Who Gives A Fish Forums

Has anyone here tried running a tank with only floating plants? I'm curious about the maintenance and how it affects water quality. My tank is a 20 gallon with moderate lighting, and I'm thinking of switching to just Duckweed and Frogbit.

I've done it with just Frogbit in a 10 gallon. It's chill, but you gotta watch the light. Too much and they'll take over, too little and they'll melt. My bettas loved the shade though.

Floating plants are great for nitrate control, but you'll need to thin them regularly. In my 40 gallon, I run Duckweed and Salvinia. They're low maintenance but can block light for anything below if not managed.

robson wrote: ↑Thu Jun 19, 2025 3:46 am Floating plants are great for nitrate control, but you'll need to thin them regularly. In my 40 gallon, I run Duckweed and Salvinia. They're low maintenance but can block light for anything below if not managed.

Exactly this. I'd add that Frogbit roots can get long, so keep an eye on them if you have bottom dwellers.

Tried it once, but my Gouramis messed with the roots too much. If you've got fish that like to nibble, maybe skip it. Otherwise, it's a vibe.

I've had success with just Red Root Floaters in a 15 gallon. They're slower growing than Duckweed, so easier to manage. Water params stayed stable, but I did weekly 20% changes.

Yo, floaters are the bomb if you're lazy like me. Just scoop out the extras when they get too thick. My shrimp dig the cover.

Thanks for the input, everyone. I think I'll start with Frogbit and see how it goes. Appreciate the tips on light and thinning.

Floaters are dope, but they can be sketchy with filters. If you've got a strong current, they might not stay put. My HOB kept pushing them under.

I run a 30 gallon with only Salvinia. The key is consistent lighting and nutrient levels. No CO2 needed, but I dose liquid ferts weekly.