Page 1 of 2
what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 10:32 am
by zenoir
I've heard some plants can be harmful to fish. Which ones should I avoid in my 20-gallon tank with tetras and a betta? I'm new to planted tanks and don't wanna mess up.
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:17 am
by tankero
Some common toxic plants include Dieffenbachia, Philodendron, and Pothos. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate fish. Stick to safer options like Anubias or Java Fern.
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 12:10 pm
by pact
tankero wrote: ↑Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:17 am
Some common toxic plants include Dieffenbachia, Philodendron, and Pothos. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate fish. Stick to safer options like Anubias or Java Fern.
Yep, I'd also avoid anything with milky sap, like Euphorbia. It's sketchy for fish.
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 12:33 pm
by Riveria
I've had issues with Peace Lilies in the past. They're pretty but not worth the risk. My betta got lethargic after I added one, so I cut it out quick.
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 1:01 pm
by florape
What about floating plants? Are Water Hyacinth or Duckweed safe? I've got a 10-gallon with guppies and wanna keep it chill.
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 1:21 pm
by fizzlebee
Duckweed is fine, but Water Hyacinth can be iffy if it decays. Just keep an eye on it. My guppies love hanging out under Frogbit, though.
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 1:46 pm
by tawnyfish
florape wrote: ↑Wed Jul 16, 2025 1:01 pm
What about floating plants? Are Water Hyacinth or Duckweed safe? I've got a 10-gallon with guppies and wanna keep it chill.
Duckweed's safe, but it's gonna take over your tank if you're not careful. Guppies dig it, though.
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 2:45 pm
by zenoir
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll stick to Anubias and Java Fern for now. Appreciate the help!
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 3:11 pm
by trellis
I've heard mixed things about Amazon Swords. Some say they're safe, others say they can leach stuff. Anyone got experience with them?
Re: what plants are toxic to fish?
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 3:58 pm
by rivora4
Amazon Swords are generally safe, but they need good root tabs. I've had 'em in my 55-gallon for years with no issues. Just don't let 'em rot.