How to Use Bonsai Wood to Create a Stunning Nano Tank

If you’re thinking about ways to level up your tank, add bonsai wood!

Bonsai wood’s aesthetic appeal has an oddly calming effect that makes you stare and drink it all in. Its intricate branches and natural textures look eerily similar to aged trees, giving your tank a stunning focal point.

And that’s not all. An aquarium bonsai focal piece also creates a natural habitat for your aquatic plants and creatures. It blends beauty and functionality seamlessly, making bonsai wood a worthwhile investment.

Choosing the Right Bonsai Wood

Here are a few insights to help you choose:

Always measure your tank before selecting wood. A good rule of thumb: the wood shouldn't take up more than a third of your tank's volume. This leaves room for plants, fish, and swimming space.

Shape is equally important. Look for pieces with interesting curves or branches that complement your tank's dimensions.

Looking to have the shape done for you?

Check out these read-made pieces:

• Yosemite Bonsai Wood
• Dragonwood Bonsai
• Corcovado Bonsai Wood

Like all driftwood, bonsai wood needs to be prepped first before you can use it. I soak mine for at least two days. Soaking removes excess tannins and ensures the wood sinks. You can also boil smaller pieces for 5 minutes to sterilize them.

Since the pieces we sell are hand cut, dried and stored indoors, boiling isn't really neccesary, but it's an option if you feel it's needed!

If your Bonsai piece insists on floating, attach them to slate or rocks until they become waterlogged. Shouldn't take more than a couple days.

Designing Your Nano Tank Layout

Below are a few principles to show you how to make bonsai wood the star of your aquascape:

Let's start with the rule of thirds.

Mentally divide your tank into a 3x3 grid and place key elements along these lines. It works wonders for balance.

In your setup, position a piece of bonsai wood at the left intersection point. This placement instantly draws the eyes to the bonsai wood.

Depth is crucial in nano tanks.

You can see how this is done particularly well in the new aquascape above.

To achieve this effect, use the triangle method. Picture an imaginary sloping triangle in your tank. Wider at the foreground, and thinner towards the back.

Place taller elements at the back corners and shorter ones in front.

Here's a tip to make even the smallest tank feel spacious: place a piece of bonsai wood in one back corner and slope the substrate down towards the front.

You can also use a twisty piece that looks like a miniature tree. Plant a tiny Anubias on its branches to create an underwater bonsai effect. It’ll become the centerpiece of your whole design.

Don't forget about negative space. Empty areas are important, too. They give the eye a place to rest and make your tank feel larger. Always leave some open swimming space for my fish, however.

Complementary hardscape elements can enhance your bonsai wood. I love using dark lava rocks to contrast with lighter wood. They create a natural, aged look. For a beach vibe, I've used fine white sand in the foreground. It really makes the wood pop.

Remember, less is often more in nano tanks. One striking piece of bonsai wood, a few well-placed rocks, and a thoughtful plant selection can create a big impact in a small space. Experiment and have fun with it!

Incorporating Plants and Fish

Bringing your bonsai wood to life with plants and fish is the most exciting part of creating a nano tank. Here are a few tips:  

Anubias nana is a top pick for bonsai wood layouts. Its small leaves look great on branches, and it's incredibly hardy. Java fern is another winner. It grows well in low light and adds a lush green backdrop to your wood.

For a pop of color, try bucephalandra. These come in various shades and sizes. Mosses like Christmas moss or Java moss can soften the look of your wood. They create a natural, aged appearance that I love.

Attaching plants to wood is easier than you might think.

For larger plants, use thin fishing line, cotton thread, or fine wire. Wrap it gently around the plant's roots and the wood, then remove it once the plant attaches naturally.

For finer plants and mosses, cyanoacrylate (super) glue and  even hairnets work wonders. Just dab a small amount of glue on the wood and press the plant into place. Do this above water, then wait a few seconds before dunking everything back in.

When it comes to livestock, nano tanks are perfect for small, peaceful fish like celestial pearl danios or chili rasboras. They add movement and color without overwhelming the space. Shrimp are great, too.

Cherry shrimp not only look stunning against bonsai wood, but they also help keep it clean.