Jul 19, 2024

Top 10 Fast-Growing Plants for a Crystal Clear Tank

Creating and maintaining a vibrant aquarium is a passion for many aquatic enthusiasts. One of the keys to achieving a healthy and visually appealing tank is incorporating live plants. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of the aquarium, but they also play a crucial role in maintaining water quality by absorbing nitrates and providing oxygen for aquatic inhabitants.

Fast-growing plants, in particular, are prized for their ability to outcompete algae, prevent nutrient buildup, and provide shelter for fish and invertebrates. Here, we unveil the top 10 fast-growing plants that will transform your tank into a sparkling oasis, free from the blues of bothersome algae.

1. Java Moss

Java Moss (Taxiphyllum Barbieri) is a popular aquatic plant often used in freshwater aquariums due to its hardy nature and aesthetic appeal. This moss is native to Southeast Asia and is well known for its adaptability to a variety of water conditions, which makes it a great option for aquarists of all skill levels.

Its fine, delicate fronds provide an excellent habitat for small fish and invertebrates, offering shelter and breeding grounds. Java Moss can be attached to various surfaces like rocks, driftwood, and aquarium substrates, where it will gradually spread and create a lush, green carpet. Its versatility in terms of lighting and water parameters contributes to its growing appeal among aquarium hobbyists.

In addition to its visual appeal, Java Moss plays a functional role in the aquarium ecosystem. It helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and providing surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize, which aids in the nitrogen cycle. This makes it a natural and effective means of reducing harmful compounds like ammonia and nitrate in the water.

Regular trimming can help maintain its shape and prevent it from overtaking other plants in the aquarium. Overall, Java Moss is a versatile and valuable addition to any freshwater aquarium, contributing both beauty and ecological benefits.

2. Red Root Floaters

Red Root Floater (Phyllanthus fluitans) stands out not only for its striking aesthetic but also for its dynamic role in the aquarium ecosystem. Unlike many floating plants, it boasts vibrant red roots and leaves that can turn various shades of red and orange, especially under intense lighting.

This coloration adds a dramatic splash of color to any aquarium setup, creating a vivid contrast against the green hues of other aquatic plants. Beyond its visual appeal, Red Root Floater offers practical benefits by providing shelter and breeding grounds for fish fry and small aquatic invertebrates.

Its rapid growth and nutrient uptake capabilities help mitigate nitrate levels, making it a natural solution for maintaining water quality. With its ease of care and multifaceted benefits, Red Root Floater is a prized edition for aquarists seeking to enhance both the visual and ecological balance of their aquatic environments.

3. Salvinia natans

Salvinia natans, also known as floating fern or water butterfly wings, is not just a beautiful addition to your aquarium, it is a multi-talented wonder. This free-floating fern boasts delicate, overlapping leaves that form a mesmerizing green blanket on the water's surface. But it's true magic lies beneath the beauty.

The dense mat provides valuable shade, helping to control water temperature and deter algae growth. Imagine sunlight filtering through a canopy of emerald leaves, creating a dappled, calming effect that discourages algae from thriving.

The feathery hairs on its leaves act as tiny filters, absorbing excess nutrients that would otherwise fuel algae blooms. By creating shade and absorbing nutrients, Salvinia natans disrupt the perfect environment for algae, allowing your desired plants to flourish and your fish to thrive in a crystal-clear, healthy environment.

4. Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red

Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red is a stunning aquatic plant favored by aquarists for its slender, needle-like leaves and vibrant red coloration. The intense red hues of its foliage become more pronounced under high light and CO2 supplementation, making it a favorite among enthusiasts aiming for a visually striking aquascape.

Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red grows in dense clusters, creating a lush, bushy effect that serves as an excellent background or mid-ground plant. Its fast growth rate and tendency to form compact, dense stands not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also provide beneficial cover and breeding grounds for small fish and shrimp.

This plant's combination of beauty and functionality makes it a prized addition for those looking to create a vibrant and dynamic aquatic environment.

