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how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Fri Sep 05, 2025 10:21 pm
by lavender
My tank's been getting a lot of plant debris lately, especially from the Amazon Sword and Java Fern. I do weekly water changes, but the debris keeps coming back. Any tips on reducing it without harming the plants or fish?
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 3:19 am
by onyxid
First thing, check your filter. If it's not strong enough, debris will just circulate. I run a canister filter with a fine sponge pre-filter, catches most of the gunk before it settles. Also, trimming dead leaves regularly helps.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 6:35 am
by kayos
I've got the same issue with my Anubias. Maybe it's the light? I dunno, but it's kinda annoying. My tank's only 10 gallons, so it gets messy fast.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 11:03 am
by Bondette
Plant debris can be frustrating, but don't worry, it's manageable. How often are you trimming your plants? Regular maintenance is key. Also, consider adding a small cleanup crew like shrimp or snails. They help a lot.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 12:19 pm
by zenrow
Debris is part of the game, man. If you're not into the natural look, gotta up your maintenance. More water changes, better filtration, and maybe cut back on feeding. Overfeeding = more waste.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 1:40 pm
by lavender
onyxid wrote: ↑Sat Sep 06, 2025 3:19 am
First thing, check your filter. If it's not strong enough, debris will just circulate. I run a canister filter with a fine sponge pre-filter, catches most of the gunk before it settles. Also, trimming dead leaves regularly helps.
Thanks, I'll look into a better filter. My current one's pretty basic.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 2:29 pm
by onyxid
kayos wrote: ↑Sat Sep 06, 2025 6:35 am
I've got the same issue with my Anubias. Maybe it's the light? I dunno, but it's kinda annoying. My tank's only 10 gallons, so it gets messy fast.
Light could be a factor, but Anubias are low-light plants. If they're melting, check your water params. High nitrates can cause that.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 3:20 pm
by Bondette
Another thing to consider is your substrate. If it's too fine, debris can get trapped and decompose. A coarser substrate might help, or even a thin layer of sand on top.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 6:26 pm
by zenrow
Yep, substrate's a big deal. I switched to gravel and saw less debris. Also, stop messing with the tank so much. Every time you dig around, you stir up junk.
Re: how to Avoid plant debris
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2025 6:35 pm
by kayos
Bondette wrote: ↑Sat Sep 06, 2025 11:03 am
Plant debris can be frustrating, but don't worry, it's manageable. How often are you trimming your plants? Regular maintenance is key. Also, consider adding a small cleanup crew like shrimp or snails. They help a lot.
I've got some shrimp, but they're lazy. Maybe I need more.