Aquarium enthusiasts often seek to create a serene underwater landscape that not only captivates the eye but also provides a healthy environment for their aquatic inhabitants. Low-light aquarium plants are a fantastic choice for aquarists who prefer a less intense lighting setup or for areas within the tank that receive minimal light exposure.
These plants not only flourish under such conditions but also add a lush, green touch to the aquascape. Here’s a detailed look at some additional low-light plants that can thrive in your aquarium.
Water hyssop (Bacopa caroliniana)
Water hyssop (Bacopa caroliniana) is a slow-growing plant that boasts small, rounded leaves along its stems, creating a delicate ladder-like appearance. It’s an excellent background plant that can reach up to a foot in height if left untrimmed.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Slow
Ideal Water Conditions: 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.8
Hornwort/Coontail (Ceratophyllum spp.)
Hornwort, with its fast growth and feathery appearance, serves as a natural water purifier. It’s a floating aquarium plant that can also be anchored in the substrate, offering versatility in aquascaping. It should not be confused with Anthoceros spp, which shares a common name.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Fast
Ideal Water Conditions: 15-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5
Wendt’s Water Trumpet (Cryptocoryne wendtii)
Cryptocoryne wendtii is known for its lush, bushy appearance and can add a touch of sophistication to any aquascape. It comes in green, red, and brown varieties, providing options for colour coordination.
Care Level: Moderate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Ideal Water Conditions: 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5
Creeping Primrose-willow (Ludwigia repens)
Ludwigia Repens is a striking plant with leaves that can exhibit shades of green, red, and orange. It’s a robust species that can adapt to various conditions, including low-light environments.
Care Level: Moderate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Ideal Water Conditions: 20-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5
Marimo Moss Ball (Aegagropila linnaei)
The Marimo Moss Ball is not actually a moss (and technically, not a plant!) but a spherical algae that grows slowly and evenly in all directions. It’s a unique addition to any tank and requires minimal care.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Slow
Ideal Water Conditions: 10-25°C, pH 6.5-8.5
Duckweed (Lemnoideae)
Duckweeds are floating plants belonging to the subfamily Lemnoideae. They form a green carpet on the water’s surface and are known for their rapid growth and ability to reduce nitrates in the water.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Fast
Ideal Water Conditions: 15-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5
Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala)
Brazilian Pennywort features round, penny-like leaves on long, trailing stems. It can be grown as a floating plant or anchored in the substrate, offering a versatile design choice.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Fast
Ideal Water Conditions: 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5
Amazon Sword (Echinodorus grisebachii)
The Amazon Sword is a classic aquarium plant with large, broad leaves. It can serve as a stunning centrepiece in any aquascape, especially in larger tanks.
Care Level: Moderate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Ideal Water Conditions: 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5
Anubias
Anubias is a group of hardy plants that thrive in low-light conditions. It’s a slow-growing plant with broad, dark green leaves. Anubias can be attached to rocks or driftwood, and its rhizome should not be buried in the substrate to prevent rot.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Slow
Ideal Water Conditions: 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5
Java Fern (Leptochilus pteropus)
Java Fern is another popular choice for low-light aquariums. Its long, green leaves can create a lush backdrop for your aquascape. Like Anubias, it should be tied to the hardscape rather than planted in the substrate.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Moderate
Ideal Water Conditions: 20-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5
Java Moss
Mosses are excellent for creating a natural look in your aquarium. Java Moss is a favourite among aquarists for its ease of care and ability to attach to surfaces, forming dense carpets or walls of green.
Care Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Fast
Ideal Water Conditions: 15-30°C, pH 5.5-8.0
Frequently Asked Questions
Can low-light plants survive without any artificial lighting?
While low-light plants have minimal lighting requirements, they still need some light to perform photosynthesis. Ambient room light can sometimes be sufficient, but it’s best to provide a dedicated aquarium light for consistent growth.
How do I manage the growth of fast-spreading plants like Duckweed?
Regular maintenance and removal of excess plants are necessary to prevent overgrowth. Duckweed, in particular, can be scooped out periodically to maintain the desired coverage.
Are there any special substrate requirements for low-light plants?
Most low-light plants are not demanding regarding substrate and can grow in standard aquarium gravel or sand. However, some may benefit from a nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs.
What is the best way to propagate low-light plants?
Propagation methods vary among species. Some, like the Marimo Moss Ball, can be divided, while stem plants like Bacopa and Ludwigia Repens can be propagated by cuttings.
How often should I fertilise my low-light plants?
Fertilisation needs vary, but generally, a weekly dose of a comprehensive aquarium plant fertiliser is sufficient for low-light conditions.
Do low-light plants require CO2 supplementation?
While CO2 can benefit plant growth, many low-light plants can thrive without additional CO2, making them ideal for beginners.
Can I use regular aquarium lights for low-light plants?
Yes, standard aquarium lighting is usually adequate for low-light plants, as they do not require intense illumination.
How do I prevent algae growth on my low-light plants?
Maintaining good water quality, avoiding overfeeding, and ensuring a balanced light period can minimise algae growth.
Create a Dynamic Ecosystem with Low-light Plants for Aquarium
Incorporating a variety of low-light plants into your planted aquarium can create a dynamic and thriving ecosystem that’s both visually appealing and beneficial for your aquatic pets.
Remember to research each plant’s specific needs and monitor your aquarium’s conditions to ensure a healthy and vibrant underwater garden.
With the right selection and care, these live aquarium plants can flourish, bringing life and tranquillity to your underwater world.
