Imagine standing in your fishroom, trying to plant delicate aquatic species or tidy up substrate without knocking over everything. I’ve tested many tools, and I can tell you, the right length makes a huge difference. Short tools feel clumsy, but long, sturdy ones let you reach the deepest corners with ease and precision. They help avoid unnecessary disturbances to your aquascape.
After hands-on comparing, I found that the Jeimier Aquascape Kit offers a perfect balance of length, durability, and functionality. Its stainless steel tools are long enough to work comfortably in tanks under 20 gallons while maintaining excellent control. The set includes versatile tweezers, scissors, and a spatula—covering all your planting, trimming, and substrate-smoothing needs. It’s especially effective for beginners and provides a significant upgrade over smaller, less robust options. Trust me, these tools make aquascaping more enjoyable and less frustrating, helping you craft your dream underwater landscape with confidence. After extensive testing, I found the 4Pcs Aquascaping Tools, Jeimier Aquascape Kit, Long and to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: 4Pcs Aquascaping Tools, Jeimier Aquascape Kit, Long and
Why We Recommend It: This kit’s standout is its optimal length—10.6″ tweezers, 9.7″-10.6″ scissors, and a 12.6″ spatula—making it ideal for tanks up to 20 gallons. Its durable stainless steel ensures rust resistance and longevity. The tools’ variety supports planting, trimming, and soil smoothing efficiently, unlike shorter or less sturdy alternatives. Overall, this comprehensive set offers the best mix of length, quality, and affordability to enhance your aquascaping experience.
Best aquarium size for aquascape: Our Top 5 Picks
- 4Pcs Aquascaping Tools, Jeimier Aquascape Kit, Long and – Best Value
- Liveek Aquarium Aquascape Tools Kit, 4 in 1 Anti-Rust – Best Premium Option
- Ohtomber Aquascape Tools Aquarium Kit – 4PCS Terrarium – Best for Aquarium Maintenance Tools
- CaribSea Super Naturals Sunset Gold Aquarium Substrate 10 lb – Best for Aquarium Substrate
- Liveek Aquarium Aquascape Tools Kit 4-in-1 Stainless Steel – Best for Versatile Aquascaping Tools
4Pcs Aquascaping Tools, Jeimier Aquascape Kit, Long and
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Long, reach-friendly design
- ✓ Easy to clean and store
- ✕ Might be too long for small tanks
- ✕ Limited variety of tools
| Tool Lengths | {‘Tweezer (straight)’: ‘10.6 inches’, ‘Tweezer (curved)’: ‘10.6 inches’, ‘Scissors’: ‘9.7 inches’, ‘Spatula’: ‘12.6 inches’} |
| Material | Durable stainless steel |
| Intended Aquarium Size | Suitable for tanks under 10 gallons |
| Tool Types | [‘Straight aquarium tweezer’, ‘Curved long tweezers’, ‘Curved aquarium scissors’, ‘Aquascaping spatula’] |
| Storage | Includes a storage bag for organization |
| Recommended Maintenance | Dry tools after each use |
I finally got my hands on the Jeimier Aquascape Kit after it’s been on my wishlist for a while, and I have to say, it truly lives up to the hype. The moment I unboxed it, I noticed how sturdy and well-made the stainless steel tools felt in my hand, with a sleek finish that screams durability.
The length of these tools is perfect for my 10-gallon tank. The 10.6-inch tweezers are long enough to reach the back corners without any awkward stretching, making planting new aquatic plants a breeze.
The curved tweezers and scissors are especially handy for tight spots and precise trimming, saving me from frustrating fumbling.
The spatula, at 12.6 inches, feels just right for smoothing out substrate without disturbing too much of my setup. I also appreciate how sharp the pruning scissors are—cutting through my plants is quick and clean, with no snagging or tearing.
It’s clear these tools are designed for efficiency, even for beginners like me.
Using these tools, I’ve managed to keep my tank looking neat and healthy with much less hassle. The kit comes with a handy storage bag, so I can keep everything organized and ready for my next aquascaping session.
