Biotope Aquarium

The practice of creating a biotope aquarium involves simulating a natural aquatic environment. A true biotope fish tank is a cross section of the exact environment and it's inhabitants. In reality most biotope aquariums use a specific natural  environment as a template from which an approximation is developed. Let's face it, muddy water and leafy substrates might be elements of some biotopes, but hold little appeal for the home aquarium.

For many aquatic hobbyists the appeal of biotope aquaria stems from a passion for collecting. Building up a "set" of inhabitants and plants is similar to seeking out and acquiring parts of a tea set or basketball card collection.

From a practical perspective making a biotope aquarium can simplify water chemistry choices. By choosing fish and plants from the same environment it is only logical that they will live best with the same pH, hardness and temperature.

Aquarium fish and plants can also engage in more natural behaviors.  Flora and fauna that has co-existed together through time can continue with the relationships they have come to rely on in nature. This can apply to feeding behaviors where a fish eats a plant natural to it's own tastes or preys on other fish which are found in their original environment. Other behaviors such as breeding can be complemented through the correct substrate which may be integral to reproduction.

The key to a successful biotope aquarium is meticulous research and planning. Not only should a geographical region be concentrated on, but a particular water form (lake, river, stream etc.) within the region. After identifying the natural fish and plant choices available, the individual behaviors should also be considered. For example inhabitants with a predator prey relationship will be unsuitable for all but the most dedicated biotope aquarist.

Biotope Examples

Australian River
Amazon Acid Pool
Asian Swamp
Brackish Estuary
Brackish Mangroves
Central American River
Central American Stream
European River
Flooded Forest
Lake Malawi
Lake Tanganyika
Mountain Stream
Subterranean Cave


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