One of the many attractions in owning a freshwater aquarium is the fact that you can approximate the looks and conditions of the natural habitat of your freshwater fish. Aside from the natural sand, rocks and other decorative items, freshwater aquarium live plants complete the natural atmosphere within the tank.
Aside from making your aquarium look great, the live plants have other benefits for your fish. Foremost of these is the fact that they produce oxygen which your fish needs and in turn absorb carbon dioxide and ammonia which are harmful to them.
This miniature ecosystem in your aquarium is also beneficial to the fish in other terms. It means less stress because of the secure environment for them to hide, explore and live on. (Some fish are herbivores and sometimes use the plants as one of their food supplements.)
Plants For Your Tank
There is some need to do research on what plants you want and what plants is best in combination with the fish species you had chosen. be careful because some plants can harm certain fish species so simply ask a store clerk for a compatibility chart.)
Some plants are easier to take care of than others. Some plants need more light while others need more oxygen and many also need to be near the top of the aquarium while others are fine on the bottom of the tank. There are many of them that are hardy, though. (java ferns, vallesneria, hygrophila, etc.)
The following are some of the more popular aquarium plants. They are popular because of their looks, their color, their sturdy nature and their value in the total ecosystem within your tank.
Cabomba
With its fan-shaped leaves, Cabomba (Carolina Fanwort) is a fast-growing live aquarium plant that provides the much-needed shade to your fishes. It is also used as a good hiding place as well as providing materials for spawning.