Keeping a Betta Fish with Plant (June 2024)
Ever looked at your Aquarium tank and said, "Hey, this place could use a little Betta Fish with Plant. Maybe some floating plants or a bamboo sidekick?" You're not alone.
We're talking benefits like improved water quality, natural hidey-holes, and general eye candy for both you and the betta. I mean, could you imagine living in a room with no furniture? It's like Netflix without the chill. Your fishy friend is silently—or as silently as a fish can—screaming for some green.
Without proper plants, you're missing out on:
- Aesthetically pleasing decor that'll make even your mother-in-law nod in approval.
- Enhanced water parameters. No one likes a dirty room, not even your betta.
- Playful nooks and crannies for your betta to explore.
We've got the list that'll turn your betta's humble abode into a veritable Atlantis.
We're diving deep into the world of betta fish plants—from floating green heavens to sturdy, thick-leaved wonders. And guess what? These plants are easier to maintain than your coffee habit. So, put that vanilla latte down for a second, and let's green up your tank.
Ready to become the ultimate betta whisperer, the envy of all betta owners, and the hero your fish deserves? You're in the right place, my aquatic amigo.
Prepare to be schooled—in a fishy way, of course.
Betta Fish and Plants: Creating a Thriving Ecosystem
Ah, betta fish and plants: a match made in aquatic heaven—or at least your living room.
Betta fish are known for their vibrant colors and elegant fins. Originating from Southeast Asia, these freshwater fish make a delightful addition to any aquarium. But to truly understand betta fish, one must look at their natural environment, which is rich with plant life.
Fact: In their natural habitat, bettas live among dense aquatic vegetation, which provides them with food, shelter, and a stimulating environment.
Quick Rundown:
- Java Fern
- Anubias Nana
- Pennywort
- Water Sprite
- Pygmy Chain Sword Plant
- Duckweed
- Anubias Barteri
- Anacharis
- Marimo Moss Balls
- Hornwort
- Java Moss
- Cryptocoryne Wendtii
- Amazon Frogbit
- Wisteria
- Banana Plant
- Christmas Moss
Understanding Betta Fish
Betta fish are small, usually ranging from 2 to 3 inches in length, and come in a variety of colors and fin types. Their natural habitat includes rice paddies, slow-moving streams, and swamps—all of which are rich in plant life. Betta fish owners often seek to replicate this lush environment in the home aquarium.
Why do plants matter for betta fish?
The presence of plants in a betta aquarium benefits both the fish and the owners. Plants create a more natural environment, help with algae growth control, and provide betta fish with hiding and resting places. Therefore, selecting the right aquatic plant is crucial for a thriving betta fish ecosystem.
Learn more about: Betta Fish
16 Best Plants for Betta Fish Tanks
To help you narrow down your choices, we have compiled a list of Top 16 Aquarium Plants for Beginners based on customer reviews, ratings, and expert opinions;
In a hurry? I recommend Java Fern
Low-Light Aquatic Plants
1. Java Fern
Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus
Origin: Southeast Asia
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Lighting: Low to Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
A hardy aquarium plant that fares well in betta tanks is the Java fern. These plants are excellent for beginners due to their low light and nutrient requirements. They have dark green leaves and can adapt to various water conditions, making them a versatile choice for a betta aquarium.
Why to Buy:
Java Fern is extremely hardy and can thrive in various conditions. Its dark green leaves provide a great backdrop and hiding spots for your betta.
Facts:
- Does well tied to rocks or driftwood
- Resistant to most plant-eating fish
2. Anubias Nana
Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana
Origin: West Africa
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Slow
Lighting: Low to Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
Anubias plants are a very hardy plant and an excellent choice for betta aquariums. They have broad leaves that offer good hiding spots for betta fish. Anubias plants are slow growing plants that don't require much light, making them easy for beginner betta fish owners to maintain.
