Freshwater Aquarium Plants
Freshwater aquarium plants bring your aquarium to life, and create a happier, more natural environment for your fish. Even though your fish have been raised in captivity, it’s a good idea to choose freshwater aquarium plants that are the same type that they would experience in their natural habitat. That said, there are many types of plants that are perfect to use in your aquarium.
Floating plants are a good choice, especially for fish that like to have some protective cover. Two good choices are Driccia and Fairy Moss.
Rhizomes are another good choice for live freshwater aquarium plants. Rhizomes are a classification of plant that have thick, horizontal stems and top-sprouting leaves, with roots at the bottom. These are good to use as a runner over the surface of the gravel… as they spread they grow new leaf sections and provide good cover. Anubias and African Fern are two types of rhizomes, and they are easy to plant. All you need to do is tie them to driftwood or larger stones in your tank. The Anubias is very hearty and will take to a variety of conditions. and it even flowers underwater… and the best thing is, your fish won’t eat the flowers, so you’ll actually get to enjoy them. Java Fern is another popular rhizome, as it is a strong plant that can live comfortably in various water types and pH levels.
A rosette makes another good freshwater aquarium plant, because they not only cover the water with runners and new growth, they sometimes also bloom into flowers. If that appeals to you, look for Sagittaria or Amazon Sword. The Amazon Sword is one of the most popular aquarium plants overall because it grows quickly, is easy to care for, and keeps the algae down in your tank.
Another freshwater aquarium plant that will keep algae levels down is the Water Wisteria. It grows fast and is a strong plant, and algae doesn’t stand a chance against it. The only negative to this plant is that it uses many of the same nutrients that are in your water, so you’ll want to keep an eye on things and make sure the plant isn’t getting more than your fish are.
Live freshwater aquarium plants add a whole new dimension to your aquarium. They are a natural, healthy way to decorate your tank and add stimulation and interest for your fish, and for you. They do need more attention, of course, than fake plants and other decorations, but in general they are easy to take care of and some even help you maintain the health of your tank. Start with one or two, and add more as you get more comfortable with them. Your fish will thank you!
Stem plants are also popular. As the name suggests, these root in the gravel and shoot leaves and growth from a single stem.
Up for a challenge? Try a Cryptocoryne Beckettii. This gorgeous plant will grow on land and underwater, and bursts into a wide range of vibrant colors.
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