When it comes to creating a vibrant and thriving planted aquarium, choosing the right tropical fish can make all the difference. Not all fish are compatible with live aquatic plants, and the wrong fish can cause damage or even death to your plants. Selecting the right tropical fish for your planted aquarium requires careful consideration of factors such as fish size, behavior, social requirements, feeding habits, and overall compatibility with the aquatic plants. Additionally, it is essential to understand the potential diseases and health issues that may affect different fish species and to plan for the proper introduction and population management of the fish in your planted aquarium. In this guide, we will explore the key factors to consider when buying tropical fish for your planted aquarium, helping you create a thriving aquatic environment for your plants and fish to flourish.
Understanding The Compatibility Of Fish With Live Plants
When selecting fish for your planted aquarium, it’s essential to understand the compatibility of different fish species with live plants. Not all fish are suitable for planted aquariums, and some can even cause damage to your plants.
Herbivorous fish, like Silver Dollars, can be particularly damaging to live plants. These fish have a diet that primarily consists of plant material, and they may view the aquatic plants in your aquarium as a tasty snack. Some fish like Cichlids can uproot plants or cause significant damage to the leaves and stems.
On the other hand, some fish species can benefit your live plants by providing necessary nutrients through their waste. These fish can be particularly beneficial for slow-growing or nutrient-demanding plant species.
By understanding the compatibility of fish with live plants, you can select the right fish for your planted aquarium that will contribute to the overall health and growth of your aquatic plants.
Choosing Fish Based On The Size And Type Of Your Planted Aquarium
Choosing the right fish for your planted aquarium also involves considering the size and type of your aquarium. Not all fish species are suitable for all aquarium sizes or types, and choosing the wrong fish can lead to overcrowding and unhealthy living conditions for both the fish and plants.
For smaller aquariums, it’s best to select fish species that have a small adult size and do not produce too much waste. Also consider the activity level of the fish since active fish can cause stress to your plants and other aquarium inhabitants. Additionally, in smaller aquariums, it’s best to avoid fish species that are known for uprooting plants or require a lot of space to swim.
In larger planted aquariums, there is more flexibility in selecting fish species, and you can choose from a wider range of fish sizes and types. Larger aquariums can support more fish and can provide more space for fish to swim and plants to grow. Take into consideration the type of planted aquarium you have when selecting fish. For example, if you have a high-tech planted aquarium with CO2 injection and high lighting, you may want to consider fish species that can tolerate the strong lighting requirements. Similarly, in a low-tech planted aquarium, it’s best to choose fish species that can thrive in lower lighting conditions and require fewer nutrients.
Researching The Behavioural And Social Requirements Of Potential Fish Species
Different fish have different temperaments, activity levels, and social behaviours, and it’s crucial to choose fish species that are compatible with each other and your planted aquarium’s environment.
Some fish species, for example, are aggressive and territorial and may attack other fish in the aquarium. These types of fish may not be suitable for aquariums with delicate plants. Additionally, some fish species require specific social structures, such as schooling fish that need to be kept in groups to thrive. This means that they will take up more space restricting the space that would be available to the plants.
Understanding how the fish naturally interact with other species and their environment can help you make an informed decision about their compatibility with your planted aquarium.
The activity level of the fish also plays a big role. Active fish may cause stress to more passive species or uproot plants, while passive fish may be overwhelmed or stressed in a highly active aquarium environment.
Considering The Feeding Habits Of The Fish And Their Impact On The Planted Aquarium
Another critical factor to consider when selecting fish for your planted aquarium is their feeding habits and their impact on the planted environment. Different fish species have different feeding behaviours and dietary requirements.
For example, some fish species are omnivores and require a varied diet that includes both plant-based and animal-based foods. These fish may eat algae, live or frozen foods, and plant matter, and their feeding habits can have a significant impact on the health and growth of your aquatic plants.
On the other hand, some fish species are primarily herbivorous and require a diet that consists mainly of plant matter. These fish may go after the plants.
When selecting fish for your planted aquarium, research their feeding habits and dietary requirements. Choose fish species that are compatible with your planted aquarium’s environment and make sure to provide them with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs without negatively impacting your planted ecosystem. If you must keep plant-eating fishes then choose tough plants like Anubias.
Planning And Preparing For The Introduction Of New Fish To Your Planted Aquarium
Planning and preparing for the introduction of new fish to your planted aquarium is an important step in ensuring the health and well-being of your existing fish and plants. Here are some general tips for planning and preparing for the introduction of new fish:
- Research the new fish species. Learn about the specific requirements of the species, including water temperature, pH, and compatibility with other fish and plants.
- Choose fish that are compatible with any existing fish and plants you have or plan to keep. Some fish species may be aggressive and may not get along with other fish or plants in your aquarium. Make sure to choose fish that are known to be peaceful and compatible with your existing aquarium inhabitants.
- Quarantine new fish before introducing them to your planted aquarium. Quarantine tanks can help prevent the spread of diseases and parasites to your existing fish and plants. Keep new fish in quarantine for at least 2-4 weeks to monitor their health and ensure they are free of any diseases or parasites.
