55 Gallon Riparium build

[hydrophyte]

I agree that with a tank with a top rim it is better to use the 1/3 full (or ~40% for golden section) layout. For the 55 that I have it was necessary to keep the plastic rim because the plants are mostly high-humidity varieties (e.g., Cryptocoryne, Anubias) that require a canopy covering most of the top to retain moisture in the air.

A neat effect of having plants growing up and out of the top is that they seem to relate more to the space in the room, rather than just being contained within the frame of the tank--if that makes sense(?). It probably isn't evident in pictures but my 50-gallon setup that is mostly filled with water and with plants growing out of the top almost gives the impression of a garden pond. I hope that I can get video of that tank soon. It might be easier to see that in video.

 

[kallmond]

I totally got that about the rimless one.

 

[hydrophyte]

Any updates on this baby?

 

[Muni]

Any updates on this baby?

I got a filter on it an working. I got some cool stuff to show everyone but they are only so pretty without the plants. I'm looking this week for some plants that would be suitable for above water immersed growth. The only plants I have currently are all aquatic plants.

Working on a big update for everyone. Hopefully I can get into town tomorrow and get some plants to get this thing started.

 

[hydrophyte]

So will be able to go to Home Depot and places like that? Real quick here are a few ideas for houseplants that could be good choices...

• Spathiphyllum, peace lilies--almost any kind will grow well in water
• Pilea--including "aluminum plant", 'Silver Tree' and others
• Alocasia amazonica 'Polly'--"African mask"
• Diffenbachia--especially 'Camilla', a small variety
• Syngonium
• Hypoestes, polka dot plant
• African violet
• Cyperus, umbrella sedge

The Pilea and Hypoestes are real good for planting as cut stems in the Nano Trellis Raft. The other ideas would do best planted in hanging planters.

Most houseplant selections do best with some water circulation around their roots, so it is wisest to fill bottom 1/2 of planter cup with those round expanded (Hydroton) clay pebbles.

I might think of a few other ideas too.

There are a few good things to watch out for too at the pet store/LFS.

 

[Muni]

Thanks for the input Hydrophyte. Looks like I'm gonna be working the rest of the week so there may be a small delay in my next big update.

 

[hydrophyte]

I just started a thread for another houseplant possibility over in the Planted Tank and Aquascaping. I am going to try out a maidenhair fern (Adiantum sp.) that I just picked up. Here's the link.

Plants for Ripariums: Adiantum sp. maidenhair fern[/B]

That's a pretty easy houseplant to find. I know that I've seen them at Home Depot.

 

[limz_777]

that is one big water stain , a good job on removing them

 

[cockroach]

Loving this build. So want to start a terrarium or something soon. Getting itchy watching you guys.

 

[festerfish]

this is my getto ass riparium lol this pic is before the hair cut