Aquascaping Competition Beginner Guide — IAPLC & ADA World

Aquascaping competitions have grown from niche events into a global phenomenon, with thousands of entries submitted to major contests each year. Whether you dream of competing or simply want to improve your aquascaping skills, understanding what judges look for and how to prepare a competition-worthy layout can elevate your planted tank artistry. This article covers the major competitions, judging criteria, and practical tips for creating award-winning aquascapes.

Major Aquascaping Competitions

IAPLC (International Aquatic Plants Layout Contest): Founded by the late Takashi Amano, this is the world's most prestigious aquascaping competition. Organized by ADA (Aqua Design Amano), it attracts over 2,000 entries from more than 60 countries annually. Entries are judged from photographs submitted of the aquascape.

AGA Aquascaping Contest: Organized by the Aquatic Gardeners Association, this is one of the longest-running competitions. Features multiple style categories including biotope, Dutch, and nature aquarium.

CIPS International Aquascaping Contest: A large-scale competition based in China that has grown rapidly in recent years.

Judging Criteria

While specific criteria vary by competition, judges generally evaluate the following elements.

• Composition and layout: The overall visual design, including focal point placement, use of hardscape, and spatial balance. Strong compositions follow principles of the golden ratio or rule of thirds
• Plant health and condition: Vibrant, healthy plants in peak condition score higher. Algae, yellowing leaves, or poor growth are penalized
• Species selection and arrangement: Appropriate plant species choices that complement each other in color, texture, and growth habit
• Hardscape integration: How naturally rocks and driftwood are arranged and how they interact with the planted areas
• Sense of depth and perspective: Creating the illusion of depth and scale in a limited space. Foreground, midground, and background should be clearly defined
• Originality: Creative concepts and unique approaches that stand out from standard layouts
• Photography: Image quality, lighting, and composition of the submitted photograph significantly affect final rankings

Preparing for Competition

Planning Phase (3-6 months before submission)

Start with a clear concept and sketch. Study past winning entries for inspiration but develop your own original vision. Select your tank size, hardscape materials, and plant species. Purchase and quarantine all materials.

Setup Phase (2-4 months before submission)

Execute your layout plan. Allow adequate time for plants to grow in and fill spaces naturally. Rush jobs are easily identifiable by judges. Manage algae proactively—a single visible algae strand can cost ranking positions.

Photography Phase

The final photograph is your competition entry—its quality is critical. Use a proper camera with manual settings. Remove all visible equipment (heaters, pipes, thermometers). Clean the glass inside and out. Ensure plants are freshly trimmed and at their peak condition. Use appropriate white balance and avoid over-editing.

Tips from Competition Winners

• Build depth by using smaller-leaved plants and finer-textured hardscape toward the back
• Create a clear focal point that draws the eye
• Allow negative space—not every area needs to be planted
• Time your water changes and trimming so the tank peaks on photo day
• Take hundreds of photos and select the absolute best one

On Botachoku, you can find competition-grade aquatic plants from specialist growers who supply the aquascaping community with healthy, vibrant specimens.