The Biology and Mathematics of Aquascaping

By Catherine Qiu

Aquascaping requires the appreciation and application of both mathematical and biological concepts. Essentially, we’re trying to build a small ecosystem featuring biotic and abiotic factors that work in harmony. Some aquariums have aquarium filters to take out decaying matter and excess chemicals. Lighting, liquid fertilizers, soil (substrates), and CO2 systems can all provide nutrients and resources for strong, healthy plant growth. Fertilizers in particular can provide macronutrients nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, along with micronutrients iron, boron, calcium, copper, and magnesium, molybdenum, sulfur, and zinc! Fertilizers, in the correct dosage, are needed to support the sheer number of plants compared to fish that usually provide enough nutrients (Kumar et al.).

To further encourage desired plant growth, shrimp can be introduced to consume and regulate algae blooms. On another note, fish tend to gravitate towards hardscape materials such as driftwood, rock, gravel, or cosmetic sand, where they can find shelter (Kumar et al.). They also gravitate towards plants for protection, food, spawning/nesting, and shade (Tannina).

The incorporation of bacteria into the biome may seem counterintuitive, but probiotics (microorganisms with health benefits) and prebiotics (indigestible, nutrient-rich material that’ll improve the gastrointestinal microbiome) can aid fish in digestion and healthy growth (“The Role of Microbes”).

Math can tell us what will be pleasing to the eye. For example, start by applying the rule of three. Imagine an invisible 3X3 grid on the side of the tank. The central square should be the focus point, while the other squares should showcase complementary variety and beauty.

Next, apply the golden ratio. Peering through the side of the tank again, The golden ratio is roughly 1 to 1.618 and represents roughly how many items should be placed on each side of the tank (“Learn Aquascaping”).

The three main aquarium layouts are the Dutch, the Japanese Zen, and the Nature-style. In a Dutch aquarium, there is no hardscape (essentially no rocks, gravel, soil, or other non-living features). Instead, the space is filled with a plethora of color-coordinated plants. Quite the opposite is true for a Japanese Zen aquarium. Hardscape is celebrated; large, staggered rocks tower over a tiny bed of 1-3 plant species. The texture and color of the rocks are especially beautiful. The last style we’ll talk about is the nature-style aquarium. They mimic natural landscapes, such as elaborate hardscapes to resemble mountains, or cosmetic sand and coral to resemble tropical beaches. (“Learning Aquascaping”)(Tannin Aquatics) Be inspired by the three main design layouts, but also feel free to be creative too.

Works Cited

Kumar Nangunuri V., et al., “Art and science of aquascaping.” The Pharma Innovation Journal 2021, SP-10(6): 240-245.

“Learn Aquascaping: What Is Aquascaping?” Aquascaping Love, aquascapinglove.com/learn-aquascaping/what-is-aquascaping/.

Tannin Aquatics. “The Art and Science of ‘Functional Aquascaping.’” Tannin Aquatics, tanninaquatics.com/blogs/the-tint-1/the-art-and-science-of-functional-aquascaping.

“The Role of the Microbes in Fish.” Practical Fishkeeping, 19 July 2019, www.practicalfishkeeping.co.uk/features/the-role-of-the-micribiomes-in-fish/.