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What plants do y'all recommend for a tank with platies? I've got a 20 gallon with sand substrate and moderate lighting. Looking for something hardy that won't get destroyed by them nibbling.

Java Fern and Anubias are solid choices. They're tough, don't need much light, and platies usually leave 'em alone. I've had luck with Amazon Swords too, but they need root tabs in sand.

I second Java Fern and Anubias. Also, try Hornwort. It grows fast and provides cover, which platies love. Just be ready to trim it often.

Agree with the above. My platies don't bother Java Fern at all. It's been thriving in my low-tech setup.

If you want something different, Water Wisteria is a good pick. It's easy to grow and platies seem to like swimming through it. Just make sure your lighting is decent.

Dude, go for Vallisneria. It's like a jungle in there, and platies dig it. Just don't let it take over.

Vallisneria is legit. Also, try some floating plants like Frogbit. Platies love the shade, and it helps keep algae down.

Frogbit is cool, but it can block light for other plants. Maybe mix it with Duckweed if you're feeling brave.

RiverKai wrote: ↑Wed Aug 20, 2025 1:23 am Dude, go for Vallisneria. It's like a jungle in there, and platies dig it. Just don't let it take over.

Vallisneria is great, but it can be a pain to manage if it spreads too much. Regular trimming helps.

I've had good luck with Cryptocoryne. It's slow-growing but super hardy. Platies don't mess with it much.