The answer to this question is not necessarily. Some aquarium plants can grow well above the water surface, while others need to be fully or partially submerged. The type of plant, the water conditions, and the lighting are some of the factors that determine whether an aquarium plant can thrive in or out of the water. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of submerged and emergent plants, as well as some examples of each category.
Submerged plants are those that grow entirely or mostly under the water. They are also known as aquatic plants or hydrophytes. Some of the benefits of submerged plants are:
They provide oxygen to the water through photosynthesis, which helps maintain a healthy environment for the fish and other aquatic life.
They absorb excess nutrients and pollutants from the water, such as ammonia, nitrate, phosphate, and carbon dioxide, which helps prevent algae growth and water quality issues.
They offer shelter and hiding places for the fish, especially for shy or timid species, as well as breeding and spawning sites.
They enhance the aesthetic appeal of the aquarium, creating a natural and realistic look.
Some examples of submerged plants are:
Anubias: A hardy and low-maintenance plant that can grow on rocks, driftwood, or substrate. It has thick, dark green leaves that can withstand nibbling from herbivorous fish.
Java fern: A versatile and easy-to-grow plant that can attach to any surface or float freely. It has long, narrow leaves that come in different shapes and sizes.
Amazon sword: A large and fast-growing plant that can reach up to 20 inches in height. It has broad, sword-shaped leaves that can create a dense forest-like effect in the aquarium.
Hornwort: A floating or rooted plant that can grow up to 10 feet in length. It has thin, needle-like leaves that provide excellent cover and oxygenation for the water.
Submerged plants also have some drawbacks that need to be considered, such as:
They require adequate lighting to perform photosynthesis, which can be costly and challenging to provide, especially for deep or large tanks.
They may need additional fertilization and supplementation to thrive, depending on the water parameters and the plant species.
They may become invasive or overgrown, crowding out other plants or fish, or blocking the water flow and filtration.
They may be susceptible to diseases or pests, such as snails, algae, or fungus, that can harm their health or appearance.
Benefits of Emergent Plants
Emergent plants are those that grow partially or entirely above the water surface. They are also known as marginal plants or bog plants. Some of the benefits of emergent plants are:
They reduce water evaporation and splashing, which helps maintain a stable water level and temperature in the aquarium.
They filter the air and remove toxins, such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and benzene, that can accumulate in the aquarium from the surrounding environment.
They add variety and interest to the aquarium, creating a contrast and balance between the submerged and emergent zones.
They attract beneficial insects and pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, that can enhance the biodiversity and beauty of the aquarium.
Some examples of emergent plants are:
Peace lily: A popular and easy-to-care-for plant that can grow in water or soil. It has glossy, dark green leaves and white, spath-like flowers that can bloom year-round.
Lucky bamboo: A lucky and resilient plant that can grow in water or soil. It has hollow, segmented stems and narrow, lance-shaped leaves that can be trained into different shapes and arrangements.
Pothos: A vigorous and adaptable plant that can grow in water or soil. It has heart-shaped, variegated leaves and long, trailing vines that can climb or cascade over the aquarium.
Water lettuce: A floating or rooted plant that can grow up to 10 inches in diameter. It has velvety, light green leaves that form a rosette shape and resemble a head of lettuce.
Emergent plants also have some drawbacks that need to be considered, such as:
They may not be compatible with some fish or other aquatic life, as they may reduce the available swimming space, block the light, or alter the water chemistry.
They may need regular pruning and trimming to prevent them from overgrowing or falling into the water, which can cause decay or contamination.
They may be sensitive to temperature or humidity changes, as they are exposed to the air and the external environment.
They may be affected by pests or diseases, such as aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew, that can damage their leaves or stems.
Conclusion
Aquarium plants can be submerged or emergent, depending on their type, water conditions, and lighting. Both categories have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the preference and goal of the aquarist. By choosing the right plants and providing them with the proper care, the aquarium can become a thriving and beautiful ecosystem.
