Those two pictures of the 45 liter tank were taken one month apart. It is evident that - despite the lack of special lamps or carbon dioxide injection, the plants grow very well. The cryptocorines have almost reached the surface while regular pruning is required to keep the Nymphaea lotus leaves from reaching the surface.

The planted tank with ambient light - photo taken from the side glass. Although not seen from the front (for obvious reasons) there is a narrow sand corridor leading to a formation of caves in the back which is used by the Copadichromis borleyi sp. fry as a shelter. When the plants will grow they will probably create a "roof" over this corridor giving a feeling of safety to the fish. Photos July 2002

A small planted tank can be really beautiful and a rewarding sight. August 2002.