“Are calla lilies poisonous to fish?”

Calla lilies are known to be poisonous to fish. While there isn’t direct evidence, if you’re planning on adding calla lilies – make sure that your fish isn’t able to nibble on them.

Calla lilies have “lily” in their name, but they are not actually lilies. They are native to South Africa. Calla means beautiful in Greek.

Some might think of the whole trumpet as the flower, but the flower is only the upright part in the middle. The white or colored part of the plant is actually a leaf.

They can grow beautiful flowers in a variety of colors. Moreover, you can grow them in containers outdoors or even as house plants.

You may also not know this, but you can even grow some calla lily species in water up to 12 inches deep.

Are They Poisonous To Fish?

We found no direct evidence of calla lilies being harmful to fish. However, they do have a toxic substance called insoluble calcium oxalate. When cats or dogs consume them, they suffer from pain, difficulty in swallowing, and swelling.

It irritates the gastrointestinal tract. 

It is in the ASPCA‘s (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) list of toxic plants. But it only mentions it being poisonous to cats and dogs and not fish.

According to some garden experts, you can grow them near or inside ponds.

Still, be careful not to submerge them to the point where your pond fish could nibble on them.

While there isn’t any precise information available on whether this plant is toxic to fish or not but if it is harmful to cats, dogs, and humans, we conclude that it could harm your fish too. 

Better be safe than sorry, right?

Grow these plants on the sides of pools where they cannot make contact with water.

You could also grow them in a part of a pond that doesn’t allow fish near them, i.e., behind a rock formation. But still, if you have your doubts, avoid these plants.

You can grow many other non-toxic, beautiful plants that are suitable for fish.

Why Grow Calla Lily?

• These plants are easy to grow.
• They come in a variety of colors that make your garden or pond look vibrant and pretty.
• They blossom just eight weeks after planting.
• Their foliage is arrow-shaped, which looks attractive.

Calla Lily Growth Conditions

Calla lilies grow vibrant and breathtaking flowers. They are semi-aquatic and grow from rhizomes, and they are also very easy to grow. You need to plant them in loose and well-drained soil.

They grow happily in the full sun but require partial shade in warmer climates. Moreover, you can plant them in spring when the temperatures start rising.

However, you should protect them from frost. 

You should plant the rhizome about four inches deep in the soil for good results.

When you complete the planting process, water it well.

Calla Lily Care

They don’t require much care, but you need to water them properly and provide them with a healthy dose of fertilizer.

Add a good layer of mulch to the area where it grows, and that will keep it healthy, moist, and free from invasive weeds. 

They need a dormant period when they stop flowering. In this time, you should stop watering it so that it dries out.

If you have grown it in a container, you should move it to a darker place when its foliage fades.

Below – you can find frequently asked questions about the calla lily.

What plants are toxic to fish?

According to koienterprise.com, tress can be harmful when they are around fish ponds. This includes:

• Rhodendron
• Oleander
• Yew
• Poplar
• Maple
• Oak

If you have any additional questions when it comes to the calla lily and fish, feel free to comment below this article. We will do our best to answer every possible question to provide future readers with a better experience.

From VivariumTips,

Calla lilies are beautiful plants with vibrant-colored flowers. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate. While they are toxic to dogs and cats if eaten, they don’t kill them. However, they can cause GI tract issues. Based on the scientific evidence and experience of some fish keepers, some varieties of the calla lily are poisonous to eat. Thus, if you’re growing them, do so in a place where fish can’t eat them.

For related articles about plants and fish, check out:

• List of Plants That Can Poison Fish
• List Of Plants Safe For Fish Pond
• Are Ferns Poisonous To Fish?
• Are Pine Needles Poisonous To Fish?

You can find out calla lilies bestselling products below!

[amazon bestseller=”calla lily flower” items=”3″ ]

The post Are Calla Lilies Poisonous To Fish? (Don’t Let Your Fish Nibble!) appeared first on VivariumTips.

• Blue-Green Algae
• Fagaceae Quercus
• Yew
• Cherry Trees
• Jasmine
• Tiger Lily

Plants produce toxins so that they can protect themselves from being eaten by other organisms. That includes fish too. Historically, the fish toxin has been used by hunters and fishermen to stun fish so that they are easy to collect. 

Tribal people would make the fish-stupefying toxin from various plants and then use it to catch them in the sea or rivers.

These toxins would not kill the fish like a chemical toxin but would instead render them motionless. The fish would then float to the surface, and the hunter would easily capture them.

This practice was common among Australian Aborigines and California Indians; people still use it in some parts of the world.

There are also plants that, if ingested by the fish, will have fatal results. Some plants may have only toxic leaves, and others may have toxic compounds in roots.

Additionally, some plants are also poisonous overall. Some plants are only toxic to fish, also known as ichthyotoxic. 

