Can Live Plants Live in Still Fish Bowl Water?

Many people wonder if it's possible to keep live plants in a still fish bowl. The answer is yes, but it's not as simple as just placing the plant in the bowl and hoping for the best. In this article, we'll discuss some important factors to consider when trying to keep live plants in still fish bowl water.

Choosing the Right Plants

The first step in keeping live plants in a still fish bowl is to choose the right plants. Some plants require more light, nutrients, and oxygen than others. It's important to choose plants that are hardy and can tolerate low-oxygen environments. Examples of plants that are suitable for still fish bowl water include Java fern, Anubias, and Amazon sword.

Providing Sufficient Lighting

Plants require light to photosynthesize and grow. In a still fish bowl, there may not be enough natural light for plants to thrive. It's important to provide an artificial light source to stimulate growth. A light bulb or LED strip can be easily installed above the bowl. The light should be on for at least 6-8 hours a day to provide sufficient lighting for the plants.

Adding Nutrients

Plants require nutrients to grow. In still fish bowl water, the nutrients can quickly become depleted, and the plants will suffer. To provide nutrients, you can add a plant fertilizer to the water. It's important to use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for aquatic plants. Adding too much fertilizer can lead to algae growth, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Maintaining Water Quality

The water quality in the still fish bowl should be regularly monitored and maintained. Filtration is not necessary in a still fish bowl, but regular water changes are essential to keep the water clean and free from harmful chemicals. Changing 20-30% of the water every week is recommended to maintain the water quality.

Providing Oxygen

Although still fish bowl water does not require aeration, plants need oxygen to grow. To provide oxygen, you can add an air stone to the bowl. The air stone releases small bubbles, which will create surface agitation and increase oxygen levels. Another way to provide oxygen is to add a small submersible pump to the bowl. The pump will circulate the water, providing oxygen to the plants.

Conclusion

Keeping live plants in still fish bowl water is possible, but it requires some effort and attention. Choosing the right plants, providing sufficient lighting and nutrients, maintaining water quality, and providing oxygen are all essential factors to consider. With proper care, live plants can thrive in a still fish bowl, creating a beautiful and natural environment for your fish.