5. Hydrocotyle Leucocephala

Hydrocotyle Leucocephala, commonly known as Brazilian pennywort, is a versatile aquatic plant prized for its ease of care and adaptability. Originating from the wetland habitats of Central and South America, this fast-growing stem plant thrives in a variety of water parameters, making it ideal for beginner aquarists. Recognized for its round, penny-shaped leaves borne on creeping stems, Hydrcotyle leucocephala can be employed in various aquascaping applications. It functions effectively as a carpeting plant in the foreground with regular trimming or flourishes as a midground or background element when allowed to grow freely.

This undemanding species offers aquascapers a low-maintenance solution for enhancing the visual appeal of their freshwater aquarium

6. Hygrophila Difformis

The Hygrophila difformis, a captivating aquatic plant with a scientific moniker that belies its beauty, is a captivating centerpiece for aquascapers. Hygrophila difformis thrives in a range of water conditions, making it up forgiving choice for hobbyists of all experience levels.

When introduced into the midground or background of the aquarium, its graceful stems and lush foliage create a visually striking display. Hygrophila difformis is a prime selection for those seeking to elevate the visual interest of their freshwater aquarium.

7. Egeria Densa

Egeria densa, often referred to as Brazilian waterweed or elodea, is a submerged aquatic plant with a remarkable ability to thrive in diverse freshwater environments. It plays a vital role in aquatic ecosystems by providing oxygenation, filtering pollutants, and offering vital hiding spots for fish fry.

While its rapid growth can be beneficial in maintaining water quality, careful management is crucial to prevent it from becoming invasive.

8. Bacopa Caroliniana

Adorning the foreground of freshwater aquascapes, Bacopa caroliniana, also known as Carolina water hyssop, captivates with its delicate charm. Bacopa caroliniana is celebrated for its petite, oval-shaped leaves arranged in pairs along creeping stems. The foliage boasts a vibrant spectrum of green, often transitioning from traditional to attractive shades of red and bronze under intense lighting.

This versatile species can be meticulously trimmed to form a dense, low-lying carpet or permitted to grow freely, creating a cascading effect that adds depth and texture to the underwater landscape.

9. Vallisneria Gigantea ‘Rubra’

Vallisneria Gigantea 'Rubra' is a striking aquatic plant known for its vibrant red coloration. This plant, a variation of the Vallisneria Gigantea species, features long, ribbon-like leaves that can grow to impressive lengths underwater. The 'Rubra' variety adds a unique touch to aquariums, creating a visually appealing contrast against greenery or other plants.

Its red hue can intensify under proper lighting conditions, making it a sought-after choice for aquarists looking to add a pop of color to their aquatic environments.

10. Pearl Weed

Pearl Weed is a popular aquatic plant for freshwater aquariums. It is a versatile easy-to-care-for plant that can be used as a carpeting plant, mid-water plant, or even attached to decorations. Pearl Weed has small, rounded leaves and can grow up to 4 inches tall. It prefers moderate lighting and can thrive in a range of water conditions.

It is a great choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike, as it's easy to maintain and can help keep the water clean by absorbing excess nutrients. With its delicate appearance and versatility, Pearl Weed is a great addition to any aquarium.

Which aquarium plant grows the fastest?

Java Moss, or Hygrophila Difformis, is one of the most well-liked fast-growing plants because of its quick growth rate and easy-to-maintain care needs.

What are the best fast-growing aquarium plants without CO2?

There are many options available, if you’re looking for aquarium plants that don’t require CO2. For both beginner and expert aquarists, Anubias, Java fern, Amazon sword, cryptocoryne, and Vallisneria are great options.

Do plants make aquarium water clearer?

Living plants fight for nutrients and aid in the starvation of microorganisms responsible for murky water. Furthermore, during the day they generate oxygen, which helps decompose fish waste, uneaten food, and the bacteria that cause cloudy water to start to disappear. This third advantage helps in water cleaning.

Conclusion

Incorporating fast-growing plants into your freshwater aquarium offers a multitude of benefits. Not only do these botanical wonders enhance the visual appeal of your underwater world, but they also play a vital role in maintaining pristine water quality. By out-competing algae for nutrients and filtering out pollutants, fast-growing plants help prevent pesky outbreaks and contribute to a stable aquatic ecosystem.

Additionally, they provide essential oxygen for your fish and offer vital hiding spots, particularly for fry. So, for a thriving and crystal clear aquarium, consider introducing our selection of these fast-growing aquatic heroes.