If these kinds of plants are near to your fish pond or your fish, they may cause them to become sick, disrupt their metabolism, and, in extreme cases, they may even die.

We have listed some plants that are toxic to fish below.

Blue-Green Algae

Although it is not actually a plant, it still survives by photosynthesis. Mentioning it is crucial because it is potentially quite harmful to plants. It has a blue-green appearance and is bacteria, not algae, although it looks like one when it blooms out. While its presence is natural and even beneficial in some cases, their bloom may cause muscle degeneration, oxygen depletion, and damage to the internal organs of fish. It is easier to monitor in small fish enclosures.

Fagaceae Quercus

Fagaceae Quercus or oak occurs naturally in many parts of the world. Some oak species produce toxins called tannins. They don’t necessarily cause death but can create digestion issues. If they fall in the water where your fish is and is consumed by it, they will be prone to sickness. Even if the fish doesn’t consume it, the build-up of these leaves and acorns in the water can change water quality upon decomposition.

Yew

Yew or Taxus species grow into shrubs or can be trained to grow into mature trees. They have fragrant needles and large swooping branches. The needles and seeds of the plants of these trees are toxic to fish as they have taxine alkaloids.

Cherry Trees

Cherry trees are beautiful and fragrant with their beautiful blossom. Most cherry species are toxic to fish, though. All parts of a cherry tree are toxic to fish, particularly the seeds. They contain hydrocyanic acid, which is also known as prussic acid. It can even cause the fish to die. It blocks the ability of tissues to use oxygen, which causes asphyxiation in fish.

Jasmine

This beautiful shrub plant bears pretty and fragrant flowers. Some of its species are also evergreen. These plants have toxins in their berries, which includes glycoside and hepatotoxin. They cause disruption of the nervous system in fish.

Tiger Lily

They are pretty and straightforward to grow. However, you should avoid them because they have lycorine alkaloids in all parts. It causes nausea and convulsions. It can also disrupt protein synthesis in fish.

Plants That Can Poison Fish: FAQ

Find related questions to plants and fish. If you can’t find the question you’re looking for, ask below!

What are the plants safe for fish ponds?

In one of our recent articles about plants safe for a fish pond, the plants listed are water hyacinth, water smartweed, water lotus, water lily, and horsetail. Try not to add too many plants at once because it can cause harm to your goldfish by reducing the level of oxygen.

Are ferns poisonous to fish?

Ferns aren’t poisonous to fish but if you add too many, it can cause more harm than good. The reason for this is because the plants can rot, which releases unnecessary wastes.

Are pine needles poisonous to fish?

Pine needles may appear like a great addition to add in with your fish because it can make it look aesthetically pleasing. The truth is – they are harmful and poisonous to your tank.

From VivariumTips, 

Plants are a beautiful creation of nature, but they can also be dangerous. Some plants only cause minor problems among fish when ingested, but others can cause them to die. If you are thinking about introducing plants near your fish enclosure, be wary of the ones we mentioned above. 

We found this video we think you might love and find helpful:

For another aquarium/fish articles, you might also find these helpful:

• Why Is My Fish Not Eating Or Swimming?
• Do Guppies Need Air And Oxygen?

For fish store recommendations, check out:

• Fish Stores In Michigan
• Fish Stores In Nashville
• Fish Stores In North Carolina
• Fish Stores In New Jersey
• Fish Stores In New York

The post List Of 6 Plants That Can Poison Fish You Didn’t Know! appeared first on VivariumTips.

We will go over not only safe plants but plants that can be beneficial for your fish!

These plants safe for fish ponds are:

• Water Hyacinth
• Water Smartweed
• Water Lotus
• Water Lily
• Horsetail

Introducing plants to fish ponds is essential for creating a balance in the pond ecosystem. They also absorb the excess nutrients from the pond water and assist in increasing the oxygen level.

They also look stunning.

However, you have to choose plants for your fish pond carefully. Some species are invasive and might take over the whole pond.

Why Add Plants?

Plants don’t just make your pond look pretty; they perform some very essential functions too. Some plant species are very good oxygenators.

They also provide shelter and food for many organisms in pods, including fish. 

By having plants in your fish pond, they can extract extra nutrients from the pond water, which can cause the growth of cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria can be very toxic to fish.

By having plants in your pond, they can also provide shade and regulate the temperature in the pond. 

Try not to have too many pond plants because it can decrease the oxygen level for your fish!

Some plant species that are safe and suitable for fish ponds are listed below.

Water Hyacinth

This plant species floats freely on the water surface. They can grow in water that is shallow or several meters deep.

Additionally, they don’t require much care and can grow in extreme temperatures too.

Water hyacinth also produces blue and purple flowers that may attract other organisms, such as birds and bees. Some pond fish like Koi even like to eat them.

