Your Freshwater Planted Aquarium
When planning your freshwater planted aquarium, consideration needs to be given to the plants for aquariums you intend to use. When choosing these, the best option is to try to incorporate those that are native to the habitat of the fish that live in your tank. Even if the fish was raised in a pet store aquarium, and has never been exposed to live plants, you should still try to give the fish a realistic environment.
There are basically five different types of plants for aquariums from which to choose when establishing your freshwater planted aquarium. One type that is suitable for outdoor ponds, especially those that house Koi, are bulb plants. These include the aponogeton and the water lily. However they do become rather large, and, therefore, are not suitable for indoor tanks.
Floating plants are another novel option for tank owners. If you have fish in your tank that need to have some sort of protective covering, in order to avoid being eaten, this type is ideal. Babies can hide under them until they are large enough to risk exposure. An example of this is the Fairy Moss an driccia.
Rhizomes are another good choice. These offer a thick stem with sprouting leaves located on top. It is a spreading plant that continually grows new leaves and roots. African Fern, as well as anubias, are types of rhizomes. They can be secured to something, such as heavy substrate, or driftwood that rests in the bottom of the tank.
The Sagittaria and the Amazon Sword are called rosettes. They look like a crown with roots underneath and leaves on top. They send out runners and cover the water as they grow. They also yield lovely flowers. These are some of the most beautiful plants for aquariums available.
If you have ever seen a single stem with leaves growing out from it, then you have seen a stem plant. These types of freshwater aquarium plants produce multiple varieties of leaves, out of nodes located on the stem, including single, double or more.
The Java Moss is a very common aquatic plant. It is also know as a Java Fern. It is a wonderful plant for those who do not have a green thumb. It is hearty and can survive in many different types of water conditions.
First timers may also choose the Water Wisteria for an aquarium. This is a plant that can grow quickly. It is also very effective in reducing algae growth.
If you like attractive freshwater aquarium plants, that are low in maintenance, then you may be interested in the anubias nana. This plant can make it in almost any type of conditions, as long as you attach it to a stone or some other stationary object. It is a flowering plant that is very attractive, although not to the point that you need worry about your fish eating it, as it just doesn’t seem to be high on their menu.
Another choice for your tank is the lillaeopsis, which is a grass like plant. It happens to thrive in strong sunlight. However, sunlight equals algae, so be sure to make an informed decision when choosing this plant.
If you are interested in a variety that is classified as amphibious, one that can survive equally well planted on land or thrive fully submerged, then the cryptocoryne beckettii may be the right choice for you. This species can be found in a wide range of beautiful colours that can really add to the aesthetic value of your tank.
The Amazon Sword, or echinodorus bleheri, is one of the most popular choices for a freshwater planted aquarium. Anyone, from a novice to an expert, will find that this plant is extremely easy to care for. It also grows very quickly. A nice added benefit of this plant is that it can assist in controlling algae growth in your tank.
Adding live aquarium plants to the interior of your aquarium can really make the tank more attractive, improve oxygen levels as well as provide a more natural environment for your fish. Certainly these live plants require some care, but the benefits of having them in your aquatic environment are unequalled.
Start with one or two plants, and then decide if more are needed as you progress. Make sure and keep in mind how much room your fish require so that you don’t end up overcrowding their environment.
Remember other than the fish themselves; nothing adds more interest in a freshwater planted aquarium than the variety of live plants.
