Liveek 4-in-1 Aquascape Tools Kit, Black

The Liveek Aquarium Aquascape Tools Kit (model N-01) is a 4 in 1 set for planted tanks. It includes 1 10.53 curved scissors, 1 103 straight tweezers, 1 103 curved tweezers and 1 12.53 sand spatula. The tools are stainless steel with a black spray finish that Liveek says resists fading, rust and corrosion.

What each tool does

• Straight tweezers: plant stem cuttings and small carpet portions.
• Curved tweezers: reach behind stones and wood without knocking the scape.
• Curved scissors: trim excess growth close to the substrate.
• Sand spatula: slope and smooth sand or soil, and move cornerstones into place.

Gentle on plants

Liveek points out that the tools suit small or thin water plants and trim without crushing the cut end. Clean cuts heal faster and are less likely to rot, which keeps stems healthy after a trim. The tweezers also pull uneaten food and debris from the bottom when a siphon would disturb the scape.

Fit for small and medium tanks

At around 103 to 12.53, the tools fit nano and medium tanks well. For deep tanks, a longer tool like the EvaGO 15 inch curved tweezers gives better reach. If you prefer a silver finish, the Jeimier 4-piece kit covers the same jobs.

Care and safety

Rinse and dry the tools after each use, and wipe off fertilizer residue so the scissor joint stays smooth. Liveek notes the parts are small and not suitable for children under three without supervision.

Who it suits

A tidy starter set for anyone setting up or maintaining a planted tank. The black finish also looks neat stored beside a display tank.

Planting goes best with the tank partly filled, so the water supports stems while you push them in. Trim regularly rather than letting stems reach the surface, since shorter cuts are easier to replant and keep the lower leaves getting light. Wipe the tools dry before putting them back in the case.