I am an experienced person who keeps angelfish. For many years, I have been keeping fish and other animals in aquariums, and angelfish is one of them. From my experience, I can say that choosing the right aquarium plants for angelfish is very important if you want to create a healthy and balanced environment for them. When selecting plants for angelfish, one should choose plants that support the angelfish’s natural behavior and health.
Below is a discussion of some of the best plants for angelfish, based on my experience in keeping them. These are plants I have used in my aquarium with good results, making it easier for beginners to choose the best plants for angelfish.”
1. Madagascar Lace Plant
Madagascar-Lace-Plant
Overview:
- Scientific name: Aponogeton madagascariensis
- Common name: Madagascar Lace Plant
- Origin: On the island of Madagascar
- Temperature range: usually 20-24 °C (68-75 °F)
- Level of Care: Somewhat difficult
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Light Level: Medium to High
Detailed Discussion: The Madagascar Lace Plant is one of the most attractive aquarium plants. Its leaves have an intricate webbing that undulates in the slightest current and looks beautiful.
It is found on the island of Madagascar, and its leaves resemble netting or lace. As the leaves of this plant are very thin and transparent, light can easily penetrate through the water, adding an attractive aesthetic to the aquarium environment.
Size and Shape
- Leaf Length and Width: Usually 25–50 cm (10–20 in) long, but in some cases, it can be longer. The leaves are 1–5 cm (0.4–2 in) wide.
- Leaf Shape: Leaves are long, narrow, and wavy-edged. There is a central line in the middle of the leaf, which gives the basic shape. The surface of the leaves has many fine lines and holes, which are called “laces” or “nets”. This feature makes the plant particularly attractive.
- Leaf Position: Leaves usually stand upright in the water and are arranged in long and narrow lines with each other. The shape and arrangement of the leaves give a beautiful and transparent appearance.
Water Range
Madagascar Lace Plant is a freshwater plant. The ideal water parameters for this plant are crucial for its health and growth. The best temperature for this plant is 20-24 °C (68-75 °F) and a pH level of 6.5 – 7.5.
Light and Nutrition
- Light: This plant generally prefers medium to high light levels. Approximately 3-7 watts per gallon of water and 10-12 hours of light per day are required. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can cause overheating and algae growth.
- Nutrition: The Madagascar Lace Plant collects nutrients through its roots and leaves. For this plant, liquid fertilizer or tablet fertilizer should be applied every 2-4 weeks. The quantity should be controlled, as excess fertilizers can be detrimental to water and plant health.
Maintenance
Regularly monitor the condition of the leaves and remove damaged or diseased leaves. Regular inspections should be conducted to address disease or pest problems. Be cautious with fish that eat leaves; avoid keeping them in the tank, as they will consume the delicate leaves.
Environmental Benefits
The Madagascar Lace Plant is not only beautiful but also provides several ecological benefits. It filters light through the leaves and absorbs nutrients from the water, which helps purify it. The plant produces oxygen during the day through photosynthesis, which raises the oxygen level of the aquarium water and environment, benefiting fish and other aquatic life.
2. Red Tiger Lotus
Red-Tiger-Lotus
Overview:
- Scientific name: Nymphaea zenkeri
- Common Name: Red Tiger Lotus
- Origin: South-West Africa
- Temperature range: usually 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
- Level of Care: Easy
- Growth rate: Medium to high
- Light Level: Medium to High
Detailed discussion: Red Tiger Lotuses are famous for their red and green colored leaves and tiger striping pattern. They are very attractive and popular aquarium plants due to the beauty of their leaves. Their flower-like leaves enhance the beauty of the aquarium and create a natural and pleasant environment in the tank.
This plant is suitable for planting in the background or in the middle of the aquarium. The main downside is that more than one should not be planted, as they shade the water column below them.
Size and shape
- Leaf Shape: The leaves of Red Tiger Lotus are usually oval or round, and the edges are slightly wavy, making them more attractive. The leaves are usually 5 to 20 centimeters (2 to 8 inches) long. However, if the plant is fully grown, its leaves can reach up to 30 cm (12 in) long.
- Whole Plant Shape: It is a fast-growing plant, growing rapidly when given adequate light, nutrients, and CO2 supply. Full plant height ranges from 30 to 50 cm (12 to 20 in). It is known as a medium or large-sized plant in the aquarium. If given enough space in the tank, its leaves will spread to the surface of the water.
