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what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2025 7:40 pm
by grizzlon
I've got a 20 gallon with a bunch of kuhli loaches and wanna add some plants. What's gonna survive their digging? My substrate is sand, and I've got moderate lighting. Tried Java Fern but it didn't last long.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2025 8:44 pm
by Willow
Kuhlis are notorious for uprooting plants, but Anubias and Java Fern tied to driftwood or rocks should work. They don't need substrate, so the kuhlis can't mess with them. Also, try Cryptocoryne, they're tough once established.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2025 9:55 pm
by Dandy
Yo, my kuhlis wrecked everything but the Anubias. That stuff's bulletproof. Just glue it to something heavy, and you're golden. Sand's chill for them too, no sharp edges to worry about.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2025 10:11 pm
by Ravynox
Cryptocoryne Wendtii is a solid choice. It's hardy and can handle the occasional disturbance. Just make sure your lighting isn't too intense, or you'll get algae issues. My kuhlis leave it alone once it's rooted.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Mon Aug 25, 2025 10:38 pm
by florin9
I've had luck with Vallisneria. It grows fast and can handle a bit of roughhousing. My kuhlis like to hide in it, but they don't seem to bother the roots much. Just give it some time to settle in.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 12:19 am
by grizzlon
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna try Anubias and Crypts first. Appreciate the help!
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 1:29 am
by riverrun
Willow wrote: ↑Mon Aug 25, 2025 8:44 pm
Kuhlis are notorious for uprooting plants, but Anubias and Java Fern tied to driftwood or rocks should work. They don't need substrate, so the kuhlis can't mess with them. Also, try Cryptocoryne, they're tough once established.
I second this. My kuhlis never touched the Anubias, and the Crypts bounced back even after being uprooted a few times.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 3:12 am
by aquanix8
My kuhlis dug up everything but the Java Moss. It's not the prettiest, but it's indestructible. Just toss it in and let it do its thing.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 4:43 am
by coralkeeper
Dude, go for Hornwort. It floats or plants, and kuhlis don't care. Plus, it grows like crazy, so even if they mess with it, you'll have plenty left.
Re: what plants survive with kuhlis?
Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2025 6:21 am
by florap
Amazon Swords might work if you plant them deep. They've got strong roots, and my kuhlis haven't managed to uproot them yet. Just make sure you've got decent substrate depth.