Water Smartweed

Smartweed is originally a water plant and likes to be submerged in water. But it is not very picky and can also grow as long as the water is moist. They grow in thick colonies and reach an impressive three feet in height.

However, some might consider them a nuisance because of this trait. 

Did you know?

Water smartweed is a very good oxygenator of water.

They are also excellent water purifiers and provide food to some birds and insect species. Those insects, in turn, can then be consumed by pond fish.

If you decide to use these plants in your pond, you may need to trim them once in a while to prevent the over-growth.

Water Lotus

Water lotuses are beautiful and popular aquatic floating plants. They are low-maintenance plants but require specific conditions for survival.

They do well in water with a temperature of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The water depth should ideally be 18 inches, and they prefer low humidity and about 5-hour sunlight daily.

Since they have big leaves, they will require a large space. If your pond is small, then you can use some dwarf lotus species.

Water Lily

These are also very popular floating aquatic plants. They require colder conditions and less sunlight. They are similar to water lotus but are smaller.

Moreover, they can grow in as little depth of water as six inches. They develop into beautiful and fragrant flowers, which adds to the beauty of your pond.

Pond fish can hide under the shade of its leaves and lay eggs. Occasionally, your fish might even feed on the roots and leaves of the water lily.

Horsetail

This plant has a history of millions of years. They grow along the borders of water or in shallow waters. 

They are excellent water filters, and they grow in tall segments. Additionally, they do not overtake other water plants and are not very competitive.

But if they do over-grow, you can easily remove them to prevent an overflow of the pond plants.

Another benefit for your fish is that they will sometimes utilize these plants as shade.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will find commonly asked questions about plants safe for fish ponds here. If you can’t find a useful question, comment and we’ll answer it!

What are some plants to keep around the pond edge?

The plants you can keep around your pond edge to make it more beautiful are marsh marigold, spider lily, or Japanese water iris. According to homeguides.sfgate.com, these plants will make more pond appear much more colorful.

What other plants are good for a pond?

Thanks to the helpful information provided by aquascapeinc.com, the list of popular pond plants are:

• Blue Iris
• Mosaic Plant
• Water Lettuce
• Cardinal Flower
• Taro
• Horsetail
• Pickerel
• Creeping Jenny

Check out Aquascape Inc. for more information on these great recommendations!

Can too many pond plants kill fish?

Pond plants can be beneficial to your fish and create a healthier ecosystem, but having too many pond plants can also cause problems for your fish. If you have too many pond plants, it can decrease the oxygen level for your fish, which can kill them.

Should you remove dead fish from the pond?

Yes – you should definitely remove dead fish from your pond because it can increase the livelihood of your other fish. By not removing a dead fish, you increase the chances of algae bloom and other potential diseases.

From VivariumTips, 

Pond plants are a perfect means of water oxygenation. They also keep the water clean and provide many other benefits to the organisms living in it. Not to mention, they make the pond look attractive. Some plants have the potential of over-growing, though. In that case, you should keep an eye out for them and trim them as needed.

If you enjoyed this article “Exploring The List Of Plants Safe For Fish Pond,” you might also like:

• Are Ferns Poisonous To Fish?
• Are Pine Needles Poisonous To Fish?
• Diseases + Treatments If Your Goldfish Is Sick

If you have any pond/fish-related questions, comment below and I’ll be happy to answer it!

Check out these recommended pond plants below! You might find some interest in them.

[amazon bestseller=”pond plants” items=”3″ ]

The post Exploring The List Of 5 Plants Safe For Fish Pond! appeared first on VivariumTips.

Is English ivy poisonous to fish?

While English ivies are known to be harmful to humans and other mammals, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

In this article “Is English Ivy Poisonous To Fish,” you will learn:

• the general information about English ivies
• why it’s not a good idea to place them in your aquarium

If you’re in a hurry, feel free to read the table of content below to navigate to a more specific topic for the English ivy and aquarium fish.

VivariumTips.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

English Ivy

In case you didn’t know, the English Ivy is also known as Hedera helix.  When it comes to the plant, they are categorized as woody vines.

These plants can reach up to 7 to 8 inches high if acting as ground covers.

The English ivy is known to be a type of climbing plant, which can be quite invasive. When it comes to climbing, they can climb as high as 80 feet.

Here’s a little more information on the English ivy you might find interesting:

• Name: Hedera helix
• Other Names: European Ivy, Common Ivy, and English Ivy
• Type: The English ivy is an evergreen perennial
• Size: If acting as ground cover, they can go as wide as 15 feet and up to 8 inches high.
• Type of Soil: Moist

The best way to describe the appearance of the plant is that it’s greenish-white and sometimes greenish-yellow.

Is English Ivy Poisonous To Fish?