Why to Buy:
Anubias Nana is a hardy plant with thick leaves, making it an excellent choice for betta tanks. It can survive even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Facts:
- Can be attached to driftwood or rocks
- Resilient to most algae types
3. Pennywort
Scientific Name: Hydrocotyle leucocephala
Origin: North and South America
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Fast
Lighting: Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not mandatory, but beneficial
Ah, the Pennywort. With its bright green leaves, it's like a tiny lily pad world for your betta fish. It's a moderate lighting plant that grows tall, making it a great background plant. This is perfect if your betta is the theatrical type and enjoys a dramatic backdrop.
Why to Buy:
Pennywort is an adaptable and versatile plant. It can either be planted in the substrate or left floating, making it a dynamic addition to your betta aquarium.
Facts:
- Known for its umbrella-like leaves
- Quick growth helps control algae
Aquarium Plants with Multiple Benefits for Betta Tanks
4. Water Sprite
Scientific Name: Ceratopteris thalictroides
Origin: Worldwide
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Fast
Lighting: Medium to High
CO2 Requirement: Not required
The Water Sprite is like the friendly neighbor who helps everyone around. This floating plant not only adds greenery to your tank but also offers great hiding spots for your betta. It's easy to maintain and grows at a moderate pace, so you won't have to trim it every other day.
Why to Buy:
Water Sprite is known for its bright green, feathery leaves. It can be planted or floated, offering a natural refuge for betta fish.
Facts:
- Excellent for bettas who like to make bubble nests
- A great background or floating plant
5. Pygmy Chain Sword Plant
Scientific Name: Echinodorus tenellus
Origin: North and South America
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Lighting: Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not mandatory
Want to add a foreground plant that won't steal your betta's limelight? Enter Pygmy Chain Sword Plant. This easy plant is like a well-behaved houseguest: it stays where you put it and doesn't demand a lot of attention.
Why to Buy:
Pygmy Chain Swords are great foreground plants that can create a beautiful underwater lawn effect.
Facts:
- Thrives in sandy or gravel substrates
- Can adapt to a range of water parameters
6. Duckweed
Scientific Name: Lemna minor
Origin: Worldwide
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Fast
Lighting: Low to Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
Duckweed may sound like a nuisance, but in an aquarium, it's a godsend. This easy-to-maintain floating plant can prevent algae growth by absorbing excess nutrients. It's like the night watchman of your aquarium, keeping unwanted algae away.
Why to Buy:
Duckweed is a floating plant that helps in reducing algae growth by blocking light to the substrate.
Facts:
- Easiest floating plant to maintain
- Can be used as supplemental food for some fish
7. Anubias Barteri
Scientific Name: Anubias barteri
Origin: West Africa
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Slow
Lighting: Low to Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
Much like its smaller cousin, Anubias Barteri is a very hardy plant with broad leaves that offer fantastic hideaways for bettas. They grow slowly, don't need a lot of light, and are basically the chill roommate your betta has been praying for.
Why to Buy:
Similar to its smaller cousin, Anubias Nana, this plant has broad leaves that can provide a cozy shelter for your betta.
Facts:
- Resistant to nibbling fish
- Algae-resistant due to its hard leaves
8. Anacharis
Scientific Name: Elodea densa
Origin: North and South America
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Fast
Lighting: Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not mandatory
Anacharis is like the eco-warrior of aquatic plants. It helps keep the water clean and can serve as a fast-growing plant to provide your tank with some lush, green vibes. They're the perfect plant to invite if you're throwing an underwater garden party.
Why to Buy:
Anacharis is a great plant for keeping water clean and providing a lush, green environment.
Facts:
- Can grow both planted and floating
- Consumes nutrients that would otherwise feed algae
9. Marimo Moss Balls
Scientific Name: Aegagropila linnaei
Origin: Northern Hemisphere
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Extremely Slow
Lighting: Low
CO2 Requirement: Not required
Marimo Moss Balls are basically the pet rocks of the aquatic plant world. These slow-growing plant orbs demand very little but give a lot in terms of aesthetics and nutrient balance. They're charming, hardy, and are perfect for betta owners who want low-maintenance buddies for their fish.
Why to Buy:
Besides being downright adorable, these moss balls are almost indestructible and help to balance nutrients in the tank.
