Page 1 of 2
Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 11:17 am
by willona
I've got a shallow 10-gallon tank, about 8 inches deep, and I'm looking for plant recommendations. Something that won't outgrow the space too fast but still looks lush. Any ideas?
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 12:01 pm
by dreamy
Anubias Nana or Bucephalandra would be perfect for that depth. They're slow growers and stay compact. Just attach 'em to rocks or driftwood, no need for fancy substrate. What's your lighting like?
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 12:39 pm
by creekrow
I've had good luck with Cryptocoryne Parva in my shallow tank. It stays low and spreads slowly. Just keep the substrate nutrient-rich, and it'll thrive. How often do you do water changes?
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 1:49 pm
by isledeep
Dwarf Hairgrass could work if you're into a carpeting effect. It's gonna need decent light and CO2, though. What's your setup like for those?
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 2:21 pm
by janesa
Java Moss is chill and easy. Just toss it in and let it do its thing. No fuss, no muss. Plus, it's great for shrimp if you're into that.
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 2:39 pm
by willona
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone! I've got moderate lighting and no CO2, so I'll probably start with Anubias Nana and Java Moss. Appreciate the help.
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 4:02 pm
by cyanite
If you're open to a bit more maintenance, Monte Carlo is another great carpeting plant for shallow tanks. It doesn't need CO2 if you're patient. Just keep the light consistent and trim regularly.
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 5:40 pm
by freshbait
dreamy wrote: ↑Tue Jul 15, 2025 12:01 pm
Anubias Nana or Bucephalandra would be perfect for that depth. They're slow growers and stay compact. Just attach 'em to rocks or driftwood, no need for fancy substrate. What's your lighting like?
Yep, seconding Anubias Nana. It's bulletproof and looks slick. Just don't bury the rhizome, or it'll rot.
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 6:35 pm
by luminon
Consider Marsilea Hirsuta if you want a carpet but don't want to deal with high light or CO2. It grows slower than Monte Carlo but is way more forgiving.
Re: Plants for a Shallow Aquarium
Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2025 6:50 pm
by fizzler
I'd throw in some Pogostemon Helferi for a pop of texture. It's a bit quirky but stays low and adds a cool vibe. Just don't let it dry out during water changes.