Rainforest Paludarium Maintenance: A 7-Step Routine

 

(Updated: August 2025)

1. Daily Checks (5 minutes)

  • Humidity Control: Verify hygrometer reads 75-85%. Mist plants if below 70%, using distilled water to prevent mineral stains.

  • Lighting Timer: Confirm LED lights (6500K spectrum) operate 8-10 hours/day. Dawn/dusk simulations reduce stress.

  • Fauna Inspection: Check fish/shrimp for abnormal behavior (e.g., gasping at surface indicates oxygen depletion).

2. Weekly Tasks (30 minutes)

  • Water Change: Replace 20-30% water with dechlorinated H2O (24°C). Use a siphon to vacuum debris from substrate.

  • Glass Cleaning: Scrape algae with magnetic cleaner. For hard deposits, use vinegar-soaked cotton swabs (avoid chemicals).

  • Plant Pruning: Trim overgrown epiphytes (e.g., Java moss) with sterile scissors. Remove yellowing leaves to deter rot.

3. Monthly Deep Maintenance (2 hours)

  • Filter Service: Rinse sponge/media in tank water (never tap water) to preserve beneficial bacteria. Replace carbon every 4 weeks.

  • Hardscape Inspection: Test driftwood stability. Reattach loose moss/ferns with cyanoacrylate gel.

  • Pump Maintenance: Disassemble and descale pump components with citric acid solution (1:10 ratio).

4. Seasonal Adjustments

  • Summer: Increase misting frequency (3x/day) and add small风扇 to improve airflow, preventing mold.

  • Winter: Place heater guard to protect thermophilic plants (e.g., Anubias) from cold drafts.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Algae Blooms: Reduce light to 6 hours/day and add nerite snails. Test phosphate levels (<0.5 ppm).

  • White Fungus on Wood: Scrub with soft brush dipped in hydrogen peroxide (3%), then rinse thoroughly.

  • Fish Disease: Quarantine affected specimens. Treat with almond leaves for mild cases or antifungal meds for severe infections.

6. Long-Term Upkeep

  • Every 6 Months: Replenish substrate nutrients with slow-release pellets (e.g., Osmocote). Rotate decorative stones to prevent uneven wear.

  • Annual Overhaul: Redo silicone seals if leaking. Sterilize hardscape by boiling for 30 mins before reintroduction.

7. Record-Keeping

Maintain a logbook tracking:
Water parameters (pH 6.0-7.0, ammonia 0 ppm)
Plant growth rates
Fauna health observations