Who Gives A Fish Forums

My cichlids keep uprooting everything. What plants can handle their digging? I've tried Java Fern but they just rip it out. Tank's a 55g with sand substrate, 78F, and moderate lighting. Need something tough.

Anubias might work. Tie it to driftwood or rocks so the roots aren't exposed. My Oscars messed with everything else but left Anubias alone. Weird vibe, but it worked.

Seconding Anubias. Also, try Cryptocoryne Wendtii. It's got a strong root system once established. Mine survived a pair of digging Geophagus. Just give it time to settle.

Dude, my goldfish are the same. I gave up and went fake. But if you're set on real, maybe Vallisneria? Grows fast and roots deep.

Vallisneria's a gamble. My cichlids shredded it. Try Amazon Swords with root tabs. They're beefy enough to handle some abuse. Just don't expect 'em to stay pretty.

Java Fern and Anubias are your best bets. Attach them to hardscape. Floating plants like Frogbit might also distract the fish from digging.

My Severums destroyed everything until I tied down some Bolbitis. It's not the fastest grower, but it's tough. Also, more hiding spots might reduce their digging.

FryBoys wrote: ↑Sat Jun 21, 2025 11:19 am Vallisneria's a gamble. My cichlids shredded it. Try Amazon Swords with root tabs. They're beefy enough to handle some abuse. Just don't expect 'em to stay pretty.

Amazon Swords are solid, but they need heavy root feeding. If your substrate's sand, you'll need root tabs for sure.

I've had luck with Crinum Calamistratum. Its leaves are tough, and the roots go deep. My digging fish gave up after a while. Plus, it looks gorgeous.

For heavy diggers, focus on plants with rhizomes or those that attach to hardscape. Anubias, Bolbitis, and Java Fern are the top choices. Avoid stem plants entirely.