There are many stories of aquarium owners making the decision of adding English ivies to their aquarium.

While the English ivy can be quite invasive and harmful to mammals, many aquarium owners won’t recommend you adding the plant inside of your tank.

To give you a better perspective, the English ivy is mildly poisonous to mammals. If you’re going to have the plant submerged underwater, then you should think twice and be more cautious about your fish.

The Leaves Can Rot

While they are mildly poisonous, you should also keep in mind that adding plants that aren’t meant to be underwater can cause the leaves to rot.

English Ivy Roots & Aquarium

If you absolutely want the English ivy to be together with your aquarium tank, then you can try letting the roots submerged underwater and avoid the water having contact with the leaves.

Not many aquarium owners do this, but there are cases where people place the roots below the water instead.

In my personal opinion, I still think that it’s risky to place a plant that’s dangerous to mammals inside of a fish tank.

Another reason why I would avoid the English ivy is that this plant is quite invasive especially to the United States and Canada.

FAQ About English Ivy And Aquariums

Below, you can find related questions about this topic. If you have any additional questions, feel free to comment below this article.

Is English ivy poisonous to humans?

It’s well-warned that the English ivy should never be consumed. These plants are described as ‘mildly poisonous’ to humans and other mammals.

Is English ivy destructive?

Yes, English ivy can be quite destructive. In fact, they are labeled as an invasive species that will crawl all over the place. It’s best to stay away and not produce any more of the English ivy.

Why is English ivy bad?

The reason why English ivies are bad is that the roots of this plant will burrow under certain things which can cause fungus. Because of this, English ivy can cause new diseases that can potentially harm a big part of the environment.

If you’re in search of aquatic plants for your fish tank, I highly recommend you checking this out. You’ll likely find the best aquatic plants available and more compatible with your fish.

From VivariumTips,

I wouldn’t recommend you adding English ivies to your aquarium fish tank. They can do more harm than good for the environment and health of your fish tank.

If you’re in search of aquatic plants, I recommend finding the proper ones.

English ivies aren’t meant to be together with fish.

If this article didn’t help you, then feel free to leave any comments or questions English ivy-related below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Here’s a related article that you might find helpful:

• Are German Ivies Poisonous To Aquariums?

You can support this blog by sharing this article with aquarium lovers in search of aquatic plants for their tanks! 🙂

The post Is English Ivy Poisonous To Fish? – English Ivy Vs. Fish appeared first on VivariumTips.

“And what are silicates in water?”

Before we go further in-depth, you’re going to have to learn about silicates first.

Silicates Definition: According to Wikipedia, silicates are any members of the anions. Silicates are consist of oxygen and silicon.

Basically, brown or gravel algae.

Now, what happens when they are in the water, and why does that matter for the ocean and aquarium owners?

In this article “What Are Silicates In Water,” you will learn:

• The brief summary of silicon
• The effects they have on water
• Useful information in regards to silicates and water

Below is the table of contents for this silicates article in case you’re in search of a specific section.

Disclaimer: There may be Amazon affiliate links on VivariumTips.com – When users purchase through an affiliate link, there will be no additional cost to the purchaser. Instead, I will earn a commission from your purchases. 

Brief Summary of Silicates

Did you know?

Silicon is the second most ample element on earth right after oxygen.

Studies have shown that they are likely to be present in all organisms. They usually occur in the form of “hydrated amorphous silica” which is also known as ‘opal.’

The Purpose of Silicates

To produce structural materials in single-celled organisms like plants and animals – this element is extremely necessary for the process.

Did you know?

90% of the Earth’s crust consists of silicate minerals.

Silicates are known as aggravates that have a silicon-oxygen anion.

They are generally joined with various metals such as:

• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Iron
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Aluminum
• and others in order to create silicate salts

Most silicate salts are just somewhat dissolvable in water and are generally circulated in nature, however sodium silicate is an exception.

Various minerals contain silicates: asbestos, mica, powder, magma, and many more.

The Effects Silicates Have On Water

If you didn’t know, silicates can have several effects on water. Let’s discuss it from an aquarium owner’s perspective.

1. Silicates can benefit the water by creating a source of food.
2. They can also cause water quality problems for aquarium owners due to overgrowing.

Like yin and yang, there are good and bad to silicates.

Silicates Presenting As Colloids

If silicates are present as colloids, then it can cause a lot of difficulties managing (only if silicates can be presented in one solution).

For aquarium owners, you should understand the natural capacity of silicates in a water biological system.

Aquatic Plants And Silicates

Usually – in water frameworks, green growth (aquatic plants) is essential for the ecosystem. The changes in inorganic supplements and carbon dioxide into natural biomass can cause a lot of changes to the environment.

The green growth biomass (thickness) is controlled by a few, conceivably restricting factors as you can see right below.

