DEC. 2012
[ Special Feature ]
Paradise of Stem Plants
ADA’s Lighting Systems Higher brightness and a more simple design
lighting system, AQUASKY, NEW! LED designed for planted aquariums.
ADA’ s AQUASKY is the world’ s first LED lighting system developed specifically for planted aquariums. A new lineup, compatible with aquarium tanks 45cm wide and 60cm wide, is to hit the market, this fall. For 60cm wide aquariums, the single light model - AQUASKY 601 and the twin light model - AQUASKY 602 are available. Choose a model according to the type of main aquatic plants planted in your 60cm-wide aquarium. You can also install maximum of 3 LED lighting units (AQUASKY 601 x 1, AQUASKY 602 x 1) to a 60cm aquarium tank. AQUASKY 602 is capable of providing the same illuminance level as Solar I. AQUASKY series makes possible to fully appreciate aquatic plant layouts, which was hardly achieved by other LED lighting systems before. *We measured the center spot illmunicance level with following condition: Direct illuminance level measured at 12cm from the lighting source for AQUASKY 602, and 30cm for Solar I.
High luminosity LED lighting unit developed with ADA’ s lighting technology
AQUASKY 602 featuring high light distribution performance
W60×D30cm AQUASKY 602
(Measurement distance: 12cm, assumed distance between the light source and water surface)
N AT U R E A Q U A R I U M D ATA
front
back
It employs the material and structure of outstanding heat radiation performance.
It provides excellent light intensity, which is created by efficient LED layout.
A key to AQUASKY’ s brightness is its high luminosity LEDs and their layout.Numbers of high luminosity LEDs are regularly distributed in a shifted manner, and it makes possible to illuminate a whole aquarium layout. Heat generation is a common problem of high luminosity LED lamps. ADA solved the problem by employing the high radiation performance aluminum material and its unique fin structures.
2 months after installation (trimmed 4 times)
Aquarium：Cube Garden W60xD30xH36cm Lighting：AQUASKY 602 (LED 0.4W/each x 63/ 2 units) Filter：Super Jet Filter ES-300 (prototype), Bio Rio, NA Carbon, Lily Pipe P-1, Lily Pipe V-3
Substrate：Aqua Soil - Amazonia, Power Sand S CO2：Pollen Glass, 3 bubbles per second via CO 2 Beetle Counter (using YA/Ver.2)
Additives：Brighty K, Green Brighty STEP2 Water Change：1/3 once a week F) pH：6.8 TH：20mg/ℓ Water Quality：Temperature 25℃ (77° Aquatic Plants：Wabi-kusa Eleocharis parvula×３、 Wabi-kusa Glossostigma×５、Wabi-kusa Stemmed Plants Mix×４、 Wabi-kusa Stemmed Plants Mix Red×１
Fish ／ Invertebrates：Trigonostigma espei, Otocinclus sp., Caridina japonica
8554-1 Urushiyama, Nishikan-ku, Niigata, 953-0054 Japan
http://www.adana.co.jp
The image shown is a Wabi-kusa layout aquarium about 2 months after installing AQUASKY 602. AQUASKY 602 is capable of providing plenty of light for light-loving Glossostigma, Eleocharis parvula, stem plants and other heliophytic plants.
The single light model for 45cm wide aquariums
AQUASKY
451
The practical single light model for 60cm wide aquariums
AQUASKY
601
The twin light model for 60cm wide planted aquariums
AQUASKY
602
■Light housing unit size：W430×D68×H10mm ■Clear stand size：W450×D100×H95mm Product specification Input voltage：AC100∼240V 50/60Hz Power consumption：22W Current consumption：650mA ±5% Luminous flux：1,800∼2,160lm Color temperature：Around 7,000K LED：0.4/each×45 ／ LED lifetime：Over 30,000hrs Operating temperature range：0∼35℃
■Light housing unit size：W570×D68×H10mm ■Clear stand size：W600×D94×H120mm Product specification Input voltage：AC100∼240V 50/60Hz Power consumption：30W Current consumption：900mA ±5% Luminous flux：2,520∼2,850lm Color temperature：Around 7,000K LED：0.4W/each × 63 ／ LEDlifetime：Over 30,000hrs Operating temperature range：0∼35℃
■Light housing unit size：W570×D68×H10mm ■Clear stand size：W600×D188×H120mm Product specification Input voltage：AC100∼240V 50/60Hz Power consumption：60W（30W per lighting unit） Current consumption：900mA ±5%（per lighting unit） Luminous flux：2,520∼2,850lm（per lighting unit） Color temperature：Around 7,000K LED：0.4W/each × 63 (per lighting unit) ／ LED lifetime：Over 30,000hrs Operating temperature range：0∼35℃ ※AQUASKY 602 comes with 2 adapters. Each adapter takes one lighting unit.
AQUASKY 451 is compatible with ADA Cube Garden / Cube Glass in the following sizes: W45 x D24 x H16 (cm) glass thickness 5mm W45 x D24 x H30 (cm) glass thickness 5mm W45 x D27 x H30 (cm) glass thickness 5mm
AQUASKY 601 is compatible with ADA Cube Garden / Cube Glass in the following sizes: W60 x D30 x H18 (cm) glass thickness 5mm W60 x D30 x H36 (cm) glass thickness 6mm W60 x D30 x H45 (cm) glass thickness 6mm
AQUASKY 602 is compatible with ADA Cube Garden / Cube Glass in the following sizes: W60 x D30 x H18 (cm) glass thickness 5mm W60 x D30 x H36 (cm) glass thickness 6mm W60 x D30 x H45 (cm) glass thickness 6mm
*Due to the characteristics of LED, there is a variance in range of color temperature. *Install AQUASKY 601 and AQUASKY 602 to a 60cm wide aquarium (W60xD30xH36cm) for higher light intensity. *Photo is for image only. The product has a power supply cord on the side. *Other displayed products are sold separately.
Travelling across Japan
Vol.48 Zao, Yamagata, Japan
01
ADA’s compact-size Jet Filter
SUPER JET FILTER ES-300 SUPER JET FILTER ES-300 is a great external canister style filter to enjoy Nature Aquarium with small aquarium sizes up to 60 liters. Despite its compact form, this product assures excellent filtration capability and has a fine, robust body. Lily Pipe Mini
Equipped with a small, but powerful filter pump ADA’s original filtration structure Professionally handcrafted body with excellent durability ■Standard Filtration Media Anthracite (activated carbon in net) 2L, Bio Cube 20 1L ■Pump Specification Flow Rate: 6.0L/min (50Hz), 7.2L/min (60Hz) Maximum Pump Head: 3.0m (50Hz), 3.6m (60Hz) ■Standard Accessories Outflow Glass Pipe (Ø10), Inflow Glass Pipe (Ø13), Clear Hose (Ø10) 1m, Clear Hose (Ø13) 2m, Hose Clip ■External Size:Ø144 x H360mm ■Capacity: 3L
Lily Pipe Spin
*For freshwater aquarium use only. *Flow rate and maximum pump head shown in data are under a no-load condition. *Set-package for 60 liter aquarium, SUPER JET FILTER ES-300 (LILY TYPE), comes with an outflow glass pipe (Ø10) and inflow glass pipe (Ø13). *Set-package for 36 liter and smaller aquarium, SUPER JET FILTER ES-300 (SPIN TYPE), comes with newly-developed LILY PIPE SPIN (outflow) and LILY PIPE Mini (inflow).
02
SUPER JET FILTER ES-300
Slows the flow of water by creating a circling flow inside
LILY PIPE Mini V-2 LILY PIPE SPIN Lily Pipe Mini V-2（Inflow） ■Size: W55mm x H210mm （Ø13）
Lily Pipe Spin P-1（Outflow） ■Size: W68mm x H150mm （Ø10）
Lily Pipe Spin P-2（Outflow） ■Size: W68mm x H150mm （Ø13）
ADA’s LILY PIPE SPIN is designed for small size aquarium up to 36 liters. This product works well to slow the water flow from SUPER JET FILTER ES-300. * For glass thickness 5 - 6 mm.
water flow
View from Juhyo Bridge (Zao, Yamagata, Japan) This was the first photograph of the season for 2008, taken from Juhyo Bridge, Zao at noon on January 1st. It had been an unusually warm winter and there hadn t been much snowing. A sudden cold wave finally brought about a much anticipated heavy snowfall on New Year s Eve. Standing on the bridge, I took a picture of the landscape deeply covered in fresh snow, the town in the distance had become covered and invisible through the mist. I made a new year s resolution to capture as many images of beautiful Japanese landscapes for the next ten years, and I had the sense that this scenery represented an auspicious start to a new year. Shooting data / Deardroff 5x7, Super-Symmar 110mm XL, 1/15 sec at f22, RVP F 5×7 inch format film
DECEMBER 2012
Special Feature
Paradise of Stem Plants Travelling across Japan Vol.48 Zao, Yamagata, Japan World Report in Canada
World Report in India
Vol.19 Growing Healthy and Beautiful Stem Plants NATURE AQUARIUM Q&A
Special Feature
Paradise of Stem Plants The Secrets to Balanced Planting With their pretty pastel coloration, various leaf shapes and the way they spread their soft leaves in water, stem plants have a way of always attracting us to their beauty. Each type of stem plant has its own unique charm and it should be effectively brought out in the layout. A layout using stem plants naturally reflects the intention of the producer, which is one of the fun parts of making this type of layout. The Special Feature of this issue introduces the basic rules for skillful planting of colorful stem plants.
