Plants are essential in any aquarium ecosystem. They provide food, oxygen, and shelter for fish and other aquatic life. In fact, aquarium plants are so important that many fish would not survive without them. Plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis. This process uses sunlight to convert water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose. The oxygen produced by plants is used by fish and other aquatic creatures to breathe.
In addition to producing oxygen, plants also help to regulate the pH levels in an aquarium. This is important because some fish are very sensitive to changes in pH levels. By keeping the pH levels stable, plants help to create a healthy environment for all aquatic life.
Aquarium plant in an aquarium are not just for improving the beauty of it but they are important for reducing the carbon dioxide from the water, for supplying oxygen, food and shelter for fish and for promoting useful bacteria. Many species of fish will not be able to reproduce in an aquarium without plants. The fish need leaves of the plant for laying their eggs. Plants provide a sense of security to the fish.
As a fish keeper, you should make consistent efforts to maintain the live plants in your aquarium. Here is some advice for you –
1. Life of the plants in the aquarium depends on the supply of light. Plants require at least 14 hours of light every day. So the natural sunlight is not sufficient for them. You should provide artificial lighting for some part of the night. It is advisable to set up fluorescent lights. There are some lights are available in the market which are specifically prepared for aquarium purposes. Inquire with the pet shops about them and also the number of lights and their wattage you need based on the size of your aquarium.
2. Plants for aquarium require adequate nutrients. Some of them come from your fish but they want something more. You can use fertilizers in consultation with your pet shop. Fish waste is a natural fertilizer which is a good nutrient for the aquarium plants. You can also supply commercial fertilizers but their use should be strictly on the basis of consultation with a fish expert or with your pet shop. There is a possibility of contamination of aquarium water due to the use of improper fertilizers.
You should also remember that the quantity in which you add the fertilizers is important. If you add fertilizers in moderate quantities, the plants we will be able to absorb the nutrients successfully. However excessive use of fertilizers will result in many problems like growth of algae, polluting the water and harming the plants.
3. You should adjust the temperature of the aquarium according to the nature of plants you have. Usually, plants are comfortable with the temperature range of 70-80° F. The pH level of the water should also be monitored. Usually pH level in the range of 7.0 to 8.0 is considered good for the plants.
4. When you go to a pet shop for buying plants, inspect them thoroughly. Healthy plants are important for healthy environment at the aquarium. The plants should have firm leaves and solid roots. The types which are common and popular are Java Fern and Java Moss. They are compatible with almost all species of freshwater fish. They are strong and they can sustain in hard water.
5. While introducing plants in the aquarium, you should be careful. You should rinse them thoroughly with treated water before you add them in the aquarium. If a plant is giving a strange smell, you should avoid it. Such plants may contaminate your water.
6. You should select the younger plants because they can adjust to the environment of your aquarium quickly. Plants will take some time for such adjustment and in the process they may lose leaves. However this is absolutely normal and nothing to worry about it.
7. The maintenance of existing plants in the aquarium is vital. You should prune them regularly and you should remove the dead plants as soon as possible.
8. If you are thinking of introducing snails in the aquarium, you should check whether they are friendly with the plants. Some of the snails are useful as they will clean the plants and eat algae. However some will damage the plants by eating them. If you notice such snails, remove them manually from the aquarium.
Freshwater aquarium plants
There are many different types of freshwater aquarium plants available. Some of the most popular plants include Java Fern, Java Moss, Anubias, and Cabomba. These plants are compatible with a variety of fish and can thrive in a variety of water conditions. They are easy to care for and can quickly become established in an aquarium.
One important consideration when choosing plants for an aquarium is water temperature. Different types of freshwater aquarium plants prefer different temperature ranges, so it is important to do your research and find plants that will thrive in your tank’s environment.
Live freshwater aquarium plants
If you’re looking to add some live plants to your freshwater aquarium, you can’t go wrong with any of the plants mentioned above. They are all easy to care for, and will quickly become established in your tank. Make sure to research the water temperature range that each plant prefers, so you can create a healthy and vibrant environment for your fish and plants. Additionally, be sure to remove any snails that may damage your plants, and prune them regularly to keep them looking their best. With a little bit of care and attention, your freshwater aquarium plants will soon become true friends of your fish!
Beginner aquarium plants
If you’re just starting out in the world of freshwater aquariums, it can be helpful to start with some beginner aquarium plants. These plants are easy to care for, and will quickly become established in your tank. Some of the most popular beginner aquarium plants include Java Fern, Java Moss, Anubias, and Cabomba.
To choose the right beginner aquarium plants for your tank, it is important to consider water temperature and other environmental factors. Some plants prefer warmer temperatures, while others thrive in cooler conditions. You should also take into account lighting requirements, water hardness, and any special care instructions that may be associated with certain plants.
