Can the铜钱草(a type of plant) be used for hydroponics to raise fish? A guide to cohabitating a copper coin grass aquarium. (Note: "铜钱草" is translated as "copper coin grass," which is a common name for the plant Hydrocotyle vulgaris. However, if there's a more specific or accepted English name for this plant species, it would be better to use that name instead.)
Can money plant hydroponics be used to raise fish?Hydroponic plants and ornamental fish symbiotic systems are becoming the new trend in urban horticulture, with the money plant gaining popularity due to its vigorous vitality. This round and lovely plant not only purifies the water quality but also provides a natural shelter for small fish. But how to achieve harmonious coexistence between fish and plants? Which hydroponic plants are suitable for building a mini ecosystem? This article will reveal the secrets of creating an ecological fish tank.Money plant hydroponics and fish symbiotic systemPrinciples and advantages of symbiosisThe roots of the money plant can decompose the excrement of fish, converting it into nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium elements required for plant growth, achieving a circular utilization of nutrients. Experimental data shows that three adult money plants can meet the ecological purification needs of two small fish under 5cm in length, forming a mini ecosystem with a self-sufficiency rate of 70%.Container selection criteriaIt is recommended to use an open glass tank of over 30×20cm in size, with a water volume of more than 5L. Round fish tanks need to be equipped with LED supplemental lights, while square tanks can use side-mounted filtration devices. It is important to maintain a 3-5cm gap between the water surface and the tank edge to ensure the normal expansion of the money plant leaves.Fish adaptation planRecommended small tropical fish such as guppies and zebra fish, with a body length of 3-5cm. The stocking density should not exceed one fish per liter of water, and it is suggested to pair with 2-3 black shell shrimps to build a complete ecological chain. Avoid adding fish like goldfish that are herbivorous, as they may damage the plant roots.Top six hydroponic plants for ecological fish tanksPothos purification systemThe aerial roots of pothos can increase the dissolved oxygen in the water, with significant effects when paired with light-loving fish. It is recommended to use a stepped planting method, placing one mature leaf per 10cm² of water surface.Bamboo plant symbiotic planChoose plants with closely spaced nodes and secure the roots with a planting basket. Suitable for mixed breeding with white cloud golden thread fish, maintaining a water temperature of 18-25°C.Boston fern ecological tankA tank deeper than 50cm is needed, paired with submerged wood for landscaping. It is recommended to keep small sprite fish to effectively control algae growth. Supplement with 2ml of liquid iron fertilizer weekly to maintain leaf luster.Key points of fish-plant symbiotic careAdopt a 3-4 day water change cycle, replacing 1/3 of the water with sunlit tap water each time. Use a 25W constant temperature bar to maintain a water temperature of 22°C in winter and a USB mini fan to cool down in summer. Add 5ml of nitrifying bacteria culture solution monthly to stabilize the microbial community in the water.By scientifically pairing the money plant with other hydroponic plants, it is possible to create various ecological fish tanks. Mastering the two core elements of water change frequency and light control can achieve long-term balance in fish-plant symbiosis. It is recommended for beginners to start with a combination of money plant and guppies and gradually explore more possibilities in ecological landscaping.