What kind of plants do guppies like

Guppies are one of the most popular fish among hobbyists due to their vibrant colors, active behavior, and ease of care. One of the essential aspects of keeping guppies healthy and happy is providing them with the right kind of plants. In this article, we will explore the various plants suitable for a guppy tank, and the factors to consider when choosing them.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Plants For Guppies:

Choosing the right kind of plants for guppies requires considering several factors, such as:

• Water parameters – Guppies prefer slightly alkaline water (pH 7-8) with moderate hardness and temperature around 70-78°F. Therefore, you must choose plants that thrive in similar conditions.
• Compatibility with fish – Some plants may attract or repel certain fish species, and you must consider this when choosing plants for your guppy tank.
• Lighting requirements – Guppies require moderate to high light intensity for optimal growth, and you must choose plants that can adapt to your tank’s light conditions.
• Nutrient demands – Plants require nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for growth. Therefore, you must choose plants that can thrive in the nutrient levels present in your tank.

Submerged Plants For Guppies:

Submerged plants are an ideal option for guppy tanks as they provide cover, oxygenation, and a hiding place for fry. Some popular examples of submerged plants suitable for guppies are:

• Anacharis – Also known as the Brazilian waterweed, Anacharis is a popular choice for guppy tanks due to its fast growth and ability to remove excess nutrients from the water.
• Hornwort – Hornwort is a hardy plant that grows well in low to high light conditions. It provides excellent cover for guppies and helps oxygenate the water.
• Java moss – Java moss is a popular choice among aquarists for its ease of care and ability to grow in a wide range of conditions. It provides cover, food, and breeding ground for guppies.

Floating Plants For Guppies:

Floating plants are another excellent option for guppy tanks as they provide cover, reduce excess light and help maintain optimal water quality by absorbing nutrients. Some suitable examples are:

• Duckweed – Duckweed is a small floating plant that grows rapidly and provides excellent cover for guppies. It also absorbs excess nutrients and helps keep the water clean.
• Water lettuce – Water lettuce is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that floats on the surface and provides excellent cover for guppies. It also absorbs excess nutrients and helps control algae growth.
• Salvinia – Salvinia is a floating fern that provides excellent cover for guppies while absorbing excess nutrients and providing oxygenation.

Amphibious Plants For Guppies:

Amphibious plants are those that can grow both submerged and above the water surface. These plants provide excellent cover for guppies and require minimal care. Some suitable examples are:

• Amazon sword – Amazon sword is a popular choice among aquarists due to their hardy nature and ability to grow in a wide range of conditions. They provide cover and breeding ground for guppies.
• Cryptocoryne – Cryptocoryne is a tropical plant that thrives in low to moderate light conditions. They provide cover and oxygenation for guppies and help maintain optimal water quality.

Benefits Of Growing Plants With Guppies:

Growing Plants In A Guppy Tank Provides Several Benefits, Including:

• Oxygenation – Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, thus maintaining optimal oxygen levels in the water.
• Water filtration – Plants help remove excess nutrients from the water and absorb harmful chemicals, thus maintaining optimal water quality.
• Hiding place for fry – Plants provide a safe place for fry to hide from predators and increases their chances of survival.
• Aesthetic appeal – Plants add beauty and natural aesthetics to the tank and create a more appealing environment for the guppies.

Caring For Plants In A Guppy Tank:

Caring for plants in a guppy tank requires providing them with the right conditions, such as:

• Lighting – Guppies require moderate to high light intensity for optimal growth, and you must provide the right lighting conditions for your plants to thrive.
• Nutrients – Plants require nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for growth. Therefore, you must provide the right kind of substrate and supplements to maintain optimal nutrient levels.
• Pruning – Plants require regular pruning to prevent them from overgrowing and crowding the tank.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right kind of plants for a guppy tank requires considering several factors such as water parameters, lighting requirements, compatibility with fish, and nutrient demands. Submerged, floating, and amphibious plants offer excellent options for guppy tanks and provide cover, oxygenation, and hiding places for fry. Growing plants in a guppy tank provides several benefits such as water filtration, oxygenation, and aesthetic appeal. Caring for plants in a guppy tank requires providing the right conditions such as lighting, nutrients, and pruning. Overall, choosing the right kind of plants and caring for them adequately can create an ideal environment for guppies to thrive.