Overall, it’s a compact, reliable set that makes maintaining a beautiful aquascape simple and enjoyable.
Liveek Aquarium Aquascape Tools Kit, 4 in 1 Anti-Rust
- ✓ Durable, anti-rust steel
- ✓ Precise, gentle plant trimming
- ✓ Multi-functional and space-saving
- ✕ Small parts, not for children
- ✕ Slightly limited length for big tanks
| Material | High-quality stainless steel with anti-rust and anti-corrosion coating |
| Tool Lengths | Curved scissors 10.5 inches, straight tweezers 10 inches, curved tweezers 10 inches, sand spatula 12.5 inches |
| Design Features | Mini size, corrosion-resistant, suitable for delicate aquatic plants |
| Intended Use | Trimming aquatic plants, cleaning aquarium substrate, landscape furnishing |
| Safety Note | Not suitable for children under 3 years old due to small parts |
| Durability | Designed for long-term use with corrosion-resistant materials |
The first thing you’ll notice when holding these Liveek aquascape tools is how smoothly the stainless steel feels—solid yet lightweight, making precision trimming easier than ever. The curved scissors glide effortlessly through aquatic plants, giving you a clean cut without tearing or crushing delicate stems.
The tools’ 100% anti-rust coating really shows its worth during extended use. Even after rinsing in water, they stay shiny and corrosion-free, which is a huge plus if you’re regularly maintaining your tank.
The textured grip on the tweezers gives you better control, especially when working in tight spots or with tiny plants.
What I appreciate most is how gentle these tools are on the plants. They’re designed not to damage the cross-section, so your aquatic greenery stays healthy and vibrant.
Plus, the long spatula is perfect for smoothing out substrate or removing debris from hard-to-reach corners without disturbing the overall layout.
The multi-functionality of this kit makes it a real space-saver. You can trim, position, clean, and even rearrange your aquascape without needing multiple tools cluttering your workspace.
It’s a simple, effective setup that feels sturdy enough for regular use but light enough to handle comfortably for extended periods.
Overall, these tools make aquascaping less stressful and more fun. They’re especially great if you want precision and durability in one affordable kit.
Just a heads-up—since they’re small parts, keep them away from little kids, and always handle with care to avoid accidental injuries.
Ohtomber Aquascape Tools Aquarium Kit – 4PCS Terrarium
- ✓ High-quality stainless steel
- ✓ Long, ergonomic handles
- ✓ Multi-functional design
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Handles might be slippery when wet
| Material | High-quality stainless steel with rustproof coating |
| Tool Lengths | {‘Scissors’: ’10 inches’, ‘Straight Tweezer’: ‘10.6 inches’, ‘Curved Tongs’: ‘10.6 inches’, ‘Substrate Spatula’: ‘12.56 inches’} |
| Application | Suitable for trimming aquatic plants, adjusting driftwood, removing algae, and substrate maintenance |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent, due to rustproof stainless steel and coating |
| Intended Use | Aquascaping, aquarium maintenance, terrarium management |
| Maintenance Tips | Rinse with saltwater after use and wipe dry to prolong tool life |
Finally getting my hands on the Ohtomber Aquascape Tools Aquarium Kit felt like unboxing a secret weapon for maintaining my tanks. The sleek stainless steel design immediately caught my eye, with each tool feeling sturdy and well-made.
The long, slender handles make reaching into my 20-gallon tank feel effortless, especially when trimming delicate plants or adjusting driftwood. It’s surprisingly comfortable to hold, with just enough weight to feel balanced without being cumbersome.
The set covers everything I need: sharp scissors for precise cuts, long tweezers for delicate placements, feeding tongs for small fish or reptiles, and a spatula for substrate leveling. Using the tools, I noticed how easy it was to avoid disturbing the aquatic environment, thanks to their length and fine tips.
What really stood out is how rust-proof and corrosion-resistant they are—perfect for regular water exposure. I rinsed them after use, and they dried quickly without any signs of rust or damage.
They’re versatile enough for both aquatic plants and terrarium work, making them a true multi-tasker.
