have interesting details on them. A nano tank will put every single thing in focus. Each decorative element needs to look great while also being functional for the fish and other inhabitants.

Avoid over-decorating

Less is often more when it comes to nano aquascaping. Avoid overcrowding the tank with decorations as this can create a cluttered and unappealing look. One focal point with a few embellishments is more than good enough.

Be as practical as possible and you will be able to create a look that is just stunning without wasting money on stuff that will eventually end up being unused.

Choosing The Right Equipment For A Nano Aquascape

A highly critical part of the entire process is choosing the right equipment. A healthy aquarium is a delicate ecosystem. This delicateness is amplified in a nano tank. The right equipment will save you a lot of headaches. Here are some pointers

Filter

The filter needs to be small but efficient. Hang-on-back (HOB) filters or sponge filters are good options for nano tanks. I generally don’t recommend sponge filters for nano tanks as they take up valuable real-estate inside the tank. A HOB filter from a reputed brand is the way to go.

Lighting

Lighting is important for the growth of live plants and for the overall health of the inhabitants. Choose lighting that is appropriate for the plants you are keeping. LED lights are a good option for nano tanks because they are energy-efficient and produce less heat. The latter is crucial in a nano tank as the temperature can rise very quickly which can be fatal to the inhabitants of the tank.

Heater

A heater is necessary to maintain a consistent temperature in the tank. Choose a heater that has an accurate temperature control system that will keep the water temperature at exactly the ideal value.

Thermometer

A thermometer is necessary to monitor the temperature in the tank. Digital thermometers are more accurate than glass thermometers. Preferably, get one with an alarm that will alert you if there is any major fluctuation.

Water test kits

Water test kits are necessary to monitor the water chemistry in the tank. Choose test kits for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Test the water at least once a week to avoid any nasty surprises.

Substrate

Substrate is the material at the bottom of the tank. Choose a substrate that is rich in nutrients and one you can work with easily. Gravel, sand, or aquarium soil are the common options I would recommend.

CO₂ system

CO₂ systems are necessary for the growth of the more demanding plants. Choose a system that is dependable and within your budget.

Water changing equipment

Water changing equipment such as a siphon or a bucket is needed for regular water changes.

Aquascaping tools

Tools such as tweezers, scissors, and plant weights are necessary for maintaining live plants in the tank. Don’t skimp on these as you will need proper tools to manoeuvre around the confined space and getting the aquascape just right. Get a set from a good brand that contains all the basic tools if you are unsure about which individual tools to buy.

The Best Plants For A Nano Aquascape

There are a few qualities to look out for when choosing plants for a nano tank. They shouldn’t grow too quickly or grow to be too large. They should have an interesting appearance and be relatively easy care for. They should also be adaptable as water parameters can be more prone to fluctuations.

Some of my favourite plants for a nano tank are listed below.

Mosses: Mosses such as Java moss and Christmas moss are popular choices for nano tanks. They are low-light plants and can be attached to driftwood or rocks.
Ferns: Ferns such as Java fern and Bolbitis fern are excellent choices for nano tanks. They are low-light plants that can also be attached to driftwood or rocks. When properly trimmed, these plants give a really distinguished look to the tank.
Anubias: These are low-light plants that can be attached to driftwood or rocks. They are also tolerant of a wide range of water conditions. They grow slowly and in a compact manner which is perfect for nano tanks
Cryptocoryne: Cryptocoryne species such as Cryptocoryne wendtii, Cryptocoryne beckettii, and Cryptocoryne parva are great choices too. They are low to medium-light plants and can be planted in the substrate. Their interesting colours and appearances make them excellent choices for nano aquascapes as the focal point.
Bucephalandra: Bucephalandra species are also great choices for nano tanks. They are low-light plants and can be attached to driftwood or rocks.
Dwarf Hairgrass: Dwarf Hairgrass is well-suited for nano tanks and is perfect to creates a lush, carpet-like grassy appearance. This is perfect for replicating natural settings.
Dwarf Sagittaria: Dwarf Sagittaria is a another popular carpet plant for nano tanks.
Pygmy Chain Sword: This plant is another carpet plant with an interesting appearance. It can be mixed with other carpet plants to create interesting waves of low-growing plants.
Water Wisteria: This is a hardy plant that creates a lush, bushy appearance and is one of my personal favourites as far as nano aquascapes are concerned.
Marimo moss balls: Marimo moss balls (Aegagropila linnaei) are not actually moss but a type of green algae. They can be placed in the tank and are easy to care for.

It is important to note that not all plants will thrive in all conditions, so it is important to research the specific needs of each plant and ensure that they are met in the tank. Some of these plants have rhizomes and these never be completely submerged underneath the substrate.

Not all the plants listed here are suitable for all types of water chemistry, so it’s important to check the compatibility of the plants with the water parameters.

