Building a 6ft Nature-Style Aquarium with Takayuki Fukada
Ever wondered how a world-renowned aquascaper designs a nature aquarium from scratch? In this guide, we follow Takayuki Fukada as he creates a breath-taking 6ft nature-style aquascape using expert techniques, unconventional tools, and a layout process so precise it borders on art.
From selecting the perfect driftwood to planting with surgical precision, this step-by-step build offers insight into professional aquascaping methods. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or an experienced aquascaper looking for inspiration, this project will change the way you think about rocks, wood, and moss.
What You’ll See in This Build:
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Full 6ft aquascape construction
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Fukada-san’s layout strategy and planting techniques
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Professional tips and tricks for a polished aquascape
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Unique materials not typically found in standard aquascaping kits
Materials Used
Hardscape Materials:
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Nature Pets Driftwood – Private Collection
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WIO Darwin Black Lava Rock
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ADA La Plata Sand
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ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia Version 2
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ADA Power Sand Advance
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Aquascape Pond & Waterfall Foam Sealant
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Dalua Fresh Instant Hold Aquascaping Glue
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Nature Pets Filter Sponge
Plants:
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Micranthemum umbrosum (Monte Carlo – Tissue Culture)
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Hairgrass
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Lilaeopsis
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Ambulia
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Pogostemon Stellata
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Java Fern Needle Leaf
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Micro Coral Moss
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Rotala colorata
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Rotala green
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Red Milfoil
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Ludwigia Natans
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Aponogeton Crispus (Red)
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Amazon Sword Vesuvius
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Small & XL Amazon Swords
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Thin Vallisneria
Equipment:
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Cade River 1800 Black (6ft Aquarium)
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Illumagic X4 Aquascaper Lights (x4)
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Dalua Fresh Straight Scissors
A huge thank you to Fukada-san for sharing this incredible display in-store — a true masterclass in nature aquascaping. This build is a perfect example of how careful planning, precision planting, and thoughtful material selection can transform a large aquarium into a living work of art.
