Yes, you can submerge pothos in aquarium, but only partially. Pothos, also known as devil’s ivy, is a popular houseplant that can grow in water and soil. It is often used as an aquarium plant because it can help filter the water, remove nitrates, and provide oxygen for the fish. However, pothos cannot survive completely submerged in water for a long time. It needs some part of its stem and leaves to be exposed to air, otherwise it will rot and die. In this article, we will explain how to submerge pothos in aquarium, what are the benefits and drawbacks of doing so, and how to care for your pothos plant.
To submerge pothos in aquarium, you will need a healthy pothos plant, a pair of scissors, some fishing line or thread, and a suction cup. Here are the steps to follow:
Cut a stem from your pothos plant that has at least 3 to 4 leaves and a few nodes (the bumps on the stem where roots can grow).
Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only the top ones. This will prevent the leaves from rotting in the water and encourage root growth.
Tie the stem to the suction cup using the fishing line or thread. Make sure the knot is tight and secure.
Attach the suction cup to the side of the aquarium, near the water surface. The stem should be partially submerged in the water, with the leaves above the water line.
Wait for the roots to grow from the nodes. This may take a few weeks, depending on the water temperature and light conditions.
Once the roots are long enough, you can either leave the stem as it is, or cut it and replant it in the substrate of the aquarium. You can also trim the leaves if they grow too large or block the light.
Submerging pothos in aquarium has several benefits for both the plant and the fish. Some of the benefits are:
Pothos can help filter the water by absorbing excess nutrients, such as nitrates, phosphates, and ammonia, that can cause algae growth and harm the fish. Pothos can also reduce the frequency of water changes and improve the water quality.
Pothos can provide oxygen for the fish by photosynthesizing under the light. Pothos can also reduce the carbon dioxide levels in the water, which can lower the pH and make the water more acidic.
Pothos can create a natural and aesthetic look for the aquarium. Pothos can add some greenery and contrast to the aquarium, and create a more realistic and relaxing environment for the fish. Pothos can also provide some shade and hiding places for the fish.
Pothos can grow easily and quickly in water, without the need for soil or fertilizer. Pothos can also adapt to different water conditions, such as pH, hardness, and temperature. Pothos can also tolerate low light and high light, although it will grow faster in brighter light.
Drawbacks of Submerging Pothos in Aquarium
Submerging pothos in aquarium also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of. Some of the drawbacks are:
Pothos can compete with other aquatic plants for nutrients and light. Pothos can grow very fast and take over the aquarium, especially if it is not trimmed regularly. Pothos can also block the light from reaching the other plants, and reduce their growth and health.
Pothos can attract pests and diseases that can harm the plant and the fish. Pothos can be infested by insects, such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, that can damage the leaves and stems. Pothos can also be infected by fungi, bacteria, and viruses, that can cause leaf spots, wilting, and rotting. These pests and diseases can also spread to the other plants and fish in the aquarium, and affect their health and well-being.
Pothos can be toxic to some fish and animals if ingested. Pothos contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate the mouth, throat, and digestive system of the fish and animals that eat it. Pothos can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people who touch it. Therefore, you should be careful when handling pothos, and keep it away from children and pets.
To keep your pothos plant healthy and happy in your aquarium, you should follow these tips:
Monitor the water parameters, such as pH, hardness, temperature, and nitrate levels, and make sure they are suitable for both the plant and the fish. You can use a test kit or a digital meter to measure the water parameters, and adjust them if needed.
Provide adequate light for your pothos plant, either from natural or artificial sources. Pothos can grow in low light, but it will grow faster and better in bright light. However, avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and cause algae growth. You can use a timer or a dimmer to control the light duration and intensity.
Trim your pothos plant regularly to prevent it from overgrowing and taking over the aquarium. You can use a pair of scissors or a razor blade to cut the stem and the leaves, and either discard them or propagate them in another aquarium or container. You can also prune the roots if they become too long or tangled.
Check your pothos plant for any signs of pests or diseases, and treat them accordingly. You can use a magnifying glass or a flashlight to inspect the leaves and stems for any insects, spots, or damage. You can also use a cotton swab or a soft brush to remove any dust or debris from the plant. You can use natural or chemical methods to get rid of the pests or diseases, such as spraying with water, soap, vinegar, or alcohol, or applying insecticides, fungicides, or antibiotics. However, be careful not to harm the other plants and fish in the aquarium, and follow the instructions and precautions on the labels.
Pothos is a versatile and beneficial plant that can be submerged in aquarium, but only partially. Pothos can help filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a natural and aesthetic look for the aquarium. However, pothos can also compete with other plants, attract pests and diseases, and be toxic to some fish and animals. Therefore, you should submerge pothos in aquarium carefully and responsibly, and follow the proper care and maintenance tips. Pothos can be a great addition to your aquarium, as long as you keep it under control and in balance.
