Smart Shopping for Your Aquascape
Curated equipment recommendations based on your tank size, budget, and experience level
Smart Shopping Guide
Budget-Based Setup Recommendations
Transparent, honest advice. We explain why each product is recommended, not just what to buy.
Total Setup Cost
Mid Range • mid-tech setup for 40L tank
$1000
AUD
lighting
Chihiros WRGB II
$220 AUD
Why this recommendation
Perfect PAR for mid-tech. RGB control. Bluetooth app. Great value.
Alternatives
ONF Flat Nano ($280)
Twinstar Light S ($160)
filter
Oase BioMaster 350
$280 AUD
Why this recommendation
German engineering. Pre-filter keeps media clean longer. Heater option available.
Alternatives
Eheim Professional 4+ 350 ($320)
Fluval FX4 ($350)
co2
Pressurized CO2 Setup (Regulator + 2.6kg bottle)
$280 AUD
Why this recommendation
Dual-stage regulator prevents end-of-tank dump. Solenoid for timer control.
Alternatives
CO2Art Pro-SE ($320)
Aquario Neo ($250)
substrate
ADA Amazonia
$80 AUD
Why this recommendation
The gold standard. Rich nutrients, perfect pH buffering for plants.
Alternatives
Tropica Aquarium Soil ($60)
UP Aqua Sand ($55)
heater
Fluval E 100W
$60 AUD
Why this recommendation
Reliable digital heater with safety features.
Alternatives
Eheim Thermocontrol ($70)
extras
Fertilizers + Drop Checker + Diffuser
$80 AUD
Why this recommendation
APT Complete fertilizer, glass diffuser for CO2, drop checker to monitor levels.
Alternatives
Tropica Premium + basic diffuser ($65)
Where to Buy in Australia
NSW:
ADA at Aquarium Industries Sydney, CO2 setups widely available
VIC:
ADA at Livefish, Oase at Aquarium Industries
QLD:
Available at Aquarama
WA:
Most products at Strictly Aquariums
SA:
Available at Aquatic Warehouse
Estimated Running Costs
Electricity (lighting + filter + heater)~$8-15/month
CO2 refills~$25-40 every 3-6 months
Fertilizers~$10-20/month
Water conditioner~$5/month
Total Monthly$33-60/month