Nature Aquariums Lauderhill: Premier Aquarium & Terrarium Plants, Supplies, and CO2 Services
Welcome to Nature Aquariums – Your Premier Destination for Aquarium and Terrarium Plants in Lauderhill, Florida!
Why Choose Nature Aquariums for Your Aquatic and Terrarium Plants?
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Expertly Curated Plant Selections At Nature Aquariums, we offer a comprehensive selection of both aquatic and terrarium plants, meticulously chosen to ensure diversity and quality. Whether you are setting up a new tank or enhancing an existing one, our plants cater to every aquascaper's needs.
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Dedicated to Plant Health Each plant undergoes careful selection and acclimation processes to ensure robust health and longevity. Our aquatic plants are grown in optimal conditions to maintain their vitality and aesthetic appeal.
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Support and Education Our knowledgeable staff are here to provide expert advice on plant care, helping you make the best choices for your specific setup. We also offer workshops and detailed care guides that cover everything from basic plant maintenance to advanced aquascaping techniques.
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Wide Range of Rare and Common Species We pride ourselves on stocking a wide range of plant species, from common favorites to rare finds. This diversity ensures that hobbyists of all levels can find something special for their aquarium or terrarium.
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Tissue Culture Plants We offer a variety of tissue culture plants, which are grown in sterile conditions free from pests, algae, and pathogens. This method ensures that you receive the healthiest, most robust plants to establish in your aquarium quickly. Tissue culture plants are ideal for creating dense, lush landscapes without the risk of introducing unwanted elements into your ecosystem.
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Comprehensive Aquascaping Supplies Nature Aquariums provides an extensive selection of aquascaping supplies to enhance the beauty and functionality of your setups. We carry a full range of aquarium fertilizers from leading brands like APT2HR Aquarist, Seachem, and Aquarium Co-op. Our store boasts the largest selection of hardscape materials, aquarium soils, sands, and gravels from Ultum Nature Systems, ensuring you have access to top-quality substrates for any project.
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Advanced CO2 Systems and Refills To support plant growth and vibrancy, we offer a complete line of CO2 equipment and accessories. We also provide CO2 tank refills using food-grade CO2, which is crucial for maintaining the health of your fish while fostering optimal plant growth.
By carefully selecting plants tailored to the specific needs of your fish—whether it’s providing hiding spots for a betta, creating a lush environment for a tropical community tank, offering durable, goldfish-resistant greenery, or choosing heat-tolerant species for Discus—you can cultivate a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem. Thoughtful plant selection not only enhances the beauty of your aquarium but also improves water quality, aids in natural filtration, and provides essential nutrients to support the long-term health of your fish.
By following these expert care guidelines, you can establish a balanced, vibrant planted aquarium that’s both visually stunning and ecologically sound. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, our team at Nature Aquariums is here to help—from choosing the right plants and substrates to designing and maintaining a breathtaking aquascape. Visit us today and let’s bring your aquatic vision to life!
Best Live Aquarium Plants for Different Needs
Different fish species have unique needs when it comes to live aquarium plants, so tailoring your aquascape to the specific habits and requirements of your fish is essential. For example, bettas thrive in a tank with plenty of cover and visual interest. Live plants like Java Fern, Anubias, Vallisneria, and Anacharis not only add natural beauty but also offer bettas places to hide and establish territories. These species are hardy enough to withstand occasional nips and gentle water currents while providing continuous natural filtration and oxygenation through their photosynthetic activity.
For smaller setups, such as 5-gallon tanks, space-efficient options like Bucephalandra, Anubias Nana, and Java Ferns work beautifully without overcrowding the limited space.
Best plants for tropical fish
In tropical fish aquariums, incorporating a variety of plant families helps create a natural, balanced ecosystem while enhancing both aesthetics and water quality. Stem plants like Rotala, Ludwigia, and Anacharis provide fast-growing, oxygen-rich greenery, perfect for absorbing excess nutrients and reducing algae. Anubias and Bucephalandra, known for their hardy, slow-growing nature, thrive when attached to rocks or driftwood, making them excellent low-maintenance choices. Sword plants, such as Amazon Swords and Red Flame Swords, develop broad, vibrant leaves that serve as shelter for fish while anchoring the aquascape.