- Color Pattern: Tiger striping or spots are seen on the leaves, which are usually red, green, or bronze in color. This special striping is one of the features of this plant that enhances the beauty and attractiveness of the aquarium.
- Root Structure: The Red Tiger Lotus has a dense root system, which sits well in the soil on the aquarium floor and spreads roots quickly.
Water Range
Red Tiger Lotus freshwater plants need the right water range to stay healthy and grow properly. The ideal temperature is 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F). Plants grow well at this temperature and can adapt to slightly cooler or warmer conditions, but in very cold water, their growth slows and the leaves fade.
Light and Nutrition
Providing proper light and nutrients is crucial for rapid growth and maintaining beautiful color.
- Light: They require moderate to bright light. If they don’t get enough light, their leaves will turn pale and growth will slow down. They should receive 8 to 10 hours of light every day.
- Nutrition: Red Tiger Lotus takes nutrients from the soil through its roots, so regular liquid fertilizer should be applied to the soil, providing nitrates, phosphates, and other essential nutrients.
Maintenance
It is important to ensure proper maintenance of the Red Tiger Lotus. As it grows rapidly, its leaves can float on the surface of the water, and the roots spread quickly, potentially causing damage to the aquarium. Regular pruning of leaves and roots is necessary to make enough space for other plants in the tank.
Environmental Benefits
Red Tiger Lotus not only adds beauty to the aquarium but also provides various benefits to the overall environment of the tank. It provides oxygen and absorbs excess nitrates, which are important for the survival of fish and other organisms. Its large and wide leaves create a natural shade in the tank by floating on the surface of the water, providing a comfortable and safe shelter for the fish.
3. Amazon Sword
Amazon-Sword
Overview:
- Scientific name: Echinodorus bleheri
- Common name: Amazon Sword
- Origin: Amazon River in South America
- Temperature range: usually 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
- Level of Care: Easy
- Growth Rate: Low to Moderate
- Light Level: Medium to High
Detailed Discussion: The Amazon Sword is a very popular aquarium plant used in freshwater aquariums. Its scientific name is Echinodorus bleheri, and it originates from the Amazon River basin. The Amazon Sword has green, long, and narrow leaves that give a sword-like appearance, creating a beautiful natural environment in the aquarium.
Size and Shape
Its height ranges from 20 to 50 centimeters (8 to 20 inches). The leaves are usually long and narrow, resembling swords, hence its name. The leaves are light to dark green in color and quite smooth. Each leaf is broad at the base and tapers towards the tip.
Water Range
The Amazon Sword is a freshwater species that requires maintaining certain water quality standards for its growth and well-being. For best results, keep the water temperature at 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), pH level at 6.5 to 7.5, and water hardness at 3 to 8 degrees dGH.
Light and Nutrition
The Amazon Sword grows quickly and stays healthy with the right amount of light and nutrients.
- Light: It grows best in medium to high light. It usually requires 12 to 14 hours of light per day and 20-30 lumens of light per liter. Without adequate light, plant growth may be slow, and leaves may be small.
- Nutrition: The Amazon Sword takes nutrients through both roots and leaves. Most nutrients are taken up by the roots, so regular application of liquid fertilizer is needed. Some nutrients are absorbed directly through the leaves from CO₂ in the water.
Maintenance
The Amazon Sword usually propagates from rhizomes. New plants grow close to the original plant. If these new plants are separated and planted in a new tank, overcrowding can occur, leading to issues such as reduced swimming space for fish. Old leaves should be cut off to prevent rotting, which can spoil water quality.
Environmental Benefits
The Amazon Sword provides several ecological benefits to the aquarium environment. Its long, green leaves enhance the beauty of the aquarium. It helps purify the water by absorbing nitrates, ammonia, and phosphates, and produces oxygen. The leaves also provide shade and hiding places for fish and serve as a spawning ground for angelfish.
4. Rotala Indica
Rotala-Indica
Overview:
- Scientific name: Rotala indica
- Common Name: Indian Rotala
- Origin: South Asia
- Temperature range: usually 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
- Level of Care: Easy
- Growth Rate: Low to Moderate
- Light Level: Medium to High
Detailed Discussion: Rotala indica is a popular aquarium plant known for its beautifully colored leaves. It is used as a decorative plant in aquariums and is popular as a background or side plant due to its attractive and varied leaf color and rapid growth.