What are the Most Important Things to Ensure the Effective Use of Stem Plants? Difference in impression is determined by different balances.
Bilaterally symmetrical layouts (right/left balance of 1:1) very often appear unnatural and give a less dynamic or dull impression. The most basic right/left balance for the layout is 3:2 (which is an approximate value of the golden ratio) which delivers the perception of a stable beauty.
It is Important to Ensure a Good Balance of Planted Stem Plants Most stem plants form a lush, appealing bush through planting at the appropriate density and through repeated trimming. These bushes of stem plants are very important towards making a defined composition. The basic compositions are classified as: concave, convex and triangular styles. These compositions are formed by the border line created between bushes of aquatic plants and the use of open space. Using the example of the most popular style, the concave composition, the layout often looks unnatural and out of balance if the bushes of stem plants
are symmetrical on either side. To make the layout appear attractive, balance the right and left sides to a ratio of 1:1.618 (the golden ratio). Of course, it is difficult to achieve the exact golden ratio in the aquarium. Therefore, we recommend that you create a balance according to the ratio of 2:3, which is an approximate value of the golden ratio formula (as a note, left-right reversal causes no problems (e.g. 3:2 vs. 2:3)). Always keep this balance in mind as you are planting or trimming your stem plants!
What is the Golden Ratio of 1:1.618? The ratio at which people feel the most stable and beautiful is the golden ratio. The rectangle illustrated below is a golden rectangle whose sides are in the golden ratio. A golden rectangle is partitioned into a square and a new golden rectangle is formed when its long side is divided at the length of the short side. This partitioning can be repeated as shown in the illustration.
Paradise of Stem Plants
The trimming line is important to maintain a good balance of stem plants. Trimming of stem plants should be performed to ensure the left/right balance of 2:3 (or 3:2 as in this layout).
How Do You Use Colorful Stem Plants Effectively?
Rotala rotundifolia Rotala rotundifolia (Green)
Rotara macrandra Rotala rotundifolia (Green)
Pogostemon sp. 'Dassen'
Using red and green stem plants A bush of stem plants with a rich variety of colors is formed by planting Rotala Rotundifolia (Green) at the sides while planting red plants in the center.
Rotara nanjean Rotala rotundifolia Rotara macrandra sp.
Gratiora sp.
Using red stem plants This layout using red stem plants as the main plant features very delicate color variations that are effectively produced by using a combination of stem plants that have a more yellowish and orangish red hues.
You can easily achieve a balanced planting of stem plants when considering their colors. Diverse color patterns are one of the great features of stem plants. The colors of stem plants are broadly divided into green and red, each of which has multiple subtle shades. To be more precise, green stem plants offer different shades ranging from dark green to light green; while red has shade variations ranging from orange and pink to deep red. This subtle change in color is closely related to our visual impres-
sions, and therefore determines how we plant and use stem plants, such as the combined use of green and red stem plants in a balanced manner and the use of some red stem plants as an accent, greatly influences the impression of the layout. The first step of making a good layout using stem plants is to figure out how to plant stem plants taking into consideration the difference in their colors.
Paradise of Stem Plants
Rules for planting
Difference in Color Impressions Stem plants have various colors and the color of each plant influences the layout s overall impression. This section discusses the varied color impressions of aquatic plants according to their colors and tones.
Strong
Varied degree of impact by color (or hue)
Weak
In general, aquatic plants are in red, orange, yellow, greenish yellow and green hues. Among those color variations, red gives the strongest impression, followed by green. The impact of the plant becomes weaker as the plant s color gets closer to yellow.
Strong
The Impact of Aquatic Plants are Determined by Their Color Tones Color has three dimensions - hue, brightness and saturation. The basic color (hue) of an aquatic plant is determined by the plant s pigments and therefore the color variations of the plant is basically determined within a range between green, yellow and red. Even just the red colored aquatic plants come in many different saturation levels of red - ranging from the vivid reds of Rotala Macranda to the dusky red of Ludwigia Peruensis; while green colors also differ with various brightness levels ranging from the bright greens of Rotala
Rotundifolia (Green) to the murky greens of Lagarosiphon Major. However, when determining the colors of aquatic plants, it is not easy to precisely distinguish between brightness and saturation. Due to this reason, the color tones that represent color density should be used instead of brightness and saturation to promote a greater understanding. Keeping this knowledge in mind, please use the Stem Plant Color Chart to the right as a reference for your planting.
Paradise of Stem Plants
Stem Plant Color Chart Red and green plants on the top row have the strongest color impression. As you go towards the bottom row, the color impression becomes weaker. Among the plants on the same row, plants on the left have a stronger color impression than plants on the right side.
What is saturation? Saturation refers to the intensity of the color. Pure colors such as red and green contain the highest saturation levels, while mixed colors (such as red and orange or green and yellow) have lower saturation levels. For aquatic plants, the color saturation differs between each species. It also varies depending on the light, nutrient and other conditions of proper plant care. In general, healthy stem plants display vivid colors.
High
Low
What is brightness? Brightness refers to the lightness and darkness of the color. Lighter colors are contain a very high brightness, while deeper and darker colors have the impression of low brightness. The lightness and darkness of the color comes to represent strong and mild color tones in black and white imagery. The tones of stem plants which are used as background plants in the layout are very important elements that greatly influence the overall impression of the planted aquarium.
High
Low
The impact of the color can be clearly seen if a colored image is converted into a black-and-white image. The portions with darker tones have a stronger impact while the portions with milder tones have a weaker impact.
Rotara macrandra "Green" Rotara nanjean Hemianthus nbrosum Hygrophila violacea Hygropila difformis
Rotala rotundifolia (Green)
Using aquatic plants with different leaf shapes The impression of Hygrophila difformis with its relatively large leaves is softened by reducing the amount you plant and by planting narrow-leaf stem plants around it.
You can achieve a balanced planting arrangement of stem plants when considering their leaf shapes and sizes. Stem plants contain a variety of leaf shapes, such as the narrow leaves of Rotala and the large leaves of larger-sized Ludwigia. You may have the experience of having randomly planted stem plants without considering their leaf shapes and consequently the aquascape eventually gave a disorganized and scattered
appearance, leaving a less dynamic impression. Good balance cannot be achieved if the leaf sizes of the stem plants does not fit in the size of the aquarium. It is very important for you to figure out the optimal balance of stem plants by pursuing the best combination of colors as well as the leaf shape and size of the plants used.
Paradise of Stem Plants
Large Leaf and Narrow Leaf ‒ How to Make Proper Use of Various Leaf Sizes for Optimal Impact?
Rotara macrandra Hygrophila stricta Rotala rotundifolia (Green) Gratiora sp. Hemianthus nbrosum
Using large-leaf stem plants Hygrophila Big Leaf is a large stem plant with long leaves. In this layout, this plant is planted slightly on the left to moderate its impression and ensure a good balance.
Rules for planting
Shape and Size of Leaf Stem plants have variously sized leaves. The impression of stem plants arranged in the layout greatly varies depending on the size and shape of the leaves. This section discusses the leaf shape and size of stem plants.
Various degrees of impact determined by leaf shape
Just as in the case of figures, stem plants with larger-sized leaves give stronger impressions. On the other hand, stem plants with narrower leaves form an outstandingly beautiful thicket.
Leaf Shape and Firmness/Softness of the Impression There are various shapes of stem plant leaves. When looking at stem plants only, the ones with large leaves give a stronger impression while the impression becomes weaker if the plant has narrow leaves, as shown in the above illustrations. The leaf shape influences the firmness and softness of the impression of the cluster of stem plants. A bush of stem plants with larger leaves gives a firm and heavy impression; while the soft and light impression of narrow-leaf stem plants will stand out when arranged to form a thicket. In an actual concave layout, the weight of the cluster on the right and left sides varies depending on the leaf size as well as the color impression of the plants. To help you make a better combination of stem plants, please refer to the chart on the right which introduces the some of the most commonly used green and red stem plants with different leaf sizes.
Stem plants used as an accent The ratio at which people feel the most stable and beautiful is The attractiveness of stem plants is brought out when you create a bush or thicket with them. At this time, stem plants that have a stronger impact serve as an effective accent plant by being placed in a thicket of a single species or with other similar types of stem plants. The plants highlighted here have a great presence even when only a small quantity is used, therefore they are ideal to be used as accent plants in a layout. You can balance the layout by using and adjusting these plants as accents to the overall scene.
Limnophila aquatic
Pogostemon stellatus
Ludwigia perennis
Polygonum sp. Pink
Paradise of Stem Plants
Green stem plants with large leaves are suitable to express a natural feeling. Narrow leaves give a more fantastic impression.
Red stem plants with large leaves have the strongest impact and give off a very heavy impression. This impression gets lighter as the plant leaves become narrower.