Best Fish And Invertebrates For A Nano Aquascape

Choosing the fish is an interesting part of the process. Ideal fish for nano aquascapes should be small and plant-friendly. Here are some popular fish options for nano aquascaping:

Bettas: Bettas are great choices for nano tanks. They are small, colourful, and easy to care for. They can be kept in tanks as small as 5 gallons. Avoid keeping more than one male in the same tank as this can lead to aggression. Also avoid other fish with long flowing fins.
Neon Tetras: Neon Tetras excellent choices for nano tanks. They are small, colourful, and peaceful fish. They complement plants really well and would be my personal pick if I can keep only one type of fish in my nano aquascape.
Guppies: Guppies are another great choice for nano tanks. They too are small, colourful, and easy to care for. They are livebearers and the ideal fish for beginners.
Shrimp: Shrimp such as cherry shrimp, ghost shrimp, and bamboo shrimp are great choices for nano tanks. If you want something more than just fishes then these are great choices.
Ember Tetras: Ember tetras are a small schooling fish that are great for nano tanks, they are very peaceful and adaptable. Keep at least six of these together and their schooling behaviour will create a stunning effect against the backdrop of plants.
Rummynose Tetras: Rummynose tetras are another small schooling fish that are great for nano tanks.
Pygmy Corydoras: Corydoras are highly recommended for planted tanks and the Pygmy version is perfect for nano aquascapes. They are a schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least four.
Endler’s Livebearers: Endler’s Livebearers are similar to guppies and have a very interesting appearance. They are another one of my favourites.
Otocinclus: Otocinclus are a small, peaceful fish that are great for nano tanks. They are known as “dwarf suckermouth catfish” and can be kept in tanks as small as 5 gallons.
Neon Dwarf Gourami: Neon Dwarf Gourami, as the name suggests, stays small and that with its powder blue colouration and peaceful nature makes it perfect for nano aquascapes.

You can keep a species-only tank but if you plan on mixing them, then choose fish that need similar water conditions and are compatible with each other.

Steps To Set Up A Nano Aquascape

Choose the right tank: Nano aquascaping typically involves tanks that are around 5 gallons. If possible, go for a 10 gallon tank.
Add a substrate: The substrate is the material that forms the base of your aquascape. Common options include sand, gravel, and soil.
Add aquascaping elements: These can include rocks, wood, and other natural materials. They should be arranged in a way that creates a sense of depth and movement in the tank.
Add plants: You’ll want to choose plants that are small and will not outgrow the tank. Avoid plants that need high light or CO₂. Meeting these demands can be difficult in a nano tank.
Add Lighting: A small light fixture will do the trick, and it should be on for around 8-10 hours a day.
Add water: Fill the tank with dechlorinated water, and adjust the temperature and pH as necessary.
Add fish and/or invertebrates: Make sure you are choosing fish or invertebrates that are compatible with the plants and other inhabitants of the tank, as well as the water parameters. Add the fish gradually to avoid shocking the nitrogen cycle.
Maintain: Regular maintenance is key for a healthy nano aquascape. This includes weekly water changes, cleaning the filter, and pruning plants as necessary.

Maintenance Of A Nano Aquascape

Setting up the nano aquascape is just the first step. The real challenge and joy are in maintaining the aquascape. Here is how to do that well.

Water changes: It is important to perform regular water changes to keep the tank clean and healthy. A general rule of thumb is to change around 20-30% of the water every 10 days. I have found that a 15% water change once a week yields better results.

Clean the filter: Clean the filter regularly to keep it functioning properly and remove any debris that may have accumulated.

Prune plants: Prune plants as necessary to keep them from overgrowing the tank and to maintain the desired shape.

Monitor water parameters: Regularly check the temperature, pH, and other water parameters to ensure they are within the appropriate range for the inhabitants of the tank.

Algae control: Algae can quickly overgrow in a nano aquascape. Regularly check for algae growth and take appropriate measures to control it, such as removing it manually or adjusting lighting.

Feeding: Feed the fish and invertebrates the appropriate amount of food, and remove any uneaten food to prevent it from polluting the water.

Observe: Keep an eye on the inhabitants of the tank to make sure they are healthy and acting normally.

It is important to remember that maintenance of a nano aquascape is crucial for the health and well-being of the inhabitants. A little bit of time and effort on a regular basis can go a long way in ensuring a beautiful and thriving nano aquascape.

Nano Aquarium Aquascape FAQ

What is a nano aquascape?

A nano aquascape is a miniature version of a traditional aquascape, typically done in tanks that are about 5 gallons. It involves arranging aquascaping elements such as rocks, wood, and plants in a visually pleasing and natural way.

What are some good plants for a nano aquascape?

Small and hardy plants such as Anubias, Java Fern, and Mosses are good options for a nano aquascape as they do not require high light or CO₂.

What kind of fish can I keep in a nano aquascape?

Fish that are small and suitable for a nano tank such as Neon Tetra, Betta, and Shrimp are good options. It’s important to research the specific needs of the fish you are considering to ensure that they are compatible with the tank and other inhabitants.

Can I have a nano aquascape with a betta fish?

Yes, a betta fish can be a great addition to a nano aquascape. Bettas are small, colourful, and easy to take care of. They prefer a slightly warmer water temperature and a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.

How often do I need to change the water in a nano aquascape?

It is important to perform regular water changes to keep the tank clean and healthy. A general rule of thumb is to change around 20-30% of the water every ten days.

What kind of lighting is best for a nano aquascape?

A small light fixture will do the trick, and it should be on for around 8-10 hours a day. It is important to choose the right spectrum and intensity of light for the plants in the tank.

How do I control algae growth in a nano aquascape?

Regularly check for algae growth and take appropriate measures to control it, such as removing it manually, adjusting lighting, and ensuring that the tank is not overfed.

Conclusion

Nano aquascapes are a great way to experience the wonders of the aquarium hobby. They allow for a small-scale representation of a natural aquatic ecosystem in a limited space. They are perfect for those who have limited room for a larger aquarium, or for those who want to create a unique and visually stunning display in a small area. Additionally, nano aquascapes are easier on the pockets.

They also allow for a great deal of creativity and experimentation, as the small size allows for intricate and detailed designs. They can be challenging at times but if you are willing to put in the extra effort then nano aquascapes are a great way to bring a piece of nature into your home while also showcasing your creativity and design skills.