Stones in the aquarium as decoration

Stones in the aquarium can not only serve as decoration, but also ensure the well-being of the aquarium inhabitants. They give the tank a natural look and offer numerous benefits for fish and other creatures. In this article, you will find out why stones are a good choice for aquarium decoration and what you should look out for when selecting and placing them.

Why stones in the aquarium?

Stones in the aquarium have several functions. They not only serve as aesthetic embellishment, but also fulfill practical purposes. Here are some reasons why you should use stones in your aquarium:

• Structure and hiding places: Stones provide hiding places for fish and other creatures in the aquarium and create a natural environment. This is particularly important for shy or territorial species.
• Biological balance: Stones can support the biological balance in the aquarium by serving as a surface for beneficial bacteria. These bacteria help to maintain water quality and break down pollutants.
• Promote plant growth: Stones can also serve as a substrate for aquatic plants. They provide support for the roots and enable efficient nutrient uptake.
• Natural look: Stones give the aquarium a natural and authentic look. Depending on the type of stone you choose, you can create different landscapes and themes.

The selection and placement of stones

When selecting stones for your aquarium, you should pay attention to the following points:

• Aquarium safety: Make sure that the stones do not have any sharp edges or sharp corners to prevent injuries to the fish. Also, do not use stones that could chemically affect the water.
• Size: Choose stones of different sizes to create a natural structure. Large stones can serve as main elements, while smaller stones can be used as accents.
• Stone type: Different types of stone have different properties and looks. Find out about the specific properties of the stones and choose the ones that best suit your aquarium and the species living in it.
• Placement: Place the stones in such a way that they are both aesthetically pleasing and meet the needs of the fish. Create hiding places and provide enough space for the animals to move around.
• Weight: Make sure that the weight of the stones can be supported by the glass base of your aquarium and that the base does not develop cracks or even break through.

If you add stones to your aquarium, you can transform the aquarium into a living underwater landscape. Here are some tips for choosing the right stones:

1. Natural stones: Use natural stones that are especially suitable for aquariums. These stones are available in pet stores or from us in the aquarium store and have been tested for harmful substances.
2. Stone types: There are various types of stones that you can use in your aquarium, such as lava stones, knife stones, slate or leopard stones. You can find a complete overview at the following link. Each type has its own characteristics, colors and textures. Choose the stones that best suit your desired look and the needs of your aquarium inhabitants.
3. Color selection: Choose stones that go well with the colors of the fish, plants and other elements in your aquarium. You can choose contrasting colors to highlight certain areas or use harmonious shades for a natural look.
4. Size and shape: Choose stones in different sizes and shapes to create a varied landscape. Combine large stones as main elements with smaller stones as details and accents.
5. Texture: Also pay attention to the texture of the stones. Rougher stones offer fish better adhesion and can also be conducive to algae growth. Smoother stones, on the other hand, give the aquarium an elegant and modern look.

The placement of the stones in the aquarium is crucial for an attractive and functional design. Here are a few points you should bear in mind:

• Structure and hierarchy: Place the largest stones first to create a stable structure. Then add smaller stones to create hierarchy and variation in the landscape.
• Hiding places: Create hiding places for your fish by leaving cavities and gaps between the stones. Fish feel safer when they can retreat and hide.
• Open areas: Provide enough open space for the fish to move around. Avoid excessively dense rock accumulations that could impair the natural flow and visibility of the fish.
• Safety: Make sure that the stones are placed stably and cannot tip over or collapse. This could cause injury to the fish and upset the aquarium.

Stones in the aquarium can also serve as a background for adding moss or other plants. You can attach them with thread or special adhesives to achieve a natural and organic look.

Stones in the aquarium can be a great way to decorate the tank and provide the aquarium inhabitants with a near-natural environment. When selecting and placing the stones, pay attention to the safety of the fish and the needs of the species. With the right choice and arrangement of stones, you can create a beautiful and harmonious aquarium that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also promotes the well-being of your aquarium inhabitants.