The Golden Ratio Supports the Balance of the Layout
Tension adds a touch of spice to the balance
Mr. Amano began his talk by stating that One of the most important aspects of creating a good layout is to achieve balance; and above all, the most important thing is the golden ratio. The golden ratio is approximately 1:1.618 in figures, or rounded up to 2:3 for convenience in the aquarium. Taking Iwagumi as an example, the center of Oyaishi, or the main stone, is placed at a location at which the tank width is divided at the ratio of 1:1.618 (≈2:3). And then, Fukuishi, or secondary stone, and Soeishi, or accompanying stone, are placed in such manner that the line between the center of the main stone and the side of the tank is divided at the ratio of 1:1.618 (≈2:3) (refer to Fig.1). This ratio also applies to the weight of the stones. It is important to develop a sense of creating layouts that involve the mental calculation of this balance.
The optimal balance of the stones is achieved when the ratio of the main stone and its supporting stones are placed at the weight ratio of 1:1.618 (≈2:3). However, the layout may sometimes look a little dull if the balance is too perfect. In this circumstance, making the stones slightly off balance, for example at the ratio of 1:3, creates a tension and firms up the overall atmosphere of the layout. Nonetheless, an excessive imbalance such as 1:0.5 and 1:1 ruins the overall balance and significantly detracts from the appearance of the layout. For this reason, this change in ratio should preferably be up to 1:3. This applies not only to the weight of the stones but also to all the elements relating to balance of the layout. The trimming line for the stem plants in the background is a good example. Many aquarists are inclined to trim the stem plants in the background symmetrically, but an exactly symmetrical placement can undermine the natural feel
of the layout. The effective ratio to achieve a good right/left balance of the stem plants is 1:1.618 (≈2:3) which delivers the optimal balance, or a maximum of up to 1:3 which is the limit to create a tension while maintaining the balance.
Identify the shades of the leaf color From here on, stem plants are used as our example. We will give the explanation on the assumption that all the stem plants have almost the same leaf sizes, since the visual element of leaf size and shape influences our perception. As we describe visual impacts such as heavy or light, a leaf with a dark green has a heavier impact, while a leaf with a light green has a lighter impact. The golden ratio applies even when planning the gradient of color you will create from the various shades of stem plants. There are deep red and pink leaves under red leaves, while green leaves contain many different shades. The approach Mr. Amano developed in identifying shades of color is to look at
Takashi Amano Layout Seminar
Learning the Basics of the Planted Aquarium In January, Takashi Amano s special seminar was held for the students of the Nature Aquarium Course, International Pet World College. The Aqua Journal Editorial Team accompanied Mr. Amano to the seminar. This section features a special tutorial on the layout based on Mr. Amano s lecture titled Tips for Making a Layout which had been introduced in the seminar. We hope that you will come to understand the basic formation of the layout and use it as a reference for your future layout creations, while reflecting on your own sense and taste.
Paradise of Stem Plants of the prior balance, the weight becomes unstable and an unbalanced impression will be created. As can be seen from this example, it is important to determine the color balance based on the color shades that correspond to the ratio used for the composition. When using the same species of aquatic plants on the right and left sides separately, the quantity of plant used must not be equal (i.e. 1:1) on both sides, College students are listening attentively to Mr. Amano s instructions. The opportunity to get Mr. but you should mainAmano s advice while looking at an actual layout is very precious. tain a difference, such as 1:1.618 (≈2:3) on either side. a color through a black and white filter in our mind. Every color shows its shade if converted into a black-and-white image. If you have trouble visualizing this at first, we suggest that you take a photograph of stem plants in a layout and convert it to a black-and-white image using a program such as Photoshop or Instagram. To determine which color has a stronger impact between yellow and yellow-ish green, Mr. Amano suggest you convert those colors to a black-and-white image in your mind to identify which color is darker. Technically speaking, a color is divided into ten scales, with 10 being black, 5 being gray and 1 being white. Approaching color balance from the viewpoint of identifying color shades helps you see the difference in color, no matter what the actual color is. When aquatic plants are then combined at the color shade ratio of 1:1.618 (≈ 2:3), such as when combining plants with a color shade of 7 with another plant with a shade of 10 or combining plants with a color shade of 4 and 7. Doing this will lead the entire balance of color at the ratio of 1:1.618 (≈2:3). Meanwhile, let s assume the right/left balance of stem plants is set to 1:1.618. When the color balance is at 1.1618:1, which is the reverse value
Fig.1
Weight is felt by leaf size and shape Discussions up to this point were based on the assumption that several varieties of green or red aquatic plants were used and they all had relatively ordinary shapes and the same size of leaves. Now, let s evaluate cases where stem plants have differing shape characteristics. When comparing a large leaf and a small leaf, the weight of the large leaf is obviously heavier. Then, how about the comparison between a sharp leaf and round leaf? When the surface area of the leaves is the same, the sharp leaf has the stronger impact; and when the two leaves have the same diameter, the weight of the round leaf is heavier. Note that the difference in the surface area of the leaves has a greater visual impact compared to the difference in leaf shapes. What we have to pay attention to when discussing this matter is the growth of aquatic plants. Even if the plants look well-balanced immediately after being planted in the aquarium, the overall balance may be lost as the time goes by and the plants grow larger. To address this
Fig.2 Oyaishi (main stone)
Fukuishi (secondary stone)
concern, it is necessary to have, in the planting stage, a clear image on how the aquatic plants should be when the aquascape is completed.
What is the theorem for a scalene triangle? Aquatic plants featuring large leaves or sharp leaf shape can be planted in small quantities, like just a few stalks, to serve as an accent of the layout. This technique can be extended to the use of red plants in the midst of an aquascape using green aquatic plants. Using a lot of plants or leaves that have a strong impact may spoil the balance with the surroundings. Therefore, the strong impression should be dispersed in the aquascape to moderate the impact. The planting positions are ultimately your option on how and where to place, but you should keep in mind that it is an important point to plant each plant in the positions of each corner of an inverted scalene triangle. At this time, the number of stalks to be planted should be an odd number like 1, 3 and 5; and the shape of the triangle formed by the plants must not be an equilateral triangle to avoid a symmetrical arrangement. This is the theorem for a scalene triangle in planted aquarium (refer to Fig.3).
It is a necessity for you to obtain a sense of deviating from the manual As can be seen from the above example, we need to have a pluralistic viewpoint, more specifically, the golden ratio is the basic foundation and the theorem for a scalene triangle is the basic element for character when creating a layout. While this is the basic manual and formula for success in layout creation, you also need to learn how to deviate from these basics when your technique becomes more advanced. This becomes a process of fine adjustments made by purposely restructuring the composition using your own sense and feeling of how the layout should look to express a greater level of creativity. Your development in this unexplored field is dependent on your own sense and taste.
Fig.3
Golden ratio Soeishi (accompanying stone)
Balance of Iwagumi Among various layout materials, Iwagumi requires an exceptionally high level of composition skill. However, even beginners can easily try Iwagumi once they understand the basic points of stone placement.
The Balance of Shades of Aquatic Plants
Balance of Planting Positions for Aquatic Plants with Strong Character
When the size of the leaves are the same, select the aquatic plants to be used in such a manner that the color shade balance of approximately 2:3 is achieved. This will lead to an approximate 2:3 color shade ratio among all the aquatic plants in the aquarium and create a well-balanced impression of the layout.
Avoid using too many plants with strong character. Keep in mind that the quantity of such plants should be as moderate as 1, 3 or 5 stalks. Ultimately the planting position is in your hands, but a good balance can be achieved if you choose to plant them in a way that a scalene triangle is formed by connecting them together.
This 60cm (24in) aquarium is a wellbalanced tank as its width and height are placed in a ratio very close to the golden ratio. In this layout, the framework is formed with driftwood and stem plants are placed in the background. It is important to keep a good balance of stem plants while taking into consideration the position of the driftwood and aquatic plants arranged in the mid-ground. Within this layout, the red stems are planted in the center and slightly to the right side of the center, while bright yellow-green stem plants are arranged to the left to ensure a bilateral balance of 2:3.
Tank
/ Cube Garden Mist W60×D30×H36 (cm)
Lighting system
/ Grand Solar II (NA Lamp 36W Twin ×2) Lighting for 10 hours a day
Filtration system / Super Jet Filter ES-600 (Bio Rio) Substrate system / Aqua Soil - Amazonia, Bright Sand, Power Sand Special S, Bacter 100, Clear Super, Tourmaline BC, PENAC W for Aquarium, PENAC P for Plants CO2 system
/ Pollen Glass Type II - 2 bubbles per second with CO2 Bubble Counter (Using Tower)
Air
/ Aeration with Lily Pipe P-2 for when
Additives
/ Brighty K & Green Brighty STEP 2
Water change
/ 1/3 water change once a week
Water quality
C; pH: 6.6; TH: / Water temperature: 25°
lighting is OFF at night
20mg/ℓ NO2:<0.02mg; NO3<1mg/ℓ; COD:4mg/ℓ Aquatic plants
/
Fish species
/
Hygrophila sp. Cherry Leaf
Hygrophila salicifolia
Aquatic Plant Encyclopedia
7.2
Medium
6.4
High
Large
Stem plants have many different colors and shapes of leaves and their wide variations are one of the great charms of this plant type. We need to know the nature and characteristics of each plant to figure out how to select and combine aquatic plants to make a layout. This section introduces popular and easily available stem plants. Note that the data represented with icons are for your reference only.
