Aquarium Background Plants: Create a Natural, Lush Decor
Why choose background plants for your aquarium?
Background plants are the largest in the tank, and for good reason: their mission is to dress the bottom of the aquarium , structure the space and hide equipment such as the filter or heater. Thanks to their height and volume, they also offer refuge areas for fish, while bringing a natural and elegant touch to your aquatic decor.
Whether you are a fan of a wild and lush style or minimalist aquascaping , background plants are an essential element for a harmonious and balanced aquarium .
A key element for a well-planted aquarium
- They hide the equipment for total immersion in the decor.
- They provide hiding places for shy fish and shrimp.
- They participate in natural filtration by absorbing excess nutrients .
- They add depth and create a perspective effect.
Some species such as Rotala , Ludwigia or Vallisneria are even able to grow rapidly and improve water quality by consuming nitrates .
Which plants should you choose for the background of your aquarium?
There are several types of plants suitable for the bottom of the tank, depending on the desired effect.
Stem plants: for a dense green wall
Stem plants are ideal for creating a green curtain at the back of the tank. They grow quickly, require little maintenance and offer an impressive jungle effect. Among the most popular:
- Rotala rotundifolia : fast and colorful, it varies from green to red depending on the lighting .
- Hygrophila corymbosa : bulky and robust, perfect for beginners.
- Ludwigia repens : a touch of red to energize the background.
Tip : For fast growth and vibrant colors, good lighting and nutrient supply are recommended.
Long-leaved plants: a wild and natural effect
These plants with long, undulating leaves are ideal for a natural-looking aquarium :
- Vallisneria gigantea : its long leaves reach the surface and undulate with the current.
- Aponogeton ulvaceus : elegant and refined, it creates a superb contrast with smaller plants.
- Elodea canadensis (waterweed) : ultra-easy to grow and perfect for oxygenating water.
Floating plants: an airy touch and a refuge for fish
If you want to add relief and shade , some floating plants can also be used in the background:
- Ceratophyllum demersum (hornwort) : a rootless plant that grows very quickly.
- Limnobium laevigatum : small round leaves that float on the surface.
Quick tip : Floating plants can filter light, so it's important to adjust your lighting to suit the needs of the other plants.
How to properly maintain your background plants?
Since background plants are usually large and fast growing , it is important to prune them regularly to prevent them from taking over the entire aquarium. Here are some tips to keep them in good shape:
- Proper lighting : The taller a plant is, the more light it needs to grow harmoniously. Good lighting is essential.
- Nutritious soil : Some plants like Vallisneria and Hygrophila prefer a nutrient- rich substrate.
- CO2 supply : Although some species can do without it, a good CO2 system accelerates growth and intensifies colors.
- Regular pruning : Stem plants should be trimmed frequently to maintain their shape and prevent them from depriving the plants below of light.
Why adopt background plants in your aquarium?
- To structure the space and create a natural decor
- To hide equipment and improve the aesthetics of the tank
- To provide hiding places for fish and shrimp
- To absorb excess nitrates and improve water quality
- To oxygenate the aquarium and stabilize the ecosystem
Background plants are essential to create a balanced and structured decor . They provide volume, hide equipment and provide shelter for fish , while playing a key role in the natural filtration of the tank.
Whether you want a lush green wall or a more airy decor, there is a wide variety of background plants suitable for all styles of aquariums. With good maintenance, they will enhance your tank and make it a real aquatic landscape !
