AGAIAC 2026 / Classic

#1006 Autumn

Pál Norbert • Hungary Mályi, Borsod-Abauj-Zemlpen, Hungary

About This Aquascape

- Water Change: All weeks (Sunday) - 70% - Lighting time: 9 hours - 30-30 minutes Sunrise - sunset. - Week Aqua P900 lighting. 1.st generation. Power: 78%. Settings: Own. Red: 57%, Green: 59%, Blue: 54%, UV-A: 30%. - Water change RO water, back Salt. MASTERLINE GH Plus salt. - GH 5, KH 1, TDS 155 - No3 5-10ppm between. - Po4 0,6-1 ppm between. - Fe 0,15 - 0,2 ppm between - Co2 30-34 mg/l between, Measure HANNA HI 3818 Test.

Pál Norbert

Mályi, Borsod-Abauj-Zemlpen, Hungary

Quick Stats

Style: Classic
Size: 100x40x52 cm
Volume: 208 L (54.9 gal.)
Plant Species: 19
Fish Species: 1

Judges' Comments

Gorgeous and vibrant aquascape. The combination of textures and colors are really striking and the aquascape pops out visually to the viewers eyes. Even though no hardscape is used, there are still distinct points of interest from certain groups of plants that provide structure and spacing in the aquascape. One suggestion would be to selectively prune the Rotala in the foreground so that it has a directional bend to flow better. I loved the use of black neons in your aquascape - they are stunning fish when healthy and are underappreciated and underutilized in aquascapes. Well done!

— Bailin Shaw

The Dutch-like style, characterized by a vibrant tapestry of various stem plants completely devoid of hardscape, is one of the most historically grand and time-honored classics in aquascaping. The timeless charm of this style lies in its ability to transform an aquarium into a pristine botanical garden underwater, masterfully telling a story through contrasting colors, leaf shapes, and textures arranged in systematic, structured rows. While it offers a soft and breathtaking aesthetic, it paradoxically demands the highest level of horticultural skill and trimming precision. The aquascaper must deeply understand the unique growth rates of each species to ensure that all plant groups reach their peak health simultaneously while maintaining perfect compositional balance. This approach stands as a true testament to the pure art of cultivation, capturing the raw beauty of flora without relying on any supportive rock or driftwood structures. This artwork features a vibrant and beautiful display of colors, reminiscent of a blooming flower garden. To elevate the piece, introducing more variation in the textures and shapes of the aquatic foliage would create a deeper sense of dimension. Additionally, establishing a clear focal point with a prominent main plant—supported by leading lines to guide the viewer's eye—would greatly enhance the composition. Beyond this, finer trimming of the stem plants to achieve denser bushes with distinct, well-defined shapes, while infusing your own unique personal touch, will make this work truly complete.

— Cheattha Sae Teaw

Great showcase of colors and plant variety. High density plant bushes and precise trimming has given good structure to a layout that uses no hardscape. The interplay of colors, shadows and composition of plant groups is very well done. The tops of some stem plants are ragged and I think Tucano tetras do not stand out well in aquariums with a black background are points that I would pick on. Excellent work overall.

— Dennis Wong

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