This improved variety of Hygrophila is easy to grow. It has a short internode length and develops lush leaves. The leaves on the bottom stem are easily susceptible to insufficient light syndrome. This is a slowgrowing plant.
Hygrophila sp. Red How to read icons Leaf size
Growth pH
Light
Low
High Medium Low
6.4 7.2
High
High
7.4
High
6.4
Narrow /small
This is a member of Hygrophila that produces long narrow leaves. It is not so fast growing. Its leaves are more in brownish color rather than red. Large
Large
CO2
7.2
Medium
Hygrophila corymbosa 'Compacta'
6.4
High
This is a member of the Hygrophila group with large leaves. Avoid excessive use of this plant when mixing with other plants while taking its big leaf size into consideration. This plant develops beautiful brown tinted leaves when in good condition.
Large
7.2
Low
6.4
High
Large
Hygrophila salicifolia with green narrow leaves easily develops emersed leaves once it reaches the water line. The planting amount should be moderate due to its rigid-looking appearance and large size when grown up.
Hygrophila sp. Pantanal Wavy This is a Hygrophila plant originating in South America and has wavy narrow leaves. This plant is slow-growing and creepy, and therefore it tends to be overwhelmed by other aquatic plants.
Hygrophila polysperma This is a popular species that is strong and sold at a reasonable price. It is suited to a large tank because of its large leaves.
6.8
High
6.4
High
Narrow
Low
7.2
Mdium
Narrow
6.4
Eichhornia diversifolia Hygrophila difformis
Its unique appearance adds a different touch to the aquascape when this plant is used as an accent of the layout. Blackened stem and leaves developing in the undergrowth of this plant is a disadvantage, common among Heteranthera Zosterifolia and other Eichhornia species.
Medium
7.2
Limnophila aquatica
Ludwigia palustris
7.2
High
6.4
High
This is the largest Limnophila and just a few stalks of them create an impressive aquascape. Be wary of algal growth on the small leaves of this plant.
Small
7.2
Medium
6.4
Medium
Narrow
This green Ludwigia member is rare and unique among Ludwigia species that are mostly reddish in color. It does not have much tolerance to trimming.
6.4
Medium
Large
High
6.8
High
Narrow
6.4
Water wisteria develops pinnate leaves when grown submersed in striking contrast to its oval emersed leaves. This plant propagates very well by growing roots out of its stem. It creeps across the tank and becomes a dominant plant.
Gratiola sp.
Ludwigia Inclinata Cuba
6.4 7.2
High
Gratiola sp. looks very appealing with tints of red when grown under favorable conditions. Its beautiful color is ideal as an accent to the aquascape. The leaf color deteriorates in case of lack of nutrients including iron.
High
7.2
Narrow
High
6.4
High
Narrow
Ludwigia sp. Cuba features very beautiful orange whorls of leaves that are much different from other species of Ludwigia. This plant must be pruned when it almost reaches the water line to prevent it from developing emersed leaves.
Polygonum sp. Pink
Polygonum Acuriculatum
Ludwigia ovaries
The large pink leaves of Polygonum sp. Pink has a great presence that can possibly determine the overall impression of the aquascape. Avoid excessively dense planting due to its relatively large width.
This Polygonum member grows in Japan. It has stipules at the base of some leaves. This plant is mostly sold in emersed form, which will eventually turn into submersed form.
Among aquatic plants growing in Japan, this is one of the rare plants that develop red-tinted submersed leaves. Be careful of a damaged lower stem if newly bought.
Growth pH
Light
Large
6.4
High
Narrow /small
7.4
Low
CO2 High Medium Low
7.2
High
Leaf size
6.4
High
How to read icons
Medium
7.2
High
6.4
High
Medium
High
7.2
High
Medium
6.4
Pogostemon sp. Dassen
Ludwigia glandulosa
This plant looks like Pogostemon stellatus, but its leaves have sharp jagged edges. The tip of the leaves is tinted with red depending on the nutritional status.
This plant develops relatively large leaves among Ludwigias members and is suited to large tank of 90cm or larger. Its lower stem often melts immediately after being planted. 7.2
High
6.4
High
Medium
High
7.2
Mdium
Small
6.4
Alternanthera reineckii var. lilacina Alternanthera ocipus
This plant develops wider leaves and grows larger compared to Alternanthera reineckii. This plant adds a different touch to the layout with its leaf shape and color when used in a large tank.
Nesaea pedicellata 7.2
High
6.4
High
Nesaea pedicellata is a beautiful plant featuring the contrast colors of red stem and yellow leaves. Sufficient light and CO2 are essential for its growth. It does not grow very fast.
Medium
7.2
High
6.4
High
Large
This plant develops the leaves that are slightly wavy and larger then Alternanthera reineckii. It looks uniquely appealing with a vivid red leaf backside.
7.2
High
Alternanthera reineckii var. cardinalis
6.4
High
Medium
High
7.2
High
Large
6.4
As its alias Green Reineckii suggests, this plant has leaves with an olive green topside. It is strong but relatively slowgrowing.
Bacopa caroliniana Bacopa caroliniana featuring a thick leaf is usually light green in color but it turns slightly reddish when in good condition. This species requires careful planting because it is highly buoyant and can easily come off of the substrate after planting. Medium
7.2
High
Medium
6.4
Mayaca sellowiana High
6.4
High
Narrow
Compared with Mayaca fluviatilis, it is difficult to grow this plant while maintaining its beautiful green color. Its terminal bud is tinted with red when in good condition.
7.0
This beautiful plant grows well in Aqua Soil. Its leaf color can fade easily and therefore continuous application of liquid fertilizer is essential.
How to read icons Leaf size
Growth pH
Hottonia inflata
Light
Narrow /small
7.4
Low
High Medium Low
6.4 7.0
High
High
High
6.4
Narrow
Large
CO2
Mayaca fluviatilis
Lagarosiphon major
Myriophyllum propinquum
Bacopa monnieri
This strong aquatic plant has needle leaves and is suited to the background location of a small aquarium having a width of 60cm or below. Its terminal bud easily turns whitish when not in good condition.
The appearance of Lagarosiphon major is unique with curly translucent dark green leaves. This plant is difficult to grow as it gets weak if light and CO2 are insufficient.
This plant develops soft and delicate submersed leaves in significant contrast with its thick needle-like emersed leaves. It is fast growing and easy to grow.
Bacopa monnieri has rigid-looking oval leaves that grow upward relatively slowly. It is more suitable to plant in the mid-ground location rather than background. 7.2
High
6.4
Medium
Medium
7.2
Medium
6.4
High
Small
7.0
High
6.4
High
Small
High
7.0
High
Small
6.4
Micranthemum unbrosum Rotala rotundifolia (Green) It grows dense and forms a beautiful thicket through trimming. Under high lighting conditions, this Rotala creeps sideways and then grows upwards.
7.2
High
6.4
High
Small
High
7.2
High
Small
6.4
Micranthemum unbrosum is fast growing and grows straight upwards. The condition of the lower stem deteriorates fast. It is essential to snip off the stems and replant them to maintain this plant over a long period of time.
Dorimalia cordata This plant has small round leaves and grows straight upwards. It is advisable to grow this plant in a bright environment because it looks more attractive with shorter intermodes.
Lindernia anagallis adds a good accent to the layout with its unique angular stem and round leaves. Handle this plant with care during planting as its stem easily breaks. 7.2
High
6.4
High
Medium
High
7.2
High
Small
6.4
Lindernia anagallis
Myriophyllum mattogrossense (Green) It grows sideways unlike other members of Myriophyllum. It forms a beautiful thicket which can form a smooth gradient outline through trimming. High
7.2
High
Narrow
6.4
Tonina fluviatilis The clump of Tonina fluviatilis is uniquely beautiful with its curly leaves. It needs to be maintained by cutting and replanting the stems/shoots. Be aware that Cardina japonica may eat and damage this plant
6.8
High
6.4
High
This member of Tonina needs is demanding in terms of light and CO2. It also requires low KH (carbonate hardness) level. Aqua Soil is ideal for the substrate material for this plant.
Narrow
High
6.8
High
Narrow
6.4
Tonina sp.
Rotala macranda Green
Rotala indica
Rotala rotundifolia
Cabomba piauhyensis
Along with Rotala rotundifolia (Green), this is a very popular Rotala species that is easily available. It is tinted with pink when appropriate fertilizers are applied.
This Cabomba is not red upon arrival to a shop. However, it starts developing red leaves when exposed to strong light. It is difficult to maintain its beautiful appearance.
Rotala nanjean 7.2
Medium
6.4
High
A thicket of this fine-leaf Rotala in yellow or orange will become denser and more attractive through repeated trimming. This plant grows even at low CO2 level unlike other members of Rotala.
