Fish To Avoid In Planted Aquarium
If you are planning to set up a planted aquarium, you will need to be careful when selecting the fish species to add. Some fish can be harmful to the plants, and others may not thrive in a planted tank environment. Therefore, it is essential to know which fish to avoid in a planted aquarium to ensure the success of your aquatic plants and the health of the fish.
Goldfish
Goldfish are a popular fish species, but they are not suitable for planted aquariums. Goldfish are notorious for uprooting plants, and they love to eat the leaves and roots of aquatic plants. Additionally, goldfish produce a lot of waste, which can lead to an increase in ammonia levels in the water. High ammonia levels can be harmful to the plants and other fish in the aquarium.
Plecos
Plecos are another fish species that are not suitable for planted aquariums. Plecos are known for their love of algae, and they can quickly strip a planted tank of all the algae, leaving the plants with no food source. Additionally, plecos are notorious for uprooting plants, and they can cause damage to the leaves and stems of aquatic plants. Furthermore, plecos produce a lot of waste, which can lead to an increase in ammonia levels in the water.
Tetras
Tetras are a popular fish species that are suitable for planted aquariums, but some tetra species can be harmful to the plants. Tetras like the red eye tetra and the black skirt tetra have a habit of nipping at the leaves of aquatic plants, which can cause damage to the plants and hinder their growth. Therefore, it is best to avoid these tetra species in a planted aquarium.
Cichlids
Cichlids are a popular fish species that are not suitable for planted aquariums. Cichlids are known for their aggressive behavior, and they can uproot plants, damage leaves and stems, and even eat the plants. Additionally, cichlids produce a lot of waste, which can lead to an increase in ammonia levels in the water.
Conclusion
When setting up a planted aquarium, it is essential to choose the right fish species to ensure the success of the aquatic plants and the health of the fish. Avoiding fish species like goldfish, plecos, tetras, and cichlids can help prevent damage to the aquatic plants and maintain the water quality in the tank. By selecting the right fish species, you can create a beautiful and healthy planted aquarium that you can enjoy for years to come.