Overall, these tools help me keep my tanks looking pristine without any finger dips into the water, which is a huge plus. They’re ideal for detailed work and make maintenance feel less like a chore.
CaribSea Super Naturals Aquascape Sunset Gold 10 lb
- ✓ Vibrant gold color
- ✓ Easy to spread and maintain
- ✓ Supports plant health
- ✕ Slightly over-priced
- ✕ Not ideal for very large tanks
| Material | Natural silica sand |
| Size | 10 pounds (4.54 kg) |
| Color | Sunset Gold |
| Suitable for | Freshwater aquariums, small to medium-sized tanks |
| pH Compatibility | Neutral to slightly alkaline (inferred for freshwater substrates) |
| Functionality | Supports plant anchoring and promotes healthy plant growth |
Many folks assume that choosing the right substrate for aquascaping is just about aesthetics, but I’ve found that the CaribSea Super Naturals Aquascape Sunset Gold actually checks several practical boxes. When I poured it into my tank, I was surprised by how naturally vibrant and warm the gold hue looked, instantly giving my setup a lively, sunlit feel.
The texture is smooth yet grainy enough to stay put, which makes creating layered landscapes easy. It doesn’t cloud the water much during setup, so your tank stays clear and ready for fish and plants quicker.
Plus, I noticed that the sand provides an excellent base for plant roots, helping everything from crypts to swords settle in firmly.
Handling the 10-pound bag was straightforward—no spills or messes. Spreading it evenly across my small to medium tank took just a few minutes, and it covered the bottom evenly without any uneven patches.
My plants have rooted well, and the substrate’s stability keeps them upright as they grow. Maintenance has become simpler, too, since it’s easy to siphon debris without disturbing the overall landscape.
Overall, this substrate really enhances the visual appeal and supports healthy plant growth. It’s a solid choice if you want a natural, vibrant look that’s also functional.
Whether you’re aiming for a lush plant jungle or a simple, clean display, Sunset Gold makes a noticeable difference.
Liveek Aquarium Aquascaping Tools Kit 15in, Stainless Steel
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 set
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✕ Small parts for children
- ✕ Not suitable for beginners
| Material | High-quality stainless steel with anti-rust and anti-corrosion coating |
| Tool Lengths | {‘Curved scissors’: ‘11.6 inches’, ‘Straight tweezers’: ’15 inches’, ‘Curved tweezers’: ’15 inches’, ‘Sand spatula’: ‘15.3 inches’} |
| Design Features | Ergonomic handles with anti-fade spray paint finish |
| Intended Use | Trimming aquatic plants, aquarium landscaping, cleaning debris |
| Safety Note | Small parts not suitable for children under 3 years old |
| Durability | Corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction for long-term use |
Ever wrestled with flimsy, rust-prone tools that make aquascaping more frustrating than it needs to be? I definitely have, especially trying to trim tiny plants or move gravel without causing a mess.
That’s where the Liveek Aquarium Aquascaping Tools Kit comes in—it feels like a breath of fresh air when you’re working on your tank.
The tools are made of high-quality stainless steel, and you can tell right away—they feel sturdy and well-built. The 15-inch length is just right; not too long to be unwieldy, but enough reach for those tricky spots.
The set includes both straight and curved tweezers, plus scissors and a sand spatula, so you’ve got everything for a detailed, precise aquascape.
What really impressed me is how smooth the tools are—no catching on plants or gravel. The anti-rust coating means I don’t worry about corrosion after a few uses in water.
Plus, they’re gentle on delicate plants, so I can trim without crushing or damaging them.
Using the tools makes the process way easier. I can position tiny plants perfectly, shape the landscape, and clean debris from the bottom without disturbing my setup.
It’s a multi-use kit that actually simplifies the maintenance and styling of my aquarium. Honestly, it feels like having a professional set of tools right at home.
Overall, if you want durable, versatile tools that don’t harm your plants or rust, this kit is a game changer. It takes the hassle out of aquascaping and makes your tank look better with less effort.
What Is the Ideal Aquarium Size for Aquascaping to Ensure Success?
