Low-Tech Mini Bowfront Aquascape: Budget Build Under $100 Challenge!

Transforming a 3.5-gallon bowfront tank into a low-tech aquascape on a budget of under $100 wasn’t easy, but the end result impressed me! In this video, I take you through every step of the process:

The unique challenges of working with a bowfront tank.
Creative solutions for designing a budget-friendly hardscape using cigarette filters and superglue.
How I layered soil and Quikrete pool filter sand for a natural-looking substrate.
Planting with low-light, low-tech species from big-box stores and overcoming planting challenges.
Reflections on what worked, what didn’t, and lessons learned for future builds.
This aquascape marks my first tank where I didn’t immediately dislike the design, and I’m excited to share it with you all. Plus, I’d love your feedback on the hardscape and layout – what would you do differently?

Video Highlights
???? 0:00 – Intro
???? 0:30 – Design Challenges
???? 2:05 – Substrate and Soil Preparation
???? 3:00 – Hardscape
???? 5:15 – Planting
???? 8:00 – Final Scape, Reflections, and Future Plans

Plants Used
???? Dwarf Sagittaria
???? Cryptocoryne Undulata
???? Java Fern
???? Anubias Nana
???? Anubias Barteri
???? Rotala Araguaia

Hardscape Details
???? Seiryu Stone
???? Small World Slate and Stone Black Slate Pieces

Join the Conversation
???? Have tips for bowfront aquascaping? Let me know in the comments!
???? What would you do with the central cave in this scape? I’d love your ideas.

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Products Used in this Video (Affiliate Links):

Natural Slate Stone -1/2 to 1 inch : https://amzn.to/4a2vPRx
Natural Slate Stone Gravel Less Than 1/8" : https://amzn.to/3DJpPRD
Seiryu Stone (This is a new brand which I believe is now the cheapest on the market, I have not tried their stone yet) : https://amzn.to/4j3uEFq
Pool Filter Sand: https://amzn.to/3BpDz3e

My Sound Library (Affiliate Link): https://share.epidemicsound.com/tot3f7

Sorry about re-upload, there was some major audio glitch on initial upload that I believe is resolved now.