McLumpy
Aquarium Advice FINatic
Because of this little incident...
What I would like are low-light plants that require minimal maintenance and add "height" to my background. I know that my options are limited, (especially since it's imparative that the plants are Pleco-proof). As much as I love my Pleco, I can't afford to replace plants every time he eats them. Any ideas as to what plants would work?
Furthermore, I purchased a package of Plant Food Tabs, but no fertilizer, (mainly because I was going to ask about that on here before buying any). What type of fertilizer is recommended?
Also, I'm sure I probably need to replace my (2) All Glass 15 watt Fluorescent bulbs, (at least that's what I believe they are)... but what wattage/type bulb would be best?
TIA for your assistance!
...I come here seeking asistance from the AA plant experts.While most people would be irritated that their LFS, (in my case, Petco), sold them non-aquatic plants, I can't help but laugh.
Yep, I did it, the ultimate plant n00b fail!
FAIL #1: "Aquatic Combo"
"Aquatic"? Really? Nope. Not after researching the plants that were listed on the plant tag. The following were the plants in the combo...
Dracaena, Spathiphyllum, Ophiopogon, Trichomanes, and Syngonium
Just researched them, only to find out that there is Lucky Bamboo, Peace Lily, etc. in this combo and they are NOT aquatic at all! What's really sad is I knew this! But w/ the scientific names listed, instead of the common names, I overlooked it. Although, I did read that these plants can stay in a tank for a couple of months, uh, if you want them to rot and pollute your water.
I'm not too terribly upset about it though... I was needing a nice plant for my office.
FAIL #2: Mondo Grass
Eh, yep, what I thought would make a great hiding place for my soon-to-be fry, this little guy w/ his beautiful gerth belongs in soil too.
Why exactly were these plants in the tank at the LFS and being sold as an aquatic plants? IMO, I think the LFS's are trying to pull a fast one on their consumers. *cough* Jerk-offs. *cough*
WINS:
Anubias, Amazon Sword, (Echinodorus bleheri), and Waterweed, (Egeria densa)
The Anubias is currently placed in the substrate because I didn't have time to attach it to my driftwood. The Amazon Sword it placed in the substrate as well, but its location is perfect. I just have the Waterweed floating and plan on keeping it that way, (at least for now). From what I hear, those grow like weeds... who knew?! lol
So yes, I goofed, but it taught me a few valuable lessons...
1) NEVER impulse-buy when it comes to live plants!
2) ALWAYS research plants, (like fish), BEFORE purchasing!
Ok, so there you go. Fire away! lol
What I would like are low-light plants that require minimal maintenance and add "height" to my background. I know that my options are limited, (especially since it's imparative that the plants are Pleco-proof). As much as I love my Pleco, I can't afford to replace plants every time he eats them. Any ideas as to what plants would work?
Furthermore, I purchased a package of Plant Food Tabs, but no fertilizer, (mainly because I was going to ask about that on here before buying any). What type of fertilizer is recommended?
Also, I'm sure I probably need to replace my (2) All Glass 15 watt Fluorescent bulbs, (at least that's what I believe they are)... but what wattage/type bulb would be best?
TIA for your assistance!