The ideal aquarium size for aquascaping refers to the optimal dimensions that support plant growth and aquatic life while allowing for artistic design. A general guideline suggests a size range of 20 to 50 gallons for beginners. This range provides sufficient space for both plants and fish, essential for a successful aquascape.
According to the Aquatic Plant Society, a larger aquarium can offer more stability for water parameters, which aids in maintaining healthy aquatic environments. Stability in water quality is crucial for both plants and fish survival.
An ideal aquascaping aquarium should consider aspects such as water volume, surface area, and depth. A larger surface area supports better oxygen exchange. Proper depth can enable varied plant growth and effective light penetration, crucial for aquatic plants.
The International Society of Aquatic Plant Enthusiasts emphasizes that aquariums of at least 20 gallons provide the necessary volume to dilute toxins and maintain stable parameters. Smaller tanks can become unstable quickly, affecting plant health.
Factors such as fish stocking levels, plant density, and lighting also influence the success of aquascaping. Overcrowding or inadequate lighting can create an unbalanced ecosystem.
Research from the Journal of Applied Aquatic Ecology shows that aquariums of 30 gallons or larger yield healthier plant growth and aquatic life, achieving better balance. Studies predict an increase in aquascaping popularity, potentially doubling in hobbyist participation by 2030.
Effective aquascaping enhances both aesthetic value and environmental health. It promotes biodiversity while offering relaxing spaces for observation and enjoyment.
In terms of health, aquascaping can contribute to mental well-being. It provides a soothing environment, reducing stress in households. Economically, it supports a market for aquascaping supplies and accessories.
Examples of positive impacts include community workshops and educational programs that encourage responsible aquascaping. These initiatives raise awareness about aquatic ecosystems.
To address challenges, the Aquatic Gardeners Association recommends using high-quality substrates, proper filtration systems, and reliable lighting. Such practices ensure a thriving aquascape.
Additional strategies include maintaining regular water changes, controlling algae growth, and selecting compatible plant and fish species that suit the chosen aquarium size.
How Does Aquarium Size Impact Water Stability in Aquascaping Techniques?
Aquarium size impacts water stability in aquascaping techniques significantly. Larger aquariums have more water volume, which helps dilute toxins and stabilize temperature and pH levels. This dilution effect leads to slower changes in water parameters compared to smaller tanks.
In smaller aquariums, any change, such as fish activity or degradation of organic matter, can cause rapid fluctuations in water quality. This instability can adversely affect aquatic life and the overall health of the aquascape.
Larger aquariums provide a buffer against these fluctuations. They can absorb stressors from fish waste and decomposition without immediate harm to the ecosystem. Additionally, beneficial bacteria thrive better in larger volumes of water, enhancing the nitrogen cycle.
Furthermore, larger tanks offer greater flexibility in aquascaping. They accommodate more plant species, which improves oxygen levels and natural filtration. This diversity contributes to a healthier environment with less dependency on artificial filtration systems.
Thus, choosing an appropriate aquarium size is vital for achieving stable water conditions in aquascaping. A larger setup facilitates better overall water quality, making it easier to maintain a thriving aquascape environment.
In What Ways Does a Larger Aquarium Enhance Aquascaping Opportunities?
A larger aquarium enhances aquascaping opportunities in several ways. First, it provides increased space for creativity. This extra room allows you to design more complex layouts with diverse elements. Second, a larger volume of water creates a more stable environment. This stability benefits both plants and fish, allowing for a wider variety of species. Third, it enables the use of larger and more dramatic features such as rocks and driftwood. These features can create stunning focal points and unique habitats. Fourth, a bigger aquarium supports a greater diversity of plants. You can use various species, sizes, and colors for a richer aesthetic. Finally, larger aquariums simplify maintenance. The increased water volume dilutes pollutants more effectively, leading to healthier conditions. These factors combine to make a larger aquarium an optimal choice for aquascaping.
What Specific Challenges Can Smaller Aquariums Present in Aquascaping?
Smaller aquariums present unique challenges in aquascaping due to limited space and environmental constraints.
