Plants

The aim of a tropical fish tank is to simulate the natural environment of the fish. Part of a river, pond or stream and along with driftwood, gravel and rocks - plants help us to achieve this.

Plants perform several useful functions. They look good. They serve as indicators of the tanks health. If the plants are healthy and lush then generally the water quality is good as well. They provide various dietary supplements to the fish. They offer security and protection to weaker more timid fish. They reduce excessive algae growth. They provide sites for the eggs of spawning fish and a nursery for baby fish. Generally aquatic plants available from your local pet store are hardy and require little or no maintenance. Choose the best looking plants out of one group or type of plant from your pet shop as the assistant will pick the first plant out of the group. Ask for a plant that has the characteristics that you like. Experiment with a number of varieties to see what you and your fish like. Plants might die at first, but keep trying and once a plant takes hold it will last almost indefinitely. Plants will last for many years, and with a little pruning now and again, will look excellent and lush.

Some common varieties of plants suitable in a community tank, and suitable for beginners are: Corkscrew Val, Purple Waffle, Lace Fern, and Amazon Sword. Duckweed, which floats on the surface is nice and the fish like its roots, but keep some water clear of it as it grows extremely fast and spreads.