- Acclimate new fish to the temperature and water conditions in your planted aquarium. Fish can be sensitive to sudden changes in water temperature and chemistry. Allow new fish to adjust to the temperature and water conditions in your planted aquarium by slowly adding small amounts of aquarium water to their quarantine tank over the course of several hours.
- Introduce new fish gradually. Avoid adding too many new fish at once, as this can cause stress and disrupt the balance of your aquarium. Instead, introduce new fish gradually over several weeks, allowing them to adjust to their new environment before adding more fish.
- Monitor the health of your new fish and existing aquarium inhabitants. Watch for any signs of stress, disease, or aggression, and take steps to address any issues that arise.
By planning and preparing carefully, you can help ensure a successful introduction of new fish to your planted aquarium and maintain a healthy and thriving aquatic environment.
The Best Tropical Fish For Planted Tanks
Keeping everything we have discussed so far in mind, here are the best tropical fish you can get for a planted tank.
Neon Tetras:
Neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is a small and brightly coloured freshwater fish that is popular among aquarium enthusiasts. Native to the blackwater streams of South America, neon tetras have become a favourite due to their striking blue and red colors, making them an excellent addition to any tank.
Neon tetras are quite hardy and easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for beginner aquarists. They prefer a temperature range of 21°C-27°C or 70°F-81°F, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. They thrive in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spaces, and they do well in groups of six or more.
In the wild, neon tetras are omnivorous, feeding on small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet of high-quality flake, frozen, and live foods. Feed them small meals several times a day, as they have small stomachs.
Breeding neon tetras can be a bit challenging as they require soft, acidic water and a special breeding setup. However, with the right conditions, they can breed in captivity, and the resulting fry can be quite rewarding.
Cherry Barbs:
The Cherry Barb, or Puntius titteya, is a popular species of aquarium fish that is often kept in planted tanks. These fish are native to Sri Lanka and are known for their bright red colouration and peaceful temperament. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner aquarists who are looking to create a vibrant and healthy planted aquarium.
Cherry Barbs are a schooling fish, which means that they prefer to be kept in groups of at least six individuals. This not only helps to keep them feeling safe and secure, but also allows them to exhibit their natural behavior and interact with each other. They are generally very peaceful and get along well with other peaceful fish species.
In the context of a planted tank, cherry barbs can be a great addition because they are not known to be aggressive towards plants. They also enjoy having plenty of hiding places, which can be provided by dense plant growth. Java ferns, mosses, and Anubias are all popular choices for planted tanks that house cherry barbs.
When it comes to water parameters, cherry barbs prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. They also prefer temperature range of 22°C-26°C or 72°F-79°F. They are omnivores and will eat both plant matter and small insects, so a varied diet of flake food, frozen or live brine shrimp, and vegetable matter is recommended.
Dwarf Gouramis:
The Dwarf Gourami, or Trichogaster lalius, is a small and colourful fish that is commonly kept in planted aquariums. These fish are native to India and Bangladesh and are known for their peaceful temperament and stunning colouration, making them a popular choice for beginner aquarists who want to add some color and life to their planted tank.
Dwarf Gouramis are a great addition as they are not known to be aggressive towards plants. They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places, such as caves and dense plant growth.
Dwarf gouramis are generally easy to care for and can adapt to a wide range of water conditions. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and temperature range of 24°C-28°C or 75°F-82°F. They are omnivores and will eat both plant matter and small insects, so a varied diet of flake food, frozen or live brine shrimp, and vegetable matter is recommended.
Dwarf Gouramis can be sensitive to changes in water quality, so maintaining good water parameters is key to their health and well-being. They should not be housed with aggressive fish species, as their peaceful nature makes them vulnerable to bullying.
Harlequin Rasboras:
The Harlequin Rasbora, or Trigonostigma heteromorpha, is another great option for planted tanks. These fish are native to Southeast Asia and sport brilliant colours while having a peaceful disposition. They are also relatively easy to care for.
They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of open swimming space, as well as areas for hiding and exploring.
Harlequin Rasboras are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals. When it comes to water parameters, Harlequin Rasboras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. They do well in a temperature range of 22°C-25.5°C or 72°F-78°F. They are omnivores and will eat both plant matter and protein-based food.
Guppies:
Guppies, or Poecilia reticulata make for a great addition to a planted tank. They are renowned for their vibrant colouration, active behavior, and ease of care.
They also tend to prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of open swimming space and areas for hiding and exploring. These fish are particularly suited for low-tech planted aquariums.
Guppies are also very adaptable to a wide range of water conditions. They prefer slightly alkaline to neutral water with a pH between 7.0 and 8.0 and temperatures between 22°C and 28°C or 72°F and 82°F.
They are omnivores and will eat both plant matter and small insects.
One thing to note about guppies is that they can breed rapidly. Have a plan for managing their population if you don’t want too many in your tank. However, their breeding behavior can also add an interesting dynamic to a planted tank and provide a natural source of food for other fish.