Facts:
- Requires minimal care
- Can live for a very long time
10. Hornwort
Scientific Name: Ceratophyllum demersum
Origin: Worldwide
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Fast
Lighting: Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
Hornwort is the multi-talented star that can either float or be anchored in your tank. These fast-growing plants are excellent for providing your betta with ample hiding places. Plus, they're fantastic oxygenators that can improve water quality.
Why to Buy:
Hornwort is an excellent oxygenating plant and can float or be anchored in the substrate.
Facts:
- Provides plenty of hiding spaces
- Shed leaves can serve as additional food
11. Java Moss
Scientific Name: Vesicularia dubyana
Origin: Southeast Asia
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Moderate
Lighting: Low to Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
If your betta fish is the nesting type, then Java Moss is the plant to add to your aquarium. It's like the aquatic version of a knitting club but for betta fish looking to build bubble nests.
Why to Buy:
Java Moss is excellent for bettas who like to nest, as its fine, intricate leaves provide great scaffolding for bubble nests.
Facts:
- Tolerant of various water conditions
- Provides excellent cover and shade
12. Cryptocoryne Wendtii
Scientific Name: Cryptocoryne wendtii
Origin: Sri Lanka
Skill Level: Intermediate
Growth Rate: Slow
Lighting: Low to Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
With a range of colors, Cryptocoryne Wendtii offers more than just greenery. It's like the interior designer of aquatic plants, providing your betta aquarium with color depth and contrast without demanding too much attention.
Why to Buy:
With its striking appearance and range of colors, Cryptocoryne Wendtii adds visual depth and contrast to your tank.
Facts:
- Can be sensitive to water changes
- Prefers stable water conditions
13. Amazon Frogbit
Scientific Name: Limnobium laevigatum
Origin: South America
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Lighting: Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
Want a floating plant that looks like mini lily pads? Then go for Amazon Frogbit. It provides excellent coverage at the water surface and its roots make excellent hidey-holes for your betta. It's a great choice for turning your aquarium water into a betta paradise.
Why to Buy:
This floating plant is ideal for providing cover at the water surface, giving bettas a great place to rest and hide.
Facts:
- Its roots offer additional hiding places
- Can act as a nutrient sponge
14. Wisteria
Scientific Name: Hygrophila difformis
Origin: India, Malaysia
Skill Level: Beginner
Growth Rate: Fast
Lighting: Medium to High
CO2 Requirement: Beneficial but not mandatory
With its bright green leaves and quick growth, Water Wisteria acts like the showstopper in a betta aquarium. This plant is adaptable and resilient, perfect for betta owners who like their plants to be as robust as their sense of humor.
Why to Buy:
Water Wisteria is adaptable and provides an excellent background, making your tank look lush and vibrant.
Facts:
- Quick growth helps in nutrient absorption
- Can be pruned easily for shape
15. Banana Plant
Scientific Name: Nymphoides aquatica
Origin: Southern USA
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Lighting: Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not required
A unique plant with banana-like roots that store nutrients, Banana Plant gives your betta tank a unique look. Its lily-like leaves float on the water, giving your betta plenty of opportunities to rest and play.
Why to Buy:
Banana Plants have an intriguing look and their lily-like leaves float on the water surface, providing cover for bettas.
Facts:
- Unique "banana" roots store nutrients
- Can grow lily pads on the water surface
16. Christmas Moss
Scientific Name: Vesicularia montagnei
Origin: Southeast Asia
Skill Level: Intermediate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Lighting: Medium
CO2 Requirement: Not mandatory
Christmas Moss is the final piece of the puzzle that completes your betta tank. With intricate leaf patterns, it provides an excellent place for your betta to play, nest, and hide. Plus, it looks like miniature Christmas trees, making every day feel like the holidays for your betta.
Why to Buy:
Christmas Moss offers intricate leaf patterns and provides an excellent place for bettas to nest and hide.
Facts:
- Ideal for attaching to driftwood or rocks
- Resistant to various water conditions
Benefits of Live Plants in a Betta Fish Tank
When considering live plants for your betta tank, you're essentially mimicking their natural environment.
