chew-resistant plants

[FinFan]

I'm looking for some advice on what plant to put in the back right corner of my tank. I've got hard, alkaline water and some plants are thriving - java fern, anubias, crypt, and water sprite are all doing great. I recently added some microsword, so we'll see how that goes.

I've tried a few things in that corner already. I had a hornwort from online, but hated the needles everywhere and the overall look. Then I got a moneywort from the local store, and while it's okay, the lower leaves keep dying off and I have to replant them. I've trimmed them and they're now floating in the water sprite tops.

I also got a red plant from the LFS that I think is some kind of ludwigia. The lower stem keeps dying, and I keep replanting it. Normally, I'd be okay with waiting for it to establish itself, but I just got some moonlight gouramis and they're tugging on the plants pretty hard. They've eaten some of my sprite, which is fine since it's huge, but I need something that can withstand them.

I'm looking for a plant that can provide an alternative hiding spot for the gouramis, something that's moderate to fast-growing and has a good root system so they can't just pull it out. I'm fine with them nibbling on it, but I don't want it to be easily destroyed. I'd also like something that contrasts with the sprite, so maybe something with a different texture or color. Swords might be a good option - do they grow quickly? Or maybe some kind of grassy plant, or something similar to what I have now but hardier. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[whetu]

Java Ferns are doing well in my tank, but I'm looking for something different for the back right corner. I want a plant that can provide a moderate to fast growth rate and a robust root system to withstand the moonlight gouramis' tugging.

[FinFan]

Just wanted to follow up on my plant search - I ended up getting a few different types to try out. I picked up some crypt retrospiralis, italiko vallisneria, temple plant (Hygrophila Corymbosa var. N. Stricta), and a kleiner bar sword. So far, they all seem to be doing great. I also grabbed a dwarf lily, which doesn't have super thick leaves but is really pretty - and the gourami is leaving it alone, for now. Thanks for the suggestion, whetu - I do already have a java fern, but was looking for something a bit faster-growing to add some contrast.

[whetu]

I was thinking of wisteria, but then I looked at it and it's pretty similar in appearance to my water sprite, so I'm not sure that'd be the best choice.

[FinFan]

I've read that wisteria has fine leaves, somewhat similar to my water sprite, which I think the gourami would love to nibble on. Looking at pictures, I can see why he'd be attracted to it. Given my tank is already full, I'll keep in mind that wisteria has thick leaves for future reference, but for now, I'm looking for something else.

[whetu]

I'd disagree, I've seen wisteria and it's got those fine leaves, similar to sprite, I think my gouramis would still have a blast chewing on it.

[Lexat]

I'd like to suggest Siamensis 53b for that back corner spot - it's a great option for hard, alkaline water. This plant has elongated leaves and seems pretty sturdy, so I think it'd be tougher for the gouramis to tug on. Plus, it's relatively easy to grow and maintain.