Fish tank design ideas

Are you looking to add some flair to your fish tank or aquarium? It’s always fun to try new ideas to spruce up your underwater world.

Here are a few ways you can give your aquarium a fresh look:

Gravel

Gravel can be a great option for substrate, especially if your fish lack hiding spaces. With its varying sizes and shapes, gravel creates gaps and crevices to serve as perfect hiding spots for your fish.

Likewise, you can create patterns or designs with the gravel to add visual interest to the bottom of the tank. For example, you could create a gradient effect by using different shades of the same colour, or use contrasting colours to create something bolder.

Live plants

Adding live plants to your fish tank not only enhances its beauty, but provides a natural terrain for your fish. Choose plants suitable for aquariums and will thrive in the conditions you can provide. Aquatic plants can help oxygenate the water as well as reduce algae growth.

Consider adding a variety of plant types to create depth and interest in your tank. You can use tall plants in the background, such as Vallisneria or Amazon Sword plants, and small plants in the foreground, such as Anubias or Java Fern. Moss balls are also a favoured choice for adding texture

Artificial Plants

While live plants have their benefits, artificial plants can also add greenery to your tank. They have the benefit of being low-maintenance and come in many shapes, sizes, and colours to suit your design.

You can create a lush underwater jungle with artificial plants that look realistic and vibrant. Mix and match different plants to form a unique landscape.

Rocks

Rocks are a great way to add rough elements to your tank. They can allow you to create caves, tunnels, or other shelter for your fish, providing them with places to explore and feel secure.

Choose rocks that are safe for aquarium use, such as lava rock or slate. You can also arrange the rocks however you like, such as creating walls or stacking them to establish a focal point.

Sand

Sand is perfect for creating a natural look that mimics the ocean floor. It comes in various colours, such as white, black, or brown, allowing you to customise the look of your aquarium.

Not only is sand aesthetically pleasing, but it also serves practical purposes in the tank. It can offer a soft substrate for bottom-dwelling fish, such as catfish or loaches, to sift through. Sand can also help anchor plants in the tank and create a more natural environment for your fish.

Wood

If you’re looking to create something rustic, wood is a clear winner. Driftwood, in particular, is a popular choice, as it can create interesting shapes and textures within the tank. Choose types of wood that have been cleaned and treated to ensure it is safe for your fish.

With driftwood, you can create caves, tunnels and other areas for your fish to explore. It can also serve as an anchor point for attaching plants or mosses to create a more natural environment for your fish.

Lighting

Proper lighting can make a big difference in the appearance of your fish tank. Consider using LED lights to highlight the colours of your fish and plants. You can also use coloured lights to create a unique ambience in the room.

Why not experiment with different lighting options to see what works best for your setup? You could even mix up colour patterns for a greater effect.

Backgrounds

Adding a background to your fish tank can enhance the overall look of the aquarium and create depth in the design. Backgrounds are available in a variety of styles, such as realistic scenes, abstract patterns, or solid colours. Choose a background that will complement the theme of your tank, helping to bring out the colours of your fish and decor.

Backgrounds can also hide unsightly cords or equipment, creating a cleaner and more visually appealing display. You can choose to use a pre-made background or create your own by using materials such as poster board, vinyl decals, or paint.

Themes

Themes are a fun way to add personality and style to your fish tank. Rather than a plain tank, consider a theme that reflects your interests or creates a unique look.

Popular aquarium themes can include:

Underwater ruins: Give your fish tank a historical look and feel, providing an interesting backdrop for your fish to explore.
Tropical paradise: Create a lush and vibrant underwater oasis with bright colours, and tropical plants to compliment exotic fish species.
Zen garden: Design a calming and peaceful aquarium with minimalistic decorations, smooth rocks, and tranquil plants.
Pirate shipwreck: Transform your tank into a mysterious and adventurous pirate shipwreck with sunken treasures and hidden caves for your fish to explore.
Coral reef: Bring the beauty of the ocean right into your home. You can use colourful coral decorations, artificial plants, and vibrant fish species to mimic the look of a real coral reef.
Jungle River: Create a lush and dense jungle environment in your fish tank with dense vegetation, driftwood, and rocks. This theme can include exotic fish species and plants to create a vibrant and lively underwater jungle.

No matter what theme you choose, make sure to research the specific needs of the fish and plants. Ensure they are compatible with each other and the overall design. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and unique aquarium that both you and your fish will enjoy.

Keep your decorations clean

We have a wide range of products available to help you keep your decorations clean and free from algae and other buildup. This includes:

Cleaning your decorations will keep your aquarium looking fresh and attractive. This will also help maintain the health of your fish, removing any harmful bacteria that may accumulate.