Zen Garden Pattern
Fine grooves raked into flat sand. Stones placed strategically. Minimalist Japanese aesthetic.
Requires carefully chosen sand that won't compact over time.
Tiger Stripe Pattern
Alternating dark and light sand rows across bottom.
Best with 2-3 different colored sands. Layer carefully.
Paths Through Plants
Sand paths between planted areas. Looks like natural riverbed.
Creates visual depth and guides the eye.
Maintaining Patterns
Burrowing fish (loaches) and heavy-waste fish (goldfish) destroy patterns fast.
Patterns work best in peaceful community tanks with non-burrowing species.