Live Aquarium Plants are better than Artificial Plants Plants are an essential part of freshwater aquariums. Most tropical fish come directly from lake and river environments where plants are in large number, therefore it makes sense to have live plants and give them a very close feeling of being at home. Additionally, plants offer a suitable place for fish to hide and feel safe. Live Aquarium Plants also make the aquatic tank look much nicer, and provide a realistic natural habitat for the fish. For the aquarium, there are two options: live natural plants and artificial plants. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. This article will help you learn about the benefits of live aquarium plants as well as why they are a more preferable choice.
Benefits of Live Aquarium Plants
They are a good source of Natural Oxygen (O2)
Live plants release oxygen (O2) which is a natural aeration to fish. If the oxygen level decreases, they will die. Now if you have artificial plants in your aquarium, you will have to use air stones or some other methods to provide oxygen in case its level drops down. But with live plants, you won’t have to worry about that as they naturally provide O2 and keep the fish healthy.
They balance Nitrogen Cycle
Aquarium water requires to maintain the ammonia level at 0ppm. But, most invertebrates and fish emit ammonia which causes its level to be increased in the water over time. This is hazardous for the fish. Live plants are a natural way to balance out the ammonia levels in the water. They convert ammonia into nitrates and help achieve a balanced nitrogen cycle.
Natural Filtration
You have to use biological or chemical filters in your aquarium to remove all the harmful chemicals that can become a cause of distress for your fish. But when you have live natural plants in your aquarium, then there’s no need for such filters as they will do this work instead.
They subside Algae growth
Algae growth clouds the tank’s walls and creates a mess to your aquarium, which hampers fish viewing. Although algae scrappers are a great way to get rid of algae, they are only effective to a certain degree. The main cause of algae growth are the nutrients and available light in the water. Live aquarium plants absorb the nutrients available in the water and restrict algae growth.
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They provide safety and shelter
Live plants are the ideal shelter for fish. They provide natural shelter for the fish that require rest from the lighting. While artificial plants can also provide shelter, they have some drawbacks, for example, their sharp edges could hurt the fish or cause disturbance to the species if not fixed properly. 
They serve as food
In addition to the food you feed, fish depend on plants as an alternate food source. Live plants serve as a great nutritive food for most fish. It’s true that not all fish eat plants, but they may nibble the plants when the usual food is not available. It also helps to keep the fish healthy as they provide a variety of different nutrients. In addition, the ambience of the aquarium with live plants is very soothing; therefore having live plants in the aquarium is always a healthy option.