Best live plants for guppies

 

    Guppies are among the most popular freshwater aquarium fish, cherished for their vibrant colors and lively personalities. Creating a suitable habitat for these delightful creatures involves more than just water and substrate; live plants play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, providing shelter, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the tank. Here’s a rundown of the best live plants for a guppy aquarium:

Top Live Plants for Guppies Aquarium: Enhancing Beauty and Functionality

1. Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri):

    Benefits:   Java moss is a versatile plant that requires minimal care and thrives in various water conditions. Its dense, bushy growth provides ideal hiding spots for guppy fry and helps to diffuse aggressive behavior among tank mates.

    Placement:  Attach Java moss to rocks, driftwood, or mesh mats using fishing line or glue. It can also be left to float freely in the water column.

2. Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus):

    Benefits:  Like Java moss, Java fern is hardy and undemanding, making it perfect for beginner aquarists. Its broad, leathery leaves offer shade and shelter for guppies, while its rhizome can be anchored to decorations or substrate.

    Placement:   Plant Java fern in the substrate or attach it to driftwood or rocks using fishing line. Avoid burying the rhizome, as it will rot if buried.

3. Anubias (Anubias barteri):

     Benefits:   Anubias species are known for their attractive, dark green leaves and low light requirements. They are durable and can withstand nibbling from guppies, making them an excellent choice for guppy tanks.

   Placement:  Secure Anubias to rocks or driftwood using fishing line or glue. Planting the rhizome in the substrate can lead to rot, so it's best to leave it exposed.

4. Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum):

    Benefits:    Hornwort is a fast-growing, oxygenating plant that helps to improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and providing oxygen for fish and beneficial bacteria. Its fine, feathery foliage also offers shelter for guppy fry.

    Placement:  Simply allow Hornwort to float freely in the aquarium, or anchor it in the substrate using weights. It can also be planted, but be mindful of its rapid growth.

 5. Water Sprite (Ceratopteris thalictroides):

    Benefits:    Water sprite is another fast-growing plant that serves as a natural water purifier and refuge for guppies. Its delicate, fern-like leaves provide ample hiding places for fry and create a lush, jungle-like environment.

    Placement:   Plant water sprite in the substrate or allow it to float at the water's surface. Regular pruning helps to prevent overgrowth and maintain a tidy appearance.

6. Amazon Sword (Echinodorus amazonicus):

     Benefits:  With its broad, sword-shaped leaves, Amazon sword plants add a touch of drama to guppy tanks. They provide shelter and grazing surfaces for guppies, and their extensive root systems help to stabilize the substrate.

    Placement:  Plant Amazon swords in the substrate, ensuring that the crown is above the surface to prevent rot. Provide root tabs or liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

7. Vallisneria (Vallisneria spp.):

   Benefits:    Vallisneria, or eelgrass, is prized for its long, ribbon-like leaves that sway gracefully in the water. It serves as a natural filtration system, absorbing excess nutrients and oxygenating the aquarium, while also providing hiding spots for guppies.

    Placement:   Plant Vallisneria in the substrate, spacing individual plants several inches apart to allow for optimal growth. Trim dead or damaged leaves as needed to maintain aesthetics.

8.Cryptocoryne 

Cryptocoryne is an another good choice for guppies, commonly known as crypts, are popular among aquarium enthusiasts for their lush green foliage and relatively easy care. Native to Asia, these plants come in various shapes and sizes, making them versatile for aquascaping. Cryptocorynes thrive in moderate to low light conditions and prefer soft, slightly acidic water. They are known for their ability to propagate through runners, gradually forming dense clusters in the aquarium. With proper care, Cryptocoryne plants can add natural beauty and depth to any aquatic environment.

    Incorporating live plants into a guppy aquarium not only enhances its visual appeal but also promotes a healthier and more balanced ecosystem. From providing shelter for fry to aiding in water filtration, the right selection of live plants can greatly benefit both the guppies and their caretakers. Experiment with different species to find the perfect combination that suits your aesthetic preferences and aquarium conditions.

    With proper care and maintenance, your guppy tank can become a thriving underwater paradise for these colorful little fish.

You can keep guppies very easily in planted aquariums without any filtration system. Without in filtration system just use proper lighting.