Submerged plants are aquatic plants that grow with their foliage completely underwater, such as eelgrass, hornwort, and cabomba. These plants are also known as oxygenating plants because they filter the water and provide oxygen for the aquatic life. Submerged plants are essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced pond or aquarium environment. In this article, we will explore the benefits, types, and care of submerged plants.
Submerged plants have many benefits for the water and the organisms that live in it. Some of the benefits are:
They improve the water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, that can cause algae blooms and water pollution.
They provide oxygen for the fish and other aquatic animals through photosynthesis.
They create natural habitats and hiding places for the fish and other aquatic animals, protecting them from predators and stress.
They reduce water temperature and evaporation by shading the water surface from the sun.
They add beauty and diversity to the pond or aquarium landscape with their varied shapes, colors, and textures.
Types of Submerged Plants
There are many types of submerged plants that can be grown in ponds or aquariums. Some of the most popular and easy-to-grow ones are:
Eelgrass (Vallisneria): This is a perennial plant with long, ribbon-like leaves that can grow up to several feet in length. It is native to North America and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. It is a good choice for ponds with flowing water or aquariums with strong currents.
Hornwort (Ceratophyllum): This is a dark green, bushy plant that has no roots and can float freely in the water or be anchored to the substrate. It is native to many parts of the world and can adapt to various water conditions. It is a fast-growing plant that can provide oxygen and shade for the fish and other aquatic animals.
Cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana): This is a subtropical plant with bright green, fan-shaped leaves and white flowers that float on the water surface. It is native to South America and prefers warm, clear, and still water. It is a beautiful plant that can add color and contrast to the pond or aquarium.
Submerged plants are generally easy to care for, as they do not require much attention or maintenance. However, there are some tips and tricks that can help them thrive and flourish. Some of the tips are:
Choose the right plants for your pond or aquarium, considering the water temperature, pH, hardness, lighting, and flow.
Plant the submerged plants in pots or baskets with suitable substrate, such as gravel, sand, or soil, and place them at the appropriate depth in the water.
Provide adequate lighting for the submerged plants, either natural or artificial, depending on the plant’s needs and the water clarity.
Fertilize the submerged plants occasionally with liquid or tablet fertilizers that are specially formulated for aquatic plants.
Prune the submerged plants regularly to remove any dead, damaged, or overgrown parts and to prevent them from taking over the pond or aquarium.
Control the algae growth in the pond or aquarium by limiting the nutrients, light, and fish waste that feed the algae, and by introducing natural algae eaters, such as snails, shrimps, or fish.
Conclusion
Submerged plants are wonderful additions to any pond or aquarium, as they provide many benefits for the water and the aquatic life. They are also easy to grow and care for, as long as you choose the right plants for your water conditions and follow some simple guidelines. Submerged plants can transform your pond or aquarium into a vibrant and healthy ecosystem that you and your fish can enjoy.
