The Ultum Nature Systems Foresta Paludarium is one of the most exciting ways to bring both land and water environments together in a single display. Available in the 35E and 60E models, these paludariums combine premium rimless glass construction with a built-in triple-chamber filtration system, cascading waterfall wall, and integrated atomizer misting unit.
If you’ve just purchased your first UNS Foresta Paludarium or are planning to start one soon, this guide will walk you through the entire setup process — from unboxing to planting — so you can create your own miniature rainforest ecosystem.
Step 1: Unbox and Inspect Your Paludarium
Start by carefully unboxing your UNS Foresta Paludarium. Inside, you’ll find:
- The rimless glass tank (35E or 60E)
- Rear filtration chamber with sponges
- Circulation pump
- Atomizer misting unit and bracket
- Cascading waterfall panel
- Plant pads and thread
- Chamber lid and leveling mat
Inspect each piece for any damage during transit. Place the leveling mat under the tank to ensure stability and protect the glass.
Step 2: Position and Plan Your Layout
Decide where your paludarium will be displayed. The 35E is perfect for desktops or smaller areas, while the 60E works well as a larger focal point. Ensure the tank is near a power source for the pump and atomizer.
Before adding substrate, sketch out or visualize your design. Consider
- A water section at the base for aquatic plants and livestock.
- A transition zone for emergent plants along the waterline.
- A vertical background where mosses, ferns, and orchids will thrive with misting
Step 3: Install the Filtration and Waterfall System
Place the sponges and biological media into the rear filtration chambers. Position the pump and connect it to the waterfall wall. The water will circulate from the tank, through the filter chambers, and then cascade down the wall.
Attach the atomizer misting unit and bracket into the chamber. This device will create a fine mist, raising humidity levels to support tropical plants.
Step 4: Add Substrate and Hardscape
Add a layer of aquarium soil, sand, or gravel to the aquatic section. This will support plant roots and biological activity. Use rocks and driftwood to build structure and elevation, creating natural terraces and planting areas.
In the terrestrial zone, you can add moss pads, coco fiber, or foam inserts to anchor plants along the waterfall wall.
Step 5: Plant Your Paludarium
Choose a mix of aquatic, emergent, and terrestrial plants:
- Aquatic: Anubias, Bucephalandra, Java fern, Cryptocoryne
- Emergent: Hydrocotyle tripartita, Hygrophila, Lagenandra
- Terrestrial: Ferns, mosses, orchids, Tillandsia
Attach epiphytic plants with the included thread or glue them to driftwood and rocks. Position mosses and humidity-loving plants near the misting system for best results.
Step 6: Fill and Cycle the System
Slowly fill the aquatic section with dechlorinated water to avoid disturbing the substrate. Turn on the pump to start the waterfall and circulation, and switch on the atomizer for misting.
Like any aquarium, your paludarium will need to cycle before adding fish or shrimp. Test water parameters regularly, and introduce livestock gradually once the system stabilizes.
Step 7: Maintain and Enjoy
Routine maintenance includes trimming plants, topping up water, and cleaning sponges in the filtration chamber. The misting system and waterfall help reduce manual spraying, making the paludarium easier to care for than traditional terrariums.
Over time, your plants will fill in, mosses will spread across hardscape, and the paludarium will transform into a lush, self-sustaining ecosystem.
Why Choose a UNS Foresta Paludarium?
The Ultum Nature Systems Foresta Paludarium takes the complexity out of hybrid setups by integrating all the essential features — filtration, misting, and water circulation — into one elegant system. With the 35E and 60E models, beginners and advanced aquascapers alike can enjoy the beauty of both land and water in a single rimless display.
At Charterhouse Aquatics UK, we proudly stock the full range of UNS paludariums and accessories, making it easy to bring your tropical rainforest vision to life.
