Artificial plants have come a long way since they were first introduced and now look more realistic than ever. Their durability also makes them suitable to be kept with fish that would destroy live plants and those that would eat the real thing. They are useful for hiding equipment and making areas feel more secure for nervous fish, and, of course, they will tolerate any type of water.
Why use artificial plants?
Many species of fish are found in the vicinity of live plants in the natural world, but they are there to eat them as well as use them for cover. Using artificial plants in place of live plants provides an effective solution to this problem, since they can provide cover without being on the menu.
In any case, growing live plants is not always straightforward and can turn a functional aquarium into something resembling a nursery, involving the use of high-specification lighting and fertilization. For those who want an easy life, artificial plants are a good idea, as all they will need is an occasional clean.
Plastic plants
There is a huge range of plastic plants, and they replicate most species of aquatic plant and some terrestrial plants too. They come in different sizes for planting in the foreground, mid-ground and background of the tank, and specimen plants are also available. You will discover that most types of plastic plant are modular in design, so that pieces can be pulled off one stem and added to another. They are impervious to all medications and water conditions, and because of this will last almost forever.
Silk plants
Silk is an alternative material for replica aquarium plants, and because it is finer material than plastic, the plants move in the water more naturally and have realistic leaf shapes. They are cheap and can be mixed with live plants and not stand out as being fakes. Many types are available and they are easily anchored in the gravel.
Plant mats
Plastic plants are also available on square mats designed to be placed in the substrate. Each mat contains a number of the same plants, mimicking the complete planting schemes used in displaying aquariums, and the effect can be quite dramatic. Each plant can be removed to introduce irregularity into the design or to accommodate other decor, such as rocks or wood.
Cleaning artificial plants
A plastic plant cleaning solution especially for use with aquariums is available, but failing that plastic plants can be simply washed under the tap. Use an old toothbrush to reach the stubborn areas. Alternatively, add a little household bleach to tap water to make a mild solution. Make sure the solution is deep enough to cover the plants completely, put them in the solution, and they should soon be clean and looking new again. Make up a separate solution of tap water in which to plunge the plants and remove the residue from the bleach. To make extra sure that all traces of the bleach are removed, give them a lengthy rinse under the tap and they will then be ready to place back in the aquarium. Always wear gloves to protect your hands when cleaning in this way.
Silk plants are quite durable and can be cleaned with abrasive pad or a plastic plant cleaning solution formulated for aquatic use.
Tips: There are many species of algae-eating fish, including the Bristle nose catfish and the red tailed black shark, which are well adapted to consume the algae that form on the leaves of artificial plants. By adding some of these fish to your tank, they may well do the job of cleaning for you and gain a source of food at the same time.
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