Types of Aquarium Plants

Anubias Barteri is one of the more popular and resilient of the freshwater aquarium plants. The good news is Anubias Barteri is hardy, so its a great plant for beginners. Anubias Barteri is noted for its thick rhizome, strong root structure and durable green leaves.

Anubias barteri var. nana is a small, attractive plant which thrives in all conditions. It originates from Cameroon and will reach 5-10 cm height.

Coontail reproduces by seeds and fragmentation. Submerged portions of all aquatic plants provide habitats for many micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc.). After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by bacteria and fungi provides food (called “detritus”) for many aquatic invertebrates. The fruits of coontail are consumed by ducks and it is considered a good wildlife food.

Aquarium Cryptocoryne Plants Although the proper scientific name of this aquarium plant genus is Cryptocoryne, they are commonly referred to as “crypts.” Cryptocoryne undulate: This species occurs in central Sri Lanka.

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green' is suitable for small aquariums with a height from 10-15 cm and a roset from 8-15 cm wide. When grown in an open space the leaves will virtually lie on the bottom. Like most other Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes, it also grows well in hard water.

Hygrophila difformis from Asia is beautiful and undemanding. Stems becomes 20-30 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. A plant for beginners which can help create a balance in the aquarium from the start. Its rapid growth helps prevent algae because the plant absorbs a great number of nutrients from the water.

All plants require water to grow and java moss is no exception. Well-circulated and clean water in an aquarium is extremely beneficial. What’s more, java moss is known to thrive in circulating water currents.

Aquarium lilies and lily-like plants will reward the hobbyist with noticeably larger leaves soon after these essential improvements have been made. These species are typically placed as mid-ground to foreground plants, though their aesthetic placement is not as important as making sure they are getting enough light within the aquarium.

Microsorum pteropus is a water fern from Asia, 15-30 cm tall, which should be grown on a root or stone, attached with fishing line until it has gained a hold. If it is planted in the bottom, do not cover the rhizome because it will rot. Easy to propagate by splitting the horizontal rhizome. A hardy plant which grows in all conditions.