do plants really lower nitrates?

[Kalevo]

I've heard mixed opinions on whether plants actually lower nitrates in a tank. My 20 gallon has Java Fern and Anubias, but nitrates still hover around 20 ppm. Am I doing something wrong, or is this just how it works?

[tastyflavours]

Plants do lower nitrates, but it depends on the species and growth rate. Fast growers like Hornwort or Water Wisteria suck up nitrates way quicker than slow growers like Anubias. What's your lighting setup and fertilizer routine?

[pawsy]

Plants do lower nitrates, but it depends on the species and growth rate. Fast growers like Hornwort or Water Wisteria suck up nitrates way quicker than slow growers like Anubias. What's your lighting setup and fertilizer routine?

Yep, totally agree. My tank's packed with Frogbit and Duckweed, and nitrates stay under 10 ppm. Maybe add some floaters if you're cool with the maintenance.

[fadah]

Bruh, slow plants like Anubias ain't gonna cut it for nitrate control. You need stem plants or floaters, like the others said. Also, how often you do water changes? That's a big factor too.

[roadside]

I've got a 40 gallon with Amazon Swords and Vallisneria, and my nitrates are consistently low. But I also dose liquid ferts and run CO2. If you're not supplementing, plants can't grow fast enough to make a dent.

[Veloce]

The nitrate reduction effect is real but often overstated. In a heavily planted tank with high light and CO2, yes. In a low-tech setup with slow growers, the impact is minimal. Water changes are still your best bet.

[luminix]

My nitrates were sky-high until I added Pothos cuttings hanging out of the tank. Those things are nitrate sponges! Maybe try emersed plants if you're not into trimming floaters all the time.

[jaysun]

Yo, plants def help, but they ain't magic. If your tank's overstocked or you're overfeeding, no amount of greenery's gonna save you. Gotta balance the whole ecosystem, ya know?

[kidmaze]

I've got a 40 gallon with Amazon Swords and Vallisneria, and my nitrates are consistently low. But I also dose liquid ferts and run CO2. If you're not supplementing, plants can't grow fast enough to make a dent.

This. CO2 and ferts are game-changers. Without 'em, plants just chill and don't do much for nitrates.

[Kalevo]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try adding some fast growers and see if that helps. Appreciate the advice!