Advice for ponds?

[GuppyRookie]

I'm thinking about getting an indoor guppy pond in the near future(something for the basement). I have some couple questions.

How come pond liners/pre-built ponds are black?

What type of lighting would you guys recommend? LED vs Fluorescent?

What type of plants?

 

[Kushgodrex]

Black doesn't get dirty and is less noticeable, get some submersible LEDs

Some floating plants to soak up the nitrates and a couple of Amazon swords would be nice because they can grow semi submerged, or fully and they could grow above the water line as they get older

 

[sabrinarichard]

Please post a pic when you start building!! I'm super intrigued by this project just love the idea!!