Plants for a Saltwater Aquarium

There are several types of popular saltwater aquarium plants that are both beautiful and useful when placed into a saltwater aquarium. Unlike standard potting plants, saltwater plants are protected from the water’s salt by an extra layer of tissue. Aquarium plants for a saltwater tank provide many benefits to the fish and their ecosystem, such as a place for fish to hide from potential predators. Learn about the common types of plants found within saltwater aquariums.

Types of Saltwater Plants

Halimeda

This green saltwater plant is a popular aquarium plant that gives your tank a decorative enhancement. The Halimeda plant thrives best in conditions with high calcium concentrations and a pH level ranging between 8.1 and 8.4. Without calcium, the Halimeda will begin to fade to a white color.

Red Grape Algae

Red Grape Algae requires intense lighting, as well as a high water flow. The water that this plant thrives in must be low in nutrients. For these reasons, the Red Grape Algae is not recommended for aquariums that contain herbivore fish, such as tangs.

Maiden Hair

Also known as Turtle Grass, Maiden Hair is a green saltwater plant that is typically sold on a piece of rock in fish supply stores. Maiden Hair requires a moderate water current and good lighting. High levels of copper and nitrates are not tolerated by this type of aquarium plant. Most fish will avoid consuming Maiden Hair because of the taste.

Mermaid Fan Plant

The beautiful fan-shaped leaves of the Mermaid Fan Plant make this saltwater plant a decorative piece for any aquarium. Lower levels of nutrients are needed for this plant to thrive. Many herbivore and invertebrate fish will not consume the Mermaid Fan Plant.

Spaghetti Algae

Also known as Green Hair Algae, Spaghetti Algae grows rapidly and is typically not eaten by herbivorous fish. Good lighting and a refugium with tumbling water is the ideal home for this saltwater plant. Iron can be added to provide nutrients to the Spaghetti Algae but, in moderation as too much iron can cause hair algae to grow.

How to Care for Saltwater Plants

Saltwater aquarium plants require little maintenance if a proper environment is set-up. Many aquarium plants require a source of carbon dioxide in the water, besides that of inhabitants. This is essential for plant growth and plays a role in photosynthesis. Light is also important to saltwater aquarium plants. Lighting inside the aquarium can come from mercury vapor or florescent lighting while deep tanks require mercury vapor or halide lamps.

Plants also need various forms of nutrients to survive and grow. These include calcium, zinc, carbonates, phosphates, nitrates, and sulphates. These nutrients are typically provided by the fish that live in the tank. However, aquarium owners may decide to give additional nutrients if deficiencies are present, such as in chlorosis. Some types of aquarium plants also require occasional pruning due to their rapid growth. Leafy type plants may also require thinning to maintain their shape.

There are many types of popular saltwater plants that can be used in a home aquarium to enhance the appearance of the tank and enrich the lives of the fish that inhabit it. It’s important to always research the saltwater plant you plan to incorporate into your aquarium to ensure that it will not harm the fish or their ecosystem.