Aquarium Plants Growing Out Of Water
Aquarium plants are a great addition to any fish tank. Not only do they add aesthetic appeal, but they also provide a natural environment for fish to thrive in. While most aquarium plants grow entirely underwater, some species can grow partially or entirely out of the water. These plants are often called emersed plants, and they require different care than their fully submerged counterparts.
What are emersed plants?
Emersed plants are aquatic plants that grow partially or entirely out of the water. These plants are often found along the edges of lakes, rivers, and streams. They have adapted to grow in both aquatic and terrestrial environments, and they require different care than fully submerged plants.
Why grow emersed plants?
Emersed plants have several benefits for aquariums. They provide a natural habitat for fish and other aquatic animals, help to oxygenate the water, and remove toxins from the water. They also add aesthetic appeal to the aquarium and can be used to create a more natural-looking environment.
How to grow emersed plants?
Growing emersed plants requires a different setup than growing fully submerged plants. Emersed plants need access to air, so they should be planted in a substrate that allows for air circulation. A good substrate for emersed plants is a mix of soil and sand. The plants should be planted so that their roots are in the substrate and their leaves are above the waterline. Emersed plants also require more light than fully submerged plants, so a strong lighting system is necessary. Finally, emersed plants need to be kept moist, so they should be misted regularly.
Examples of emersed plants
Some examples of emersed plants include:
- Anubias barteri
- Bolbitis heudelotii
- Cryptocoryne wendtii
- Echinodorus tenellus
- Glossostigma elatinoides
- Lilaeopsis brasiliensis
- Microsorum pteropus
- Rotala rotundifolia
Conclusion
Emersed plants are a great addition to any aquarium. They provide a natural environment for fish, help to oxygenate the water, and remove toxins from the water. Growing emersed plants requires a different setup than growing fully submerged plants, but the benefits are well worth it. With the right care, emersed plants can thrive and add aesthetic appeal to the aquarium.