Beginner Must Know - Aquarium Plants

Aquarium Plants

Aquarium Plant Use

There are a number of reasons why aquatic plants are useful in the aquarium.

Freshwater aquarium plants offer aesthetic pleasures to the aquarium viewer. In fact, some cultures prefer to stock their aquariums with plants alone. The Japanese and Dutch are particularly dedicated to aquatic plants. Other aquarium keepers find use for a clump of greenery by concealing an unsightly fish filter.

Aquarium plants can help your fish feel at home. Plants for hiding or breeding purposes can influence the behaviour of your fish in positive ways. Offering fish an underwater garden to swim in provides a refuge from perceived threats. Being able to access such shelters can reduce stress for increased fish health.

Plants can help clean the aquarium water. Healthy plants absorb nitrate thereby removing this and some other toxins from the aquarium. Eliminating these nutrients also robs algae of it's food source for cleaner glass and clearer water.

Aquatic plants can complete a natural setting. In setups such as biotope aquariums some green foliage finishes off the natural environment you may be recreating.

Plants in the aquarium can provide food for fish. Although it is usually undesirable to have your aquatic plants eaten in aquariums, plants can be utilised as fish nutrition

Aquatic Plant Requirements

Plants in your fish tank can be a source of pleasure and frustration. Growing them is similar to growing any other type of plant; you have to meet the basic needs of the individual variety in order to succeed.

An aquatic plant is similar to terrestrial plants in their needs with one major exception - they must live submerged in water instead of air. With an abundance of liquid to support the structure, aquatic plants generally have weaker stems than air plants.

Most difficulties in growing plants in a fish tank arise from the lack of an essential element. Aquatic plants have basic needs that must be met for their successful growth. Taking these requirements into account when planting your aquarium will reward you with healthy aquarium plant growth. Once you have mastered the following elements you will find your plants will flourish.