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plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 6:58 pm
by ladies
I've got a tank with tiger barbs and want to add some plants that can handle their activity. Any suggestions for hardy plants that won't get shredded?

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 8:12 pm
by daisylea
Java Fern and Anubias are great choices. They're tough and can handle the barbs' nipping. I've had them in my 55-gallon with tiger barbs for years, no issues. Just attach them to driftwood or rocks.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 8:39 pm
by wiredonfish
My barbs messed with everything until I tried Hornwort. It grows fast and they can't destroy it. Plus, it gives them places to hide.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 9:28 pm
by onyxed
I'd avoid delicate plants like Cabomba. Barbs will tear them up. Stick to tougher species like Amazon Sword or Vallisneria. They're rooted well and can take some abuse.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 10:35 pm
by BronzeKey
Yep, gotta go with the tough stuff. My barbs chill with Java Moss. It's kinda indestructible and they don't mess with it much.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 10:52 pm
by rivolto
I've had success with Cryptocoryne Wendtii. It's not as delicate as it looks and the barbs leave it alone after the initial curiosity.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 11:58 pm
by ladies
Thanks for the suggestions. I'll try Java Fern and Hornwort first.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 1:58 am
by daisylea
ladies wrote: Tue May 27, 2025 11:58 pm Thanks for the suggestions. I'll try Java Fern and Hornwort first.
Good choice! Just make sure the Hornwort gets enough light. It can get a bit wild if it's happy.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 2:27 am
by axonite
My barbs wrecked everything but Java Moss. That stuff is like barb-proof.

Re: plants that look good with barbs

Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 4:22 am
by wiredonfish
axonite wrote: Wed May 28, 2025 2:27 am My barbs wrecked everything but Java Moss. That stuff is like barb-proof.
True, but it can get messy if you don't trim it regularly. Gotta keep an eye on it.