Who Gives A Fish Forums

My anubias aren't growing well, and I think my fish are nibbling on them. Anyone got suggestions for fish that won't mess with my plants? Tank's a 20 gallon, low tech, with a sponge filter and sand substrate. Lighting's moderate, 6 hours a day.

Otocinclus catfish are a solid choice. They're tiny, peaceful, and only eat algae, not plants. I've kept them with anubias and java fern for years, no issues. Just make sure you've got some biofilm or algae for them to graze on.

Yep, otos are chill. Also, cherry shrimp won't touch your plants, and they're fun to watch. Just gotta watch out for bigger fish picking on 'em. My betta leaves 'em alone, but it's hit or miss.

flavorite wrote: ↑Mon May 05, 2025 7:30 am Yep, otos are chill. Also, cherry shrimp won't touch your plants, and they're fun to watch. Just gotta watch out for bigger fish picking on 'em. My betta leaves 'em alone, but it's hit or miss.

Shrimp are a great idea, but if you're worried about aggression, try nerite snails. They're algae-eating machines and won't bother plants or shrimp.

Avoid silver dollars and goldfish. They'll decimate any plant life. Stick with small, peaceful species like ember tetras or celestial pearl danios. They're plant-safe and add color.

I've had luck with pygmy corydoras. They're bottom dwellers, so they won't touch your anubias. Plus, they're adorable and super active in groups. Just keep the substrate clean for them.

My guppies leave my plants alone, but they might nibble if they're hungry. Maybe try feeding more veggies like zucchini to distract 'em? Works for me.

Endlers are another option. They're like guppies but smaller and less likely to mess with plants. Plus, they're colorful and easy to care for.

I've got a 20 gallon with anubias and java fern. My neon tetras and harlequin rasboras don't touch 'em. Maybe try those?

DlyLunic wrote: ↑Mon May 05, 2025 5:51 am Otocinclus catfish are a solid choice. They're tiny, peaceful, and only eat algae, not plants. I've kept them with anubias and java fern for years, no issues. Just make sure you've got some biofilm or algae for them to graze on.

Agreed. Otos are the best for planted tanks. Just make sure you acclimate them slowly—they're sensitive to water changes.