The Best Plants for an Apartment Aquarium

A major role is played by the delicate aquarium plants, which look amazing but are also important for the natural filtration of water, which reduces the risk of disease in fish and promotes their reproduction.

If you are a beginner, we have prepared a list of 10 aquarium plants you should have!

What are the best aquarium plants?

The following plants that we will present to you are very resistant, grow easily, and adapt quickly to the conditions in the aquarium:

Java Moss

This is the most common aquarium plant and is loved by aquarium enthusiasts because it grows relatively quickly and does not need much light.

The beautiful shade of green can be obtained by fertilizing with iron, and the growth of the plant can be accelerated by the addition of carbon dioxide. To prevent the plant from floating, it is advisable to attach it to rocks or stumps at the bottom of the aquarium.

Java Moss is ideal for aquariums designed for breeding fish, providing an excellent hiding place for chicks.

Natural aquarium plants: Marsilea Minuta

The leaves of this aquarium plant are very similar to those of the four-leaf clover and create an impressive green "mat". But you need to pay more attention to the care of this plant, because it tends to favor the deposition of residues, and this can harm the health of the fish.

If the plant starts to turn yellow, you need to ensure better water filtration. If you do not know how to proceed, seek the advice of an aquarist.

Aquarium plants: Pygmy Chain Sword

Although it handles perfectly in medium light conditions, this plant loves strong light intensity, developing red tips, which gives a unique look to the aquarium.

To grow harmoniously, the plant needs a healthy substrate and nutrients. Iron fertilization accentuates the reddish color of the leaves.

Staurogyne repens

Originally from Amazon, this "fresh green" plant is ideal for the foreground of the aquarium, due to its unique appearance.

The plant in the form of a short shrub with small green leaves prefers medium to strong lighting, nutrient-rich substrate, and carbon dioxide supplements, as well as regular fertilization.

When planting in an aquarium, do not be afraid to prune long shoots, because this way you will stimulate the growth of new leaves and you will keep the low and compact shape of the shrub.

Unpretentious aquarium plants: Anubias Nana

Also called the "growing plastic plant", Anubias Nana is perfect for those who are more careless about aquarium care. It is a "tolerant" aquarium plant and produces leaves that last for years, even in extreme light conditions, from very low to very strong.

To reduce the incidence of algae, however, iron fertilization and the addition of carbon dioxide are recommended, as well as the removal of old leaves and ensuring a healthy substrate.

The plant tends to cling to whatever gets in the way, so you can plant it near the woods or rocks in the aquarium, which will be covered by it over time.

Aquarium plants: Java Ferns

Another aquarium plant ideal for beginners is Java Fern, which helps reduce or increase algae and improves water clarity. Because it is a plant that can reach quite large sizes in medium lighting conditions (20–25 centimeters in height and 10–20 centimeters in circumference), it is not recommended for small aquariums.

Even though it has a slow growth rate, the plant grows beautifully and does not require a special care process. If you notice spots on the back of the leaves, do not worry: these are not signs of disease, but spores that help the emergence of new plants. It is recommended to place the plant in the middle or behind the aquarium.

Before you buy aquarium plants, consider the following: brightness, nutrients, and carbon dioxide levels. Even if the aquarium plants are not as sensitive as the fish, to grow, they still need the water to fit in the optimal parameters.

Do you have an aquarium at home? Tell us in the comments section which aquarium plants you have chosen and what their care process consists of.