Who Gives A Fish Forums

I've been struggling with ammonia spikes in my 20 gallon tank. What plants are best for soaking up ammonia? I've got some Java Fern but it's not cutting it.

Floating plants like Water Lettuce or Duckweed are great for ammonia absorption. They grow fast and pull nutrients directly from the water column. Also, try Hornwort or Anacharis—they're hardy and efficient.

Yep, floating plants are the way to go. I've had luck with Frogbit too. It's chill and doesn't mess with the flow like Duckweed can. Just keep an eye on it, or it'll take over.

I'd recommend adding some Pothos cuttings too. They're not aquatic, but if you let the roots dangle in the water, they'll suck up ammonia like crazy. Plus, they're super easy to care for.

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'll grab some Frogbit and Pothos and see how it goes.

Make sure your lighting is adequate too. Plants need enough light to photosynthesize and absorb ammonia effectively. What's your current setup?

bricko wrote: ↑Sat Jul 26, 2025 4:03 am Make sure your lighting is adequate too. Plants need enough light to photosynthesize and absorb ammonia effectively. What's your current setup?

I agree. Low light can limit plant growth, which means less ammonia uptake. Kidkeeper, what's your lighting situation?

If you're dealing with persistent ammonia, check your filter media. Sometimes it's not just about plants but also the biofiltration. A good sponge filter can help alongside the plants.

I've heard Amazon Swords are decent for ammonia, but they need a nutrient-rich substrate. Might be worth considering if you're planning a rescape.

How often do you do water changes? Even with plants, regular changes are key to keeping ammonia down.