Axelrodi’s Cradle
The 5th place in the qualifying stage of the Biotope Aquarium Design Contest 2015
Brazil. Flavio Henard Jorge de Freitas
Volume: 240 L
List of fishes: Paracheirodon axelrodi
List of plants: Pistia stratiotes
Biotope description: This tank was fitted considering playing the basin of the black river, in its middle part, which inhabit the Paracheirodon axelrodi. The work consists of enough organic matter, mostly leaves, stems and twigs. The tea-colored water, low pH and soft water feature complemented the setting. Tank water features: PH: 5.0 GH: 1.0 Temperature: 29°C.
The composition, colour and materials used in the Axelrod’s cradle biotope combine to be one of the loveliest black water biotopes I’ve ever seen, combining natural elements with layout skills.
Again – large tank, perfect for housing a shoal of cardinal neon tetras. Very good bottom, with fine sand and lots of dead leaves, and very natural looking driftwood in the central part, without any straight and flat signs of cutting with saw.
Almost perfect. This layout reminds me of a portion of Rio Negro in Amazonas, land of Paracheirodon axelrodi. Good balance and very nice interpretation of natural environment.
The beauty in this biotope lies in its simplicity. Theatrical lighting draws us into a delightful mystery, twisted roots glow in the reddish gloom, a carpet of leaf litter covers a gentle sand slope, and the feathery roots of Pistia dot the mirrored surface. Scattered amidst the sprawling roots cardinal tetras light up this magical backwater scene. Tangled fine twigs add depth and realism to the substrate. This biotope has a defiant moodiness, showcasing nature in the raw.