Kuhli Loaches:
Kuhli loaches, or Pangio kuhlii, are a slightly unconventional choice for planted tanks. These eel-like fish are native to Southeast Asia and are known for their peaceful temperament and unique appearance. They look mesmerising in a densely planted tank.
They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places, such as caves and dense plant growth.
Kuhli loaches are nocturnal and spend much of their time hiding in the substrate or in dense plant growth. This makes them a great choice for planted tanks as they help to maintain a healthy ecosystem by scavenging for uneaten food and debris.
When it comes to water parameters, Kuhli loaches prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. They also prefer temperatures between 24°C and 30°C or 75°F and 86°F. They are omnivores and will eat both plant matter and small insects, so a varied diet of flake food, frozen or live brine shrimp, and vegetable matter is recommended.
Otocinclus Catfish:
Otocinclus catfish, or Otocinclus affinis have almost become synonymous with planted tanks. These small fish are native to South America and are known for their peaceful temperament and algae-eating abilities. They can control algae growth, which can be a common problem in planted aquariums.
Otocinclus catfish are relatively easy to care for and are compatible with a wide variety of fish species. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and temperature range of 22°C-25.5°C or 72°F-78°F. They are primarily herbivores and will eat algae, but they will also eat small amounts of protein-based food like brine shrimp or bloodworms.
One thing to note about Otocinclus catfish is that they prefer to live in groups. Keep them in groups of six or more to ensure their well-being. They are also quite sensitive to changes in water conditions. Maintain stable water parameters and perform regular water changes to keep the tank clean.
Corydoras Catfish:
Corydoras catfish, or Corydoras spp., are perhaps the cutest addition to a planted tank. These small, peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish are native to South America and are known for their unique appearance and social behavior
They help to maintain a healthy ecosystem by scavenging for uneaten food and debris. They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places and a soft substrate. Avoid substrate with sharp edges as that will damage their delicate barbels leading to their death.
Corydoras catfish are relatively easy to care for. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and temperature range of 22°C-25.5°C or 72°F-78°F. They are omnivores and will eat both plant matter and animal matter.
They are very social fish and prefer to live in groups, so keep them in groups of six or more to ensure their well-being. They are also quite sensitive to changes in water conditions, so provide them with a stable environment.
Bolivian Rams:
Generally, Cichlids aren’t considered a great fit in a planted tank but the Bolivian Ram is a beautiful exception to this rule. These small, peaceful fish are native to Bolivia and feature some of the most stunning colours in the world of freshwater fish.
In a planted tank, Bolivian Rams add a splash of color and personality to the tank while being relatively easy to care for.
They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and temperatures between 22°C and 28°C or 72°F and 82°F. They are omnivores and require a balanced diet of high-quality food.
They can show some territorial behaviour. Provide them with enough space in the tank and avoid keeping them with other aggressive fish.
Celestial Pearl Danios:
Celestial Pearl Danios, or Danio margaritatus, are a lesser known but really good option for any planted tank. These fish are native to Myanmar and have a very unique appearance while being extremely easy to care for.
They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and temperatures between 20°C and 28°C or 68°F and 82°F. They are omnivores and will eat both plant matter and animal matter.
They are a schooling species, so they should be kept in groups of six or more to ensure their well-being.
FAQ
What are some factors to consider when selecting fish for a planted aquarium?
When selecting fish for a planted aquarium, consider factors such as compatibility with the other fish and plants in the aquarium, the size of the fish, the water parameters required by the species, and the level of care required.
What are some popular fish species for planted aquariums?
Some popular fish species for planted aquariums include tetras, rasboras, guppies, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis.
What types of plants are best for a planted aquarium?
Some common plant species for a planted aquarium include Java fern, Anubias, Amazon sword, and Cryptocoryne.
Can all types of fish be kept in a planted aquarium?
Not all fish are suitable for a planted aquarium. Some fish may eat or damage plants, while others may require different water parameters than those required by the plants in the aquarium.
How many fish can I keep in my planted aquarium?
The number of fish that can be kept in a planted aquarium depends on factors such as the size of the aquarium, the size and species of the fish, and the level of filtration and maintenance provided. As a general rule, it is recommended to keep no more than one inch of fish per gallon of water in the aquarium.
Do I need to supplement my planted aquarium with additional nutrients?
Some planted aquariums may benefit from the addition of nutrients such as CO2 and fertilizer to promote plant growth. However, the need for these supplements depends on factors such as the plant species and the intensity of light provided.
Conclusion
Selecting the right fish for your planted aquarium requires careful consideration of several factors, such as fish and plant compatibility, water parameters, and the level of care required. It is essential to research and understand the needs of different fish species and plant species before making a purchase. By choosing compatible species and maintaining good water quality, you can create a thriving and beautiful ecosystem for your fish and plants. Remember to monitor the water conditions regularly, perform regular maintenance, and seek advice from professionals or experienced hobbyists as needed. With proper planning and care, your planted aquarium can be a great source of enjoyment and relaxation for years to come.
