Who Gives A Fish Forums

Been debating whether to switch my betta's tank to live plants or stick with fake ones. What's everyone's experience with both? My guy's in a 5-gallon with a sponge filter, and I'm worried about maintenance.

Live plants are way better if you can manage them. They help with water quality and give your fish more natural hiding spots. Just start with something easy like java fern or anubias.

I've used both, and my betta seems way more active with live plants. Plus, they're gonna look way cooler once they grow in. Just gotta watch out for algae if your lighting's too strong.

Riven wrote: ↑Mon Jun 09, 2025 7:51 am Been debating whether to switch my betta's tank to live plants or stick with fake ones. What's everyone's experience with both? My guy's in a 5-gallon with a sponge filter, and I'm worried about maintenance.

Don't stress too much about maintenance. Live plants aren't as hard as they seem, and they make the tank feel more natural. Your betta will thank you.

Live plants are superior for nitrate control and oxygenation. If you're concerned about maintenance, stick to low-light species like java moss or marimo balls. They require minimal care and thrive in most conditions.

Fake plants are easier, but live ones are worth the effort. My betta loves swimming through the leaves, and it's way more fun to watch.

I switched to live plants last year, and my betta's colors got brighter. Might be coincidence, but I'm sticking with them.

Live plants all the way, dude. They're legit the best thing for your fish. Just grab some floaters like frogbit if you're lazy. They grow like crazy and don't need much light.

oceanblue9 wrote: ↑Mon Jun 09, 2025 10:29 am I've used both, and my betta seems way more active with live plants. Plus, they're gonna look way cooler once they grow in. Just gotta watch out for algae if your lighting's too strong.

Yep, algae can be a pain, but it's manageable with a nerite snail or two. They're chill and won't mess with your betta.

Fake plants are fine if you're not into the whole live plant thing. Just make sure they're silk so they don't tear your betta's fins.