Everyone now likes the sparse look. While it has its attractions, where the fish suppose to hide?
I have always liked the full look but still done nicely. My fish have tons of hidey places and feel safe. My fish seem to always be content and long lived.
If ya need swimming room for large fish, then perhaps a bit more sparse but they still need to hide. I see some designs now where a fly cant find a good spot to hide....
Perhaps I will try the more two island type look. Hmmm. I have a 120lbs of rock to play with for my 50g.....