Skapelab

10-Gallon High-Tech Iwagumi Aquascape (Intermediate)

Iwagumi aquascape example for a 10-gallon tank

A 10-gallon Iwagumi aquascape planned for a high-tech (pressurised CO₂) setup and a intermediate aquarist. It pairs 4 plant species with a 3-group stocking list, built around Seiryu Stone. Everything below is sized to the tank and matched to the intermediate skill level.

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Hardscape & layout

Built around Seiryu Stone. Place the largest piece off-centre on the golden ratio, angled slightly back, with smaller supporting pieces stepping away from it.

Substrate

Aqua soil (e.g. ADA Amazonia / UNS Controsoil), built to about 2–3" deep. Active soil buffers soft, slightly acidic water and feeds roots. Slope higher at the back for depth.

Plant list & placement

PlantPlacementQuantityNeedsBuy
Dwarf Hairgrass Mini
Eleocharis sp. 'Mini'
Carpet3 potsLight: medium · CO₂: recommendedBuy at Buce Plant
Blyxa japonica
Blyxa japonica
Midground2 plantsLight: high · CO₂: requiredBuy at Buce Plant
Needle Ludwigia
Ludwigia arcuata
Background1 bunchLight: high · CO₂: requiredBuy at Buce Plant
Anchor Moss
Plagiochilaceae sp.
Epiphyte1 portionLight: low · CO₂: beneficialBuy at Buce Plant

Stocking list

SpeciesSuggested countTypeBuy
Phoenix Rasbora
Boraras merah
10PeacefulBuy at Flip Aquatics
Bumblebee Goby
Brachygobius doriae
4PeacefulBuy at Flip Aquatics
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
3InvertebrateBuy at Flip Aquatics

Equipment

CategoryRecommendationPriceBuy
FiltrationFluval 107 Canister Filter~$88–118Buy at Green Leaf Aquariums
LightingChihiros WRGB II 30~$105–140Buy at Green Leaf Aquariums
Co2CO2Art Pro SE Series Regulator + 5lb Cylinder~$145–185Buy at Buce Plant
HeatingFluval E50 Electronic Heater~$28–38Buy at Chewy
TestkitAPI Freshwater Master Test Kit~$28–42Buy at Aquarium Co-Op
Water treatmentSeachem Prime 500ml~$12–20Buy at Aquarium Co-Op
BacteriaSeachem Stability 250ml~$8–14Buy at Aquarium Co-Op

Care schedule

DailyFeed lightly; a quick glance for anything unusual. Confirm CO₂ is on its timer.
Weekly25–50% water change, dose fertilizers, check the CO₂ drop checker, trim fast growers.
MonthlyRinse filter media in old tank water; test KH, GH, and pH; deep-trim and replant tops.
As neededTop off evaporation with dechlorinated water; spot-clean algae.
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Other 10-gallon plans

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