Aquatic Plants for Goldfish

There are many reasons why goldfish are such popular pets. Unlike many other kinds of fish, goldfish will live quite happily in an unheated tank, making it easier to set up a suitable aquarium. Goldfish are also quite low maintenance pets, and it is easy for even the smallest children to care for them. Adding plants to your goldfish aquarium is an excellent way to give your tank a more natural and attractive look. A well planted goldfish aquarium will also experience less algae growth, since the plants will soak up much of the light that would otherwise encourage the growth of the algae.

  1. Sword Plants

    • Sword plants are among the easiest of all aquarium plants to grow, and they are the perfect choice for a goldfish aquarium. Sword plants have large, wide leaves that readily soak up all of the available light, so they tend to thrive even in places where natural sunlight is less than optimal. Sword plants should do quite well even if the only available light comes from the hood on top of the aquarium. It is important to root the sword plants firmly into the gravel, since many goldfish will dig in the gravel, uprooting plants that are not rooted deeply. Checking the sword plants regularly and resetting them on occasion is the best way to ensure success.

    Java Ferns

    • Java ferns are another excellent beginner plant that is suitable for the goldfish aquarium. Java ferns are fast growing, so they will be able to survive quite well even if the goldfish choose to nibble on the leaves. As with any plant in a goldfish tank, it is important to root the ferns firmly in the tank to make sure they are not uprooted. Java ferns have a rich, deep green color that sets off lighter sword plants; combining these two plants can enhance the natural beauty of the goldfish tank.

    Java Moss

    • Java moss is an distinctive addition to any goldfish tank. Java moss can be attached to the rocks, driftwood and other decorations in the tank, or it can simply float free in the tank. Java moss is one of the fastest growing aquarium plants available to the hobbyist, and even a small amount of Java moss will quickly grow and take over parts of the tank. It is important for hobbyists to keep an eye on the growth of the Java moss and remove the excess if necessary. Due to its fast growth and its thirst for light, Java moss is one of the best plants for controlling algae in the goldfish aquarium.