This type of aquarium features emphasis on plants and limited fish populations. An example of a plant tank could feature a backdrop of large groupings of faster growing species, such as species of Hygrophila, Limnophila, Rotala, Vallisneria, with an Echinodorusspecies in the middle and groupings of Cryptocorynesin the foreground. The gravel would consist of 2 to 5mm diameter at an average depth of 3 inches. Other decor is limited due to the space requirement of the plants and is usually limited to a piece or two of driftwood. Typical choices for fish could be smaller tetras or rasboras and some angelfish. It would also be suggested in this type of set-up to include some algae controlling species of fish, such as Siamese Flying Fox.

Lighting, CO2 injection, fertilization, and attention to appropriate filtration media are important details.