Live plants are not merely decorative items; they contribute to the health and happiness of the fish. Live plants improve water quality by absorbing nitrates and providing oxygen. They also reduce stress levels in betta fish, making them feel more at home.
Decor and Designing Betta Tanks
When setting up your betta tank, it's not only about the plants. Aquarium rocks, water wisteria as a background plant, and even floating plants can create a visually stimulating environment.
Rocks can help anchor plant species, and floating plants like lily pads add a new dimension to your tank, offering betta fish a closer approximation to their natural habitat.
List of Design with Betta Fish Tanks
- Minimalist Design: Incorporate a few plants like anubias and java ferns with simple rocks.
- Naturalistic Design: Use a variety of plant species with driftwood and natural-colored substrate.
- Fantasy Design: Add elements like castles or colorful gravel, keeping in mind the plant life and safety of your pet fish.
The One-Stop Course: Aquarium Class
When setting up your betta tank, there's a way to skip the line of beginner mistakes and fast-track to a tank that's the envy of your friends, family, and even that nosy neighbor who can't help but peek in your window.
Ever heard of AquariumClass.com? If not, picture your go-to resource for setting up and maintaining your little aquatic paradise. This isn't just about figuring out how to dump fish food into the water without causing a fishy Armageddon. We're talking about creating a thriving ecosystem that you can actually be proud of.
At AquariumClass.com, you'll learn how to steer clear of the pitfalls that can make your tank more "toilet bowl" than "tropical paradise." They guide you through selecting the right equipment, help you avoid common (and costly) mistakes, and even offer on-demand advice for those midnight crises like "Why is my fish looking at me funny?" or "Why is my tank water cloudier than a British summer?"
You can even connect with a community of fellow aquarium aficionados to share tips, tricks, and possibly some fish puns (no promises on the quality of the puns, though).
What You Get
- Expert Guidance: The course instructors aren’t just people who once watched a YouTube video about fish; they are seasoned pros who guide you through every detail.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: From setting up your first tank to understanding the nuances of water chemistry, the course leaves no stone unturned (or should we say, no pebble unswirled?).
- Active Community: Think of this as your personal fishkeeping council. Anytime you're in doubt, this is your go-to place for real-time advice and troubleshooting.
Sign up and dive in. Your dream tank is waiting.
Understanding Fake vs. Real Plants: Which is Best for Your Betta?
While silk plants or plastic plants might seem like an easy choice, they lack the natural touch that only live plants can provide. Live plants not only add to the aesthetic but also come with several health benefits for betta fish.
Pros and Cons of Live Plants
Pros:
- Mimics natural environment
- Helps control algae growth
- Provides hiding and resting spaces
- Enhances water quality
Cons:
- May require additional care and maintenance
- Risk of introducing pests or diseases
Pros and Cons of Fake Plants
Pros:
- No risk of introducing parasites
- Easier to clean and maintain
- Do not require light or nutrients
Cons:
- Do not offer the same benefits as live plants
- Some may have sharp edges that can harm delicate fins
Note: if you are committed to the aquarium hobby, live plants are almost always a better choice for your betta fish.
Frequently Asked Questions about Betta Fish and Plants
Can you put live plants in a betta tank?
Absolutely, you can—and you should!
Live plants like anubias, java ferns, and the ultra-chill Marimo moss balls make great aquarium plants for your betta buddy. They're like the green room for your fish, helping to create a natural environment, and improve water quality.
What kind of plants do betta fish prefer?
Bettas are pretty low-maintenance celebs, but they have their preferences. Slow-growing plants like anubias and java ferns are easy to manage, and they have thick leaves perfect for lounging. Floating plants offer bettas a nice, leafy cover near the water surface.
If you're going for more of a forest retreat, bamboo plants are an easy plant option that can add a touch of elegance. Fast-growing plants like water wisteria can also make for a great background plant in larger tanks.
Are plastic plants safe for betta fish?
Well, the answer is yes and no.
Plastic plants don't demand any diva-like lighting requirements, which makes them easy to maintain. But make sure to choose ones without sharp edges to protect your betta's delicate fins.
