Want to have a fish tank that’s more than just ordinary? Then, try installing a planted aquarium that exhibits a living ecosystem consisting of different plant types. Due to the complementary relationship between fish and plants, a well-maintained planted aquarium provides biological filtration and oxygen to ensure a healthy environment for fish. On the other hand, fish provide adequate carbon dioxide as well as nutrients necessary for healthy plant growth. In this blog, we guide you through the essentials of creating and maintaining a healthy planted aquarium.
Choosing the Ideal Tank
The initial step to creating a planted aquarium is to select an ideal fish tank that has the necessary space for incorporating essential plants without any harm to fish. Larger tanks may provide more stability in terms of water parameters, while smaller tanks need careful maintenance. Therefore, when you choose the tank, go for something that has ample space for plants to grow and fish to thrive.
Selecting Substrate
The core element of every planted aquarium has relied on the type of substrate used in it. Instead of going for something that creates an attractive look, choose a nutrient-rich substrate that is made especially for planted aquariums. Substrates like aqua soil or fluorite prove the necessary nutrients that ensure your plant growth while helping anchor roots.
Select the Right Type of Plants
Before choosing the plants for your aquarium, you must consider certain factors such as lighting, CO2, as well as maintenance requirements. We recommend low-maintenance plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria for beginners or individuals who deal with busy lifestyles. However, if you are ready to spend some more time in aquarium maintenance, then go for plants like Monte Carlo or high-demand plant types like Hemianthus callitrichoides.
Lighting and CO2
Make sure that your aquarium receives proper lighting and CO2 supplementation to ensure photosynthesis. If not, it is time to install quality LED lights specially made for planted tanks that provide the complete coverage. Additionally, consider supplementing CO2 using a pressurised system or liquid carbon additives to ensure healthy growth.
Filtration and Water Parameters
Having the right filtration system helps to maintain water clarity, moreover, this improves the quality of water in your planted aquarium. There are plenty of fish tank filters available with innovative features such as adjustable flow rates that prevent excessive water movement that may uproot plants. However, you need to keep monitoring the water parameters regularly and promote a stable condition with optimal pH, and nutrient levels.
After all this, do regular fish tank maintenance which includes changing water, removing debris, cleaning filters, and fertilizing. However, it might be an overwhelming task when you do it alone, then better to use the support of an aquarium maintenance service provider like Feathers and Fins. We can provide comprehensive services to keep your aquarium well-kept as well as prevent algae growth.
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