Small
7.2
High
6.4
High
Narrow
Ludwigia arcuata s signature sharp, red leaves provide a colorful accent to any thicket of stem plants. With its unique leaf color and shape, this plant is easy to combine with other species.
7.0
7.2
High
Ludwigia arcuata
6.4
High
Narrow
High
7.2
High
Small
6.4
6.4
High
This is a Rotala rotundifolia that turns bright red. Application of nutrients containing iron is effective to bring out vivid red color.
High
7.2
Small
High
6.4
High
Medium
As its name indicates, Rotala macranda Green develops foliage resembling Rotala macranda but in green color. It is stronger and easier to grow. Its leaves may turn light pink when in good condition.
Rotala macranda sp.
Rotala sp. Ceylon
Abundant light and CO2 supply are essential to maintain the red leaves of this plant. Its narrow leaves with oxygen bubbles looks fantastic.
This is a popular plant with whorls of narrow leaves. It requires high light and CO2 supply. The internodes are originally long, but they gradually become short through repeated trimming.
High
7.2
High
Small
6.4
Limnophila sessiliflora
Medium
7.2
High
Narrow
6.4
Myriophyllum sp. This Myriophyllum is beautiful with its pinnately-divided orange leaves. Be careful of algae growing between the parted leaves.
High
7.2
High
Narrow
6.4
Rotala wallichii
How to read icons Leaf size
Growth pH
Light
Narrow /small
7.4
Low
High Medium Low
6.4 7.2
High
High
High
6.4
Narrow
Large
CO2
Rotala wallichii has the narrowest leaf among red aquatic plants. Its delicate cluster containing warm color stands out in the layout. It is recommended to purchase the emersed form of this plant.
7.0
High
Myriophyllum tuberculatum
6.4
High
The brilliant red leaves of this plant really stand out in planted aquariums. Sufficient light and CO2 as well as iron supplements are essential for its beautiful appearance.
Medium
7.2
High
6.4
High
Small
This Rotala, once grown, has beautiful leaves with a reddish purple underside. Among Rotala species, this plant has the highest tolerance to repeated trimming.
Balance Chart by Leaf Color and Size The impact in relation to the balance of the planted stem plants varies depending on the combination of the leaf color and size of each plant. The following is a model balance chart with leaf size on the ordinate and hue on the abscissa. Refer to this chart to find the impact of each of the popular stem plants.
Alternanthera reineckii
Alternanthera reineckii var. lilacina
Polygonum sp. Pink
Ludwigia glandulosa
Ludwigia perennis
Ludwigia ovaris
Ludwigia repens
Rotala macrandra
Nesaea sp. Ludwigia Inclinata Cuba
RED
Rotala macrandra sp.
Pogostemon stellatus
Gratiola sp.
Rotala indica
Ludwigia arcuata
Large
Myriophyllum tuberculatum
Red plants with large leaves
Green plants with large leaves
This group of plants has the strongest visual impact but its excessive use may make a person viewing the layout feel as if it is too loud. The layout looks more pleasant by using this type of plants moderately.
These plants are not as impactful as red plants. The weight of the balance may lean towards the larger green leaf.
Green
Red
Red plants with narrow leaves The impact of each stalk is weak due to its narrow leaves. Adjust the impact level by the planting amount.
Green plants with narrow leaves This group of plants should be planted in groups as each of them gives a modest impression.
Small Rotala wallichii
Paradise of Stem Plants
Hygrophila Big Leaf Hygrophila angustifolia
Bacopa caroliniana
Hygrophila corymbosa
Hygrophila difformis
Rotala macrandra Green Eichhornia diversifolia Nesaea pedicellata
Hygrophila polysperma
Bacopa monnieri Heteranthera zosterifolia
GREEN
Rotala rotundifolia
Rotala rotundifolia (Green) Rotala sp. Ceylon
Micranthemum unbrosum
Hemianthus micranthemoides
Rotala nanjean
Lagarosiphon madagascariensis
Mayaca fluviatilis
Many fish are seen in places where stem plants and other aquatic plants grow.
Lovely flowers add colors to the waterscape in dry seasons.
Paradise of Stem Plants
Stem plants form thickets in shallow waters with sufficient flow and abundant light.
Many stem plants grow emersed unless they are submersed by nature.
Ceratopteris thalictroides growing in water under abundant sunlight.
Stem Plants Living in the Wild Stem plants in the aquarium please our eyes with their colorful appearance. In natural environments, this plant grows in thickets mainly at the banks of rivers or in shallow waters exposed to sunlight. Many stem plants grow emersed and develop thick emersed leaves that can withstand strong ultra violet rays. In the waterfront environment in tropical regions where the water level rises significantly in rainy
seasons, the submerged stem plants develop submersed leaves. They look like a forest in the water and provide small fish with great places to hide from their enemies that desire to catch and eat them. Thickets of stem plants are an important place for small fish, since they produce abundant oxygen through photosynthesis and tend to attract various shellfish.
The balance of a layout can be effectively adjusted with stem plants by making the most use of their features, such as the various colors, shapes and sizes of leaves. In this layout, a good balance is achieved by planting many different species of stem plants in the background. When using
stem plants for this purpose, the midground location of the layout is important. Creating an elaborate mid-ground using driftwood and ferns helps conceal the unsightly bottom part of the stem plants and helps their attractive appearance stand out.
Tank
/ Cube Garden W90×D45×H45 (cm)
Additives
/ Brighty K & Green Brighty STEP 2
Lighting system
/ Grand Solar I (NAG-150W-Green / NA Lamp
Water change
/ 1/3 water change once a week
Water quality
C; pH: 6.8; TH: / Water temperature: 25°
36W Twin ×2)
20mg/ℓ
Lighting for 10 hours a day
NO2:<0.02mg; NO3<1mg/ℓ; COD:6mg/ℓ
Filtration system / Super Jet Filter ES-600 (Bio Rio) Substrate system / Aqua Soil - Amazonia, Power Sand Special M, Bacter 100, Clear Super, PENAC W for Aquarium, PENAC P for Plants, Tourmaline BC CO2 system
/ Pollen Glass Large 30Ø - 2 bubbles per second
Air
/ Aeration with Lily Pipe P-4 for 14 hours when
with CO2 Beetle Counter (Using Tower) lighting is OFF at night
Aquatic plants
/ Fish species
/
Trimming ‒ An Important Process for Stem Plants
Trimming of grown aquatic plants is an essential process to enjoy the aquascape for a long time; and the importance of trimming is particularly increased in a layout using stem plants. One reason is that stem plants can be maintained for a very long period of time by using proper trimming technique. However, if a grown stem plant is left untrimmed, the bottom part does not get sunlight and the whole plant becomes weakened, resulting in the
collapse of the aquascape. Another reason is that repeated trimming promotes the formation of thickets through the broomlike branching of stems after trimming. These two points are the most significant aspects of maintaining healthy stem plants. In this case, how should we trim stem plants to achieve beautiful thickets? Lets take a look at trimming procedures of an actual aquascape!
Trimming Scissors Straight Type Features suitability for use in water and sharp cutting edge that minimizes the destruction of aquatic plant cells. Dull scissors cause more damage to the plant through a sloppy cut.
Paradise of Stem Plants
Before trimming Trimming was performed for a driftwood layout using Rotala species as the main plant. When the plants are about to reach the water line, it is time for trimming.
1. Rotala rotundifolia 2. Rotala rotundifolia (Green) 3. Rotala sp. Ceylon 4. Myriophyllum mattogrossense (Green)
After trimming Subtle changes have been made to the slanting trimming line. The point of making an attractive clump is to trim each of the stem plants according to their growth rate, like pruning only the protruding terminal buds of Myriophyllum mattogrossense (Green).
Inspection is conducted on the grown aquatic plants.
Aquatic plants are controlled in an orderly manner in different sections by species in a wide nursery.
Many stem plants are grown by the cut-and-replant method.
Aquatic plants are grown submersed in concrete mortar ponds with soil substrate. The grown Ludwigia glandulosa is amazingly thick.
The staff of Oriental Aquarium said that the most difficult part is to maintain an appropriate water quality that is suitable for each plant.
Paradise of Stem Plants
In this farm, stem plants are grown emersed thanks to the tropical climate.
Limnophila sessilifolia with white flowers
Alternanthera reineckii 'Cardinalis' ready for shipment
A Visit to an Aquatic Plant Farm Located in the tropical country of Singapore with an average daytime temperature of 24-32 ° C, Oriental Aquarium grows more than 100 varieties of stem plants as well as other aquatic plants in both emersed and submersed forms in the tropical climate. Stem plants are mainly produced by cultivation in ponds with soil substrate as well as hydroponic culture. As a daily maintenance, Oriental Aquarium applies fertilizers mainly containing phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium together with pesticide and disinfec-
tant. A difficult part of growing aquatic plants is to maintain the appropriate water quality including pH and alkaline level. For water hardness, too, the company undertakes careful water quality control and grows each aquatic plant in the water while keeping a suitable water hardness to reproduce the native environment of the plant. The difficulty level of growing aquatic plants varies depending on the species; and Hygrophila is one of the easiest-growing plants according to the staff of Oriental Aquarium. In this farm,
Hygrophila species are mostly grown emersed as they are prone to pest damage in submersed environments. Recently, Oriental Aquarium has begun growing many types of aquatic plants by way of tissue culture. Many of the aquatic plants commercially sold in Japan are supplied by this Singaporean farm. The production capacity of this nursery spanning a wide area is the best in the world. It is expected that Oriental Aquarium will draw more attention from now on.