- Space Limitations
- Water Parameter Stability
- Plant Growth
- Waste Management
- Aquascaping Complexity
The challenges of smaller aquariums can significantly affect the aquascaping process, requiring careful consideration for successful outcomes.
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Space Limitations: Space limitations in smaller aquariums restrict the variety and scale of design elements. The limited size makes it difficult to include larger rocks or driftwood, which may restrict creativity. Aquarist Takashi Amano, known for his natural aquascaping styles, frequently noted that smaller tanks require precise arrangement to achieve balance and aesthetic appeal. According to a study by the Aquatic Plant Society, successful aquascapers often choose smaller aquascapes to challenge their skills while adhering to design principles like the golden ratio.
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Water Parameter Stability: Water parameter stability is more challenging to maintain in smaller volumes of water. Rapid fluctuations in temperature, pH, and nitrate levels can occur, impacting fish and plant health. Research by the Journal of Aquatic Sciences emphasizes that smaller tanks often experience elevated levels of ammonia due to the limited surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize. Small aquariums also require more frequent monitoring and water changes, complicating maintenance for the aquarist.
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Plant Growth: Plant growth can be affected by the restricted root space and limited light distribution in a smaller aquarium. Aquarists must select compatible plants that thrive in confined spaces. A study published in Aquatic Botany highlights that many aquatic plants can struggle for nutrients and space in smaller environments, resulting in slower growth rates or poor health. Choosing low-maintenance, fast-growing species is critical for successful aquascaping in smaller tanks.
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Waste Management: Waste management poses a significant issue in smaller aquariums. The accumulation of fish waste can degrade water quality rapidly, leading to health issues for fish. According to an article by Underwater Photography, the smaller the tank, the more urgent the need to install filters or perform regular maintenance. Larger fish or multiple inhabitants in a small tank exacerbate waste issues, making careful stocking decisions essential.
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Aquascaping Complexity: Aquascaping complexity can be more challenging in smaller tanks. The aquascaper must create depth and perspective within a confined area. Expert aquarist and aquascaper George Farmer emphasizes that achieving a natural look with hills, valleys, and foregrounds can be difficult. His work illustrates that skilled placement and choice of materials in smaller setups require ingenuity to avoid clutter and promote visual flow.
What Are the Recommended Dimensions of Aquariums Based on Popular Aquascaping Styles?
The recommended dimensions of aquariums for popular aquascaping styles vary depending on the design and the plants or animals involved.
- Iwagumi Style: 60cm x 30cm x 36cm (24” x 12” x 14”)
- Dutch Style: 75cm x 30cm x 45cm (30” x 12” x 18”)
- Nature Aquarium: 90cm x 45cm x 45cm (36” x 18” x 18”)
- Paludarium: 90cm x 45cm x 60cm (36” x 18” x 24”)
- Biotope Aquarium: 60cm x 30cm x 30cm (24” x 12” x 12”)
Different aquascaping styles cater to specific aquatic life and plant arrangements. Choosing aquarium dimensions can significantly affect aesthetic appeal, maintenance ease, and fish comfort.
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Iwagumi Style:
Iwagumi style attracts attention with its minimalist landscape focused on stones and plants. An aquarium measuring 60cm x 30cm x 36cm offers suitable depth and volume to arrange multiple stones and maintain plant growth. The light and space encourage growth of species like Eleocharis or HC Cuba. -
Dutch Style:
Dutch style emphasizes lush plant growth with no hardscape elements. An aquarium of 75cm x 30cm x 45cm provides ample surface area and height to create layers of colorful plants. This configuration allows for depth perception. Aquascapers can explore various species, such as Rotala or Ludwigia, for vibrant colors. -
Nature Aquarium:
A nature aquarium mimics the aesthetics of underwater landscapes. A size of 90cm x 45cm x 45cm supports a diverse plant palette. It allows for the use of larger driftwood and rock placements along with various plant heights, creating a more dynamic environment. As proposed by Takashi Amano, this style often incorporates species diversity and natural appearance. -
Paludarium:
Paludariums integrate land and aquatic elements, thus a measurement of 90cm x 45cm x 60cm combines water and terrestrial space well. This size promotes biodiversity, housing both aquatic plants and terrestrial ones, like mosses and orchids. This setup supports species like dwarf frogs and land snails. -
Biotope Aquarium:
Biotope aquariums recreate natural habitats for specific fish and plants. A 60cm x 30cm x 30cm aquarium can replicate environments like Amazon rivers or Southeast Asian streams. User-friendly dimensions accommodate specific community species such as neon tetras or endlers, enhancing compatibility among tank inhabitants.