For example, these factors can be:

• Temperature
• Light Power
• Supplement Fixations

These types of growth require phosphorus and nitrogen as supplements. This also includes diatoms which are a type of algae that require silicate for development.

This can benefit the ecosystem in various ways. Zooplankton can benefit off of this while fish can benefit off by consuming the planktons.

If these algae can benefit the bottom of the food chain, then it will also benefit the top of the pyramid. That’s how important it is.

Silicates And Metals

In addition, silicates can also suspend metals by sequestration.

This is the reason for the controlled utilization of silicates in order to control destructiveness and to diminish the convergences of metals like lead and copper in water conditions.

What Are Silicates In Water?

When silicates are in the water, they serve as a biological function to the ecosystem.

By being in the water, they can create algae. This can help feed many living creatures.

Just imagine the food chain – it probably helps the entire ecosystem.

• Planktons
• Fish consuming planktons
• Bigger fish consuming the smaller fish

And it goes on.

From VivariumTips,

If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to comment right below. I hope you learned a few things about silicates. Don’t hesitate if you ask questions. I’ll be glad to improve this article for future readers.

For articles similar to “What Are Silicates In Water,” check out:

• Do Cherry Shrimps Eat Brown Algae?

You can support VivariumTips by sharing any of the articles on this website with a friend or community!

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As far as we know, cherry shrimps do consume algae, but what about brown algae?

“Do cherry shrimps eat brown algae? Is brown algae even safe for cherry shrimps to consume?”

We know that cherry shrimps will eat almost anything, which means that they’ll likely consume brown algae as well. While knowing this tiny piece of information can cure your curiosity, there is more to it than you think.

In this article “Do Cherry Shrimps Eat Brown Algae,” you will learn:

• The formation of brown algae.
• A brief summary of cherry shrimps.
• Whether cherry shrimps really consume brown algae or not.

For new cherry shrimp owners, my recommendation is to read this article from beginning to end. For people in a rush, you can use the table of content right below to navigate to specific topics.

Remembering The Reason Why Aquarium Owners Love Cherry Shrimps

Keeping aquatic creatures can be an incredibly joyful experience, especially when you can have a variety of them, and one of them is cherry shrimp.

There’s a high chance that you can get carried away by making your cherry shrimps’ home spending time adding tiny decorations and such.

You can watch them for hours in their habitat and lose track of time because it can be captivating to watch them love living and reacting to the ecosystem you created.

However, while it is a rather fun hobby, let’s not forget the not so happy element of keeping shrimps: the dreadful brown algae and other aquarium wastes.

It immediately dirties your entire hard work making your tank look like it hasn’t been cleaned for days. But every problem has a solution. I break down everything from what brown algae are, how they are formed to how these cherry shrimp eat them.

Learning About The Cherry Shrimp

So let’s talk about these shrimps. The cherry shrimp also called “Red Cherry Shrimp” or ‘RCS,’ is a freshwater shrimp aboriginal from Taiwan.

Did you know? 💡 These are a freshwater shrimp that are extraordinarily peaceful and distinguished for their algae-eating tendencies.

Adequate for both novices and experienced aquarists, they are one of the easiest to keep shrimp, and they enhance color into any tank they’re placed in and are extraordinarily undemanding.

In the wild, they come in a variation of colors, yet in the aquarium business, you will commonly only discover them in red.

These shrimp are relatively robust and can easily survive in all freshwater aquarium arrangements.

They will prosper in densely planted setups with ample shelter and hiding spots and have a lifespan of between one or two years.

What Is Brown Algae And How Is It Formed?

It all happens in the blink of an eye. One second your fish tank is stunning and clean, but the next moment it is splattered with slimy and disgusting brown material that can instantly take over your fish tank if ignored.

Well, what to do about it? Let’s dive into everything it encompasses. 

Did you know? 💡 Brown algae is primarily a small varmint called a diatom. This creature is extremely tiny that it cannot be glimpsed at without a microscope.

Now you are probably speculating if it is so small then why can I see it so clearly in my tank?

Answer: Well, that is because brown algae are entirely made up of billions of little interlocked diatoms.

So to get technical, the brown alga is a bacterial colony, and it takes over your tank. This algae shapes in soft brown and thick clumpy patches.

Where do algae spread? It is a disastrous swimmer and prefers to latch itself on to the solid surfaces in your tanks like the glass wall, substrate, or the decor and plants.

The sluggish, slimy pattern can easily be extracted by lightly wiping it with your finger.

How Do Algae Invade An Aquarium Tank?

Here’s how this highly unappealing substance invades your fish tank. It’s almost like the apocalypse!

Silicates In Water

Silicates are deemed to be the number one reason for brown algae invasion. Put merely; silicates are diatom’s beloved food.

