Iwagumi vs. Nature Aquarium: Which Aquascape Style is Best for You?
- Blessings Aquarium
- Apr 5
- 3 min read
If you love aquascaping, you've probably heard of Iwagumi and Nature Aquarium styles. Both create stunning underwater landscapes, but they have different designs, rules, and maintenance needs. Let’s compare Iwagumi vs. Nature Aquarium in a simple & easy-to-understand way to help you choose the best style for your planted tank!
What is Iwagumi Aquascaping
Iwagumi is a Japanese aquascaping style that focuses on minimalism and rock placement. It was created by Takashi Amano, who introduced the idea of using just stones and a few plant species to create a peaceful and balanced layout.
Key Features of Iwagumi Style
Uses only rocks as the main hardscape.
Follows the Golden Ratio for rock arrangement.
Typically has one main stone (Oyaishi) and supporting stones (Fukuishi & Soeishi).
Uses carpeting plants like Monte Carlo, Hemianthus Cuba (HC), or Glossostigma.
Minimalist look with open space and clean layout.
Pros & Cons of Iwagumi
Looks elegant & natural – Perfect for a clean, Zen-like setup.
Easy to hardscape – Since it only uses rocks.
Creates a peaceful environment – Great for relaxation.
Hard to maintain – Needs strong lighting & CO2 for carpet plants.
Prone to algae – Fewer plants = higher risk of algae growth.
Limited plant variety – Mostly uses only carpeting plants.
What is Nature Aquarium Aquascaping?
Nature Aquarium is also inspired by Takashi Amano, but it takes a more wild, natural approach. This style aims to replicate natural landscapes like forests, rivers, and mountains using a mix of rocks, wood, and plants.
Key Features of Nature Aquarium Style
Uses rocks, driftwood, and plants for a natural look.
Allows a variety of plant species to create a balanced ecosystem.
Mimics real nature (mountains, forests, jungle rivers).
Includes different plant heights & textures for depth.
Often houses small schooling fish for movement and harmony.
Pros & Cons of Nature Aquarium
Looks realistic & vibrant – A true underwater jungle!
Easy to maintain – Plants help control algae growth.
More plant & fish variety – You can add colorful plants & driftwood.
Takes more time to set up – Requires careful plant placement.
Needs trimming & pruning – Plants grow fast and need maintenance.
Harder to balance at first – Needs time to establish a stable ecosystem.
Iwagumi vs. Nature Aquarium: Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick comparison table to help you decide:
Feature | Iwagumi Style 🏞️ | Nature Aquarium 🌳 |
Hardscape Focus | Only rocks | Rocks, wood, and plants |
Plant Variety | Mostly carpeting plants | Many plant types (foreground, midground, background) |
Maintenance | Needs CO2 & algae control | Regular trimming & pruning |
Setup Difficulty | Harder to balance, risk of algae | Takes time but more stable |
Fish Selection | Small fish like Tetras, Rasboras | Schooling fish + more variety |
Overall Look | Clean, minimal, Zen | Natural, jungle-like |
Choose Iwagumi if: You love minimalism, balance, and strong rock layouts.
Choose Nature Aquarium if: You want a wild, natural-looking tank with lots of plants & fish.
Tips for Setting Up Your Aquascape
No matter which style you choose, here are some pro tips to help you set up your aquascape:
✔ Start with a good substrate – Nutrient-rich soil is best for planted tanks.
✔ Follow the rule of thirds – Place your hardscape off-center for a natural look.
✔ Use high-quality lighting – Both styles need good lighting for plant growth.
✔ Add CO2 for better plant health – Especially for Iwagumi-style carpeting plants.
✔ Choose the right fish – Small schooling fish work best for both styles.
✔ Be patient! – A good aquascape takes time to mature and look its best.
Both Iwagumi and Nature Aquarium styles have their own charm. If you love a clean, structured look, go for Iwagumi. If you prefer a wild, natural jungle, Nature Aquarium is the way to go.
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