The International Aquatic Plants Layout Contest, the world’s largest nature aquarium and aquatic plants layout competition, judges what has been dubbed 'aquascaping.' This term essentially refers to landscaping underwater. A rather unique undertaking, it is nevertheless relatively widely practiced, with top spots often won by aquarium designers hailing from Asian and Eastern European countries. With large amounts of biology, design and photography under their belts, it also takes a lot of patience to cultivate such scenes.
Colossal points out that submissions to the International Aquatic Plants Layout Contest can take months to create. Many of the underwater landscapes created could easily be passed for life-sized aboveground ones. In fact, it wouldn't be surprising if they were ever used for the movie industry, especially those that revolve around more fantastical story lines.
Underwater Landscaping Competitions
The International Aquatic Plants Layout Contest is Magical
Trend Themes
1. Aquascaping - The art of underwater landscaping is gaining popularity, creating opportunities for disruptive innovations in aquarium design and products.
2. Nature Aquariums - Nature aquariums are becoming more popular, leading to a need for sustainable aquatic plant farming methods and eco-friendly aquarium products.
3. Aquatic Photography - Aquatic photography is emerging as a unique and artistic niche, leading to opportunities in underwater camera technology and accessories.
Industry Implications
1. Aquarium Design - The popularity of aquascaping is driving demand for new and innovative aquarium designs that mimic natural landscapes and improve water quality.
2. Aquatic Plant Farming - As demand for sustainable aquatic plants increases, there is an opportunity for disruptive innovations in eco-friendly farming methods (such as aquaponics) and plant propagation techniques.
3. Underwater Filmmaking - The realistic and fantastical underwater landscapes created for aquascaping contests could find new life in the movie industry, creating opportunities for new filmmaking technologies and collaboration between industries.