fish that thrive in planted tanks

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petpal22
Posts: 3
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 10:26 pm

fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by petpal22 »

I've got a 20 gallon planted tank with Java Fern and Anubias, but my fish seem kinda bored. What species actually thrive in this setup? Looking for something active but won't mess with the plants.
aquaflux
Posts: 6
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:52 pm

Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by aquaflux »

Neon Tetras are a solid choice. They're chill, stay small, and won't nibble your plants. I've kept them with similar plants for years, no issues. Just make sure your water's soft and slightly acidic.
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turbokid
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Joined: Tue Sep 10, 2024 11:48 am

Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by turbokid »

Yep, Neons are great, but if you want more action, try Celestial Pearl Danios. They're tiny but pack a punch with their colors and activity. Just keep the tank well-planted, they love hiding spots.
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Flare9
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Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by Flare9 »

My Betta does awesome in my planted tank. He's got tons of personality and doesn't wreck anything. Just gotta watch out if you add other fish, some Bettas are jerks.
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Dubson
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Joined: Sat Dec 02, 2023 4:17 pm

Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by Dubson »

aquaflux wrote: Thu Aug 14, 2025 8:04 pm Neon Tetras are a solid choice. They're chill, stay small, and won't nibble your plants. I've kept them with similar plants for years, no issues. Just make sure your water's soft and slightly acidic.
Second this. Neons are classics for a reason. They school tight and add movement without being destructive.
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bricksandfiddles
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Joined: Sat Jun 10, 2023 10:34 am

Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by bricksandfiddles »

If you're up for a challenge, German Blue Rams are stunning and do well in planted tanks. They need stable temps around 82°F and clean water, but their behavior is worth the effort.
petpal22
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 10:26 pm

Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by petpal22 »

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna research these options and see what fits my setup best.
aquaflux
Posts: 6
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:52 pm

Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by aquaflux »

One more thing, avoid Goldfish or Cichlids if you're attached to your plants. They'll either eat everything or dig it up. Stick with the smaller, peaceful species mentioned.
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turbokid
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Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by turbokid »

Flare9 wrote: Thu Aug 14, 2025 10:45 pm My Betta does awesome in my planted tank. He's got tons of personality and doesn't wreck anything. Just gotta watch out if you add other fish, some Bettas are jerks.
True, but some Bettas are cool with tankmates like Ember Tetras or Pygmy Corys. Just have a backup plan if it doesn't work out.
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Dubson
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Joined: Sat Dec 02, 2023 4:17 pm

Re: fish that thrive in planted tanks

Post by Dubson »

Harlequin Rasboras are another underrated option. They're hardy, peaceful, and their orange-red color pops against green plants. Plus, they're easy to feed, just give 'em flakes or micro pellets.
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