I Would Like More People to Know How Wonderful This Hobby is through Workshops Reported by: Joseph Uy (President of Miyabi Aqua Design Limited, ADA distributor for Canada) URL：http://www.miyabi-aqua.com/
Being a professional landscape photographer, Mr. Joseph Uy, the reporter of this World Report, said that he sympathized with ADA s concept Learning from Nature at the moment he heard of it. Now, he puts his efforts in organizing workshops, which are gaining favorable response.
A: Getting passionate about my talk in front of many participants. Aquatic plant boom is coming in Canada. B: Sharing what I have learned in the Nature Aquarium Seminar. C: The use of Power Sand is recommended.
D: A scene of lucky dip E: An aquarium shop in Vancouver F: Aquarium created during the workshop G: Current condition of Photo F. It s doing well. H: I wish ladies too enjoy planted aquarium. I: Planting aquatic plants during the NA Seminar.
I participated in the NA Seminar held in the
After I returned to Canada, I held a workshop
had learned from ADA. At the end of this
ADA headquarters in September 2011. There I
at the aquarium shop
event, a planted aquarium created during the
learned about the features of each ADA
located in the downtown of Vancouver on
workshop was given to a lucky dip winner and
product and the difference from the competi-
October 30, 2011. Although the number of the
the event ended on a high note.
tors items. I gained knowledge about the
participants was as small as 14, I explained
I believe that the event service is very impor-
importance of substrate, how to apply the
about how to use and the great effects of the
tant and would like to organize a seminar in
golden ratio to layout making and trimming
products such as Power Sand, Aqua Soil-New
schools and colleges. It would be great if ADA
techniques through hands-on sessions using
Amazonia, Bacter 100, Clear Super, Tourma-
products ties up with an interior designer and
actual
propose display ideas.
Aquarium West
Nature
line BC and PENAC P/W in detail. In this
Aquarium Gallery. When ADA products are
workshop, the participants learned about how
sold, the detailed instructions on how to use
to make Nature Aquarium including attaching
them are given to the purchaser. Unlike luxury
Riccia to a flat stone and planting of
cars that people blindly buy, people buy ADA s
Glossostigma with Pinsettes on a one-to-one
products because they wish to own them.
basis. For Canadian hobbyists, this was a fresh,
Based on my experience at the NA Seminar
new experience.
through which I became aware of the impor-
And on November 21, the second workshop
tance of creating opportunities to showcase
was held for the members of Vancouver
Nature Aquarium, I had an idea of increasing
Aquatic Hobbyist Society. More than 200
the number of aquariums to be displayed in
people came to this workshop and closely
Canada and organizing workshops actively.
observed my Nature Aquarium making that I
aquariums
installed
in
Improve the Level of Planted Aquarium through Local Competitions and Unique Workshops Reported by: Adip Sajjan Raj, the owner of Still Water Aquatics, ADA distributor for India
The International Aquatic Plants Layout Competition 2012 received many entries from India. In this country, the events supporting the local hobbyists, such as competitions and workshops, serve as a driving force for the growth of the aquarium hobby. This section introduces an Indian-style workshop.
A: Driftwood Challenge inspired by the Iwagumi Challenge which is a regular event in the NA Party. B: Participants compete with each other over the speed and accuracy of attaching Anubias to Fuji stone using Wood Tight. C: The Indian-style Iwagumi Challenge , a competition of stone arrangement using Kei stone. This event was live telecast by the staff. D: There are not many hobbyists who have held ADA s Kei stone in their hands. They touched and felt the texture.
E: This is the competition to plant aquatic plants on a tray. The one who planted the plants orderly within the specified time will be the winner. F: The participants compete over the installation of VUPPA-I in the position most effective for taking in the film on the water surface. G: The top winners of the Indian version of the International Aquatic Plants Layout Competition (the most right is the writer of this report).
H: The layout know-how was explained using a mini tank with reference to Takashi Amano s workshop. I: Outstandingly bright AQUASKY surprised the Indian hobbyists. It is expected that this product will become popular in India.
Most of India s population of over 1.4 billion
divided into four groups to ensure a fair
tightening the screw with the coin they had
has a great love for nature including fish.
competition despite the regional differences.
picked up earlier. The person who completed
Indians love not only aquarium fish but also
Finally we received 178 entries and among
these processes and then cleaned the wood
love to eat fish! When I had a talk with Mr.
them, the most were from Bangalore, as we
dust floating on the water using VUPPA- I was
Takashi Amano at the ADA headquarters, we
had expected. The competition was a great
declared the winner. In this event, a lady who
decided to organize the Indian version of the
success with a wonderful outcome. ADA India
has never owned her own aquarium became
International Aquatic Plants Layout Competi-
decided to celebrate the top winners, and on
the top winner. This tells us how simple these
tion for Indian hobbyists who are enthusiastic
top of it, a unique event, the come and partici-
processes are with VUPPA-I.
about Nature Aquarium. Since then, I started
pate workshop was organized during the
There are many Indian hobbyists who were
to plan and prepare for it and finally made it
prize giving session because the participation
exposed to their first ADA products during this
happen. The following is the report of the
of non-winners could not be expected if the
event and the skill test using actual products
event.
award giving was the only program. This
received a favorable response from the
As you all know, India is a very big country and
event started with quiz questions about fish
participants. Before the end of this workshop,
each region has a different climate. This
and plants to draw the participants attention.
I made a quick layout in a small aquarium and
means that some regions or areas have a
Subsequently, a program using the Nature
installed a newly launched AQUASKY. This
limited choice of the aquarium materials
Aquarium Goods was organized. For this time,
AQUASKY, which was kindly arranged and
available. The Indian hobbyists hesitate to
VUPPA-I was picked up as a featured item. It
sent to us by ADA upon its debut in Japan,
make noise about what they want and most of
was a perfect opportunity to introduce VUPPA
drew much attention from Indian hobbyists.
them are not confident about entering
I to the participants who have never seen or
The event participants had fun and gained a
international competitions. I expected that
touched the product. Six selected participants
lot of knowledge about Nature Aquarium. We
the competition to be held in India will be a
were instructed to open VUPPA-I and pick up
look forward to more enthusiastic participants
great opportunity to find superior local
the one rupee coin which had been put inside
and enhanced level of competition in the next
hobbyists.
the equipment. Then, they had to reassemble
event.
The participants to the competition were
the VUPPA I and install it to a Cube Garden by
Growing Healthy and Beautiful Stem Plants Stem plants that form beautiful thickets are a part of the great charm of the planted aquarium. It is commonly believed that growing stem plants is easy because of the wide varieties available in shops and their fast-growing tendency. However, as a matter of fact, it is impossible to grow healthy stem plants without providing them the proper conditions to thrive. The Nature Aquarium Notes of this issue introduces how to grow healthy and beautiful stem plants.
instead of growing upwards. This is not a sign of abnormal growth but it actually indicates that the plant is growing healthily. In this case, let the plant grow as it is and provide repeated trimming to achieve denser leaves, and eventually, an attractive thicket will be formed. If Rotala rotundifolia (Green) grows straight upward towards the water line, it can be determined that the light intensity is insufficient. For the appropriate light intensity for your aquarium size, you may refer to the aquarium data here in Aqua Journal. Whether using a fluorescent lamp or metal halide lamp, ensuring the brightest environment possible is a crucial point for growing the various sun-loving stem plants. For the lighting system for aquarium use, the light quality is important along with the light intensity. Under general lighting or a lamp for terrestrial plants that emits warm (low color temperature) light, stem plants tend to Fig.1 grow upward just as in the case of a Violet Blue Green Yellow Orange Red low light condition. Blue light that Rate of photosynthesis penetrates well in water is effective Chlorophyll a for the growth of aquatic plants. Chlorophyll b Under such a light, the plants develop healthy leaves and stems and are free from elongated stems. However, the stem plants do not look attractive under blue light only. As we know, the leaves of Wavelength many stem plants are in bright (nm) green or red, but these colors do Violet Blue Green Yellow Orange Red not come out beautifully under blue light. Hence, the light consisting of higher blue spectrum as well as the balanced ratio of green and red spectrums is ideal for the lighting system for aquariums. NA Lamp (fluorescent lamp and metal halide lamp) has been developed to emit this ideal type of light. Some people Wavelength might have the concern that the (nm) light consisting of a lower red specIt has been commonly said that the red spectrum in light promotes photosynthesis of plants. However in an underwater environment, trum (around 660nm) is disadvanphotosynthesis peaks in the area of the blue region of the spectrum and tageous for the photosynthesis protherefore blue is considered more important than red color which is rapidly attenuated in water. The light emitted from NA Lamp consists of a higher cess of plants. As shown in the blue spectrum to promote photosynthesis of aquatic plants.
