Are Mini German Ivies Poisonous To Aquariums? Dumb Vs. Smart

Believe it or not, there are many aquarium owners that plan on keeping plants in their ecosystem to make it appear more vibrant and lively. When it comes to the topic of Mini German Ivy and aquarium owners, this question lights up.

“Are Mini German Ivies poisonous to aquariums? What should I know before placing it in my ecosystem?”

If you’re an aquarium owner and you’re considering this, then you should definitely think again. As beautiful as they are, there’s a dangerous side to this.

In this article “Is Mini German Ivy Poisonous To Aquariums,” you will learn:

  • The reasons why this plant should be avoided.
  • The harmful effect coming from this plant.
  • Reasons why people keep plants in their aquariums.
  • A brief summary of the plant species.
  • The appearance of the Mini German Ivy.

In order to spread awareness about the Mini German Ivy, I would recommend that you read from the beginning to the end. If you’re in a rush, feel free to use the table of content below to navigate.

Disclaimer: This article about Mini German Ivy on VivariumTips may contain Amazon affiliate links. When you make a purchase from these links, VivariumTips will earn a commission fee at no additional cost to the buyer.


Want To Keep A Mini German Ivy In Your Aquarium?

Are mini german ivy poisonous to aquariums
Photo by Matt Bero on Unsplash

Do you plan on keeping plants in your aquarium to make it look vibrant and lively?

If yes, then you should be really careful and think thoroughly about what can happen to your tank.

Although certain plants can be very beneficial for aquarium fishes, there are plants that are poisonous and harmful as well. 


Reasons Aquarium Owners Keep Plants In Their Tank

are mini german ivy poisonous to aquariums
Photo by Elle Hughes on Pexels

Aquarium owners keep ‘safe’ plants in their tank for many reasons.

Four Reasons

Here are good reasons why certain plants are placed in aquarium tanks:

  • Natural FiltrationFreshwater plants help to naturally remove all the dirt and impurities from the fish water tank.
  • Healthy Fish It also helps to keep the fishes healthy. It helps to create a perfect and healthy environment for the fishes to live in.
  • Fish Breeding Most of the small fishes need extra support or place to breed. When you keep plants in the water, it helps the small fishes to breed.
  • AestheticsThe vibrant green color makes the tank look more lively and beautiful. An aquarium with plants is more aesthetically pleasing than a simple one.

It’s also worth mentioning that not all plants provide all these benefits. It would be best if you researched the plan before keeping it in your aquarium.

Some plants are not fit enough to remain in the aquarium.

Moreover, there are poisonous and harmful ones such as the mini German Ivy.


About The Mini German Ivy

are mini german ivy poisonous to aquariums
Photo by Valiphotos on Pixabay

German Ivy is a climbing vine that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Its botanical name is Delairea Odorata. It is also known as Cape Ivy, Italian Ivy, Parlor Ivy.

Did you know? 💡 This plant species was originated from South Africa.

They are commonly found in backyards, gardens, and bushes. Because it is a weed, it grows at a faster rate. The toxicity of this plant can be dangerous towards fish and other animals.


The Appearance of a German Ivy

It is a perennial vine that grows up to 5 meters. It is very thing with vibrant green stems. The stem can be easily broken due to the weakness of it.

The leaves of this plant are glossy and soft to touch. They are plain without any hair. When taking a closer look at the leaves, they are in the shape of an ivy.

This plant has bright yellow color flowers with fluffy seeds.

Did you know? 💡 Between May to October, the plant can grow in a way where the flowers are dense.


The Dangers of The German Ivy

This beautiful, harmless-looking plant is actually hazardous. Many people use it as a home plant or attempt to keep it in their aquarium because it can easily found in their backyard or gardens.

Tip: Don’t put any plant that you have no knowledge of in your aquarium!

Please stay away from this plant to avoid potential problems. What are the dangers exactly?

  • Invasive SpeciesIt is an invasive species that has invaded many habitats and cost areas, thereby spoiling all vegetation.
  • Damaging To The EcosystemThis plant has immensely damaged the ecosystem. It is one of the fastest-growing weed, which spreads from one place to another through the wind. 
  • Poisonous To Children And AdultsIt contains xanthones and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. If small children ingest it, it can cause renal malfunction.
  • Toxic To AnimalsIt also impacts animal health. It is poisonous for cattle, cats, and dogs. Please keep it away from them.
  • Deadly For FishBecause it contains harmful and toxic compounds, it is not safe for fish. It would help if you didn’t attempt to keep the plant in your aquarium as it can kill all the fish. This plant, when submerged in the water can cause it to release a toxic chemical that can destroy the ecosystem.

From VivariumTips,

Don’t get tempted by the beautiful, mini yellow flower plant that grows in your backyard. German Ivy is poisonous to the aquarium, so don’t consider it being compatible with your tank.

Advice: If you find it in your garden, my suggestion is that you should immediately remove it. They can cause harm to your outdoor pets as well as small children.

If you still want plants to place inside of your aquarium, I would recommend that you take a look at Java Moss, Amazon Sword, Java Fern, or Water Wisteria.

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