For added texture and coverage, Vallisneria and Cryptocoryne offer elegant, flowing leaves that create a lush, jungle-like effect. Floating plants like Red Root Floaters, Frogbit, and Salvinia help diffuse light, reduce algae growth, and provide shaded areas for fish that prefer low-light environments. Whether you're designing a densely planted jungle or an open, minimalist aquascape, choosing the right mix of plant species ensures a healthy, thriving aquatic environment for your fish.
Can I use live plants with Goldfish?
Goldfish, on the other hand, pose a special challenge due to their tendency to forage and nibble on live plants. While some aquarists experiment with Java Fern and Crinum Calamistratum, these species often do not withstand the goldfish’s active feeding habits. The most dependable choice for goldfish tanks is Anubias, whose tough, leathery leaves are less palatable and more resistant to damage. This makes Anubias the go-to option for maintaining a lush, live-plant environment in a goldfish aquarium, ensuring that the natural filtration and oxygenation benefits remain consistent.
Best Plants for Discus Fish
For Discus aquariums, the scenario shifts again due to the higher water temperatures these sensitive fish require—typically around 84°F or above. Not all plants can tolerate these warmer conditions, so only species that are rated for high temperatures should be used. Suitable options include certain sword plants, Anubias, Cryptocoryne species, and select high-temperature stem plants. These plants are robust enough to handle the heat while still offering the benefits of oxygenation, shelter, and natural nutrient absorption, all of which contribute to a stable and stress-free environment for Discus.
1. Lighting:
Start by ensuring you have the right lighting for your planted tank. Many kit lights and off-brand options can be difficult to work with and may not provide the optimal spectrum or intensity for healthy plant growth. At Nature Aquariums, we can help you choose the perfect light to match your existing setup. Whether you’re considering upgrading your light or starting a new tank from scratch, our in-house tested planted tank lights are designed to deliver the best results for your budget and aquascaping goals.
2. Substrate & Soil for Planted Aquariums:
Choosing the right substrate is essential for the health and growth of rooted aquarium plants. At Nature Aquariums, we recommend UNS Controsoil for areas where rooted plants will be placed, thanks to its superior nutrient retention and gradual release. This high-quality substrate provides a rich source of essential nutrients directly to plant roots, promoting vigorous growth while helping to maintain a stable nitrogen cycle.
What makes UNS Controsoil unique is its ability to be added to existing aquariums without causing a major ammonia spike, unlike many big-box store brands. This means you can upgrade your substrate without disrupting your tank’s delicate balance. For a customized aquascape, consider combining Controsoil with sand or gravel to create natural transitions and textural contrasts. Visit our custom aquascaping station, where our experts can help you design a stunning underwater layout—just bring your tank dimensions and let your creativity flow!
3. Water Flow:
Good water circulation is essential for maintaining water quality and distributing nutrients evenly throughout the aquarium. Ensure that your filter is appropriately sized for the fish you keep and provides steady water flow without creating strong currents that might disturb delicate plants. If your current setup needs an upgrade, we stock a large assortment of planted aquarium-rated filters at great low online prices to suit every tank’s requirements.
4. Fertilization:
Fertilization doesn’t have to be guesswork. Bring us a water sample, and we will digitally analyze your tank’s chemistry to guide you with a custom fertilization prescription. We offer some of the finest fertilizers from around the world, including Aquarium Coop Easy Green, UNS Min and Max, the 2Hr Aquarist APT line, and Seachem products, ensuring your plants receive the balanced nutrients they need for optimal growth.
5. Water Chemistry:
Maintaining optimal water chemistry is key to the health of your aquarium. With our advanced digital water testing services, we can create a comprehensive profile of your tank and track your water parameters over time. Our experts will help you achieve the ideal alkalinity and general hardness levels to keep your fish happy and your plants lush, ensuring a stable and thriving aquatic ecosystem.
