Riverbed Style Aquascape

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Riverbed Style Aquarium

ADA 60 45p Aquascape

This aquascape was created by Mark, also known as Geordie Scaper. His vision was to capture the character of a natural riverbed while weaving in the artistry of aquascaping. The result is a layout that feels both authentic and thoughtfully composed—where naturalism meets fine art.

The hardscape is built on a dramatic slope, banked so high at the back that only 8–10 cm separates the soil from the top of the tank. This clever use of elevation creates a strong sense of depth, drawing the eye into the scene and amplifying its impact. Twisted hornwood winds its way across the layout, echoing the flow of a river, while smooth, rounded Hakkai stone reinforces the riverbed theme. Subtle touches of manzanita branches add extra texture and detail, enhancing the organic, unrefined character of the scape.

Originally, Mark experimented with mirrors embedded in the substrate to mimic the reflective quality of flowing water. While innovative, maintaining their clarity proved challenging, so he replaced them with a blend of sand and gravel. This adjustment not only simplified maintenance but also gave the aquascape a more refined, natural finish.

Perhaps the most captivating feature is the way the Monte Carlo and Riccardia chamedryfolia have gradually spread across the wood, intertwining to form rich layers of greenery. Their contrasting textures soften the hardscape, uniting structure and growth in a way that feels alive and ever-evolving. It’s this balance—between design and nature taking its own course—that makes the scape so compelling.

Equipment Breakdown

For those inspired to recreate a similar aquascape at home, here's a breakdown of the equipment used:

Aquarium & Cabinet

ADA 60p45 (60x45x36) £279

ADA Garden mat (60x45) £17.99

Horizon Aquatics Cabinet 60 45 (60x45x70cm) £369

Lighting

Skylight Hyperbar FL 60 – Delivers vibrant classic nature colour and is controllable by app. £299

Filtration

OASE Biomaster Thermo 350 – Reliable and efficient filtration with integrated heater and pre-filter. £249.99
Biomedia 4litres £36.99

Glass Ware & Skimmer

Horizon Aquatics lily outflow 17mm £24.99
Horizon Aquatics Glass Inflow 17mm with Skimmer £32.99
Clear hose 16/22mm £12.99

CO₂ System

CO₂ Art Pro-SE Regulator Kit with added accessories

Drop checker
In tank diffuser
Non return valve
1.5kg co2 bottle

Prices for Co2 systems start from £210 there are many different options to choose from

Full cost of equipment is: £1,532.94
Prices mentioned on this blog are posted on 08/09/2025 and could increase over time, please only use prices as a rough guideline, see website for exact current prices.