A hobbyist's story: Tabletop tanks provide calm in digital world
MANILA, Philippines — A fascination for aquatic life back when he was in third grade has remained constant for long-time hobbyist Richard Ladrido. Now in his early 50s, he has shifted his attention to creating mesmerizing tabletop aquariums that require no filters — just a USB-operated lamp directed on the water’s surface for at least eight hours a day.
In his compact but airy workspace in the Quezon City home he shares with his wife and their children, an open shelf holds several works in progress that he claimed he can tinker with for hours at a time.
Each aquarium starts out the same way with the careful layering on of a base of gravel and sand. He then fiddles with his collection of aquatic plants and rocks, placing them in a configuration that pleases him before adding one or two tiny guppies or miniature shrimp.
“Sometimes, there are snails in the base material that others might consider as pests. I like them because like the shrimp they act as cleaners,” Richard said.
It might seem like a simple act, this placing of different elements one after the other but his process can take anywhere from two to three weeks before he is finally satisfied.
Self-sustaining loop
“What I do is really still just a hobby. It helps calm me down because for a few hours I’m able to focus on something that isn’t work-related. It’s amazing to see things thriving in a small environment,” he said.
The self-sustaining loop found in each tank begins with the fish producing waste after digesting their food. Their waste then releases nutrients in the water that fertilize the plants. For their part, the plants filter toxins, release oxygen and improve aquatic life. The snails and shrimp feed on decay and debris, helping keep the tank clean.
Earlier this year, he was tapped by a friend who makes terrariums (IG: mossescape) to show samples of his work alongside his in a display area set up at Uptown Mall in Taguig.
Some people who saw his aquariums contacted him (IG: _thequietcurrent), asking if he accepted orders, and how soon they could get theirs. When he replied that it could take several weeks and that he would have to be the one to set the aquarium up in their home, many of them were taken aback.
What they didn’t realize is that it takes time because he puts each aquarium together. Not that it’s a problem. In fact, the reticence of some inquirers is one way to weed out those who don’t share his interest.
“I’m considering holding a workshop so people can see why it takes me a while to complete each project. Actually, I often get attached to the aquariums I make and consider keeping them for myself,” Richard said.
As long as owners follow the instructions he provides, by keeping the aquarium clean and the water at the right level, they can look forward to hours spent gazing at this tiny tabletop world.
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