A Beautiful Tank Starts with Smart Ornament Choices
Ornaments can elevate your aquarium design and provide essential function—but if used incorrectly, they can disrupt your tank’s layout, compromise fish safety, or throw off water chemistry.
Let’s break down the most common aquascaping mistakes made when using ornaments—and how to avoid them for a stunning and stress-free setup.
Mistake 1: Overcrowding the Tank
The Problem:
Too many ornaments means less swimming space, poor circulation, and visual clutter.
Solution:
- Use the rule of thirds for layout balance
- Leave open swimming zones, especially in the center
- Use 1–2 focal ornaments per 60L of space
Mistake 2: Using Unsafe Materials
The Problem:
Decor not made for aquariums can leach chemicals, alter pH, or injure fish.
Solution:
- Only use aquarium-safe, non-toxic ornaments
- Avoid metal, painted ceramics, and unsealed wood
- Check labels for “reef-safe” in marine setups
Mistake 3: Blocking Filtration and Flow
The Problem:
Large or bulky ornaments can block water circulation, affecting oxygen levels and filter efficiency.
Solution:
- Keep ornaments at least 2–3 inches from filter intakes
- Choose open or hollow designs that allow water flow
- Monitor water clarity and oxygen levels
Mistake 4: Ignoring Fish Behavior
The Problem:
Fish need appropriate hiding spaces or territories based on species—one-size-fits-all décor won’t work.
Solution:
- Match ornament type to species (e.g., caves for plecos, plants for tetras)
- Avoid small holes that large fish can get stuck in
- Use smooth-edged decor for bettas and goldfish
Mistake 5: Forgetting Scale and Proportion
The Problem:
A massive ornament in a nano tank or a tiny piece in a 200L setup looks awkward and unbalanced.
Solution:
- Choose ornament size based on tank dimensions and fish size
- Use taller items in the back, smaller in the front for depth
- Consider symmetry or asymmetry depending on your style
Mistake 6: Failing to Clean Decorations Regularly
The Problem:
Ornaments can build up algae, detritus, and bacteria over time.
Solution:
- Remove and rinse ornaments during water changes
- Use a soft brush and tank water—no soap or chemicals
- Soak in dechlorinated water before returning to the tank
Bonus Tip: Avoid Constant Rearranging
While it's tempting to change your tank’s look often, frequent rearrangement can stress fish and disrupt territories—especially in community or cichlid tanks.