Size and Shape
Rotala indica typically grows 15–30 cm (6–12 in) tall. Each leaf is about 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 in) wide and 3–7 cm (1.2–2.8 in) long. The leaves are narrow, long, and almost round. The color of the leaves ranges from green to red or pink and becomes brighter with sufficient light and nutrients.
Water Range
Rotala indica thrives in a suitable water range. The ideal temperature is 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), pH level of 6.5 to 7.5, and water hardness of 3 to 8 degrees dGH.
Light and Nutrition
Proper light and nutrition are important for the growth and beauty of Rotala indica.
- Light: It requires moderate to high light, typically 8-12 hours a day, and 20-30 lumens of light per liter. LED lighting can be used to meet these needs.
- Nutrition: Rotala indica takes nutrients through both roots and leaves. Regular application of liquid fertilizer provides nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) for root uptake. Tablet fertilizers can also be used for long-term nutrient supply. Some nutrients are absorbed directly through the leaves from CO₂ in the water.
Maintenance
Rotala indica is a fast-growing plant that requires attention to light, water, nutrients, and CO₂ supply to achieve its maximum beauty and performance. Regular trimming and removal of old or dead leaves help maintain new growth and an attractive appearance.
Environmental Benefits
Rotala Indica, or Indian Rotala, is not only a beautiful aquarium plant but also provides several ecological benefits. It produces oxygen and absorbs nitrates, phosphates, and CO₂, which are essential for the health of fish and other aquatic animals.
5. Java Moss
Java-Moss
Overview:
- Scientific name: Taxiphyllum barbieri
- Common Name: Java Moss
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Level of Care: Easy
- Temperature Range: 17-30°C (64 – 86°F)
- Growth Rate: Low, Moderate
- Light Level: Low
Detailed Discussion: Java moss is a unique aquarium plant that is popular in tanks. Its deep green hue and slender fronds make it an ideal choice. It is a great addition to any aquarium for breeding and landscaping. Its dense and soft structure acts as a shelter for various animals in the aquarium.
Size and Shape: Java moss forms a dense moss-like structure with small leaves. Its growth gradually spreads and it takes root or spreads in different parts of the aquarium.
Growth: It grows slowly, but over time forms a dense layer, which can hold roots on stone, wood, or any other hard surface.
Water Range: Java moss can live in a variety of water conditions, but it grows best in freshwater. Temperatures are generally best between 70-90°F (21-32°C), but it can adapt to lower or higher temperatures.
Light and Nutrition: Low to medium light is best for Java moss. It can grow faster in high light, but too much light can cause algae to build up. It usually survives without additional fertilizers, as it collects the necessary nutrients from the water itself.
Maintenance
- Java Moss is very easy to maintain. It can take root in different places, so you can keep it on stone or wood.
- Moss needs to be trimmed from time to time to prevent it from becoming too thick or spreading.
- Control of light may be necessary to prevent algae.
Environmental Benefits
- Java moss serves as a shelter and an egg-laying site for Betta and other small fish.
- It creates natural shade for the aquarium and helps prevent algae.
- Java moss can absorb ammonia and nitrates from the water, which helps improve water quality.
6. Anubias Nana
Anubias-nana
Overview:
- Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana
- Common Name: Anubias Nana
- Origin: South-West and Central Africa
- Temperature Range: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- Level of Care: Easy
- Growth Rate: Low to Moderate
- Light Level: Low
Detailed Discussion: Anubias nana is a popular and widely used plant for freshwater aquariums. It is commonly found in the river and canal regions of West and Central Africa. This plant is popular among both novice and experienced aquarium hobbyists due to its durability, slow growth rate, low maintenance requirements, and ability to survive easily in low light.
Size and Shape: Anubias nana typically grows to a height of 7 to 15 centimeters (3 to 6 inches). The width of the plant can be about 8 to 10 centimeters (3 to 4 inches). The leaves of Anubias nana are generally oval and medium in size. The leaves are thick, smooth, and dark green in color.
Growth: Anubias nana is a slow-growing plant, which makes it thrive for long periods of time without regular trimming or care. Usually, it can produce 1-2 new leaves per month.
Water Range
Anubias nana is a freshwater plant that can survive in a variety of water conditions. The ideal temperature is between 22-28°C (72-82°F), and it grows best when the pH is between 6.0 and 7.5. It can adapt well to hardness levels between 3 to 8°dKH.