They find it tasty and will merrily grow and cultivate in any tank that is high in silicates.

Likely origins of silicate are:

• Tap and well water
• Salt compound 
• Live rocks and sand

However, different silica-based sand mixes also prompt silicates to seep into the water.

Nitrates

Another factor of the spread of algae is nitrates, and they are caused by: 

• Plant fertilizers
• Fish food
• Fish excrement
• Decaying plants

Phosphates

Another common source of phosphates appears from wastes being broken down in the aquarium such as: 

• Uneaten fish food and decay
• Dead algae
• Deceased fish
• KH and pH Covers 

Brown algae don’t differ between fresh or saltwater, if your aquarium has a reasonable amount of these nutrients then you are practically laying out an invitation for this algae.

Lighting Issues

Another reason is that reduced light levels can partake in brown algae eruption. Because brown algae is a diatom, lighting is also believed to be a primary participating component to its arrival.

However, as long as the water contains silicates, so whether the light is dim or bright, algae will be happy to be there.

Do Cherry Shrimps Eat Brown Algae?

Now we’re here at the exciting part. Do these shrimp eat brown algae? 

Well yes! Not only do they eat soft, brown algae, but red cherry shrimps also love it. They seem to like consuming these algae accumulating on hard surfaces in the tank—for example, the plastic filter system or even the decorations.

These shrimp are very active and energetic inhabitants of a tank. They are skilled enough to get into areas to hunt for algae that most of the larger shrimp cannot even dare think of.

They are tremendous swimmers and can also stand on the side of the aquarium as they chew brown algae off it.

Did you know? 💡 Red cherry shrimps can spend up hours on end consuming the algae to their heart’s content.

How Do Cherry Shrimps Eat?

Once shrimp keep themselves in the stance, they use their front legs to grab at the algae and put it in their mouth. One shrimp alone can gobble an entire spot of algae all on its own.

It is not unusual for shrimp to forage in small or large groups, consuming algae developing in larger areas. Big groups of shrimp feed in broader areas peacefully without any dispute or hostility.

Once a specific spot of brown algae is eaten up, the shrimp move to a different place and start the process all over again.

However, you cannot simply let your shrimp snack on that algae only; you must provide proper food to them. They should also be fed supplements of other foods as instructed.

What do you think?

From VivariumTips,

So if you plan on getting these shrimp then yes rest assured that they most definitely do enjoy eating brown algae off of every surface possible.

Feed them properly: Note that you should be very careful that you provide for them appropriately and not leave them to only pick the slimy, brown substance. 

While it is most definitely a blessing that they can fix your algae problem and help keep the habitat clean, you must care for them properly as well as keeping their tank clean and maintained.

If you enjoyed “Do Cherry Shrimps Eat Brown Algae,” you might also like:

• How Many Shrimps Does It Take To Start A Colony?
• Do Shrimps Eat Poop?

If you have any questions related to red cherry shrimps and the consumption of algae, feel free to comment below.

You can support VivariumTips by sharing this cherry shrimp article with a friend or community! 🙂

The post Do Cherry Shrimps Eat Brown Algae? The Dirty Truth. appeared first on VivariumTips.

“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?

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

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 Filtration – Freshwater 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.
• Aesthetics – The 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

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 Species – It is an invasive species that has invaded many habitats and cost areas, thereby spoiling all vegetation.
• Damaging To The Ecosystem – This 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 Adults – It contains xanthones and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. If small children ingest it, it can cause renal malfunction.
• Toxic To Animals – It also impacts animal health. It is poisonous for cattle, cats, and dogs. Please keep it away from them.
• Deadly For Fish – Because 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.

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like:

• Best Carnivorous Plant Forum
• Can Dead Moss Regrow
• Marimo Moss Ball Terrarium Kit
• Peacock Fern Guide

You can help support this blog by sharing any of the articles on here.

Have a question? Feel free to comment below and I’ll be glad to answer it! 🙂

The post Are Mini German Ivies Poisonous To Aquariums? Dumb Vs. Smart appeared first on VivariumTips.

“Can I put orchids in my frogs’ tank? Will it be okay?”

To answer it in simple terms, yes owners of frogs can place orchids. This article will help you learn why they’re both compatible.

It’s recommended to read from beginning to end, but if you’re looking to navigate to a specific section – the table of content is right below.

Disclaimer: This article about orchids and frogs may contain Amazon affiliate links. When purchasing through the links on this article, VivariumTips will earn a commission at no additional cost to you. 

Rewinding Back To The Introduction of Orchids

The Rarest Flower You Will Find In The Market

As we all know, orchids are one of the most beautiful plants when it comes to flora and color combinations. These flowers are considered as the king of the orchid family.

Did you know? 💡 Along with their beautiful designs, these are some of the rarest flowers that you will find in the market. There are even rarer ones out there.

