When most people consider a fish tank they think of all the beautiful tropical fish that are usually exhibited for their beauty and natural state. A fish tank is more than just a place that fish swim in for your enjoyment. You can have many different types of aquatic life inhabit a fish tank. The most popular type of aquatic life, besides the fish, are plants.
Plants are very important organisms that are used in tanks. Live plants are an essential presence in every aquarium for many reasons. First, they add a natural and attractive look to the aquarium, and secondly, they provide the pet fish with a natural source of food. Presence of live plants reduces the growth of algae in the fish tank, but most importantly, live plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis and continuously add it to the water for the fish to breathe. Also, plants absorb wastes of the fish like exhaled carbon dioxide and ammonia; if allowed to accumulate in the tank water it can be hazardous for the fish’s health.
Healthy Plnats and Healthy Fish Tank
Before you run out and just plunge any old water plant in your fish tank, you should remember that there are certain points to consider. You want to make sure the plants compliment and help the growth of your fish tank instead of causing harm to the fish and other aquatic life.
Only select those species of plants for your fish tank that can stay healthy while completely submerged.
Make sure the plants you select are able to survive well in the existing lighting conditions and chemical nature of the tank water; most plants are suited to live in pH values 6.5-7.5. Also, check about the suitable temperature range for the plants you select.
Certain plant types, like sagittaria, are fast growing and tolerant of even hard water; thus, they are ideal for the first inhabitants of the fish tank.
More sensitive plants can be added later for keeping diversity and giving the aquarium a natural lush and attractive look.
For visual effects, you can use a combination of plants of varying sizes so as to impart an impression of depth and contrast. Red plants, like ludwigia, bring a beautiful contrast against the natural green of other species.
Plants with tall stems and those bearing adventitious roots need regular pruning so as to keep the other plants healthy against their overshadowing effects.
Plants make a very attractive addition to your fish tank. They can help the bio-diversity of your fish tank and can also aid in keeping your fish healthy.