The World’s Best Aquascapers

Aquascaping, the art of arranging aquatic plants, rocks, stones, cavework, and wood in an aesthetically pleasing manner within an aquarium, has transformed fish tanks into living pieces of art. This intricate craft blends horticulture, architecture, and a deep understanding of aquatic life to create breathtaking underwater landscapes. The world of aquascaping has its stars—artists whose work transcends the ordinary, earning them global recognition. Here’s a look at some of the best aquascapers around the globe, whose creations inspire both awe and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

It goes without saying that this list is purely based on our preferences and love for the hobby.

Often regarded as the father of modern aquascaping, Takashi Amano brought the Japanese principles of nature and minimalism to aquarium design. He founded Aqua Design Amano (ADA), a leading brand in the aquascaping industry, and developed the Nature Aquarium concept, emphasizing harmony between nature and human life. Amano’s work, characterized by its use of driftwood, rocks, and live plants to mimic natural landscapes, has had a profound influence on the aquascaping world. The Amano shrimp (Caridina multidentata), named in his honor, is a testament to his impact on the hobby; it is renowned for its algae-eating capabilities and is a staple in planted tanks. Although he passed away in 2015, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of aquascapers.

George Farmer is renowned for his role in popularizing aquascaping across the UK and beyond. A former military man, Farmer turned his passion for aquariums into a full-time career, becoming one of the most influential figures in the community. He is known for his educational content, including tutorials, blogs, and YouTube videos, where he shares tips on creating and maintaining beautiful aquascapes. His style is accessible and versatile, encouraging beginners and seasoned aquarists alike to explore their creativity.

Filipe Oliveira stands out for his artistic approach to aquascaping, often drawing inspiration from terrestrial landscapes and scenes. His ability to mimic the intricacies of nature, from dense forests to rolling hills, using aquatic plants and materials, has earned him numerous awards. Oliveira’s work is a testament to the power of imagination and its capacity to bring the beauty of the outside world into the confines of an aquarium.

Oliver Knott is known for his innovative and sometimes unconventional approaches to aquascaping. He has a knack for blending vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, creating lively underwater scenes that captivate the viewer. Knott’s willingness to experiment with different materials and techniques has placed him at the forefront of the aquascaping movement, making him a source of inspiration for those looking to push the boundaries of traditional aquarium design.

Dave Chow has cemented his status as one of the top aquascapers in the world through consistent victories in international competitions. His aquascapes are characterized by their intricate detail, precision, and a profound sense of balance. Chow’s ability to craft stories within his tanks, where every plant and stone plays a part in the narrative, showcases his masterful understanding of both the art and science of aquascaping.

These aquascapers have elevated the practice to an art form, each bringing their unique vision and creativity to the underwater world. Their work not only showcases the beauty and complexity of aquatic ecosystems but also highlights the profound connection between humans and nature. By transforming aquariums into living landscapes, the world’s best aquascapers inspire both admiration and a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of life beneath the water’s surface.