Common Marine Plants
If you are new to saltwater aquariums, you might want to add some common marine plants to your tank to make it more attractive. Marine plants are any plants that live in saltwater like your aquarium or the ocean. Just like your fish, some of them are easy to raise and care for and some can be very challenging. Marine plants can also be fun to raise, though, if you like gardening and aquariums. Plus, as an added benefit, marine plants are very good for your fish. They reduce stress for your finned friends by providing them with hiding spots and they can be beneficial to your tank's ecology.
Monkey Plants
Monkey plants, also called halimeda, are one of the most popular types of marine plants for beginner aquarium enthusiasts. That is because they are widely available at low prices from aquarium supply stores and they are easy to raise. Monkey plants are bright green and hail from the Caribbean Sea. They have round leaves strung in winding rows. If you want to keep monkey plants in your aquarium, you will need to provide them with plenty of calcium. If they don't get enough they will turn white and eventually die. You can help your monkey plants by adding calcium supplements to your water.
Mermaid Fans
The mermaid fan plant is another great introductory marine plant that you can get at any aquarium shop. This plant has long, green, fan shaped leaves that provide excellent cover for shy fish to hide in. One of the best things about mermaid fans is that they are unappetizing to your aquarium pets, so you don't have to worry about your fish and invertebrates nibbling on your decor. If you want to raise mermaid fans, you need water that is low in nitrates and phosphates. You can have your water tested by the employees at your local aquarium shop.
