Yes, floating aquarium plants multiply under the right conditions of light, nutrients, and water quality. Floating plants are a great addition to any aquarium, as they provide shade, oxygen, filtration, and food for fish and invertebrates. However, they can also grow very fast and take over the surface of the water, blocking light and air exchange. Therefore, it is important to know how to control their growth and propagation.
Floating aquarium plants multiply by different methods, depending on their species. Some of the most common ways are:
Vegetative reproduction: This is when a plant produces new shoots or buds from its stems, leaves, or roots, which can detach and form new plants. Examples of floating plants that multiply this way are duckweed, water lettuce, frogbit, and salvinia.
Runners: This is when a plant sends out horizontal stems along the water surface, which produce new plants at the nodes. Examples of floating plants that multiply this way are water hyacinth, water spangles, and red root floater.
Seeds: This is when a plant produces flowers and fruits, which contain seeds that can germinate and grow into new plants. Examples of floating plants that multiply this way are water lilies, lotus, and azolla.
How to Control the Growth of Floating Aquarium Plants?
Floating aquarium plants can multiply very quickly and become invasive if not managed properly. They can cover the entire water surface, reducing light and oxygen levels for the plants and animals below. They can also clog filters, pumps, and pipes, and interfere with feeding and maintenance. To prevent these problems, here are some tips on how to control the growth of floating aquarium plants:
Prune regularly: This is the simplest and most effective way to keep floating plants in check. Prune any excess or unwanted plants by removing them with a net or your hands, and dispose of them properly. Do not release them into natural waterways, as they can harm the native ecosystem. Prune at least once a week, or more often if the plants grow too fast.
Limit light and nutrients: This is another way to slow down the growth of floating plants. Limit the amount of light and nutrients that reach the plants by using a lower-wattage or dimmable light, reducing the photoperiod, adding floating or submerged plants that compete for resources, or using a nutrient-absorbing substrate or filter media. However, be careful not to limit the light and nutrients too much, as this can harm the health and appearance of the plants.
Use barriers or dividers: This is a way to restrict the movement and spread of floating plants. Use barriers or dividers made of plastic, glass, or mesh to create separate zones or compartments in the aquarium, and place the floating plants in the desired area. This can help create different lighting and water flow conditions for different plants and animals, and prevent the floating plants from taking over the entire tank.
Floating aquarium plants are not only beautiful and easy to grow, but they also offer many benefits for the aquarium and its inhabitants. Some of the benefits are:
Shade: Floating plants provide shade and reduce the intensity of light in the aquarium, which can help prevent algae growth, lower the water temperature, and create a more natural and comfortable environment for fish and invertebrates that prefer low-light conditions.
Oxygen: Floating plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis, which can improve the water quality and oxygen levels in the aquarium, especially in tanks with low surface agitation or aeration. Oxygen is essential for the respiration and metabolism of aquatic life, and can also prevent the buildup of harmful gases such as ammonia and nitrite.
Filtration: Floating plants absorb excess nutrients and toxins from the water, such as nitrate, phosphate, and metals, which can cause algae blooms, water pollution, and fish diseases. Floating plants also trap and break down organic waste and debris, such as fish poop, uneaten food, and dead plant matter, which can reduce the need for water changes and filter maintenance.
Food: Floating plants provide food and grazing opportunities for fish and invertebrates, such as goldfish, bettas, guppies, mollies, shrimp, and snails. Floating plants are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can supplement the diet and enhance the health and color of the animals. Floating plants also produce seeds, flowers, and fruits, which can attract and feed pollinators and seed-eaters, such as bees, butterflies, and birds, if the aquarium is outdoors or near a window.
Shelter: Floating plants provide shelter and hiding places for fish and invertebrates, especially for fry, juveniles, and shy or timid species. Floating plants can also reduce stress and aggression, as they create visual barriers and territorial boundaries, and prevent direct eye contact and confrontation. Floating plants can also protect the animals from predators, such as cats, birds, or larger fish, by providing cover and camouflage.
Floating aquarium plants are a wonderful addition to any aquarium, as they multiply easily and provide many benefits for the aquarium and its inhabitants. However, they can also grow out of control and cause problems if not managed properly. Therefore, it is important to know how to control their growth and propagation, and how to prune, limit, or divide them as needed. By doing so, you can enjoy the beauty and diversity of floating aquarium plants, and create a healthy and balanced aquarium ecosystem.
