Transform & Elevate: The Creative Versatility of WIO Riverbeds

Whether you're setting up a new aquascape or breathing new life into an existing one, the substrate you choose lays the foundation both literally and artistically. WIO's Riverbeds collection is not only about function; it's about storytelling, texture, and bringing the wonder of real aquatic landscapes into your personal space.

In this article, We take a look at two creative aquascaping examples that highlight the creative flexibility and transformative power of our Jade and Ryouh Riverbeds. As illustration, we’ve selected two inspiring designs that demonstrate just how adaptable Riverbeds can be whether used to subtly refresh an existing layout or to build a bold, immersive design from scratch.

Giving New Depth to an Existing Aquascape: Jade Riverbed

Aquascaper Anaïs Dutailly @the_fish_connection demonstrates how the Jade Riverbed can reinvigorate an established layout. In her compact 45x25x20cm tank, Anaïs had already used WIO Jade Stones as a core visual feature. By layering the Jade Riverbed substrate into the composition, she brought new cohesion and depth to the scape intensifying the natural green tones and adding texture to the hardscape.

Her planting choices include:

• Hygrophila pinnatifida

• Hydrocotyle tripartita

• Hydrocotyle tripartita mini

Photos Courtesy Anaïs Dutailly @the_fish_connection

According to Anaïs, "The texture and versatility of the Riverbeds make the process simple and fun." She also recommends carefully following the usage instructions to ensure a clean and cloud-free result. Her advice: take your time and enjoy the journey of redecorating your aquarium.

Pro Tips for Working with Riverbeds

• Pre-washed: Light rinsing recommended before use for optimal clarity.

• Application: Pour gently and evenly, ideally from a low height to avoid scratching.

• Mix & Match: Use alone or combine with WIO sands and gravels for unique textures.

• Decoration: Add stones, driftwood, and plants to build a coherent, scenic layout.

• Filling Technique: Pour water over a plate or décor to minimize substrate disturbance.

• Final Clean: Skim floating particles with a net and let your filter clear up any remaining haze.

• Maintenance: During water changes, gently vacuum to remove debris and keep the Riverbed fresh.

  
  

Jade Riverbed

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From the Ground Up: Ryouh Riverbed in a new shallow design by

MJ Aquascaping

In contrast to Anaïs’ subtle enhancement, aquascaper Mark Jan Fioole MJ Aquascaping used Ryouh Riverbed as a key design element in building a shallow tank from scratch. His design showcases dynamic contrasts combining extra large stones and driftwood with the rugged texture of the Ryouh Riverbed to create a visually arresting, naturalistic scape.

This project exemplifies how Riverbeds serve as more than just a base. they interact with other elements to build emotion, depth, and structure in shallow tanks where every layer counts.

Photos Courtesy Mark-Jan Fioole @MJ Aquascaping

Why Riverbeds? Natural Beauty with Artistic Control

WIO’s Riverbeds are not simply substrates they are landscaping tools inspired by the diverse and enchanting scenery found in rivers, streams, and lakes around the globe.

Each Riverbed is meticulously crafted to mimic the textures, colors, and fine details of nature’s most captivating underwater environments. From soft, pebbled stream beds to rugged, mountainous riverbanks, every composition is a tribute to real-world aquatic beauty.

With Riverbeds, you can:

• Emulate authentic natural habitats in both aesthetic and texture.

• Create harmonious scenes using materials that blend with stones, wood, and plants.

• Achieve a versatile range of styles from peaceful and minimalist to wild and dramatic.

Whether you’re enhancing an existing setup or starting fresh, Riverbeds offer an accessible yet powerful way to immerse your aquatic life in a truly authentic environment.

Ryuoh Riverbed

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Your Aquascape, Your Canvas

These inspiring examples from Anaïs and Mark-Jan remind us that creativity in aquascaping has no limits, and that even small changes, like switching to a Riverbed substrate, can elevate your underwater world to new artistic heights.

So whether you’re revamping an old layout or crafting something entirely new, WIO Riverbeds give you the tools to create scenes that feel alive, dynamic, and deeply connected to nature.

🎥 Step into Mark’s creative process and see how this inspiring layout came to life.

®Mark-Jan Fioole @MJ Aquascaping