Planted or Unplanted?

**ScottishFish** · 10-21-2012, 07:29 PM

So its a pretty simple question, do you all like my tank planted or unplanted?

First picture is my TOTM winner from last month I think, or maybe the month before, can't quite remember.

Second is my tank tonight, I was fed up of all the plants getting messy looking, I also wanted to reduce maintenance. I need a black background and my 'bare river' look will be complete, so bear that in mind.

So let me know whatcha think

p.s ignore the carrot and fork in the second one, pleco feeding time

**MandyK** · 10-21-2012, 07:31 PM

Allowing for a new black background, I think you could really go either way. I'm digging the bare look, but if you wanted plants their color would look much more vibrant against a black background.

**Cliff** · 10-21-2012, 07:32 PM

They both a really nice natural look which I have always liked in any tank

If I had to choose just one, I would pic the planted tank as looking a little better, but that is only because that I my preferance.

You'll just have to pick the one that suits you best and that you enjoy more.

**Goes to 11!** · 10-21-2012, 07:40 PM

Originally Posted by A hardcore Cricket fan

So its a pretty simple question, do you all like my tank planted or unplanted?

Generally, I prefer planted but wrt this tank...

It's good both ways Scotti but I do like the visual balance a bit better in the planted version.

The 'river edition' looks very authentic IMO though, Nice job dude.

**ScottishFish** · 10-21-2012, 07:53 PM

cheers so far guys, the black background will really enhance it I think. ALso I am thinking of really boosting the serpae numbers so I have a vibrant red school cruising about to contrast the dark colours

**Goes to 11!** · 10-21-2012, 07:55 PM

Indeed, Set your boost to "Serpae"!

**Taurus** · 10-21-2012, 09:06 PM

I really like it and prefer it over the planted version.

Originally Posted by ScottishFish

Second is my tank tonight, I was fed up of all the plants getting messy looking, I also wanted to reduce maintenance. I need a black background and my 'bare river' look will be complete, so bear that in mind.

So let me know whatcha think

**mermaidwannabe** · 10-22-2012, 01:48 AM

Both look nice, but I like the planted one best. With a black background, vibrant plants will really stand out. Even if they get a bit ragged, they can be trimmed a bit, and the wilder look would enhance the overall naturalness -- the natural ambiance of the aquatic environment. In nature, plants aren't neatly trimmed. While you wouldn't want them to grow so wild they take over everything, letting them go a bit longer will cut down on the frequency of maintenance and could produce an effect you might find appealing.

It's up to you, though. If you prefer a more manicured tank with less work, go with the barer look.

-- mermaid

**HEADIN** · 10-22-2012, 11:19 AM

i like the wood lay out in the 2nd pic.

i think if you where to keep that part and add your plants it would be sweet

**William** · 10-22-2012, 11:51 AM

Hmmm for the cichlid and the serpae I think the bare tank looks and works best. For the killies however i like the planted version. I wouldnt mind a few more plants either.