Duckweed.....

[jazzyarizona]

I am new to live plants and would love some info on Duckweed. I really like the looks of it and, from what I understand, it grows in massive numbers. Is this hard to control in a tank ? Can it over take a tank ? Does it always float on the surface, no roots ?

Should I or shouldn't I ?

Thanks so much...

 

[Jchillin]

The answer to all of your questions is yes. The only answer that is negative is that if it were me, I'd leave it out of my tank.

 

[rich311k]

Do not put that stuff in your tank. I fight an almost daily battle with the stuff.

 

[Purrbox]

I am new to live plants and would love some info on Duckweed. I really like the looks of it and, from what I understand, it grows in massive numbers.

Yes

Is this hard to control in a tank ?

Yes - Unless you happen to have a fish that eats it.

Can it over take a tank ?

Yes - It will take over your tank unless you have fish that eat it or are really stubborn about removing it at least every water change or are lucky enough to have a tank it doesn't like.

Does it always float on the surface, no roots ?

Yes and No - Yes it always floats unless it gets tangled in another plant, however it does have roots.

Should I or shouldn't I ?

You shouldn't - Unless you're planning on using it to feed a fish. There are several other species of floating plants that are much prettier and easier to control.

 

[LandGhoti]

I believe jazzy wants to do fancy goldfish, and I think those eat duckweed, yes? Someone please chime in. I think she might be able to keep it in check if she's got some goldies to mow it.

 

[shayfish]

I also think duckweed looks kind of neat in moderation, but given the chance it will take the place over like a pushy in-law. Which by itself isn't the end of the world until it starts clogging your filter and stuff like that...

I don't know if goldies eat the stuff. I kind of expect that they would...

 

[Hoovercat]

Goldies, 'bows, and I believe rosy barbs will eat it. Usually eat all of it though. Farm it in a bucket if you want to have it as feed.

 

[theotheragentm]

I could never build up enough to keep my goldfish from polishing it all off, leaving nothing available.

 

[jazzyarizona]

Thank you so much, everyone. I think I will leave duckweed off the menu. Purrbox mentioned other floating plants that are pretty and easier than duckweed. Can anyone tell me what they are ?

Thank you

 

[Purrbox]

Here's a pretty comprehensive list of floating plants over on PlantGeek. I'm enjoying Red Root Floater, Riccia, and Dwarf Riccia at the moment.

 

[jazzyarizona]

Thank you so much.... I have ordered Riccia but couldn't locate the other plants you have. The PlantGeek site is terrific !