Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is one of the most popular and low-maintenance plants you can add to your aquarium. Not only does it enhance the beauty of your tank, but it also works as a natural filter to help keep your water clean. In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about pothos in aquariums, from its benefits to how to take care of it and common problems you might face.
Varieties of Pothos
Pothos is a diverse plant with many varieties that can thrive in aquariums. Some popular types of pothos include:
- Golden Pothos: Known for its bright green leaves with yellow variegation.
- Marble Queen Pothos: Has stunning white and green variegated leaves.
- Cebu Blue Pothos: Features bluish-green leaves, adding a unique touch.
- Neon Pothos: Vibrant neon green leaves that pop in any setup.
These varieties are commonly used in aquariums because they can grow roots underwater and foliage above, making them versatile and easy to maintain as well as a great at soaking up nitrates.
Benefits of Pothos in Aquariums
Pothos plants offer a range of benefits that make them a great addition to your aquarium.
Durability
Pothos is a hardy plant, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists. It’s tough enough to withstand varying water conditions and can adapt to different tank setups.
Breeding
Not only do pothos plants look great in your tank, but they can also help breed other aquatic life. By growing roots down into the water column, pothos provide hiding spots for fish fry and create a peaceful environment, promoting healthy breeding conditions.
Attractive
With its vibrant, trailing vines and glossy green leaves, pothos adds a touch of natural beauty to your aquarium. With the Foliage growing out of the water you can train the vines along shelves and trellis extending the beauty beyond the aquarium.
Oxygenation and Water Purification
Pothos plants do more than just look pretty—they actively improve the water quality in your aquarium. By absorbing nitrates and other toxins, pothos help purify the water. They also release oxygen during photosynthesis, improving oxygenation for your fish.
Pothos Care
To keep your pothos happy and thriving in your aquarium, it’s important to provide the right care. Here’s a breakdown of key care tips:
Light
Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light. In an aquarium, they can benefit from the light above the water, such as from aquarium lighting or natural sunlight. However, be careful not to expose them to direct sunlight for too long, as this can cause the leaves to burn.
Substrate
While pothos can grow in a variety of substrates, they generally do best when their roots are loose in the water column. You can also grow them out of filter media or clay balls, which offer a solid foundation and promote healthy root growth.
Water
Pothos are adaptable to a wide range of water types, but they do best in stable, clean water. Ensure that the water in your aquarium is free from excessive chemicals and toxins. Regular water changes help maintain optimal conditions.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos prefer temperatures between 18°C – 29°C and moderate humidity levels. In an aquarium, these conditions are generally easy to maintain, but ensure the air humidity stays within a comfortable range for the plant.
Water Circulation and Aeration
Pothos like moderate water flow. Too much water movement can stress the plant, while too little circulation can lead to stagnant water, which isn’t ideal for plant growth. Ensure your aquarium has proper aeration and circulation to keep the water oxygenated and flowing.
Fertiliser
To encourage healthy growth, consider adding liquid fertiliser or root tabs to your aquarium. While pothos can absorb nutrients from fish waste, supplementing with fertilisers ensures they have everything they need to thrive, especially in tanks with fewer fish.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to keep your pothos plant healthy and to maintain its appearance. Trim back any overgrown or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too unruly.
Propagating Pothos
Pothos is easy to propagate, and you can do it right in your aquarium. Simply snip a healthy cutting just below a node (the area where the roots will form), and place the cutting in the water. The plant will start to grow roots within a few weeks. You can propagate pothos in a separate container, but doing it in your aquarium allows the roots to soak up nutrients directly from the tank.
Common Problems with Pothos
Even though pothos is a hardy plant, you may encounter a few problems. Here are some common issues and how to address them.
Yellowing
Yellowing leaves can be a sign of nutrient deficiencies or poor water conditions. If the leaves are turning yellow, check the water parameters and ensure your pothos is getting the right amount of light and nutrients. You can trim away the yellowing leaves to help the plant focus on new growth.
Wilting or Shriveling
If your pothos plant’s leaves are wilting or shriveling, it could be a sign of underwatering or a lack of proper water circulation. Ensure that the plant’s roots are submerged and the water flow is steady but not too strong.
Aquarium Plant Holders: Promote Healthy Growth with CJAquatic Products
If you’re looking to add pothos or other houseplants to your aquarium, consider using aquarium plant holders to help them grow successfully. At CJAquatic, we offer a range of plant holders that allow you to easily suspend your plants above the water line while keeping their roots submerged. These holders are not only functional but also stylish, making them a perfect addition to your aquarium setup. By using plant holders, you can create a beautiful and well-maintained aquarium that promotes healthy plant growth and improves the overall water quality.
FAQs Pothos
Here are some frequently asked questions about pothos in aquariums:
Q: Can pothos survive fully submerged in water?
A: Pothos can tolerate having its roots submerged, but it thrives when only the roots are in the water and the leaves are above the surface.
Q: How often should I trim my pothos plant?
A: Trim your pothos regularly to remove dead or yellowing leaves. You can also trim back long vines to encourage bushier growth.
Q: Can I use pothos with other plants in the aquarium?
A: Yes! Pothos can coexist with other aquatic and emersed plants, as long as they have similar care requirements and do not compete for resources.
Q: What kind of fish can I keep with pothos?
A: Many freshwater fish, like bettas, guppies, and tetras, are compatible with pothos. Just avoid aggressive or herbivorous fish that may damage the plant.
Q: Do I need to fertilise pothos in my aquarium?
A: While pothos can absorb nutrients from fish waste, adding liquid fertiliser or root tabs can help ensure the plant has all the nutrients it needs for optimal growth.
Adding pothos to your aquarium is a simple yet effective way to enhance your tank’s appearance while benefiting from improved water quality. With a little care and attention, your pothos plant will thrive, helping to create a healthier and more attractive environment for your fish. Happy planting!
