Popular Aquarium Plants
Planning and executing the perfect aquarium with popular plants can be a great deal of fun, especially for those who have never owned fish before. Most people don’t realize that plants are equally important to the ecosystem as the fish in the tank. Natural plants come along with a host of benefits that can help to keep your fish tank in good health, from oxygen production to cleaning and filtration. Depending upon what type of ecosystem you are working with, it is important that you choose your plants wisely in order for them to work in harmony with one another.
Hearty “Novice” Plants
Aquatic plants can range in difficulty from being easy to quite difficult to care for. For the beginner, it is best to start with hearty plants that will add life to your tank without the need for constant maintenance. Banana plants, Water Wisteria, Amazon Swordplants and Onion plants are common choices for the fish tank novice, as they will do well in a variety of different temperature and lighting environments.
Semi-Fragile Plants
Once one gets used to maintaining a fish tank, semi-fragile plants may be introduced. Pigmy Chain Swords, Ambulia and Rotala Indica are all examples of plants that require a bit of attention, yet are still rather easy to keep. These can add a great deal of vibrance and life to your tank, and work well when combined with novice plants.
Fragile Plants
Fragile plants require a great deal of experience to keep alive and healthy, although they can be especially attractive and beneficial to the tank. Madagascar Lace, Pennywort and Baby Tears all require a significant amount of attention in order to thrive. Added lighting and aeration is often required to keep fragile plants healthy, although a watchful eye will be the most important tool in maintaining these types of plants.
