
By Conner Tighe
Live plants are beneficial for bettas in more ways than one. While providing oxygen and improving water quality, they serve as hiding spots and reduce stress for bettas. And don’t forget that plants enhance the visual appeal of the aquarium.
These plants, which mimic bettas’ natural habitat in rice paddies, ponds, marshes, and streams in Southeast Asia, play a crucial role in maintaining water parameters and reducing harmful toxins like ammonia and nitrate. They bring a piece of the betta's natural world into your aquarium, fostering a deeper connection with these fascinating creatures.
Compatibility for your betta(s) is essential when choosing aquarium plants. Avoid sharp-edged plants that could damage the delicate fins of your betta. Light requirements include low to medium light for easy care.
Top Easy Live Plants for Betta Tanks
Java Fern
Why It’s Great: Hardy, thrives in low light, offers hiding spots and resting areas.
Care Tips:
Attach to rocks or driftwood, not substrate.
Minimal fertilization; grows slowly.
Anubias
Why It’s Great: Virtually indestructible, low maintenance, broad leaves for resting.
Care Tips:
Attach to hard surfaces.
Clean gently to prevent algae buildup.
Marimo Moss Balls
Why It’s Great: Decorative, absorbs nitrates, improves water quality.
Care Tips:
Rotate occasionally for shape maintenance.
Rinse during water changes.
Amazon Sword
Why It’s Great: Lush, tropical vibe; great for spacious tanks.
Care Tips:
Nutrient-rich substrate; moderate lighting.
Trim dead or overgrown leaves.
Duckweed
Why It’s Great: Floating, provides shade, reduces light intensity.
Care Tips:
Remove excess to prevent surface coverage.
Regular water flow controls spread.
Hornwort
Why It’s Great: Versatile, dense foliage offers shelter.
Care Tips:
Trims may be needed due to quick growth.
Thrives without much light or fertilization.
Water Wisteria
Why It’s Great: Vibrant green, feathery leaves, adaptable.
Care Tips:
Plant in substrate or float.
Prune regularly for shape maintenance.
How to Properly Add Live Plants to Your Betta Tank
Choose the Right Plants
Ensure plants are suitable for betta tanks and thrive in your tank’s conditions (75–80°F, low to medium light).
Prepare the Plants
Rinse thoroughly to remove debris, pests.
Check for pests/damage; remove dead leaves.
Optional: Quarantine with aquarium-safe disinfectant.
Anchor the Plants
Rooted plants: Place roots gently into the substrate, crown above.
Rhizome plants: Attach to hard surfaces (e.g., driftwood).
Floating plants: Place on the water’s surface.
Position the Plants Strategically
Tall plants at the back/sides.
Mid-height or smaller plants as foreground/centerpieces.
Leave swimming areas for bettas.
Introduce Plants Gradually
Add plants slowly to avoid stressing the fish.
Adjust Lighting and Filtration
Ensure lighting matches plant needs.
Avoid excessive water flow.
Monitor Plant and Fish Health
Remove decaying plants, monitor for algae.
Check how your betta interacts with plants.
Simple Care Tips for Live Plants
Trim and Prune Regularly
Prevent overgrowth and water quality issues.
Clean the Plants Gently
Use tank water during water changes to clean plants.
Use Aquarium-Safe Fertilizers
Apply sparingly to avoid algae blooms.
Maintain Proper Lighting
Use low- to medium-light levels; set timers for 8–10 hours/day.
Monitor Water Conditions
Keep pH 6.5–7.5; temperature 75–80°F.
Control Algae Growth
Avoid overfeeding; reduce light if algae appear.
Replace Dying Plants
Remove and replace plants showing extensive rot.
This guide was written by Conner Tighe
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