Who Gives A Fish Forums

Setting up a coldwater tank and wanna get the plants right. What's your go-to for hardy species that can handle temps around 60°F? I've got a 20-gallon with sand substrate and moderate lighting. No CO2, just a basic sponge filter.

Anubias Nana and Java Fern are solid picks. They're low-light, don't need CO2, and can handle cooler temps. I've had both in my 55-gallon coldwater setup for years. Just attach 'em to driftwood or rocks, don't bury the rhizomes.

Yep, seconding Anubias. Also, check out Hornwort. That stuff's indestructible. Grows like crazy even in chilly water. Just float it or plant it, doesn't matter. My Goldfish can't even kill it, and they're brutal.

Falcon9 wrote: ↑Fri Jun 06, 2025 8:45 am Yep, seconding Anubias. Also, check out Hornwort. That stuff's indestructible. Grows like crazy even in chilly water. Just float it or plant it, doesn't matter. My Goldfish can't even kill it, and they're brutal.

Hornwort's great but can get messy if it sheds. Keep an eye on your filter. I'd add Marimo Balls too—zero maintenance, just roll 'em occasionally.

What about Water Wisteria? Saw it at my LFS and it looked sturdy.

Wisteria's decent but might melt back at first in cold water. If you're patient, it'll bounce back. I'd also throw in some Cryptocoryne Wendtii. Slow grower but tough once established.

My coldwater tank's got Java Moss everywhere. It's chill, doesn't care about temp swings, and the shrimp love it. Just tie it to something and forget it.

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna start with Anubias and Java Moss, maybe toss in some Hornwort for good measure. Appreciate the help!

flaxton wrote: ↑Fri Jun 06, 2025 5:17 pm Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna start with Anubias and Java Moss, maybe toss in some Hornwort for good measure. Appreciate the help!

Smart choices. Just remember to quarantine new plants if you're getting 'em from a sketchy source. Snails are a pain.

Oh yeah, snail outbreaks are the worst. Dunk 'em in alum solution before adding to the tank. Works like a charm.