bam Advanced/Expert level

Suoi Cat stream, Quang Dien district, Vietnam

Viet Nam, Quang Thai Commune, Hue City

The 300L blackwater aquarium provides an ideal environment for the fish species Tanichthys micagemmae and Oryzias pectoralis, which are the main highlights of the setup. Along with Trichopsis vittata, they swim gracefully among the branches and roots, creating a highly natural and visually captivating scene.

Submitted by: Nguyễn Thị Kim Khoắc

GPS: 16.5833721, 107.4226303

Geographical region: Southeastern Asia
Drainage Basin: East Coast
River catchment: Suoi Cat (Sand Stream)
Water body type: Stream
Water body name: Suoi Cat
Water body part
Water body course: Source
Water body: tributary of: Stream
Tributary name: Bau Sen

Videos above and below water

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Water Chemistry

Water information

Water type: fresh-water
Water color: Black water
Water transparency: Medium
Concentration of sediments: Low
Water temperature: 28 °C
Water flow/curent: Slow

Chemical parameters

pH: 6.5
Conductivity: 632
GH: 38.6 mg/l
dGH
KH: 6 mg/l
dKH
Dissolved Oxygen: 73 %

Aquarium information

Aquarium description

Set-up date

15 March, 2025

Aquarium decoration

Sand and dry tree branches were collected from the natural habitat to make the setup as accurate as possible.

After laying down the sand as the base, I positioned large dry branches to provide structure and support for attaching tree roots and dry leaves. I arranged them in a way that mimics a natural scene, with roots and branches intertwined. Then, I added dry leaves and humus to recreate the natural aging and decomposition process.

To achieve the blackwater effect, I relied on the natural tannins released from the branches, roots, and leaves. After about a month, these materials gradually tinted the water to a rich, natural tea-like color.

Aquarium equipment

Filter: The Sunsun HW-3000 provides a flow rate of 3000 L/h, simulating a natural current. I use ceramic rings and Matrix filter media to support the growth and development of beneficial microorganisms.

Lighting: Two Week Aqua Y35 lights provide appropriate illumination, enhancing the natural coloration of the fish. Additionally, a small 6W Chihiros Z Light Tiny spotlight is placed behind the aquarium to create a dawn-like effect, adding depth and visual appeal to the biotope setup.

Fish care

The aquarium replicates the natural habitat of Tanichthys micagemmae, Oryzias pectoralis, and Trichopsis vittata, species that coexist in the same ecosystems. The layout includes numerous hiding and feeding spots, created using submerged roots, dry branches, and leaf litter. The water level is kept shallow, consistently below 50 cm, as it would be in nature.

Water flow is moderate and carefully regulated to ensure proper oxygenation. The temperature is maintained between 24-28 °C, and all parameters are thoroughly checked after each water change. The fish are fed a healthy, varied diet that includes frozen shellfish and larvae. The food is enriched with probiotics to support a strong immune system and overall well-being.

Fish list:

Tanichthys micagemmae (Cyprinidae)
Oryzias pectoralis (Adrianichthyidae)
Trichopsis vittata (Osphronemidae)

Plant care

The only plant species in the tank is Cladophora glomerata moss, which requires minimal care. It thrives with sufficient lighting that supports photosynthesis and encourages healthy growth.

Aquatic moss list:

Cladophora glomerata (Cladophoraceae)

Water care

Approximately 10% of the water is changed every 7 days. After each water change, beneficial microorganisms are added to support the biological balance. The filter is cleaned once a month. The microbial system is carefully maintained, and the water is fully oxygenated through the filtration system.