The answer to this question depends on the type of plant you have in your aquarium. Some plants are fully aquatic and need to be submerged in water, while others are semi-aquatic and can grow above or below the water surface. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two categories of plants, how to identify them, and how to care for them properly.
Fully aquatic plants are plants that have adapted to live entirely underwater. They have special features that allow them to absorb nutrients and oxygen from the water, such as thin leaves, flexible stems, and root systems that anchor them to the substrate or other objects. Some examples of fully aquatic plants are java fern, anubias, hornwort, cabomba, and vallisneria.
These plants should be fully submerged in water at all times, as they will not survive if exposed to air for too long. They may also suffer from algae growth, fungal infections, or leaf burn if exposed to direct sunlight. To care for fully aquatic plants, you need to provide them with adequate lighting, water circulation, fertilization, and carbon dioxide (CO2) supplementation. You also need to prune them regularly to prevent overcrowding and maintain their shape.
Semi-Aquatic Plants
Semi-aquatic plants are plants that can grow both above and below the water surface. They have features that allow them to adapt to different environments, such as thick leaves, sturdy stems, and aerial roots. Some examples of semi-aquatic plants are amazon sword, cryptocoryne, ludwigia, bacopa, and dwarf lily.
These plants can be partially or fully submerged in water, depending on your preference and the plant’s requirements. Some of them may grow better or produce flowers when grown above the water, while others may prefer to be submerged for optimal growth. To care for semi-aquatic plants, you need to provide them with suitable lighting, water quality, and humidity. You also need to trim them regularly to control their height and spread.
How to Identify the Type of Plant You Have
If you are not sure whether your plant is fully or semi-aquatic, there are some ways to identify it. One way is to look at the label or description of the plant when you buy it from a store or online. It should indicate whether the plant is aquatic or not, and how to plant it in your aquarium. Another way is to do some research online or consult a plant guide book. You can search for the name or image of your plant and find out its characteristics and requirements. A third way is to observe your plant’s behavior and appearance over time. You can see how it responds to different water levels, lighting, and other factors, and adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
Aquarium plants are not all the same. Some of them need to be fully submerged in water, while others can grow above or below the water surface. Knowing the type of plant you have and how to care for it properly is essential for creating a healthy and beautiful aquarium. We hope this article has helped you answer the question of whether aquarium plants should be fully submerged or not.
