Floating aquatic plants are an important part of any aquarium and have many benefits. They add colour and texture to the tank while providing hiding spots for fish and other aqua inhabitants. Additionally, they absorb nitrates in the water that can harm your fish or other animals living in the tank.
Floating aquarium plants come in a variety of types, including free-floating plants like dwarf water lettuce, water spangles and water cabbage, as well as water surface growing varieties like duckweed which stand on their own without attaching themselves to anything else.
Comparison Of Types of Floating Aquarium Plants
Floating aquarium plants come in live and artificial varieties. Live plants provide benefits like oxygen production and toxin filtering, while artificial plants offer a maintenance-free option. Both can be purchased online to fit different tanks and aquariums.
#1 Hornwort
Hornwort is a popular free floating plant ideal for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. It is an undemanding and low-maintenance species that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
Hornwort is fast growing and requires very little maintenance, like regular pruning to keep it looking neat and compact. It has fluffy stems. The plant also removes nitrates and other pollutants from the water, making it ideal for fish tanks with high stocking levels.
Hornwort is also an excellent oxygenator, providing oxygen for fish and other aquatic life. Its bright green leaves provide a beautiful contrast to other aquarium plants, and its dense growth provides a hiding place for fish.
| pH Requirement | 6 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Low to Medium, 8 Hours a Day |
| Temperature Requirement | 10 to 30 Degrees |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Fertilizer with Iron and Nitrogen |
#2 Duckweed
Duckweed is a small, free floating plants that can be used as a great addition to any aquarium. It not only looks beautiful, but also helps to reduce ammonia levels in the water, making it easier for fish to thrive.
Duckweed can also be used to provide shade for fish and their eggs, as well as act as a natural filter for the aquarium (not need for a separate aquarium filter). When kept in moderation, duckweed can help to create a healthy balance in the aquarium. It is easy to care for and requires very little maintenance, making it a great choice for aquarium enthusiasts.
- Duckweed Floating Lemna Minor Common Duckweed Lesser Duckweed Fresh Live Plant in Well Packed Box
- A Proper Mix of Sand, Soil and Cow Dung are Required to Plant Aquatic Plants. Keep the Mix Ready in Pot and Keep Watering For 10-15 Days for Better Result
- Put the Roots with Leafs in The Pot and Wait for 3-4 Months to Regain New Leaves from The Plant. Always Keep The Pot With Full Water
| pH Requirement | 3 to 10 |
| Light Requirement | Dense Shade to Full Sunlight |
| Temperature Requirement | 20 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Fertilizer with Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potash, and Micronutrients |
#3 Water Lettuce
The growing popularity of keeping regular water lettuce in the aquariums is because of its ability to keep water clean for fishes. It is meant to reduce algae growth by blocking the sunlight falling on the water.
The best part of keeping water lettuce in your aquarium is that it is considered good for the health of the fishes. Though having beautiful spongy leaves, but they fall under the category of fast-growing floating plants, so they must be regularly trimmed to prevent overcrowding.
Easy to care, they are low-maintenance plants, making them ideal for beginners. They also help to clean the water by absorbing pollutants and providing oxygen to the tank. They are suitable for variety of water temperatures.
- 𝐔𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐛𝐛𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 – Water Lettuce/ Water Cabbage Live Plants have frequently been developed as a fancy in lakes, ponds, aquariums and gardens. It is generally used in tropical aquariums to give cover to little fish. It has medicinal properties and can be utilized as a grub for dairy cattle and pigs.
- 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐦 – Water lettuce / Nile Cabbage can accomplish something beneficial to your pond and aquarium. It will be home to the child fish and shrimps you have and will assist with cleaning the water and repulse green growth.
- 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭 – Water Rose/ Jalpari/ Water Lettuce can be grown in a small pot holding water in full shade. It shows optimal growth in the temperature range of 22 – 30 °C, but can endure extreme temperatures up to 35 °C.
| pH Requirement | 6.5 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Medium to Bright Sunlight |
| Water Temperature Requirement | 20 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Fertilizer with Potassium |
#4 Amazon Frogbits
Oozing a beautiful green color, Frogbit is an excellent floating aquatic plant that has been common in aquariums. Its ability to thrive in different water conditions has made the plant preferable by aquarium owners.
They are low maintenance, easy to care for and provide a natural hiding place for fish. They also help to improve water quality by absorbing nutrients, providing oxygen, and serving as a natural filter. One thing to keep in mind is that the upper or top part of the plant should be kept dry and not submerged in water. The reason is that it can decay soon.
- Floating plants
- Easy Care level
- Avoid water droplets on the tops of the leaves
| pH Requirement | 6 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Moderate to High Lighting |
| Water Temperature Requirement | 18 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Easy Green Plant Fertilizer |
#5 Cabomba Caroliniana
Cadomba caroliniana is a popular aquarium plant with unique characteristics. It has long, thin stems that can reach up to 10 inch in size (length) and feature finely cut, lacy leaves. The leaves are usually green to olive green in color, but can also be purple or red.
