To add that special effect and enhance the natural
setting within your aquarium, try using live plants instead of fake plastic
plants. The use of live plants will not only add a pleasing visual appeal, but
will also help maintain your tank. By adding oxygen to the water, the use of
live plants helps keep your aquarium balanced and will aid in fish health.
The most important factor in growing and maintaining healthy aquarium plants is
the lighting used. For a well planted aquarium, it is suggested to use 2-3 watts
per gallon of water. The use of fluorescent bulbs is practical and adds a nice
lighting effect. Take caution when deciding to use florescent lights if your
tank has a depth of 20" or more. The low growing plants, or plants with multiple
leave levels will suffer from a lack of light as the florescent rays will not
provide enough light.
Once you have figured out what type of lighting you will use, you must turn your
attention to the hardness of the water. The majority of aquarium plants will
thrive in water that has a hardness between 4-12 dH, and between the range of
6.5-7.2 for pH. Plants need clean and clear water to survive best in, so proper
cleaning and maintenance should be performed on the aquarium. Most plants will
not survive if there is too much debris or waste in the water, so keeping up
with cleaning is essential.
Once your plants are established in a clean, well lighted tank, you must care
for them by making sure they receive the nutrients required for healthy growth.
Plants need both macro- and micro nutrients. Macro nutrients are usually found
naturally in tap water and in the fish themselves. These nutrients include
nitrates, sulphates and phosphates. Macro nutrients should never need to be
added to the water of the tank. They exist on their own. Micro nutrients are
needed in very small amounts. Copper, iron and zinc are among the micro
nutrients live plants will need to survive in the aquarium.
Looking for plants for your aquarium?
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Generally, the water and the fish in the tank will
provide the nutrients and fertilizers needed for plant growth. It is rare that
any supplements will need to be added. One important factor in having healthy
plant life is your filtration system. Stay away from under gravel filters
because they produce a steady flow of bubbles that disturb the surface. The
filter plate on under gravel filters also limit's the composition of the gravel
in which the plants are rooted. All other kinds of filtration systems will work
well. The only things to be concerned about are if your filter causes too much
disruption to the water surface. When this happens, carbon dioxide is lost and
plants will suffer. Also make sure the filter creates a current that keeps
nutrients moving throughout the tank.
By having a good chemical balance in the aquarium and having an efficient
filtering system, you will be sure to have healthy live plant growth. These
plants will add to the beauty of the tank and will also keep your fish relaxed
because it will be a natural setting for them. If you are considering adding
plants for decoration within the aquarium, consider the great benefits of using
live plants.