Light: Anubias nana is a plant that can thrive well in low light. It does not require much light to grow. Usually, 8 to 10 hours of light per day and 0.5 to 1 watt of light per liter of water is sufficient for them.
Nutrition: As Anubias nana is a low-maintenance plant, its nutritional requirements are relatively low. It collects the nutrients needed for its growth from the water rather than the soil.
Maintenance: Anubias nana requires very little maintenance. It grows slowly and is not very dependent on nutrients, light, or CO₂. Although it requires little maintenance, it thrives with regular pruning, leaf cleaning, and proper management of light and nutrients.
Environmental Benefits
Anubias nana not only adds to the beauty of the aquarium but also has a positive effect on the overall environment of the aquarium. It absorbs nitrates from aquarium water and collects nutrients from fish waste, leftover food, and other organic matter, thereby maintaining the overall cleanliness of the aquarium.
7. Java Fern
Java-Fern
Overview:
- Scientific name: Leptochilus pteropus
- Common Name: Java Fern
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Temperature Range: usually 17-27°C (64 – 82°F)
- Level of Care: Easy
- Growth Rate: Low, Moderate
- Light Level: Low
Detailed Discussion: Java fern is a very popular plant that is great for Betta fish. It is easily available in most stores and is very affordable. It is a freshwater plant that is easy to maintain. My favorite thing about Java Fern is the pattern and texture of its leaves which look so beautiful underwater.
Size and Shape: Java fern is usually 13-35 cm tall and 13-25 cm wide. Its leaves are green and long, which blend in beautifully with other plants in the aquarium.
Growth: It is a slow grower, but if cared for, it will begin to sprout new leaves within a few months. Its roots spread easily, sticking to rocks or wood.
Water Range: Java fern grows best in freshwater, with a pH of 6-7.5 and a temperature of 20-28°C (64-82°F).
Light and Nutrition: This plant grows well in low light. Too much light can damage its leaves, so medium or low light is ideal. It takes nutrients from the water itself and does not require additional fertilizers.
Maintenance
- When planting Java Fern, it should not be buried in soil or sand but should be tied to stone or wood. It collects carbon dioxide and nutrients through its leaves, not its roots.
- Excessive pruning is not necessary, but old or dead leaves should be removed as rotting leaves will increase water ammonia and degrade water quality.
Environmental Benefits
- It acts as a great shelter, providing cover for small fish or fry.
- Java fern acts as a biofilter, as it can absorb ammonia and nitrate, which improves water quality.
8. Water Sprite
Water-Sprite
Overview:
- Scientific name: Ceratopteris thalictroides
- Common Name: Water Sprite
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Temperature Range: 20-30°C (68-86°F)
- Level of Care: Easy to Moderate
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Light Level: Medium to High
Detailed Discussion: A popular aquatic plant used to decorate aquariums. It is very popular with plant lovers because it is easy to maintain and grows quickly. Water sprite helps create good shelter and natural shade for fish in the aquarium.
Size and Shape: Water sprite can typically grow to a height of 20-30 cm (8-12 in). The plant can spread to about 25–38 cm (10–15 in) wide. The leaves are finely cut but not sharp, rather soft like those of fern plants. The leaves are usually arranged in clusters around the branches.
Water Range: Water sprite is a very tolerant aquatic plant that can survive in a variety of water conditions. It is best kept in a temperature range of 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, and hardness (GH) of 3 to 12 dGH.
Light: Water sprite generally grows best in moderate to bright light. It can survive in low light, but bright light is suitable for fast and healthy growth. Medium light: 0.5 to 1 watts per liter; High light: 1 to 2 watts per liter. 8-12 hours of light should be provided daily.
Nutrition
Water sprite takes nutrients through roots and leaves. They absorb water-dissolved nutrients like potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus, etc. Macronutrients through the roots and water-dissolved nutrients like nitrate (NO₃), phosphate (PO₄), and iron (Fe) reach the leaf surface through water and are absorbed by the plant.
Maintenance: Water sprite is a popular and fast-growing aquatic plant that requires relatively little maintenance. However, to keep it healthy and beautiful, some important steps like providing light, maintaining water quality, pruning, and providing nutrients must be taken.
Environmental Benefits: Adding water sprite plants to the aquarium provides several environmental benefits. It enhances the beauty of the aquarium, improves the water quality, and acts as a shelter for the fish while helping to maintain the ecological balance.
