The Dutch style aquarium layout has a strong visual impact but it is considered the most difficult to design and maintain. Join Aquarium Vietnam to learn about the special features as well as how to design aquariums with this Dutch art style!
Special features of the Dutch style aquarium
Dutch style aquariums focus mainly on colorful aquatic plants rather than the types of fish or aquatic animals in the tank. However, according to this layout, there will be no appearance of driftwood or stone. Therefore, choosing the plants and their location is extremely important to create a beautiful aquatic system.
The complex arrangement and grouping of plants helps create an in-depth perspective inside the aquarium with outstanding characteristics of shape and color. The plants are arranged in neat rows creating depth, making these aquariums truly impressive under a unique aquarium. Often, spicy red and brown varieties are included in the arrangement to create visual contrast against the overwhelming green setting.
The most important requirement for aquarists wanting to approach the Dutch Aquarium style is to have extensive knowledge of aquatic plants. Since they represent the main materials used in Dutch aquascaping, it is very important to know how to plant, group and combine them so that the composition becomes aesthetically pleasing.
Most beautiful Dutch planted aquariums are characterized byHigh density, rich contrast and subtle and artistic use of color and texture.
Art of lake design with Dutch layout
The most common technique used when building in the Dutch Aquarium style isstairs, as it is most optimal to convey depth using aquatic plants.
Terracing is very effective increating and emphasizing focal pointswith the help ofrule of thirds. With Dutch aquascapes, the focal point is often emphasized by the use of a large or red plant.Contrastis a key element in the Dutch Aquarium style, as it is very important when it comes to breaking up this density. Plants are planted in groups and contrast is ensured bycreating variety in leaf color, height and texture. The foreground, middle ground and background with contrasting plants take center stage and create a breathtaking scene.
Spacing between groups of plants should also be used delicately, as this creates imaginary trails and paths, helping to create a more profound and soulful perspective of nature.
Plants commonly used in the Netherlands Aquarium
Wooden treeis usually recommendedplantDutch style because they have a fast growth rate, diverse colors and leaf shapes. Should be enough3 plants per rowto ensure good color contrast.
Below are some commonly used plant speciesDutch style aquarium :
- Persimmon pepper, dwarf betel– low-growing plants help create a corner of Dutch nature, a path placed in the observation corner, up behind the tank, creating the illusion of depth.
- Peppermint– large, fast-growing trees with strong visual effects.
- The plant belongs to the species willow – small aquatic plants are used in the first two rows of the aquarium, they provide good contrast due to their dark soil color.
- The plants used in Holland Lake provide a focal point for pops of color( Blood heart orchid, Diep tai Hong, snail scale) and size (Sen Tiger ).
- Java moss– often used between groups of plants, for the purpose of creating contrast, to create a highlight.
Equipment
The equipment used in a Dutch style aquarium is similar to that of a traditional aquarium:
- Light:Standard fluorescent lamps should be used
- Filter system:BCanister filter or barrel filter
- Add CO²
- Ground land: Sand or laterite soil, small gravel
- Fertilizer: The dosage of iron and minerals must be guaranteed
Maintenance difficulties in the Netherlands Aquarium
Due to the diversity of plant species and their growth characteristics, this type of aquarium becomes more complex and maintaining the layout and aquatic life in it is also more difficult. Each plant behaves in its own way, some grow faster than others and therefore they need regular pruning to maintain the perfect composition.Maintenancefish tank inDutch Daily included: add liquid fertilizer, check tank temperature and CO² levels, feed fish and remove trash and other debris.Weekly, the following actions should be taken: clean the aquarium glass, remove accumulated debris by waving around the plants and substrate, clean the filter, prune and replant (if necessary).
Đào Thị Thảo Dung
