Branjang Village, West Ungaran – Aquascaping, known as the art of arranging aquatic plants, rocks, and wood in an aquarium, is not merely an aesthetic hobby. More than that, aquascapes can be a true reflection of a complex aquatic ecosystem. Behind their beauty lie fascinating biological processes and interactions between living things (biotic) and their surrounding environment (abiotic).
In biology, the interaction between biotic and abiotic components forms the foundation of an ecosystem. This also occurs in aquascapes. Fish, aquatic plants, microorganisms, and abiotic elements such as light, temperature, water, and substrate all influence one another.
Aquatic plants in aquascapes, for example, play a vital role in maintaining water quality. Through photosynthesis, plants produce dissolved oxygen needed by fish and microorganisms. They also absorb excess nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates, which, if left unchecked, can poison this mini-ecosystem. Meanwhile, fish and microorganisms also play vital roles. Fish produce waste that is then broken down by nitrifying bacteria into compounds that are safer for plants. This process is known as the nitrogen cycle and is a clear example of biotic interactions occurring in aquascapes.
Abiotic factors such as light and temperature also play a crucial role in maintaining balance. Adequate light will encourage plant growth, while a stable water temperature will maintain optimal fish metabolism. The type of substrate, or sand, used can even affect root growth and the stability of the microorganisms within.
Aquascapes can be an engaging educational tool, especially for biology students. By observing the ecosystem under the glass, we can learn firsthand about the food chain, nutrient recycling, and the importance of natural balance. Furthermore, this activity also trains patience and precision, as maintaining an aquascape requires attention to many aspects.
According to several studies, aquascapes even have a positive impact on mental health. Watching the calm movements of fish and plants can reduce stress and provide a relaxing effect. So, in addition to beautifying a space, aquascapes can also provide natural healing amidst a busy routine. With its numerous benefits, it’s no wonder that aquascaping is increasingly popular, among fish enthusiasts, visual artists, and biology students. Through aquascaping, we learn that beauty arises from balance—just as in life and nature.
Author: Farahnisa Syasya Az-zahra (Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Diponegoro University)
Field Supervisors (DPL): Gani Nur Pramudyo, M.Hum., Muhammad Hamdan Mukafi, S.S., M.A., and Siti Komariya, S.S., M.A.
Location: Branjang Village, West Ungaran District, Semarang Regency