This plant is easy to care for and is tolerant of a wide range of water parameters. It can be grown in low to moderate light and prefers soft, acidic water. It is an excellent choice for beginners because of its low maintenance and hardiness.
This plant can also be used to provide a stunning background for a planted aquarium and it remains completely submerged from the water surface. It provides excellent habitat or hiding space for baby shrimps, fishes, or snails.
| pH Requirement | 5 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Plenty of Sunlight |
| Water Temperature Requirement | 25 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Fertilizer with Potassium |
#6 Java Moss
Java moss is a popular aquarium plant that is great for aquascaping. It is a fast-growing plant that requires very little maintenance and can thrive in a wide range of water conditions.
Java moss is an ideal plant for novice aquarists and can be used to create beautiful aquascapes. It is a great oxygenator and can help to keep the aquarium water clean and healthy. Java moss also provides a place for fish to hide and helps to reduce stress.
It can be grown on rocks, driftwood, or mesh and is easy to propagate by simply cutting off a piece and replanting. Java moss is a hardy and attractive plant that can be used to create stunning aquascapes.
The beauty of this plant is that it doesn’t require any special lighting.
| pH Requirement | 5.5 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Low to Moderate Sunlight or Natural Light |
| Temperature Requirement | 25 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Fertilizer with Potassium |
#7 Coontail
Coontail aquarium plants are a popular choice for many aquariums due to their fast-growing nature, vibrant colors, and low maintenance.
Coontail is a type of aquatic fern and is said to have originated in the Amazon. It grows quickly and can reach a height of up to 8 inches tall. It has a unique, fluffy tail-like appearance makes it attractive in any aquarium.
Coontail is easy to care for, requiring moderate light and moderate fertilization. Coontail is an excellent choice for any aquarium, providing a natural and vibrant look that will surely draw any onlooker’s attention.
- Great plant for beginners; does not require special equipment
- No Co2 Needed. This is a truly unique looking plant with delicate; feathery leaves than fan out from its branches
- Plant can be placed in Background
| pH Requirement | 6.5 to 8.0 |
| Light Requirement | Medium to bright |
| Temperature Requirement | 21 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Regularly |
#8 Water Spangles
Water spangles aquarium plant is a beautiful, green aquatic plant that is popular among aquarium owners. It is a fast-growing plant and it is easy to care for. It is an excellent choice for beginners to grow in their aquariums.
It needs a moderate light level and can be planted in gravel or sand. It is a great oxygenator and helps to keep the water well-oxygenated. It also helps to reduce nitrate levels in the water. It is a great addition to any aquarium as it adds a unique and visually appealing element to the tank. It also provides shelter and hiding spots for fish and other aquatic creatures.
- You will get 5 Pieces of Salvinia Minima Floating Plant.
- Very Good for Cleaning Water and make your fish healthly.
- Add natural look to your auquarium, pond.
| pH Requirement | 6.5 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Light to medium |
| Water Temperature Requirement | 21 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Low to Moderate |
#9 Rotala Indica
Rotala indica, commonly known as Indian toothcup, is an aquatic plant from the family Lythraceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Vietnam. Its leaves are opposite, lanceolate, and bright green in colour. They are arranged in whorls around the stem.
The plant produces small, white flowers that grow in clusters. The plant can grow up to 20 cm tall and prefers shallow water in warm temperatures. It is popular in aquariums due to its ability to tolerate a wide range of water parameters and its attractive foliage.
| pH Requirement | 5.5 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Moderate to High |
| Water Temperature Requirement | 22 to 28°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | High |
#10 Water Wisteria
Water Wisteria aquarium plant is a popular freshwater aquatic plant that is easy to care for. Its long stems and bright green leaves make it an attractive addition to any aquarium. It grows quickly and can reach up to 12 inches in height, making it an excellent plant for providing shade and cover for fish.
Water Wisteria is an excellent oxygenator and helps maintain a healthy aquarium environment. It also helps to control algae growth by using the extra nutrients in the tank. This fast-growing plant can be easily propagated by cutting and replanting the offshoots. Water Sprite is a must-have for any freshwater aquarium and can be a beautiful and functional addition to any tank.