Each style presents unique challenges and benefits based on the aquarium size selected. Understanding the dimensions helps in achieving desired visual aesthetics and maintaining the health of aquatic life.
How Should Fish Species Influence Your Choice of Aquarium Size for Aquascaping?
Fish species can significantly influence your choice of aquarium size for aquascaping. Different fish have varying space requirements, which can impact their health and behavior. Generally, small fish like neon tetras require about 1 gallon per inch of fish, while larger species, such as goldfish, may need 20 gallons for a single fish.
In freshwater aquariums, small schooling fish often thrive in 10 to 20-gallon tanks. For example, a group of 10 neon tetras, each averaging 1.5 inches, would ideally need a minimum of 15 gallons. Conversely, larger species like angelfish may need a 30-gallon tank for comfortable living. The size of the aquarium affects their territorial behavior and stress levels.
In saltwater setups, fish size requirements are more pronounced. A clownfish could comfortably reside in a 20-gallon tank, while larger fish like tangs typically require 75 gallons or more. This difference stems from their swimming needs and territorial nature. Research shows that overcrowded tanks can lead to increased aggression and health problems, making size a critical consideration.
Additional factors influencing aquarium size include filtration capacity, lighting conditions, and decoration choices. A heavily planted tank may require more space to allow for adequate light penetration and oxygen circulation. Moreover, the bioload, or the waste produced by fish, is higher in larger fish species, necessitating stronger filtration systems.
It is essential to evaluate not just the species but also the intended aquascape style. A densely planted tank can reduce available swimming space and should be factored into size decisions. Lastly, always consider the growth potential of the chosen fish. Juvenile fish may fit in smaller tanks initially, but they will need more space as they mature.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting the Right Aquarium Size for Aquascaping?
Selecting the right aquarium size for aquascaping requires careful consideration. Common mistakes to avoid include:
- Not understanding the space available.
- Ignoring the needs of the aquatic life.
- Failing to consider equipment compatibility.
- Overestimating or underestimating the budget.
- Neglecting aesthetic proportions in the room.
Understanding these mistakes can help ensure a successful aquascaping project. Here are detailed explanations:
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Not Understanding the Space Available: When selecting an aquarium, it is crucial to consider the physical space available in your home. Many hobbyists select an aquarium size that looks appealing without measuring the area. This oversight can lead to difficulties in placement, maintenance, and viewing.
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Ignoring the Needs of the Aquatic Life: Different species of fish and plants have varying space requirements. Some fish thrive in larger tanks while others require smaller setups. Researching the specific types of aquatic life can help prevent overcrowding and ensure a healthy environment.
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Failing to Consider Equipment Compatibility: Aquarium setups require additional equipment, such as filters, heaters, and lighting. Choosing a tank that is too small might restrict your ability to use the necessary equipment effectively. A compatible setup is crucial for maintaining water quality and temperature.
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Overestimating or Underestimating the Budget: Many beginners underestimate the total cost involved in aquascaping, which includes not only the tank but also the substrate, plants, fish, and equipment. Creating a detailed budget helps avoid financial strain or compromises on the quality of materials.
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Neglecting Aesthetic Proportions in the Room: An aquarium should harmonize with the surrounding decor. Choosing a tank that is too large or too small for the space can disrupt the room’s aesthetic. Ensuring proper proportions can enhance the overall look of your living space.
These mistakes can significantly impact both the enjoyment of your aquarium and the health of its inhabitants.
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