A simple 9 gallon tank above. The tank uses finely textured stem plants (Ludwigia arcuata, hemianthus glomeratus) and mosses to give a sense of scale even in a smaller tank.

The filter inlets and outlets are hidden behind the stone on the left to give the landscape a clean finish (you can see the pipework at the top left of the tank).

The combination of a rimless tank, a slim light fixture and the planned hidden filter inlets/outlets allows a photographic presentation of the tank at all times.

Cory Hopkins 10 Gal

A 10 gallon aquarium by Cory Hopkins. You don't need a large planted tank to make a big impact. Often, concentrating effort and money into a smaller space will result in a better set-up. A smaller planted tank also encourages experimentation and learning as the cost of failure is low.

Jeff Miotke

A planted tank that is only 7 gallons (18"x11"x7.5") expertly scaped by Jeff Miotke. A testament that focused effort in a small setup can produce great results. Read his full journal and see his progression pics here.

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Close up photo of algae on older aquatic plant leaves

Why do leaves deteriorate? Understanding the leaf renewal cycle in aquatic plants

This article delves into the topic of how plants continually renew themselves through the production of new leaves.

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4ft Rotala florida community aquarium: Showcasing the 2hr Way

4ft Rotala florida community aquarium: Showcasing the 2hr Way

Full details of tank parameters, plants and fish species, and the maintenance regime of the 4ft Rotala florida aquascape are described here.

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Non-Aquatic Aquarium Plants: A Beginner's Buying Guide to Avoid Them

Non-Aquatic Aquarium Plants: A Beginner's Buying Guide to Avoid Them

Some of the most attractive plants on shop shelves are not aquatic at all. They persist for weeks, then rot and feed algae. This guide identifies the common non-aquatic species sold as aquarium plants, shows how genuine aquatics shift form above and below water, and lists what to check before buying..

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New Tank Journey | Ugly Duckling

New Tank Journey | Ugly Duckling

New tanks can be frustrating at the beginning. Here, we describe one important signal that things are actually progressing well, despite plants having algae. 

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When Less is More

When Less is More

How to get Rotala rotundifolia redder? Interestingly, less can be more in this case.

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System Shocks

System Shocks

Sudden widespread algae infestation can take place when changes in environmental parameters induce adaptation stress that weaken plants which become vulnerable to algae.

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Flowering Underwater?

Flowering Underwater?

Do aquatic plants flower underwater? Is flowering a sign of good health? Which plants can I grow that will flower easily in my aquarium?

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