- Easy to grow
- No CO2 needed
- If you receive the plant in Rounded leaf it will be turned into Splitted leaf once planted in aquarium within 10 to 12 days
| pH Requirement | 5.5 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | Moderate |
| Water Temperature Requirement | 22 to 28°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | None |
#11 Azolla Plant
Azolla, another plant option, is a genus of aquatic ferns that are found in freshwater. They are known for forming dense mats that can cover large areas of water, providing habitat for many aquatic organisms and helping to reduce the growth of algae. Azolla are also used in rice paddies to help increase rice yields.
| pH Requirement | 6.5 to 7.5 |
| Light Requirement | High |
| Water Temperature Requirement | 20 to 30°C |
| Fertilizer Requirement | Low |
Benefits of Floating Aquarium Plants
- Natural Filtration: Floating aquarium plants can help to improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and providing additional nutrients to the water. This helps to create a balance in the environment and can lead to clearer and healthier water for your fish.
- Benefits to Water Quality: Floating aquarium plants can also help to improve water quality by providing shade and cover for fish, which can help to reduce stress and improve overall health. Additionally, the leaves of floating aquarium plants can help to circulate water and encourage beneficial bacteria growth.
- Improved Water Circulation: The leaves of floating aquarium plants will move and create water current. This helps to keep the water moving, encouraging beneficial bacteria growth and preventing oxygen depletion.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Floating aquarium plants are also a great way to add color and vibrancy to your tank. They can be used to create a beautiful aquatic landscape in your tank.
Overall, floating aquarium plants offer many benefits to both the environment and the fish in your tank. If you are looking for a way to improve the quality of your aquarium water, provide your fish with a natural habitat, and add some beauty to your tank, then floating aquarium plants are a great option.
Requirements for Keeping Floating Aquarium Plants
Lighting
- Choose a light source that produces the right wavelength of light or spectrum to promote photosynthesis.
- Avoid fluorescent lights, which are too intense for some plants.
- Look for a light source between full-spectrum and actinic blue.
pH Value
- Monitor the tank’s pH regularly.
- Fluctuations in acidity can lead to problems such as stunting plant growth or even death.
Substrate
- The substrate should be between 2-5 cm thick.
- It should have good drainage.
- Popular substrates include sand, gravel, clay pellets or specialized plant-specific types such as aqua soil.
Aeration
- Aeration ensures sufficient levels of dissolved oxygen are necessary for healthy photosynthesis.
- Without adequate aeration, aquatic organisms may suffer from hypoxia leading to reduced growth rates and higher mortality rates among species like fish and invertebrates.
- Use a power filter, air pump or bubbler system to maintain optimal conditions.
Also read: Finding the 5 Best Food for Goldfish in India
Conclusion
Floating aquarium plants are an excellent way to add color and life to any tank. Coming in wide variety, many factors should be considered while selecting a floating plant, such as compatibility with aquarium fish, light requirements, ease of maintenance and availability.
Fortunately, several species of floating aquarium plants are available online, providing the perfect balance of these features for novice aquarists. Five common examples include Duckweed, Water Lettuce, Frogbit, Red Root Floater and Salvinia natans.
These low-maintenance aquatic plants can thrive in almost any freshwater tank environment with careful selection and regular care and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How Often Should I Replace Floating Aquarium Plants?
Floating aquarium plants should typically be replaced every 4-6 weeks. This is because these plants require a great deal of light and nutrients, both of which are in limited supply in most tanks.
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Are Floating Aquarium Plants Difficult To Maintain?
Maintaining floating aquarium plants is not difficult, provided they are given the right conditions. They require a certain amount of light and nutrients to survive, as well as adequate space in the tank for proper growth. Additionally, weekly water changes should be carried out to keep them healthy and thriving.
With regular care and maintenance, these plants can provide an attractive touch to any aquarium environment while also providing oxygenation benefits. -
Are There Any Floating Aquarium Plants That Are Toxic To Fish?
Floating aquarium plants can provide a variety of benefits to your tank, such as providing oxygen and extra cover for fish. However, some aquatic plants are toxic to fish if consumed in large amounts or over an extended period of time. Examples include duckweed (Lemna minor), Azolla (Azolla filiculoides) and water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes).
It is important to research any species you plan to introduce into the tank, especially those with potential toxicity issues. -
How Much Light Do Floating Aquarium Plants Need?
Floating aquarium plants are a great addition to any tank and require light for photosynthesis. There is a wide variety of low-light plants to high-light plants.
Most floating aquarium plants need about three to five hours of direct sunlight daily or the equivalent amount of artificial lighting. The intensity of the light should be kept low as too much can cause algae growth. -
What Is The Best Way To Keep Floating Aquarium Plants Healthy?
For a healthy and thriving floating aquarium plant, proper lighting is key. The intensity of the light will depend on the type of plants in your tank, but as a general rule, they should receive around 8-10 hours per day of direct sunlight or artificial lighting.
Parallely, you should regularly check water parameters such as pH levels to ensure that it remains consistent for optimal growth. Regular pruning is also necessary to prevent overcrowding, which can cause a decrease in oxygen levels and increase nutrient availability for existing plants.
Finally, supplementing with essential nutrients like iron and potassium can help promote better overall health for the plant and its environment.
