Every fish owner prefers different kinds of plants and decors in their aquarium to keep with the fish. One such preference is a betta fish with a bamboo plant. So how to go about planting a bamboo plant in a betta tank? Is it safe? Is it beneficial to your betta fish? Let us find out.
Betta fish with a bamboo plant is a great combination, and they go very well together. Droppings from the betta fish help in the growth of the bamboo plant, whereas the bamboo plant offers sufficient hiding places for your betta fish. Thus, it is a win-win.
Is It Safe To Keep A Betta Fish With A Bamboo Plant?
Absolutely. As we all know, betta fish is a tropical fish, and bamboo plants are also of tropical origin. Therefore, there is a natural compatibility between a betta fish and a bamboo plant. Thus, they will be a great fit for your tank.
Talking about whether or not it is safe to keep a bamboo plant and a betta fish together, there is no doubt about it. Betta fishes are solitary creatures, and they prefer to be alone. They like to hide in places like caves and other such decors.
Bamboo plants provide a rich look to your betta tank and serve as additional hiding places for your betta fish. Besides, it is straightforward to grow a bamboo plant, and it can be done fairly quickly.
Bamboo plants also have proven to reduce the nitrate level in the tank, thereby making it safe for your fish and keeping up the quality of the tank water. Thus, we have inferred that a betta fish with a bamboo plant is safe for your fish and beneficial.
The only complication which may arise while adding a bamboo plant with your betta fish is how to plant it. It is a fairly quick and easy process if done right. Let us see how to go about planting a bamboo plant in a betta tank.
How To Grow A Bamboo Plant In A Tank?
When we talk about growing a bamboo plant in an aquarium, we concentrate only on a specific type of bamboo plant called the Lucky Bamboo. It is no different from a regular bamboo plant and can be grown in a tank in two ways – partially submerged and fully submerged.
When we say partially submerged, we mean that the leaves and at least one-third of the stem of the bamboo plant must be above the water surface. On the other hand, when we talk about fully submerged, we mean that the whole plant is underwater.
In both cases, specific requirements need to be fulfilled to ensure that the bamboo plants grow properly. Bamboo plants are not natural aquatic plants. Therefore, these requirements need to be taken care of.
Here are the conditions that should be considered while adding a betta fish with a bamboo plant. These conditions range include various water parameters like temperature, pH level, carbon dioxide, and filtration.
- Type of water – Freshwater must be used to grow bamboo plants. Saltwater and other water types may result in the death of the plant.
- Water temperature – The temperature of the water must fall between 60 and 80 degress F.
- Water pH level – The pH level of the tank water must lie between 6 and 6.5.
- Minerals and other elements – Tank water should be free of elements like chlorine, chloramine and fluoride. High amounts of nitrates and nitrites can seriously harm the growth of the bamboo plant.
- Water change – Water in the betta tank must be changed every week. A change of at least 25% is recommended.
- Carbon dioxide – Bamboo plants require high carbon dioxide levels to grow. Therefore, it is advisable to add a carbon dioxide system to your tank.
- Lighting – Medium level of lighting is required for about 10 to 11 hours per day for your bamboo plant to grow properly.
- Filtration system – A proper filtration system must be in place so as to ensure a smooth water current in the tank and high-quality tank water.
- Substrate – You can use pebbles or gravel based substrate for your bamboo plant which will ensure optimum supply of water to the bamboo roots. Betta droppings will provide enough nutrients to your bamboo plant to grow.
- Plantation depth – One should plant the root end of the bamboo plant at least 3 to 4 inches in the substrate.
- Other factors – In case bamboo plant is grown partially submerged in the tank water, the carbon dioxide and oxygen levels may be kept at lower levels.
It may be a lot to take in, and it may feel like an overwhelming process, but bamboo plants are a real game-changer. It is a low-maintenance plant that not only can survive on the betta droppings but also can provide additional hiding places for your betta fish.
Most of the above-mentioned conditions are already met as it is quite similar to the water conditions required for the upkeep of the betta fish. Thus, it would not be much of a trouble.
FAQs Related to Keeping Betta Fish With A Bamboo Plant
Is bamboo toxic to a betta fish?
NO. If your bamboo plant is green and healthy, then your betta fish is completely safe. Bamboo plants are totally safe, and it even reduces the nitrate level in the tank water, thereby upholding the water quality.
How long would a bamboo last in a tank?
A bamboo plant can last for about 3 years in a tank if all the required conditions are fulfilled to grow properly. Pre-planting bamboo conditions also play an important role in determining the lifespan of the bamboo plant.
Can bamboo be fully submerged in water?
YES. A bamboo plant can grow underwater as long as the water parameters like the temperature, pH level, and other factors are kept at the optimum level. Thus, you should periodically check these levels to ensure the healthy growth of the bamboo plant.
Final Thoughts On Betta Fish With A Bamboo Plant
There is absolutely no issue regarding keeping a betta fish with a bamboo plant. A bamboo plant not only provides sufficient hiding places for your betta fish but also can survive on the droppings of your betta fish. Thus, keeping a betta fish and a bamboo plant together is a fine choice.
