What Does Aquarium Plants Take Out of the Water?

Aquarium plants are a great addition to any aquarium. Besides enhancing the aesthetic look of your aquarium, they provide numerous benefits to the aquatic environment. One of the key benefits that aquarium plants offer is their ability to take out various substances from water. Read on to learn what aquarium plants take out of the water and how they do it.

Oxygen

Aquarium plants produce oxygen through their process of photosynthesis. During this process, plants absorb carbon dioxide and other substances from water and produce oxygen that is then released into the water. This oxygenation process supports the survival of the fish and other aquatic creatures in the aquarium.

Carbon Dioxide

Aquarium plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis. The CO2 taken up by plants helps to regulate the levels of CO2 in the aquarium water, creating a balanced and healthy environment for the aquarium inhabitants. Excess CO2 can be harmful to fish and other aquatic creatures and can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.

Nitrogen Compounds

Aquarium plants, particularly submerged plants, are known to absorb nitrogen compounds from aquarium water. Nitrogen is present in various forms in aquariums, including nitrate, ammonia, and nitrite. Nitrogen compounds, in higher concentrations, can be toxic to fish and other aquatic creatures. By absorbing nitrogen compounds, aquarium plants help to maintain a healthy balance of nitrogen in the aquarium water, keeping the environment safe for the fish and other aquatic creatures living in the aquarium.

Organic Waste

As fish and other aquatic creatures in the aquarium excrete waste, it accumulates in the aquarium water, leading to a build-up of organic waste. Fortunately, aquarium plants absorb organic waste from the water and utilize it as a source of nutrients for their growth. The process of removing organic waste by plants helps to keep the aquarium water clean, reducing the need for frequent water changes and making it a more hospitable environment for the aquarium inhabitants.

Heavy Metals and Toxins

Aquarium plants have the ability to absorb heavy metals and other toxins that may be present in the aquarium water. Heavy metals and toxins, in high concentrations, can be toxic to fish and other aquatic creatures. Plants absorb these substances, breaking them down through their metabolic processes, and utilize them for their growth. The absorption of heavy metals and toxins by plants results in a cleaner and healthier environment for the fish and other aquatic creatures.

In Conclusion

Aquarium plants play a significant role in maintaining a balanced and healthy aquatic environment. By regulating the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen compounds, and organic waste, and by removing heavy metals and toxins from the water, plants help to create a more hospitable environment for fish and other aquatic creatures. Adding aquarium plants to your aquarium is a great way to enhance the aesthetic look of your aquarium and provide numerous benefits to the aquatic environment.