Breeding aquarium fish is a very interesting, but truly difficult task. Of course, this has a number of advantages. Firstly, the fish do not spoil the furniture, do not leave hair behind, which is simply everywhere when keeping cats or dogs, and do not make noise. Aquarium fish are well suited for those who are allergic to pet dander. In addition, they are interesting to watch. But breeding them is not as easy as it seems. They, like other pets, need to be fed in a timely manner, and, unlike others, they cannot give you a sign that they are hungry. Therefore, it is better for forgetful people not to take up this matter at all.
The aquarium is a big trouble. To get started, you need to purchase it. The aquarium must be the right size. It all depends on the number and size of fish you plan to have. The aquarium needs to be cleaned and the water in it changed. Also, do not forget about its components, such as the bottom (pebbles, shells, etc.), algae and so on. Plants in an aquarium can be very different. Distinguish between artificial and live algae. Here the question arises as to which option to stop. This articlewill tell you in detail about the type of algae and help you choose a plant for your aquarium.
Artificial algae and its benefits
An artificial plant in an aquarium is, first of all, a decoration. It has a lot of advantages. First, it is very economical. Artificial algae are inexpensive and can last quite a long time, because, unlike living "brothers", they do not rot and, of course, do not die. Secondly, many species of fish feed not only on food, but also on algae. In this case, the artificial plant in the aquarium will remain intact, because the fish will not like it. This type of algae cannot grow, which means that you can not be afraid that the entire aquarium will grow with them. If not living, but artificial algae grow, it becomes much easier to change the water in it. After all, they can simply be pulled out, and after washing the aquarium, put in place without damage. Plus, they are easy to clean as well. Artificial plant in the aquarium can be placed anywhere. If you are tired of its location, the decoration can simply be rearranged.
Cons of artificial algae
Despite having many advantages, artificial seaweed also has some disadvantages. They are not living plants, which means they are not able to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Live algae can rid the aquarium water of various toxic substances, artificial, respectively, do not have such a function. artificial plants in the aquariumare also unable to produce beneficial substances that prevent the development of beneficial bacteria. As already mentioned, algae is food for some types of fish, and these decorations are inedible.
Benefits of living plants
Live plants in the aquarium are very popular among fish breeders. Their main virtues are that they grow, live and breathe. And this means that they favorably affect the inhabitants of the aquarium. Living plants are able to release oxygen in the light by absorbing carbon dioxide. Even a good filter is not able to purify water as well as plants. They absorb everything harmful that spoils the life of the fish. In addition to those algae that you planted yourself, intentionally, other lower algae, the presence of which is undesirable, may also begin to develop in the aquarium. Living aquatic plants are able to survive from the aquarium, interfere with their development. Without live algae, some fish species are unable to reproduce. For them, plants are a place where they lay their offspring (caviar). As already mentioned, algae is food for fish. As you know, aquarium fish are shy pets. Live plants in the aquarium are a way to hide in case they are afraid.
Lack of living plants
They also have disadvantages. If there is a lot of algae, especially in winter, when daylight hours decrease, then the fish may suffer from a lack of oxygen. Because algae can only produce it in the light. If alivethe plant in the aquarium died, then it begins to rot and poison the water. The process of decay is even faster than on land. On living plants, various parasitic organisms can multiply that harm the inhabitants of the aquarium. In addition, plants often do not grow in an aquarium. The most likely reason for this is that the conditions created are not suitable for them.
Algae species
So, let's look at what plants are in the aquarium. According to the type of placement, several types of live algae are distinguished:
- Living on the surface of the water.
- Inhabiting the water column.
- Seaweed attached to the bottom.
- Plants with a long stem.
- Algae whose leaves come to the surface.
When purchasing live algae, pay attention to the illumination of the room. If it is insufficient, then it is better to use a special lamp or purchase artificial ones. Also, when buying live specimens, consult with a consultant on how to care for them. Many algae require special care. In general, when choosing live algae, you should consult more experienced breeders or use additional literature.
Conclusion
So, the main question: "What to choose?" When breeding aquarium fish, the presence of live algae is mandatory. As for artificial ones, no one forbade them. In an aquarium, they can be combined. The main thing is not to get involved in them.quantity and leave room for the fish themselves.
