Live plants

Most fresh water aquariums can be set up with live plants and whenever possible, it is recommended to do so. The vast selection of plants suitable for aquariums is constantly growing along with affordable, effective, support equipment, providing the aquarist with choices for almost any setup. Some of the benefits of live plants are that they:

-supplement filtration by absorbing ammonium, nitrates, and phosphates, and even assimilate other undesirable substances from aquarium water.

-Produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide when the aquarium is illuminated.

-Provide natural shelter for fish, thereby reducing stress and supporting natural behavior. Plants also provide hiding places for baby fish and for species that are being harassed by other inhabitants.

-Provide the main decoration feature of aquariums and supply a dynamic element to the aquarium as they grow.

Tips on planting correctly and effectively

Make sure to incorporate groups of plants in your setup. Select a few species with a quantity of each as opposed to many different species and minor quantities of each. Position the plants with respect to the species. Taller plants should be placed at the back of the tank and shorter ones towards the front. Be aware of the fact that certain species require more light than others. Assess how much space will be required for the adult life of the plant. Different species have different growth rates which will need more open space to grow.

Recommended aquatic plants

The following listed are known go very well with aquariums. Please bare in mind that there are many various species within these plant groups.

Vallisneria

Tolerate a wide range of lighting and water conditions, rapid growth, excellent for background.

Hygrophila

Prefer bright light, tolerate wide range of water conditions, rapid growth, suitable for mid to rear of aquarium.

Microsorum

Tolerate wide range of lighting and water conditions, slow growth, can be anchored to driftwood or stones.

Echinodorus

Tolerate wide varieties of light and water conditions. Certain species are excellent for feature or center plants, many species feature broad attractive leaves.

Cryptocoryne

Sometimes will take some time for adaptation, great for foreground placement, generally will tolerate a wide variety of water conditions.