Neon tetras are colorful and lively fish that can brighten up any aquarium. However, they also need a suitable environment to thrive and feel comfortable. One of the best ways to create a natural and cozy habitat for neon tetras is to add live plants to their tank. This comprehensive article will present the best live plants for neon tetras.
Benefits of Live Plants for Neon Tetras
Live plants can provide many benefits for neon tetras, such as:
- Filtering the light and creating shaded areas
- Offering hiding places and security
- Enhancing the water quality and oxygen levels
- Adding beauty and variety to the aquascape
However, not all plants are suitable for neon tetras. Some plants may be too large, too demanding, or too incompatible with the water parameters that neon tetras prefer. Live plants also provide a lot of cover and shelter for your neon tetras. In this article, we will show you five of the best live plants for neon tetras that are easy to care for, hardy, and attractive.
5 Best Live Plants for Neon Tetras
Java Fern
Java fern is one of the most popular aquarium plants for beginners and experts alike. It is a low-maintenance plant that can grow in low to moderate light and does not need any substrate or fertilizers. It can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or ornaments with a thread or glue.
Java fern has long and broad leaves that can reach up to 10 inches in length. It can provide a nice contrast to the green and blue colors of neon tetras and offer them plenty of hiding spots.
Ludwigia repens
Ludwigia repens is a beautiful red plant that can add a splash of color to your neon tetra tank. It is a fast-growing plant that can tolerate a wide range of water parameters and light levels. It can be planted on the substrate or left floating on the surface.
Ludwigia repens can grow up to 19 inches in height and form dense clusters of stems and leaves. It can help to filter the light and create a natural background for your neon tetras and makes one of the best plants for Neon Tetras.
Water Lettuce
Water lettuce is a floating plant that has rosettes of velvety green leaves and long roots that hang below the surface. It is a great plant for neon tetras because it can create a shaded and calm environment for them.
Water lettuce can also absorb excess nutrients and toxins from the water and provide oxygen and filtration. However, water lettuce can grow very fast and cover the entire surface of the tank if not controlled. You should trim it regularly and remove any excess plants to prevent it from blocking the light and air circulation.
Brazilian Pennywort
Brazilian pennywort is a versatile plant that can be planted in the substrate, attached to decorations, or left floating on the water. It has round and glossy leaves that grow along a thin and flexible stem. It can grow up to 24 inches in length and form a lush and bushy appearance.
Brazilian pennywort can provide a lot of cover and shelter for your neon tetras and also produce small white flowers on the surface. It is a hardy and adaptable plant that can grow in low to high light and soft to hard water.
Amazon Sword
Amazon sword is a large and impressive plant that can be the centerpiece of your neon tetra tank. It has long and sword-shaped leaves that can grow up to 20 inches in length and width. It can create a dense and tall forest of greenery that can make your neon tetras feel like they are in their natural habitat.
Amazon sword is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does need a nutrient-rich substrate and moderate to high light to thrive. It can also benefit from regular fertilization and pruning.
Conclusion
Neon tetras are amazing fish that can bring joy and beauty to any aquarium. However, they also need a suitable environment to thrive and feel comfortable. Live plants can provide many benefits for neon tetras, such as filtering the light, offering hiding places, enhancing the water quality, and adding beauty and variety to the aquascape.
We hope this article has helped you choose the best plants for your neon tetra tank.
