The best plants for self sustaining aquariums are those that can filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a natural balance with the fish and other organisms. Some examples are hair grass, duckweed, sword plants, java ferns, java moss, anubias, and amazon frogbit.
A self sustaining aquarium is an aquatic ecosystem that requires minimal maintenance and intervention from the owner. It is a way of replicating nature in a fish tank, where plants, fish, and other organisms coexist in harmony and keep the water clean and healthy. A self sustaining aquarium can be a rewarding and educational experience for hobbyists who want to enjoy the beauty and diversity of aquatic life without the hassle of frequent water changes, chemical treatments, and equipment failures.
However, creating a self sustaining aquarium is not as easy as it sounds. It requires careful planning, research, and patience to achieve the right balance and conditions for the tank. One of the most important factors to consider is the choice of plants. Plants are the natural filters of the aquarium, as they absorb the waste products of the fish and other organisms, such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. They also provide oxygen, shelter, and food for the fish and other organisms. They also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the tank with their colors, shapes, and textures.
But not all plants are suitable for a self sustaining aquarium. Some plants may grow too fast or too slow, or may not be compatible with the water parameters, lighting, or substrate of the tank. Some plants may also be invasive, aggressive, or sensitive, and may outcompete, harm, or die in the tank. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right plants for a self sustaining aquarium, based on their characteristics, requirements, and benefits.
Hair grass is a bottom-growing plant that forms a dense carpet of thin, green blades. It is one of the best plants for a self sustaining aquarium because it can filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a natural look for the tank. Hair grass can also serve as a spawning ground and hiding place for the fish and other organisms. Hair grass can grow in low to high light conditions, and can tolerate a wide range of water parameters. However, it may need regular trimming to prevent it from overgrowing and blocking the light for other plants.
Duckweed is a surface-growing plant that consists of tiny, floating leaves. It is one of the best plants for a self sustaining aquarium because it can filter the water, provide oxygen, and reduce the evaporation and algae growth in the tank. Duckweed can also serve as a food source and shade for the fish and other organisms. Duckweed can grow in low to high light conditions, and can adapt to various water parameters. However, it may need regular removal to prevent it from covering the entire surface of the tank and blocking the light and gas exchange for other plants and organisms.
Sword Plants
Sword plants are bottom-growing plants that have large, broad, and sword-shaped leaves. They are one of the best plants for a self sustaining aquarium because they can filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a focal point and contrast for the tank. Sword plants can also serve as a shelter and resting place for the fish and other organisms. Sword plants can grow in low to medium light conditions, and prefer soft to moderately hard water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. However, they may need regular fertilization to support their growth and prevent nutrient deficiencies.
Java Ferns
Java ferns are bottom-growing plants that have long, narrow, and wavy leaves. They are one of the best plants for a self sustaining aquarium because they can filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a natural and lush look for the tank. Java ferns can also serve as a shelter and breeding place for the fish and other organisms. Java ferns can grow in low to medium light conditions, and can tolerate a wide range of water parameters. However, they may need to be attached to rocks, driftwood, or other decorations, as they do not root in the substrate.
Java moss is a surface-growing plant that forms a fluffy and tangled mass of green filaments. It is one of the best plants for a self sustaining aquarium because it can filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a soft and cozy look for the tank. Java moss can also serve as a food source, shelter, and spawning place for the fish and other organisms. Java moss can grow in low to high light conditions, and can adapt to various water parameters. However, it may need to be trimmed and cleaned to prevent it from overgrowing and collecting debris.
Anubias
Anubias are bottom-growing plants that have thick, dark, and glossy leaves. They are one of the best plants for a self sustaining aquarium because they can filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a sturdy and elegant look for the tank. Anubias can also serve as a shelter and resting place for the fish and other organisms. Anubias can grow in low to medium light conditions, and can tolerate a wide range of water parameters. However, they may need to be attached to rocks, driftwood, or other decorations, as they do not root in the substrate.
Amazon Frogbit
Amazon frogbit is a surface-growing plant that has round, bright, and floating leaves. It is one of the best plants for a self sustaining aquarium because it can filter the water, provide oxygen, and reduce the temperature and algae growth in the tank. Amazon frogbit can also serve as a food source and shade for the fish and other organisms. Amazon frogbit can grow in low to high light conditions, and prefer soft to moderately hard water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. However, it may need regular removal to prevent it from covering the entire surface of the tank and blocking the light and gas exchange for other plants and organisms.
A self sustaining aquarium is a great way to enjoy the beauty and diversity of aquatic life without the hassle of frequent maintenance and intervention. However, it requires careful planning, research, and patience to achieve the right balance and conditions for the tank. One of the most important factors to consider is the choice of plants. The best plants for a self sustaining aquarium are those that can filter the water, provide oxygen, and create a natural balance with the fish and other organisms. Some examples are hair grass, duckweed, sword plants, java ferns, java moss, anubias, and amazon frogbit. These plants can enhance the aesthetic appeal, health, and sustainability of the tank, as well as the enjoyment and satisfaction of the hobbyist.
