Step-by-step
Step 1: Choose stonesClassic Iwagumi stones: Seiryu, Manten, Ohko Dragon Stone, or Pagoda. 3-5 stones in odd-numbered grouping. One "main" stone (Oyaishi) larger than the others, slightly off-center. Two flanking stones (Fukuishi). One or two accent stones (Soeishi).
Step 2: Substrate setupUse ADA Aquasoil or
Fluval Stratum (active substrate that buffers KH down + provides nutrients for carpet plants). Slope from front (1 inch) to back (3 inches) - creates depth perception. Don't use a perfectly flat substrate.
Step 3: Stone placementPlace main stone first, slightly off-center, leaning into the tank. Place secondary stones in a diagonal or triangular pattern. Final composition should follow the "rule of thirds" - main stone at intersection points, NEVER dead center.
Step 4: Plant carpet dry-startPlant Monte Carlo, dwarf baby tears (HC), or dwarf hairgrass in 1-2 cm tufts spaced 2-3 cm apart. Dry-start for 4-6 weeks: cover with plastic wrap, mist daily, lights on for 6 hours. Fill with water after 4-6 weeks once plants have rooted + started spreading.
Step 5: Lighting + CO2Iwagumi requires high light (1+ watt/gallon LED) + CO2 injection (target green drop checker). Use Twinstar 600S, Chihiros WRGB II, or
Fluval Plant 3.0. Inject CO2 1-2 hours before lights on; off 1 hour before lights off.
Step 6: Water fill + cycleFill with RODI water + dechlorinator. Add bottled bacteria. Run filter (low-flow canister or HOB) for 1-2 weeks while plants establish. Test ammonia + nitrite + nitrate weekly. Add livestock once cycled.
Step 7: StockingIwagumi convention: ONE small school (15-20 small tetras, rasboras, or chili rasbora). No centerpiece fish - the rocks ARE the centerpiece. Add 6-10 amano shrimp + 5-6 otocinclus catfish for algae control.
Step 8: MaintenanceTrim carpet weekly to prevent stalling. Wipe glass + dose EI fertilizer 3x/week. Weekly 50% water change resets nutrients (Estimative Index method). Replace filter floss monthly; never disturb biological media.