
Aquascaping is quickly becoming one of the most rewarding hobbies for nature lovers and aquarium enthusiasts in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re creating a lush planted tank or a minimalist hardscape, starting out can feel overwhelming. That’s why at The Scapers Hub, we’re here to help you turn your vision into reality.
Here are 5 expert tips every beginner aquascaper should know before diving in.
Bigger isn’t always better—but very small tanks can be harder to manage. We recommend starting with a 60cm or 90cm tank. This gives you enough space for design flexibility while making water chemistry easier to stabilize.
Plants need the right light spectrum to thrive. For most freshwater planted tanks, full-spectrum LED lights designed for plant growth work best. Look for lights that support 6500K–7000K output, and run them for 8–10 hours a day.
Healthy plants need nutrients. Use a nutrient-rich substrate, and consider adding a CO₂ system for better plant growth and fewer algae problems. At The Scapers Hub, we stock trusted brands like Neo Soil, EIHO fertilizers, and CO₂ kits from Dymax.
Clean, oxygenated water is key to any successful aquascape. Choose a reliable filter that offers both mechanical and biological filtration. For larger or planted tanks, a canister filter or external HOB filter works great.
After cycling your tank, introduce fish slowly. Choose species that match your aquascape and won’t uproot plants. Some beginner-friendly options include:
Neon Tetras
Rasboras
Otocinclus
Amano Shrimp
Make sure your water parameters match their needs!
Final Thoughts:
Aquascaping is a blend of science and creativity. With the right tools, knowledge, and support, you can create a breathtaking underwater ecosystem right at home. And if you ever need help choosing products or designing a layout, visit us at The Scapers Hub in Negombo—we’re always happy to guide you.