Cristina Jorge will be sharing her experience and tips about aquascaping nano tanks. Their compact size makes them perfect for smaller apartments, dorms, and tabletops. They are also more affordable and less intimidating to beginners but can also be a fun challenge for experience aquascapers.

Cristina is a DC local and has been working at Capitol Exotic Fish since they have opened February 2023. She has been fish keeping for about four years and discovered the concept of aquascaping about three years ago. As a visual artist, she fell in love with the idea of creating a beautiful, lively ecosystem. Nano tanks specifically stuck out to her. She personally scapes and helps teach others to scape about two to five nano tanks per month. She has also had the pleasure to converse and learn from other hobbyists over the past few years as well as share her experiences and hopefully inspire others.

Location: 11109 Timberhead Court, Reston, Va 20191
Start Time: 1 pm
Date: 09-20-2025

Austin Lushinski presented on “Low-Tech Aquascape Bowls.”

The idea for the bowls came as a way to introduce a low-maintenance and easy introduction into plant care and aquascaping for friends and colleagues. This became an approachable way to get people interested without feeling the need to invest heavily into a full aquarium setup.

My name is Austin Lushinski. I’m a Northern VA local who recently returned back to area after leaving the Air Force. I’ve had planted tanks for over 10 years, but didn’t get invested into aquascaping until I was able to settle in back home. Now I find myself wrapped up in plant-care strategies varying from different lighting and fertilization routines to optimize different types of planted aquariums. My hopes for the coming months are to create several custom aquascapes in order to submit entries for contests.

The annual GWAPA potluck was held on June 28th, bringing members together for an afternoon of food and aquatic plant discussion. Attendees shared updates on their current tanks, aquascaping projects, and equipment setups. Topics ranged from CO2 systems and fertilization routines to lighting and plant choices.

GWAPA provided hamburgers, hot dogs, and fixings, while members contributed a variety of side dishes and desserts. A mini auction featured plants and gear, and several raffle prizes were awarded.

The event offered a chance to connect, exchange advice, and see what others in the club are growing and experimenting with in their tanks.