Hornwort's sturdy, bristly foliage can help to eliminate algae
and clarify water. The plant's tips get shorter and thicker in the
fall, eventually falling off and turning to buds. Hornwort is
typically found floating in water or loosely anchored in mud, and
it can be rooted in an aquarium or left floating. Its dark green
leaves can reach lengths of 1ý inches, and its stems can grow to
be as long as 2 feet.
Note:
Things to remember:
Water temperature:
Aquatic plants require a tropical community aquarium with water
temperaturesranging between 72-78ú F (22-26úC). Use an aquarium
heater to maintainwater temperature.
Adding plants:
Whether you're just starting your aquarium or introducing new
plants into your tank, make sure to add onlyone or two plants at a
time.
Lighting:
Most tropical plants require sunlight each day, year round. The
duration and consistency are essentialfor plants to thrive. Natural
aquariums must be equipped with the means to provide 12 hours of
simulated sunlight each day.
Plant fertilizer:
Fertilizer should only be added according to the dosage
instructions on the label, and only when needed (as in thecase of a
water change). Plants will grow best if fertilized moderately and
regularly after water changes rather than givenlarger quantities of
fertilizer on a less-regular basis.
Fish and plants:
Small schooling fish are highly recommended for a natural
planted aquarium; larger fish often uproot plants. Theadult size
and eating habitats of a fish should always be taken into
consideration.
Water changes:
Test water weekly to assess water quality. It is recommended
that 10% of youraquarium water be changed per week. At the very
least, 25% of your aquariumwater should be changed per month. For
optimal health, regular water changes not only prevent the
undesirableaccumulation of excess nutrients, but also remove excess
nitrates and waste products of the fish and plants.
Aquarium placement:
Place your aquarium in a low-traffic area, away from direct
sunlight and drafts.
Planting your natural aquarium:
Foreground plants: Usually stay very short and help fill in the
front part of the aquarium.
Middle ground plants: These plants grow anywhere form 4-10
inches tall.
Background plants: These are the fastest-growing and tallest
plants.
Things to watch for:
If you notice any of the signs described above, check your
aquariumwater quality and consult an in-store Aquatics
Specialist.