6. CO₂ – Or Not:
One common question is whether to use CO₂ injection in your tank. Many plants can thrive without additional CO₂, especially if you’re working with lower light levels, which results in slower but steady growth. However, if you’re aiming for lush growth, vibrant red plants, or dense carpeting plants, a stronger light, daily fertilization, and a CO₂ system are necessary. We offer full instructions on both approaches and provide high-quality, affordable CO₂ systems as well as refill services for CO₂ tanks, so you can choose the best option for your aquascape.
7. Maintenance:
Regular maintenance is the cornerstone of a healthy planted aquarium. Simple tasks like routine water changes, scheduled fertilization, and occasional pruning will keep your tank looking its best. If you prefer low-maintenance setups, consider using hardy species such as Anubias, Java Ferns, Bucephalandras, Crypts, and Sword plants that require minimal pruning. For those who enjoy a more hands-on approach, fast-growing stem plants like Ludwigias, Rotalas, and various ground covers offer an engaging challenge, as they demand frequent trimming and nutrient adjustments.
Anubias and Bucephalandra
Anubias and Bucephalandra are two popular genera of aquatic plants favored by aquarists for their hardiness and aesthetic appeal. Both are well-suited for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike, offering versatility in various aquarium setups.
General Characteristics:
- Anubias: Native to Africa, Anubias species are known for their broad, dark green leaves and slow growth. They can thrive in both submerged and emersed conditions, making them suitable for aquariums, paludariums, and terrariums.
- Bucephalandra: Originating from Borneo, Bucephalandra species exhibit a variety of leaf shapes and colors, including shades of green, blue, and red. Their unique appearance adds a distinctive touch to aquascapes.
Care Requirements:
- Light: Both genera prefer low to medium light conditions. While they can tolerate higher light levels, excessive lighting may encourage algae growth on their leaves.
- CO₂ and Fertilization: Neither Anubias nor Bucephalandra require CO₂ supplementation; however, providing CO₂ can enhance their growth and coloration. Regular fertilization, especially through the water column, supports their nutritional needs.
- Water Parameters: These plants are adaptable to a range of water conditions. Maintaining stable parameters, including a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and temperatures ranging from 72-82°F (22-28°C), promotes optimal health.
Cryptocoryne
- Light Requirement: Low to Medium
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- CO₂ Requirement: Beneficial but not necessary
Cryptocoryne plants come in various colors and sizes, adapting well to different conditions. They are known for their unique leaf shapes and can thrive without CO₂ supplementation, although it can enhance growth.
Echinodorus (Sword Plants)
- Light Requirement: Medium
- Difficulty: Easy
- CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary
Sword plants are suitable for background planting due to their larger size. They are robust and can thrive without CO₂ supplementation.
Mosses
(e.g., Java Moss, Christmas Moss)
- Light Requirement: Low to Medium
- Difficulty: Easy
- CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary
Mosses are perfect for creating lush green carpets and enhancing biofiltration. They can attach to various surfaces and thrive in a range of conditions.
Ferns, Vallisneria, and Aponogeton
Ferns, Vallisneria, and Aponogeton are popular aquatic plants among aquarists, each offering unique aesthetics and benefits to freshwater aquariums. Here's a consolidated overview of their characteristics and care requirements:
1. Ferns (e.g., Java Fern - Microsorum pteropus):
- Light Requirement: Low to Moderate
- Difficulty: Easy
- CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary
Java Ferns are hardy plants that thrive in low-light conditions. They prefer to have their rhizomes attached to hard surfaces like rocks or driftwood rather than being buried in the substrate, which can cause rot. Their resilience makes them ideal for beginners.
2. Vallisneria (e.g., Vallisneria spiralis):
- Light Requirement: Low to Moderate
- Difficulty: Easy
- CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary
Vallisneria, commonly known as eelgrass or tape grass, features long, ribbon-like leaves that can create a lush, jungle-like appearance in the aquarium. It's a fast-growing plant that propagates through runners, making it excellent for background planting. While adaptable, it prefers neutral to slightly alkaline water and may not thrive in very soft, acidic conditions. Regular trimming may be necessary to manage its rapid growth.
