Start Strong with a Thoughtfully Decorated Aquarium
Setting up your first aquarium is exciting—but also a bit overwhelming. Whether you're going freshwater or saltwater, one of the most important (and fun!) parts is decorating your tank to make it both beautiful and functional for your fish.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about choosing and arranging aquarium ornaments the right way.
Step 1: Know Your Tank Type
Freshwater Aquariums
- More flexible with décor types
- Can use natural elements like driftwood and plants
- Great for themes: jungle, riverbed, fantasy
Saltwater Aquariums
- Require reef-safe ornaments and decor only
- Often focus on coral aesthetics or reef rock structures
- Bright, vibrant colors and open swimming areas if keeping fish only
Step 2: Choose the Right Decorations
Beginner-Friendly Ornament Options:
| Type | Freshwater | Saltwater | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resin Rocks | ✅ | ✅ (reef-safe only) | Structure & hiding spots |
| Driftwood (resin) | ✅ | ❌ | Natural look, shade |
| Artificial Coral | ❌ | ✅ | Reef aesthetic, color |
| Caves & Logs | ✅ | ✅ | Hiding, territory, breeding |
| Themed Ornaments | ✅ | ✅ (with care) | Personal style, focal points |
Step 3: Plan Your Layout
Use the "foreground-midground-background" approach to create depth:
- Foreground: Smooth gravel, small plants, miniature decorations
- Midground: Main ornaments, driftwood, caves
- Background: Tall decorations, backgrounds, rock walls
Pro Tip: Leave open areas in the center for fish to swim freely.
Step 4: Clean Everything First!
Even if they’re new, always rinse ornaments in dechlorinated water before placing them in the tank. Never use soap or chemicals.
Step 5: Add Lighting to Match Your Style
Lighting brings your decorations to life. Try:
- Warm tones for natural setups
- Cool blue tones for reef or fantasy themes
- RGB lighting to change the mood with the click of a button
Species to Consider When Decorating
- Bettas: Like caves and leafy resting spots
- Cichlids: Need territorial boundaries and rock piles
- Shrimp: Appreciate mossy decor and hiding tunnels
- Marine Fish: Prefer reef-safe hideouts, natural rock and coral structures and some species will need good swimming space
Build Your Dream Setup at Charterhouse Aquatics
We’ve got everything you need to get started, from safe, stylish ornaments to substrate, lighting, and backgrounds. Whether it’s a 20L freshwater tank or a full marine fish setup, we’re here to help you make it stunning and stress-free.