Rate of photosynthesis (relative value)
Amount of light absorbed by chlorophyll (relative value)
● Light and Growth of Stem Plants The common image people have about stem plants is that these plants grow upward by extending their stems towards the water line. But how stem plants grow varies depending on the environment. The biggest environmental factor is light. Stem plants have a fundamental trait to grow upward towards the water line to seek a brighter environment when it is placed under low light conditions. In such an environment, the internodes elongate and the leaf area density becomes lower. On the other hand, stem plants extend their stems diagonally upward or sideways as if they are creeping in order to utilize the maximum amount of light. In this case, the internodes become shorter with dense leaves. This behavior is prominent especially in Rotala species. When growing Rotala rotundifolia (Green) for the first time, some aquarists may wonder why the stem is extending sideways
charts on this page, the plants photosynthesis pigments have a major light absorbance peak in the blue spectrum (around 450nm) and it synchronizes with the peak of photosynthesis. Red spectrum is in fact effective for forcing culture of terrestrial plants, but it is not nearly as necessary by aquatic plants that perform photosynthesis underwater. Rather, red spectrum can cause algal growth in the aquarium. Meanwhile, when the aquarium light is made brighter, the amount of CO2 to be injected must be controlled accordingly. This topic will be discussed later in this section. ● Substrate and Growth of Stem Plants Just as with other types of aquatic plants, the growth of stem plants varies depending on the type of substrate. Although there are some exceptions for certain species of plants, stem plants generally grow faster in a substrate system that uses Aqua Soil compared to using gravel substrate, such as Oiso sand, or other types of sand / gravel. Aqua Soil contains rich organic acids which promote the growth of plant roots as well as various nutrients including nitrogen and trace elements. In Aqua Soil, stem plants develop their roots and start growing promptly after being planted. Some people might think that roots are not that important for stem plants as they absorb nutrients through the leaves. However, as a matter of fact, stem plants are unable to grow vigorously unless their stems are planted in the substrate and their roots start growing from nodes. Stem plants can be grown by cutting and replanting the stem. In this case, the plant needs to be replanted with its terminal bud side up and the opposite node side (the portion from which the roots grow) down for its healthy growth. This way of replanting promotes the growth of terminal buds and the development of roots from the bottom part of the plant buried in the substrate by the natural effects of plant hormones. When a plant is planted in the Aqua Soil substrate, the plant grows faster as the active ingredients contained in natural soil promote the root development and nutrient absorption. In
contrast, gravel substrate contain no active ingredients that help the growth of stem plants. This is why there is a difference in the growth rate of plants between Aqua Soil and gravel substrates. For your information, ADA s Wabi-Kusa Stem Plant Mix is a set of various stem plants in emersed form rooted in a plant-base substrate containing rich organic material just like Aqua Soil. The stem plants in this Wabi-Kusa develop their submersed leaves once the set is placed in the water. An attractive clump of stem plants will be formed just by placing Wabi-Kusa Stem Plant Mix in the aquarium because stem plants are already densely planted on this Wabi-Kusa Stem Plant Mix. On the other hand, ordinary stem plants sold in shops need to be planted carefully with pincettes. Refer to page 51 for tips for the planting of stem plants. After being planted in the substrate, stem plants start growing in a few days. To achieve the healthy growth of stem plants, nutrients are a significant factor along with light and CO2. Stem plants vigorously take up the nutrients including nitrogen and phosphate contained in the water, and these nutrients leach out of the substrate which has been set up using Aqua Soil and Power Sand in combination during the initial stage of the aquarium. Even the stem plants in WabiKusa form show better growth if Aqua Soil is used for the substrate. ● CO2 Supply and Change in Water Quality Basically, when the light for a planted aquarium is made brighter, the CO2 supply amount needs to be increased accordingly. Sufficient amounts of CO2 is particularly essential for the healthy growth of sun-loving stem plants that vigorously perform photosynthesis and grow large over a short period of time. If CO2 is insufficient in an aquarium with lush aquatic plants, the plants photosynthesis may be disrupted by a sudden rise in pH level of aquarium water. Under such a condition, the terminal buds of some plants, including Pogostemon, may shrink. Stem plants absorb CO2 from the surface of their leaves. If CO2 is not constantly supplied around the plant leaves at a sufficient level, a lack of CO2 will occur. To prevent this problem, it is necessary to diffuse CO2 with Pollen Glass and spread it across the aquarium via an appropriate rate of water flow. In a bright environment, as shown in the aquarium data, the photosynthesis activity of stem plants becomes more vigorous with a rise in CO2 level. The photosynthesis status can be checked by the air bubbles formed on the stem plant leaves. If you wish to supply CO2 more precisely, the use of ADA s Drop Checker is an effective solution. When CO2 is supplied to the aquarium, the pH level of the water declines (i.e., the water becomes more acidic); but if aquatic plants are actively engaged in photosynthesis, the CO2 in the water is consumed and consequently the pH level rises. This, in theory, means that there will not be any change in pH as long as the CO2 consumption rate and CO2 supply amount are perfectly balanced. Nevertheless, the CO2 level should be set slightly higher than the level
Fig.2 exactly sufficient for the CO2 amount to be consumed for the plants. It is beWater cause the timing of CO2 supply and flow consumption are not synchronized with each other in an actual aquarium environment and a local lack of CO2 may occur, particularly in the area around stem plants. For this purpose, it is advised to control the CO2 supply amount in such way that the pH level Under high light conditions with NA Lamp, photosynthesis is promoted indicates mildly acidic in four to five and consequently, a local lack of CO2 is often caused in the area around hours after the light is turned on, which the stem plant leaves. To prevent this problem, it is important to supply a sufficient amount of CO2 and spread it across the aquarium using is when the photosynthesis of the appropriate water flow. plants reaches its peak. The change in pH level induced by CO2 supply and To promote the active nutrient absorption and photosynthesis can be easily checked by the photosynthesis of stem plants, applying an apDrop Checker installed in the aquarium. If aerapropriate amount of fertilizers is essential along tion is performed during the night, the pH level with ensuring favorable substrate, light and immediately before the light is turned on CO2 conditions. In general, the aquarium is should usually be neutral to mildly acidic and prone to excessively high nitrogen and phosthe reagent of Drop Checker is blue in color. phate levels caused by fish feces or leftover fish When the light is turned on and CO2 supply is food, which leads to algal growth. These substarted, the pH level gradually lowers. If the restances are taken up by stem plants as nutriagent color of Drop Checker is green in four to ents. To effectively facilitate this absorption acfive hours after the light is turned on, it can be tivity, it is necessary to apply various trace eledetermined that the amount of CO2 supply is ments including potassium and iron that are appropriate. If the reagent color is blue or often lacking in an aquarium. yellow at this time, insufficient or excessive CO2 No matter how bountiful nitrogen and phossupply is suspected, respectively. phate levels are in the aquarium, the absorption Aside from pH, the condition of the water qualactivity of stem plants will be obstructed if poity is a factor closely related to the growth of tassium and trace elements are in short supply. stem plants, including the total hardness (TH or Furthermore, potassium and trace elements are GH) and carbonate hardness (KH). Stem plants essential for synthesis of photosynthesis pigbasically grow better at low water hardness, in ments and the smooth functioning of photoboth TH and KH, except for Hemianthus and synthesis. In light of this, it is required to apply Lagarosiphon species that do not grow well the prescribed dosage of Brighty K and Green under excessively low water hardness condiBrighty STEP series daily to an aquarium with tions. Aqua Soil in general has a tendency to stem plants. Supplying an adequate amount of lower the water hardness. When growing stem potassium and trace elements helps achieve plants that do not withstand low water hardthe desired vivid leaf color of stem plants and ness, it is advisable to use Ryuoh stone as a promote active photosynthesis. Among various composition material or apply Brighty K everytrace elements, the most important one is iron, day to maintain a certain level of hardness. On which is abundantly contained in Green Brighty the other hand, when the water hardness is too STEP 2 and ECA. Iron is an essential element parhigh, then, problems such as bleached new ticularly for pigment synthesis of red stem buds and poor growth of stem plants are obplants and therefore, the leaf color of stem plant served. In this event, the total hardness can be is greatly influenced by how much iron is suplowered effectively by installing a Softenizer in plied. Applying ECA together with daily liquid the aquarium. The water hardness needs to be fertilizer is effective in maintaining the red color maintained at a medium level when growing of Pogostemon stellatus. Iron absorbed by stem Hemianthus species that do not grow well if the plants is utilized for pigment synthesis and also water hardness is too low or too high. For inforfor the formation of new buds. Since the cluster mation on the water quality appropriate for of stem plants appears beautiful only with each aquatic plant, refer to the Stem Plant Enaligned terminal buds, it is very effective to cyclopedia in the special feature section. apply ECA together with Green Gain, an additive to promote formation of new buds with ● Applying Fertilizers for Stem Plants plant hormones, after trimming stem plants. As discussed in the special feature section, The combined use of these two types of addigrowing stem plants in thickets in the backtives is also recommended when problems ground of the aquarium provides a defined such as bleached new buds or poor developcomposition to the layout. The bushes of stem ment of new buds due to a hardened stem is plants are not only beautiful but at the same observed on repeatedly trimmed Rotala rotuntime, they play the role of purifying water by difolia (Green). way of vigorous nutrient absorption and increasing the dissolved oxygen level through active photosynthesis. These activities of stem plants contribute to the improvement of the aquarium environment and help maintain the healthy conditions of fish and microorganisms.