The main reason behind it is that these flowers need a special kind of environment but once they grow up you can take them in any kind of environment and they will start growing according to it.

The Number of Orchid Species

Now if we talk about the species of this flowering plant then there are more than 25,000 species available in the world that are connected with the orchid family.

Some of the categories in which they are divided are Bulbophyllum and this is one of the largest plant seeds as it has more than 2000 species constituted in it.

Quick Summary: According to experts, it is estimated that there are approximately 25,000 to 30,000 species of orchids in existence.

Along with that, there is another species named Epidendrum which is also considered as the most growing species of orchids as it has more than 1400 species constituted in it.

Some of the most common highlights that you can see in most of the orchids are their design, their cooler combinations, and their fragrances.

Monopodial Vs. Sympodial Orchids

There are some of the different types of orchids that are divided based on their stems and wooden structure.

Below is the difference between a monopodial and a sympodial orchid:

• Monopodial Orchid – This is one of those types of orchids in which the size of the stem is very thin and the leaves on this species come up once in a year. In addition, the stem of this plant was increased to a higher level, which makes it the taller type of orchid plant.
• Sympodial Orchid – These are some of those types of plants that grow up with the adjacent shoots and then suddenly stops growing because of the lack of growth hormones in it.

If you think that’s interesting, then let’s move on to the next section where I will discuss with you the usage of orchids!

What Are Orchids Used For?

There are many places where you can easily see the use of orchids and this would actually make them one of the most important species in terms of decorative items and things.

Along with that, it is used in some of the decorative items that we use in our houses like decorative pots and other types of home decor items.

Is There Such Thing As Poisonous Orchids?

However, there is other dangerous information that will make you a bit tensed about orchids. It could maybe even save your life for knowing it.

Did you know? 💡 In research, there have been studies that found that there are certain species of orchids, which have poisonous effects on them.

Even there are some of the species that would eat up the body of humans and creatures without leaving the bones as they include some of the chemicals in them, which dissolves the calcium of bones from the body.

Can You Put Orchids in Your Frogs’ Tank?

Yes, orchids are completely suitable for the frog tanks, as this would not harm any of the species except some of the deadliest ones.

From VivariumTips,

I hope that you got the answer that you’re looking for! This article was written due to a surge in questions about this topic.

Articles Related to “Can I Put Orchids in My Frogs’ Tank”

• Is There Such Thing As Half Fish Half Frog?
• How To Heat A Dart Frog?

Did you know? 💡 You can purchase a variety of orchids online! You can check out the type and price by clicking here.

If you have any questions or feedback about this article, please feel free to comment right below. I’d be happy to answer!

Don’t forget to support this blog by sharing the articles on this website! 🙂

The post Can I Put Orchids In My Frogs’ Tank? The Genius Move. appeared first on VivariumTips.

“Can dead moss regrow? Are they able to come back to life?”

The question reoccurring in your mind constantly because you’re not 100% sure on the life and afterlife of a moss. Well – let me help clear that out for you. Moss definitely can regrow and this article will show you how in a moment.

“Can Dead Moss Regrow” will provide information about the possibility of regrowing dead moss.

You can use the table of content below to help you better navigate this article.

Disclaimer: This article may contain Amazon affiliate links. When you purchase from an affiliate link, VivariumTips will earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Possibility Of Growing Dead Moss

When it comes to the subject of dead moss, what is the best method for growing moss? Is it possible to re-grow dead moss, or do you have to cut it up to get it to grow again?

According to experts, dead moss also known as dried moss can be rehydrated.

So yes, dead moss can regrow! Knowing this fact shows that they’re truly wonderful plants because even in times when pieces of a moss break apart, they will grow into newer plants.

Creating Energy For Moss

During dormant periods, it can be challenging to get moss to thrive due to the lack of energy.

However, moss loves sunlight and is more likely to grow if it gets direct sunlight for an extended period. The key to getting your moss to grow is making sure that there is plenty of light shining on them.

There are many options available for using artificial lighting to make your indoor moss garden flourish. One alternative to sunlight is by using a lamp.

If you have a spot with windows and natural sunlight shining into your house, then the most crucial part is making sure that your moss is getting enough sunlight for energy to regrow.

You can use artificial lighting with fluorescent or incandescent lights.

Advice: Make sure that lights shining on the moss are not too bright, or they will harm your moss. This advice is targeted towards moss owner with the idea of using lamps as a light source.

When it comes to lighting, it helps determine the moisture content of the moss. Certain plants require a lot of moisture to have a high survivability rate and mosses are no different from that.

Watering Moss

Make sure that your moss is well watered but not excessively wet so that it doesn’t wick moisture away from the roots.

