Rio Negro, Amazonas, Brazil

Aquarium information

Aquarium description

Set-up date

January, 2023

Aquarium decoration

Substrate and base:

• The substrate is a mixture of fine to medium-grain sand with a natural appearance and a brown-golden coloration, which closely mimics the bed of a blackwater river.
• There is also an accumulation of dry leaves, branches, and roots scattered across the bottom, creating a rustic and realistic scene.

Interior layout:

• The highlight is the density of leaves, twigs, and branches arranged vertically and diagonally, forming hiding places and passages for the fish.
• The composition is rich in natural textures.
• The lighting is subtle and yellowish, reinforcing the “blackwater” style typical of Amazonian biotopes, where the water is dark and rich in tannins.
• This lighting creates a cozy and natural atmosphere without causing stress to the fish.

Aquarium equipment

• Filter: Atman 600 L/h
• Heater: Roxin 100 W thermostat
• Lighting: 20 W LED, 6500 K color temperature

Fish care

Actions to keep the fish healthy in this aquarium:

• Regularly monitor water quality
• Ideal parameters for Amazonian fish:
• pH: 6.1
• Temperature: 30°C
• Ammonia and nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20ppm
• Perform weekly tests using a reliable test kit.
• Adjust pH with almond leaves, peat, or natural extracts if necessary.

Partial water changes:

• I change 20-30% of the water once a week, always using dechlorinated water at the same temperature as the aquarium.

Quality and moderate feeding:

• I feed good-quality pellets and also offer live food.

Take sare of lighting and stress:

• Soft, diffuse light prevents stress.
• Ensure the aquarium has hiding spots with branches and leaves as you have already done — this makes the fish feel safe and calm.

Add natural tannins:

• Dry leaves help simulate the dark Amazon water and release beneficial tannins that boost the fish’s immunity.
• I replace the leaves as they decompose (every 2 to 3 weeks).

Fish list:

• Paracheirodon axelrodi (Characidae)
• Petitella bleheri (Characidae)
• Laetacara curviceps (Cichlidae)
• Nannostomus nonnostomus (Lebiasinidae)
• Hyphessobrycon eques (Characidae)

Plant care

Water care

Partial water changes:

• I change 20-30% of the water once a week, always using dechlorinated water at the same temperature as the aquarium.

Dimensions

Length

90 cm

Depth

20 cm

High

20 cm

Volume

36 L