3. Aponogeton (e.g., Aponogeton ulvaceus):
- Light Requirement: Moderate
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- CO₂ Requirement: Beneficial but not required
Aponogeton species are bulb plants known for their attractive, often ruffled leaves. They are relatively easy to care for and can adapt to a range of water conditions. While CO₂ supplementation can enhance growth, it's not essential. These plants may undergo periods of dormancy, during which they shed leaves; with proper care, they will resprout.
Carpeting Plants
(e.g., Dwarf Baby Tears, Monte Carlo)
- Light Requirement: High
- Difficulty: Hard
- CO₂ Requirement: Required
These plants create a lush foreground but require high light and CO₂ levels to thrive. They are suitable for experienced aquarists.
Floating Plants
Incorporating floating plants into your aquarium can enhance its aesthetics, provide shade, and improve water quality. However, it's essential to choose species that are both effective and compliant with local regulations.
Important Note: Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) is classified as a prohibited aquatic plant in Florida due to its invasive nature and potential to disrupt local ecosystems. Possession or cultivation of water lettuce in Florida is illegal.
At Nature Aquariums, we offer a selection of floating plants that are suitable for aquariums and permissible under Florida law:
1. Red Root Floater (Phyllanthus fluitans):
- Light Requirement: Medium to High
- Difficulty: Moderate
- CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary
Red Root Floaters are known for their attractive red roots and oval leaves that can develop a reddish hue under strong lighting. They provide excellent surface coverage and can help reduce light penetration, thus inhibiting algae growth. Regular maintenance is required to manage their rapid propagation.
2. Amazon Frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum):
- Light Requirement: Low to Medium
- Difficulty: Easy
- CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary
Amazon Frogbit features small, round leaves that float on the water's surface, with long roots extending below. It's an excellent choice for beginners due to its hardiness and fast growth. This plant provides shade and shelter for fish and can assist in nutrient absorption, thereby improving water quality.
3. Dwarf Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes):
- Light Requirement: Medium
- Difficulty: Easy
- CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary
Dwarf Water Lettuce has rosettes of light green leaves with feathery roots that hang down into the water. It offers excellent coverage and helps in nutrient uptake, reducing the likelihood of algae blooms. Regular thinning is recommended to prevent overcrowding and ensure adequate light reaches submerged plants.
Stem Plants
Stem plants are a diverse group of aquatic flora characterized by their vertical growth and the ability to sprout new leaves and roots along their stems.
General Characteristics of Stem Plants:
- Growth Pattern: Vertical growth with potential for lateral shoots, allowing for easy propagation through cuttings.
- Placement: Typically used in the midground to background areas of the aquarium to create depth and fullness.
- Maintenance: Regular trimming is necessary to maintain desired shapes and prevent overcrowding.
Light Requirements:
Stem plants exhibit a range of light requirements:
- Low Light: Species like Hygrophila polysperma can thrive under subdued lighting conditions.
- Medium to High Light: Plants such as Ludwigia repens and Rotala rotundifolia develop vibrant colors and denser foliage under brighter light.
CO₂ and Nutrient Needs:
- CO₂ Supplementation: While many stem plants can survive without additional CO₂, providing it can enhance growth rates and coloration, especially for species with red hues. High light levels without adequate CO₂ can lead to imbalances, potentially favoring algae growth. plantedtank.net
- Nutrient Intake: Stem plants are fast growers and often require a steady supply of macronutrients and micronutrients. Regular fertilization ensures they receive essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals.
Difficulty Levels:
- Beginner-Friendly: Species such as Bacopa caroliniana and Hygrophila difformis are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for newcomers to the hobby.
- Intermediate to Advanced: Plants like Alternanthera reineckii demand precise care, including high light, CO₂ supplementation, and consistent nutrient dosing to thrive and display their characteristic vibrant colors.