Why you shouldn’t over water? Your moss will remain damp and possibly rot or perhaps even die if it is subjected to excess moisture for extended periods of time.

If you’re a moss owner, please remember to never overwater them.

Starting An Indoor Moss Garden

An indoor moss garden is a perfect location for those who want to grow their moss at home. After all – it can be quite therapeutic for many people.

However, certain moss can be expensive to have in your house.

Did you know? 💡 You can order moss online. You can check their prices by clicking here!

Find the moss you’re most comfortable with growing for your indoor garden.

Not too interested in life moss? You should read about dried moss.

Dried Moss Instead of Live Moss

A natural alternative to growing moss at home is to purchase dried moss that has been cut up and used as a soil additive.

To successfully use this product, make sure that you are buying dried moss from a reputable source. (I made it easier for you with the moss product right above)

Before making any purchases, you should make sure that the moss has not been treated with chemicals or fertilizers.

It is also a good idea to make sure that there are no algae in the container. It’s important to remember that you should always be extra cautious with the moss.

If you must resort to purchasing dried moss to start a moss garden, you might want to ensure that you buy the best quality available.

After all, you don’t want to be buying something so expensive as moss to fail. That would be a shame, wouldn’t it?

From VivariumTips, 

To answer the question, yes moss can regrow. They can break into many pieces and still grow into newer plants. That’s the beauty of moss.

Below are articles that I think you might enjoy!

• Learning About The Marimo Moss Ball
• Best Carnivorous Plant Forum
• The Peacock Fern Guide
• Best Air Plant Terrarium Kits

If you enjoyed this article, then please support this blog by sharing any articles on VivariumTips.com! If you have any questions related to this article, don’t hesitate to comment and ask below.

Your support and feedback matters! 🙂

The post Can Dead Moss Regrow? Discover The Harsh Reality. appeared first on VivariumTips.

Did you know? 💡 There are tons of benefits to owning Marimo moss balls in your mini-ecosystem.

In this Marimo moss ball guide, you will learn about:

• The basic info regarding Marimo moss ball
• The benefits of having them in your ecosystem
• Places to buy them

While I highly recommend you read through the entire article – you can utilize the table of content below in case you want to skip to a certain topic.

Disclaimer: This guide may contain affiliate links, which means that I’ll earn a commission when you purchase from it. This won’t cost you anything. By purchasing from these affiliate links, the commission will help keep this blog running with free information.

What is a Marimo moss ball?

First and foremost, the name Marimo is actually a Japanese word that stands for “ball-shape seaweed” which perfectly describes this guide. These Marimo moss balls are actually a type of round algae.

Marimo moss balls can live for over a century. That’s 100+ years!

Now jumping back to the topic – the Marimo ball is completely made out of algae, which is quite interesting.

These spherical algae balls can grow outward at an extremely slow rate.

Marimo algae balls can grow outward at a really slow pace at 5mm for every year it lives.

Now why do people keep Marimo algae balls, you asked? I’ll tell you why.

The Benefits of Marimo

So why do people keep Marimo moss balls? Well, if you didn’t know – there are many benefits to keeping them.

1. They can stand the changes in pH levels.
2. The Marimo moss ball is great for other creatures living in your aquarium.
3. Marimo moss ball can tolerate salt water.
4. You’re likely to avoid dealing with dead Marimo plant parts because they’re always green and lively.
5. These algae balls can stay anywhere in your tank. They will usually float around the aquarium freely.
6. Marimo moss balls do not require any care. Just make sure your aquarium is up to maintenance and clean!
7. They can shelter your fish from harm. These moss balls don’t carry anything dangerous on them.
8. Marimo moss balls can produce oxygen once they consume carbon dioxide.
9. It can absorb the build-up pollutants in your tanks such as ammonia and other unnecessary wastes.

As you can see, there are many benefits to keeping Marimo moss ball in your aquarium tank.

You might probably be interested in a Marimo moss ball now, so where can you buy them exactly?

Buying Marimo Moss Ball Terrarium Kit

To buy the Marimo moss ball terrarium kit, you can simply visit this link by clicking here. There’s a great selection of Marimo moss ball products that might catch your interests!

The price ranges from $4 to $8 for a package of a few Marimo moss balls!

Go ahead and check it out! You can find various selection, so just choose the one that best fits your mini-ecosystem.

From VivariumTips,

In my opinion, I would recommend any vivarium owners to keep a Marimo moss ball in your tank. After all – there are so many benefits for the future and betterment of your mini-ecosystem.

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like:

• 7 Best Carnivorous Plants
• Best Air Plant Terrarium Kit For Your Home
• How To Make a Jarrarium?

If you enjoyed this article, comment below. The best way to support this blog and continue receiving free information is by sharing any articles on here with a friend!

To learn the price and reviews of Marimo moss ball, click here. 🙂

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