How to Create a Hardscape Only Aquascape

Why hardscape only

A hardscape only aquascape is an aquarium setup using just substrate, rocks and wood with no plants at all. A hardscape only setup is ideal for large fish that maybe too rough with plants. Some fish eat live plants so a hardscape only aquascape can work well for these species. Some fish keepers choose to create a hardscape only setup because they want to mainly focus on the fish themselves and the aquascape takes a back seat. Larger colourful fish are commonly kept in this style of aquascape.

The process

Start by adding a thin layer of your chosen substrate, sand or gravel will work fine just think about the colour choice and how you want it to contrast with your hardscape. A thin base layer of substrate will help you angle your hardscape into the desired position, be sure to gently press the hardscape down to avoid collapses in the future. Remember you do not need a deep layer of substrate in a hardscape only setup as you will not be adding plants. In fact, a thin layer of substrate will trap less debris and will overall benefit your water quality. Now it’s time to start adding the hardscape, choose your largest piece first, this will be your main focal point, then place your next largest piece and so on. Three general rules to consider are to make sure you leave enough room for flow and maintenance, do not place your hardscape in the exact centre of the aquarium and try not the make the scape too symmetrical otherwise it may not appear natural. Always get a bit more hardscape than you think you will need as it is always a good idea to have options and anything you don’t use can be used in your next setup! To create a dramatic hardscape, ensure your main piece of hardscape is around three quarters of the height of the tank. For new comers this may seem a lot bigger than the rocks you would usually put in your aquarium, but it’s the best way to create an impactful aquascape, just be sure to leave enough swimming room! Once your main pieces of hardscape are in it’s time to concentrate on the smaller details, add some small rocks and small pieces of wood in place around your larger pieces, this will really help the scape look more natural and will add a sense of scale.

Enjoy your fish

This type of setup is perfect for enjoying your fish, with less distractions in your tank you can focus on the behaviour of your fish. A hardscape only setup is great for larger predator fish such as oscars, these large fish need space and will easily rip up most plants you add. Hardscape setups also work well for more sensitive fish like discus as a hardscape only setup is far easier to clean. African cichlids from Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika are perfect options for a rock only hardscape as it mimics their natural environment. This is also a great option for larger colourful fish such as fancy goldfish, a hardscape only setup is a great display option as these fish really stand out against the browns and greys of the hardscape. Lastly, even though this setup does not necessarily need it as there are no plants a good quality light is always a good option for a hardscape only setup as it will really make your fish pop against their environment. Some lights have a shimmer effect which can look great, if you have surface agitation the shimmer will help provide an extra sense of interest and movement to the scape.

AQUAnatur

Enjoy your setup no matter what style you choose! Be sure to let us know your experience setting up a hardscape only setup in the comments below. If you have any questions feel free to contact us, our expert team are always happy to help. Visit our online shop for all your aquascaping needs.

By Alasdair McPhail