Stem plants are featured in this issue. Their warm colors look particularly attractive in cold winter. Among stem plants, the species in red color has been a favorable choice among hobbyists and how to bring out their vivid red color is dependent on each person s skill. In this Internet era when there is an abundant amount of information and know-how available on the web, we still face successful and unsuccessful experiences of growing stem plants. All we can do is just to brush up our skills daily. rotundifolia
density of the plant and form an appealing
I heard that red stem plants are diffi-
(Green) in the background of my
thicket. The stem projecting from the bush
cult to grow. Could you tell me how
planted aquarium. At what intervals
needs to becut off when observed so that the
difficult it is?
should I plant it to form a thick hill-like clump
neat appearance of the thicket can be main-
as I see on the Aqua Journal magazine? Are
tained. The thicket of Rotala Rotundifolia
there any tips on the timing and position of
(Green) introduced in this magazine is dense
Red stem plants are regarded as diffi-
trimming?
with aligned terminal buds because it was
cult to grow for the following reasons:
Im
planting
Rotala
formed by repeated trimming.
① Red stem plants prefer mildlyacidic soft water. ② Requires high light conditions and accord-
To form a thick bush of Rotala Rotundifolia (Green), repeated trimming of
Every time I go to the shop to buy
ingly, sufficient CO2 injection.
the plant is most important, even
aquatic plants, I always wonder if I
③ Requires continuous iron supplementation
more so than dense planting with shorter inter-
should buy the plants in emersed or
to maintain the plant s leaf color.
vals. Rotala Rotundifolia (Green) creeps side-
submersed form. Which form of plant is easier
When Oiso sand was used as the main substrate
ways first and then grows upward when it is
to grow?
material, not so many years ago, it was difficult
planted in an ordinary 60cm tank under suffi-
to prepare and maintain mildly-acidic soft
cient light from four sets of 20W NA Lamp. The
water. In addition to this, growing red stem
stem which crept too much should be cut off as
If we have to choose either one of
plants was also a tough job because these
early as possible. Immediately before the Rotala
them, we recommend you to pur-
plants are demanding in terms of light, CO2 and
reaches the water line, it is advisable to trim the
chase the plant in emersed form and
nutrient conditions. Now, it is no longer very dif-
plants according to the intended trimming line.
grow it in the aquarium to develop submersed
ficult since the water quality issue can be re-
For stem plants, the first pruning is a very impor-
leaves, since it is easier for the plant to adapt to
solved by the use of Aqua Soil with which you
tant process since the shape of the thicket is de-
the aquarium environment and therefore the
can have mildly-acidic aquarium water just by
termined by the initial trimming line. Rotala Ro-
risk of unsuccessful growth is minimized. In
placing it on the substrate. Among red stem
tundifolia (Green) should be pruned at the
general, submersed leaves can easily get dam-
plants, Rotala Macranda is one of the most diffi-
lowest position as possible during the first trim-
aged during transportation and they may often
cult species. It is because the plant very often
ming and at a slightly higher position in the sub-
be unable to adapt to the changing environ-
melts and wilts except the terminal bud portion
sequent pruning sessions to increase the
ment.
The submersed leaves grown from a
if the plant is sold in poor condition; and it is
plant in emersed form usually grow vigorously
therefore very hard for it to develop submersed
because of the plant s nature to keep up with
leaves adapted to the aquarium environment.
the sudden change in environment. Further-
Pogostemon stellatus and Gratiola sp. have
more, the chance of having the trouble of a
vivid red tint when grown under high light con-
melted bottom stem is lower in the emersed-
dition and supplemented with ECA or other
form of stem plants. When you use imported
types of additives containing rich iron, but they
aquatic plants sold in emersed form, you have
lose their beautiful red color significantly with
to be careful of residual pesticide. ADA s Wabi-Kusa consisting of
various
types
of
emersed-form stem plants is free from pesticide users Rotala Rotundifolia (Green)
for
peace
of mind.
Wabi-Kusa consists of various types of emersed-form stem plants.
low light or insufficient iron supplementation. If you wish to maintain the red color of stem plants, you need to add iron supplements on a continual basis.
Send us your questions! We welcome your questions and inquiries about Nature Aquarium. Please feel free to send your questions to the ADA Editorial Department by email (
[email protected]) or to our postal address listed at the end of this magazine.
On the other hand, NA Lamp makes the aquatic
aquarium should be less than the amount of a
plant colors look more vivid and enhances the
fish-only aquarium. This is because a balance
natural color of plants with its excellent pen-
must be kept among the elements of nitrogen
etration rate and also by the combination of the
produced by fishes, nitrogen degradation by
green-
540nm
the bacteria within the filtration system and the
(nanometer) and luminescence sub-peak at
absorption of nitrogen by aquatic plants. For
520nm (new green phosphor), which is associ-
your aquarium size, the advisable number of In-
ated with spectral reflectivity. For red spectrum,
paichthys kerri must be about twenty. If there
it is adjusted to have the peak at 620-630mn.
are more fish in the aquarium, the amount of
luminescence
peak
at
Spectral Distribution Chart for NA Lamp Gratiola sp.
I learned that NA Lamp was devel-
Inpaichthys kerri
oped under the concept of higher blue spectrum. How is the NA Lamp different from other types of fluorescent lamp? And I would like to know how the red-
Wavelength
Luminescence sub-peak of new green phosphor
Luminescence peak of red spectrum
food feed and feces produced is also a large factor. This condition increases the nitrogen and phosphate level of the aquarium water and eventually triggers algal bloom. It is recom-
range of the spectrum is utilized in NA Lamp. Three months have passed since I set
mended for you to keep your fish in a separate
up my aquarium. Now my aquarium
aquarium if possible. If algal problem persists,
NA Lamp was developed based on
suffers from the bloom of filamen-
the poor condition of the filtration system can
the concept that the light consisting
tous algae as well as black beard algae and I
be suspected. In this case, it is advised to
of a higher blue spectrum is effective
have to cut off the Echinodorus leaves with
remove Bio Rio from the filter and rinse it in a
for the growth of aquatic plants in an aquarium
algae every week. I heard that black beard
pail. In addition, you should replace the absorp-
environment because blue light is attenuated
algae grows in the conditions of dirty sub-
tion filter media such as activated carbon and
the least and penetrates farthest in water. The
strate, unclean filtration system, strong water
zeolite with NA Carbon, which has an excellent
light from fluorescent lamp consists of red, blue
flow, insufficient CO2 injection for the light
absorption capacity. This is necessary in light of
and green and the characteristics of the fluores-
amount, the water turning more alkaline and
the fact that the absorption effect of such filter
cent light are determined by the balance of
hard water. I have about forty Inpaichthys ker-
media will be lost as the filter is used for a long
these three colors. If the rate of blue component
ries, one Crossocheilus siamensis and forty
period of time. Meanwhile, having Crossochei-
is higher, the red and green must be reduced
Neocaridina denticulata in a W60×D30×H45
lus siamensis is an effective anti-algae measure,
accordingly. Keeping a good balance among
(cm) tank with Echinodorus and other types of
but the number should be increased to two or
these three colors is a tough aspect of the light
aquatic plants.
three and on top of it, ten to twenty Cardina
control. Ordinary fluorescent lamp contains
japonica should also be added when the algae
more red wavelengths of the spectrum and the
problem is serious. Having a great effect on
aquarium looks dimmer and yellowish under
In this case, the first thing which can
fighting black beard algae cannot really be ex-
the light emitted from such a lamp. Some fluo-
be suspected as a cause of algal
pected just with a small amount of Neocaridina
rescent lamps for aquarium use features higher
bloom is the excessive amount of fish
denticulata. If Cardina japonica bites your Echi-
blue spectrum only, but it makes the aquatic
in the aquarium. You should keep in mind that
nodorus leaves, their numbers needs to be con-
plants in the aquarium look pale and unnatural.
the number of fish to be kept in planted
trolled.
O F
A Q U A R I U M S
ADA presents an advanced 60cm-wide aquarium system. New LED lighting system, AQUASKY 602, has a very simple design, but comfortably illuminates the entire planted aquarium layout. Super Jet Filter ES-300, with more compact dimensions, is also to be released.
The new model, Super Jet Filter ES-300, is compatible with aquariums 60cm in width and smaller. ADA’s signature stainless steel filter is a perfect match for ADA Cube Cabinet - Clear.
h t t p : / / w w w. a d a n a . c o . j p / e n /
Copyright © 2012 by Aqua Design Amano Co.,Ltd.
Coming out in November 2012.
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SUPER JET FILTER ES-300
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S TA N D A R D
Nature Aquarium information magazine
R E D E F I N E S
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Digital Edition DEC. 2012
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