Lagoon Ocotal, Blue lagoon
The 34th place in the qualifying stage of the Biotope Aquarium Design Contest 2014
Poland. Bartosz Motyka
Volume: 450 L
List of fishes: Thorichthys meeki Rocio ocotal, Hyphessobrycon anisitsi (I think it is good replacement for Astyanax mexicanus, that is hard to find)
List of plants: Nymphaea, Valisneria americana, Juncus repens
Biotope description: The aquarium was set up based on Lagoon Ocotal biotope, Central America. Water is crystal clear with blue hues. Under water on the bottom we have sand, rocks, lime stones. The plants are Eleocharis sp., Nymphaea.
The Lagoon Ocotal, with my judging, came at the 7th place, because it has fishes only found in extreme southern South America (H. anisitsi), and the plants are not planted according to a real biotope (too far apart). This one and all others are missing biotope correct décor and fishes, as well as descriptions.
I liked the environment recreated in this layout. The representation of the blue water of this lake is very impressive without to be artificial. I like the natural sensation of this work. Nice job.
A good combination of natural background in the twilight. Sufficient but not excessive amount of organic matter on the bottom. Fishes feel fine.