Can a Pot Plant Grow in Fish Tanks?

When it comes to creating an aesthetically pleasing aquatic environment, some people like to incorporate plants in their fish tanks. However, a common question arises: can terrestrial plants, such as pot plants, actually grow in a fish tank? In this article, we’ll explore the answer.

The Short Answer: Yes

The short answer is yes, pot plants can indeed grow in fish tanks. However, there are some caveats to consider.

The Long Answer: It Depends on Several Factors

Several factors come into play when determining whether or not pot plants will thrive in a fish tank:

Lighting

Plants require light to photosynthesize and grow. In a typical fish tank setup, the lighting is geared towards the needs of the fish rather than the plants. Therefore, if you’re planning on growing pot plants in your fish tank, you may need to supplement the lighting with additional sources such as LED lights placed above or inside the tank.

Water Quality

Plants need a certain water quality to thrive, and the water in fish tanks is not always conducive to plant growth. Fish produce waste and excess nutrients that can accumulate in the water, potentially leading to an overgrowth of algae and other negative consequences for plant growth. To combat this, you’ll need to regularly test and adjust the water parameters and possibly invest in a water filtration system to keep the water clean and healthy for both the fish and the plants.

Substrate

Another consideration is the substrate, or the material at the bottom of the tank that the plants will be planted in. Typical aquarium substrates such as sand or gravel may not provide the necessary nutrients for pot plants to grow. Instead, you may need to use special potting soil or add fertilizers to the substrate to provide the nutrients that the plants need.

Best Pot Plants for Fish Tanks

Now that we’ve discussed the factors that come into play when growing pot plants in fish tank, let’s look at some of the best pot plants for this environment:

Anubias nana

Anubias nana is a hardy plant that can grow in both low and high light conditions. It prefers to grow attached to rocks or driftwood, making it a great choice for aquascaping. It also doesn’t require much fertilization or pruning, making it a low-maintenance and attractive addition to your fish tank.

Java Fern

Another low-maintenance plant is Java Fern. It can thrive in both low and high light conditions and doesn’t require a substrate to grow. It can be glued or tied to rocks or driftwood and left to grow on its own. Java Fern also helps to purify the water, making it a great choice for keeping the water clean for your fish.

Amazon Sword

If you’re looking for a larger plant that can serve as a centerpiece in your fish tank, consider the Amazon Sword. This plant requires high light and nutrient levels and a nutrient-rich substrate to grow. However, if you can provide the right environment for it, the Amazon Sword can grow up to 20 inches tall and add a striking visual element to your aquarium.

In Conclusion

In summary, pot plants can indeed grow in fish tanks, but it depends on several factors such as lighting, water quality, and substrate. If you can provide the right conditions, however, pot plants can add depth and beauty to your aquatic environment while also helping to purify the water for your fish.