I believe a biotope is simply a partial representation of a biotope using decor, plants and livestock that are found in this water body or are closely associated with those that live there.
It's an unrealistic representation because nature doesn't have power filters. If we wanted the true-to-nature experience we'd have:
- Few fish
- One or maybe two plant species due to habitat domination
- Fully fledged food web
- Unorganised decor
- Rapid seasonal chemistry changes
These are just a few things I had on my mind. The biotopes we choose aren't a true representation of nature. Few, if any, tanks represent nature well. These are our attempts at taking the biology and environment of a water body and morphing it into something beautiful. Keeping clean water and good, consistent feeding for our livestock. Denser and healthier plants, aesthetically pleasing decor, water stability and cherry-picked elements to make something attractive with the inspiration of a certain area.
But at the end of the day, biotope or not, with this sort of effort we create pleasant and beautiful tanks for our aquatic pets. And that's what matters. Not the environmental correctness or perfection. Making a proper habitat for our fish is admirable, and while we may disagree there are many ways to skin the cat
And remember, when you paint you don't try and throw all the colours on the canvas! You pick the ones that fit it and will give a pleasant look and fee. Something that works. Those are just my thoughts on the matter.
Hendre out