Silk plants are a safer alternative if you're considering the artificial route.
How do fake and real plants impact the betta's health and mood?
Ah, the clash of the titans—fake vs. real. While fake plants may look the part, they don't quite measure up in delivering the health benefits that live plants offer. Real plants can boost your betta's mood by creating a natural environment and adding some extra oxygen to the water.
On the flip side, plastic plants offer zero nutritional or health benefits. Imagine eating a chocolate chip cookie only to realize it's made of Styrofoam—quite the letdown, right?
Live vs. Artificial Plants: What's the verdict?
Both have their pros and cons, but live plants take home the trophy. They not only replicate the betta’s natural environment but also improve water quality and engage your betta's curiosity.
Plus: real plants can act as a foreground plant or even serve as plants growing underneath other plants.
Is the Aquarium Class Course Worth It?
The value of a course often lies in the outcomes it provides, and based on reviews, testimonials, and content coverage, it seems the Aquarium Class Course is more than just a drop in the fishkeeping bucket—it's a tidal wave of valuable information and support.
But don't just take our word for it; here's what some delighted students had to say:
- Samantha L., New York: "I was losing fish left and right before taking this course. Now, not only are my fish thriving, but I’ve also got an aquarium that's become the centerpiece of my living room. Worth every penny!"
- Tom D., Florida: "I knew zero about maintaining an aquarium. Now, I feel like Jacques Cousteau in my own home. The instructors are knowledgeable and the community is a goldmine of advice. Five stars!"
- Ravi K., Texas: "The course saved me hours of research and probably a small fortune in beginner’s mistakes. The easy-to-follow lessons and active community make this the ultimate package for anyone serious about fishkeeping."
Ready to swim with the big fish? Sign Up Now
Is it advisable to keep a betta in a bowl with plants?
While it may seem like a cute idea, keeping a betta in a bowl isn't recommended, even if you add plants. Betta fish need space and proper filtration—something a bowl can't provide. So unless your bowl can hold at least ten gallons of water and can fit a filter, it's best to invest in a proper tank.
Can you use fake plants for bettas in a bowl?
If you're still keen on using a bowl, silk plants are a better choice than plastic ones due to their soft texture.
Remember: bowls are not ideal homes for your betta, even if they’re decorated with the loveliest of faux foliage.
Are there any specific lighting requirements for the plants listed?
Most of the plants recommended for bettas, like anubias and java ferns, are low-light plants.
They're like the introverts of the plant world—thriving under moderate lighting conditions without the need for spotlight attention.
How often should you trim or maintain these plants?
Just like your occasional visit to the salon, plants also need a trim now and then.
Slow-growing plants require less frequent trimming, maybe once every couple of months. Fast-growing plants might need a snip-snip every few weeks. Remember to remove any dead plant material to prevent it from fouling the water, because nobody likes a messy living room, underwater or not.
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Conclusion
Creating a betta tank with plants requires some understanding of both the betta fish and the plants that share their environment. The natural habitat of betta fish is rich in plant life, making plants an essential component in any betta aquarium. From very hardy plants like anubias and java ferns to unique choices like Marimo moss balls, there is a wide range of options available at pet stores for betta fish owners.
Incorporating plants in your betta fish tank has multiple benefits. It mimics the natural environment, aids in water quality, and provides your pet fish with the shelter and comfort they seek. When designing your betta fish tank, remember to incorporate elements like rocks and consider the aesthetics as well. Both fake and real plants have their merits and drawbacks, but nothing compares to the natural, vibrant environment that live plants can create in your betta tank.
Remember, betta fish are more than just pets; they are a commitment and a hobby. So, whether you're new to the aquarium hobby or a seasoned betta owner, adding plants to your betta fish tank can immensely improve the quality of life for your betta, making it a more enjoyable experience for both of you.
Also, don't forget to dive into the "Aquariums for Beginners" Facebook group. With over 470k members sharing memes, advice, and aquatic enthusiasm, you'll fit right in with the swim crowd.
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