Floating water plants are commonly used in aquariums. Besides adding to the beauty of the aquarium by giving it a "pond" look, these plants provide benefits for the fishes as well. For example, one of the common benefits is that floating water plants provides spawning sites for fishes. Also, for aquariums that require low lighting, floating plants help to block the light coming from above the aquarium. In this way, it helps the inhabitants of the aquarium to survive well. Some common floating water plants used in aquariums are described below.
Duckweed (Lemna minor)
Duckweed has oval green leaves and it grows very fast. As the leaves of this plant spread widely, this aquarium plant can help to block light rays shining on to the water. Too much light can heat up the water in the fish tank causing harm to the fishes. Also, high exposure of light can cause the growth of harmful algae. The leaves of Duckweed provide shelter as well as spawning sites for the fishes. Some fishes like to feed on this plant and it provides good nutrition due to its high content of vitamins and minerals. Duckweed takes in ammonia and hence, helps to reduce its content in the water. This plant only requires moderate lighting. However, as this floating water plant is fast-growing, it requires pruning to keep it in shape.
Crystalwort (Riccia fluitans)
Riccia fluitans is a popular floating water plant used in aquariums. It grows just below the surface of the water. This plant has tiny strands mat together which forms a solid mass. Riccia fluitans provides benefit for bubble-nesters as they use it as a point of attachment for their nests. This aquarium plant is also often used as spawning sites. It grows well in bright lighting and receives plenty of carbon dioxide.
Amazon frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum)
Limnobium laevigatum is beautiful floating water plant with waxy leaves. This plant can produce shoots that will form a small plant at the end. If this end breaks off, it will form a new plant by itself. This floating water plant is a tropical species and if placed in a fish tank, it survives well with moderate lighting.
Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)
Pistia stratiotes has soft, large leaves which are light green in colour. The leaves have a velvety texture and they grouped together to form a beautiful rosette. Pistia stratiotes has fine trailing roots which grow below the surface of the water. Having this plant in the aquarium benefits the fishes as it provides plenty of hiding places for them.
The above are some common floating water plants you can consider using in your aquarium. Besides using these plants to enhance your aquarium décor, having them in your aquarium has benefits for your fishes as well. Fortunately, these plants are not difficult to keep as they thrive well in most conditions. Please visit Live Aquarium Plants website for more information.
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