Small forested tributary to the Orinoco River
114th place in Biotope Aquarium Design Contest 2019
USA. Vinny Anderson
Volume: 110 L
Dimensions: 90x30x40 cm
List of fishes: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, Axelrodia riesei, Corydoras pygmaeus, Otocinclus, Paracheirodon axelrodi
List of plants: Echinodorus tenellus, Sagittaria subulata, Hydrocotyle leucocephala, Pistia stratiotes, Eleocharis sp.
Description of decorations: The defining hardscape here is the large dark river rock and sunken wood. Fine sandy silt substrate is sparsely planted with decaying leaf debris and various submerged seed pods.
Description of equipment: Oase Biomaster Thermo 350 canister filter, Fluval 2.0 LED
Water parameters: Temp = 25.5°C, pH= 6.6
Additional info: 50% weekly water changes, standard glass cleaning and detritus removal.
INFORMATION ABOUT BIOTOPE
Description of the area surrounding the biotope: This small tributary to the Orinoco River is densely forested. While inundated throughout the year, the rainy season brings deeper, faster flowing waters that both removes old debris and deposits new organic matter.
Description of the underwater landscape of the biotope: In this section of the river, larger stones are held in place by tree roots. Smaller stones, wood debris, leafs and seed pods are move and wedged into crevices by the flow of water during heavy rains. Some plants have become lodged in between the roots, driftwood and stones. The river bottom is a finer sand texture with small grass plants taking root where they can.
Description of the parameters of the habitat: The water is tinted due to the natural amount of organic matter and tannins. The pH is generally around 6.0-6.4. Water temperatures range from 18-26°C.
List of fishes and invertebrates occurring in the nature biotope: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, Axelrodia riesei, Corydoras pygmaeus, Otocinclus, Paracheirodon axelrodi
List of plants found in the nature biotope: Echinodorus tenellus, Sagittaria subulata, Hydrocotyle leucocephala, Pistia stratiotes, Eleocharis sp.
Threats to the ecology: Deforestation and urbanization are general threats to this ecosystem.
Sources of information:
https://www.britannica.com/
https://www.