The complete guide to setting up a 1m2 planted aquarium that’s beautiful, durable, and beginner-friendly
A planted aquarium isn’t just a refined hobby—it’s a lush, living art piece that adds serenity to your space. Among the many tank sizes available, the 1m2 aquarium is often considered the sweet spot. If you’re planning to build one, Terrarium Vibe has created the ultimate step-by-step guide just for you.
Why choose a 1m2 aquarium?
A 1m2 planted tank gives you ample space to explore a wide range of aquascaping styles—from natural layouts to semi-abstract designs. It’s larger than nano tanks, which can feel cramped, but far more manageable than oversized systems that require heavy maintenance.
Why choose a 1m2 aquarium?
The extra water volume offers greater stability in temperature and water parameters, reducing stress on fish and shrimp. And when it comes to budgeting, it hits a nice middle ground—big enough for impressive results, without the high cost of full-blown professional tanks.
Essential equipment for setting up a 1m2 aquascape
To create a thriving and easy-to-maintain ecosystem, careful planning is key. Here’s what you’ll need before getting started:
- 1m2 glass aquarium: opt for 8–10mm thick glass, preferably rimless or with slim rims for a sleek look
- Planted tank lighting: choose RGB or WRGB lights with the right spectrum to support plant health and vibrant color
- Canister filter: a properly sized external filter keeps the water clean, algae-free, and biologically balanced
- CO2 system: a pressurized CO2 setup helps plants grow stronger and faster, especially in a tank this size
- Substrate: use high-quality planted substrates like ADA or GEX, or DIY mixes depending on your plants and aquascaping style
- Hardscape materials: include bonsai driftwood, spider wood, tiger stone, or seiryu stone to match your desired layout
- Aquascaping tools: tweezers, scissors, CO2 diffuser, water test kits, algae scraper, fish net, siphon tube, etc.
Essential equipment for setting up a 1m2 aquascape
How to design a visually striking 1m2 layout
Layout is everything in aquascaping—it’s what gives your tank personality. Some popular layout styles for a 1m2 tank include:
- Iwagumi – minimal and rock-focused, yet artistically impactful
- Ryoboku – driftwood-based with lush plants for depth and movement
- Dutch style – vibrant, plant-dominant with color contrast and clean lines
How to design a visually striking 1m2 layout
Follow the golden ratio or establish a clear focal point to guide the viewer’s eye. Tilt rocks and wood slightly and avoid rigid symmetry for a more natural, flowing look. Elevating the rear and lowering the foreground gives you depth and lets you layer plant zones effectively.
Smart plant & livestock choices for a 1m2 tank
Choosing the right plants and aquatic life based on your layout, lighting, and CO2 setup is key to long-term success.
Best aquatic plants for a 1m2 tank
With more space to work with, you can design your aquascape in layers:
- Foreground: glossostigma, dwarf hairgrass, Cuba HC, staurogyne repens
- Midground: anubias, Java fern, bucephalandra, alternanthera reineckii mini, hygrophila pinnatifida
- Background: rotala, ludwigia, heteranthera zosterifolia, pogostemon, red alternanthera varieties
Smart plant & livestock choices for a 1m2 tank
Tip: blend green, red, and purple tones for visual interest. New to the hobby? Stick to hardy species to keep things stress-free.
Ideal tank mates for a 1m2 aquascape
A 1m2 aquarium gives you plenty of room for a peaceful, well-balanced community. Consider fish like neon tetras, ember tetras, pencilfish, otocinclus, platies, or guppies. For shrimp, go with cherry, crystal, or rili shrimp—they add movement and help control algae. A few nerite, ramshorn, or assassin snails can also help keep your tank spotless.
We hope this guide from Terrarium Vibe helps you confidently build your own 1m2 aquascape—a green retreat that’s not only gorgeous but also easy to care for. Let your creativity flow and bring a slice of nature into your everyday life.