Fake Or Real Plants In Aquarium
Decorating an aquarium is a fun and exciting task. You can choose to add fish, rocks, sand, or plants to enhance the beauty of your aquarium. When it comes to plants, you have two options - fake or real plants. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss which one is better for your aquarium.
Fake Plants
As the name suggests, fake plants are artificial plants made of plastic or silk. They are available in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of using fake plants in your aquarium:
Advantages
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Do not require any special lighting or nutrient supplements
- Do not die or rot, so they do not create any waste or ammonia in the water
- Do not attract algae or pests
- Come in a wide variety of shapes and colors to match your aquarium theme
- Can be rearranged or removed without damaging the plants or the aquarium
Disadvantages
- Do not provide any oxygen or absorb any carbon dioxide, so they do not contribute to the overall health of the aquarium
- Can look fake or artificial, especially if they are not of good quality or poorly placed
- May harm delicate fish or shrimp if they have sharp edges or rough surfaces
- May fade or discolor over time due to exposure to light or water
- May require regular cleaning to prevent algae buildup or discoloration
Real Plants
Real plants are living plants that require light, nutrients, and carbon dioxide to survive. They are available in various species and sizes. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of using real plants in your aquarium:
Advantages
- Provide oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, contributing to the overall health of the aquarium
- Help to reduce nitrate and phosphate levels in the water, minimizing the risk of algae growth
- Provide a natural and realistic look to the aquarium, enhancing the beauty of the fish and the environment
- Can be a source of food and shelter for fish and shrimp
- May help to stabilize the water temperature and pH level, creating a more stable and healthy environment for the fish
Disadvantages
- Require specific lighting and nutrient supplements to thrive, which can be expensive and time-consuming
- May die or rot, creating waste and ammonia in the water, which can be harmful to the fish if not removed regularly
- May attract pests or algae if not properly maintained or cleaned
- Can be difficult to rearrange or remove without damaging the plants or the aquarium
- May require pruning or trimming to prevent overgrowth or crowding, which can be a hassle
Conclusion
Both fake and real plants have their own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice between them depends on your personal preference, budget, and commitment to maintenance. If you are looking for a low-maintenance and hassle-free option, fake plants may be the way to go. However, if you want to create a natural and healthy environment for your fish, real plants may be the better choice. Whatever you choose, make sure to do your research and choose high-quality plants that will enhance the beauty of your aquarium.
