Floating vs. Rooted Plants: Which Is Better for Your Tank?

Aquarium plants are more than just decoration—they provide oxygen, improve water quality, and create a natural environment for fish and shrimp. But when choosing between floating and rooted plants, which is better for your tank? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide.

Floating Plants: Easy, Fast-Growing, and Great for Cover

Floating plants like Frogbit, Salvinia, and Water Lettuce grow on the water’s surface, with roots dangling below. They absorb excess nutrients quickly, helping to prevent algae growth.

✅ Pros of Floating Plants:

• Reduce Algae Growth – By absorbing nitrates and blocking excess light, they help control algae.

• Great for Fish & Shrimp – Many species, like Bettas and shrimp, love the shade and cover floating plants provide.

• Low Maintenance – No need for planting—just let them float!

• Oxygenation & Filtration – Their fast growth helps oxygenate and purify water.

❌ Cons of Floating Plants:

• Can Block Light – Too many can prevent light from reaching rooted plants below.

• Require Frequent Trimming – They grow fast and can quickly take over a tank.

• May Clog Filters – Long roots and excessive growth can interfere with filter intakes.

➡️ Looking for easy-to-care-for floating plants?

Check out our Azolla and Duckweed!

Rooted Plants: Beautiful and Essential for Aquascaping

Rooted plants like Amazon Swords, Cryptocoryne Wendtii, and Anubias grow in the substrate, anchoring themselves while absorbing nutrients from the water and substrate.

✅ Pros of Rooted Plants:

• Great for Aquascaping – They create structure and depth in your tank’s design.

• Help with Water Quality – By absorbing nutrients through their roots, they reduce ammonia and nitrates.

• Provide Shelter for Fish & Shrimp – Larger plants create hiding spots for shy species.

• Long-Lasting Growth – Unlike floating plants, they don’t need frequent trimming.

❌ Cons of Rooted Plants:

• Require Substrate or Root Tabs – Some species need nutrient-rich substrates or root fertilizers.

• Slower Growth Compared to Floating Plants – Most rooted plants take longer to establish.

• More Care Needed – Some species need specific lighting and CO2 to thrive.

➡️ Want to add structure to your tank?

Our Amazon Swords and Cryptocoryne Wendtii are perfect for lush, rooted growth!

Which One Is Right for Your Tank?

Both floating and rooted plants offer unique benefits, so the best choice depends on your setup and goals:

• For beginners or low-maintenance tanks: Floating plants are easy and effective.

• For aquascaping and structured designs: Rooted plants are a must-have.

• For balanced ecosystems: A mix of both provides the best of both worlds!

➡️ Shop our full selection of live aquarium plants here and create the perfect planted tank today!