So I have a HUGE pothos, also known as Devil's ivy, plant in my house. Its a very common house plant and this is what it looks like in case you arent familiar with the name.
I know that cuttings can grow roots in water. Ive done a bit of research and many people use it for their aquariums but the verdicts not completely out yet. This plant is supposed to be great for sucking up nitrates and ammonia since it grows so fast and some people have even reported success at growing it submerged. I though that was cool as I want to maintain good water quality since my tank doesnt have a filter. I have come across sites where people keep this plant in their betta, community and even goldfish tanks with no problem. Anyways, I was thinking of maybe putting a cutting in my tank and see how it goes. I do have a java fern that is doing wonderfully and am planning on buying more aquatic plants. But I think this would make a nice addition. Has anyone else done this and can vouch that it's safe? The plant IS listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. However, some people feed it to their reptiles and other animals with absolutely no problems. Here's a pic of someone's betta with a pothos tank (Yes I know that tank is small, mine is similar but bigger than that). What do you guys think?
I dont see why not, this plant is almost impossible to kill lol. Besides, i do 3 water changes a week and my java fern doesnt seem to mind. It started growing babies on the tips of its leaves!
That is AWESOME!!! I have one of those that I am cutting back all the time - would LOVE to try it in a tank IF somebody can tell me it's safe for a betta!!!
Ok so I just googled "pothos betta" and I haven't come across anyone who said this plant has killed their fish. So I'm going to try it out. *crosses fingers*
That is AWESOME!!! I have one of those that I am cutting back all the time - would LOVE to try it in a tank IF somebody can tell me it's safe for a betta!!!
I have not used that species of plant in my tanks, but I have used peace lily and willow branches (only roots in the water) submersed in my tanks and filter box without any problems...except that the shrimp used them to escape....lol....
I have heard of the ivy being used in a submersed state and IMO would think it would be safe, but you would need to keep the leaf out of the water and monitor the roots so that they did not hinder the fish ability to swim or come up for air. I have heard of Betta being trapped by the roots and have died with other application such as this...so be watchful......
Why would the leaves be harmful? I was putting it in my tank and the cuttings from the original vine contain the leaves, which go underwater even when i lightly set it in the water...so it's impossible to bury the stem without leaves being underwater... I am researching a bit and found these pics of people who use it.
Hey guys,
I found this site looking to add the Devil's Ivy to my Betta tanks/bowls. It seems you guys are ok with it. I saw the first pic you posted in your reply. Can anyone tell me what the other plant is here? The 'ferny' looking one? I think I've got really pretty tanks and will be posting pics later. Thanks, LRW
It is what the leaves cause that is the problem, leaves not meant to live emersed (under water) will soon start to rot and foul the water creating a toxic environment for the fish. Also you may not want to bury the roots, they will do better if allowed to be in the water column to use the nutrients.
Day 3 With pothos:
Plant is still healthy. Leaves are firm and green. tiny roots are beggining to sprout. Gabe loves to play and to chill out on the leaves I will be inspecting this plant everyday to make sure its not rotting or polluting the water though it is my understanding that the leaves will push themselves out of the water eventually.It really gives off a rather pleasing look.
It will be interesting to see how things progress with the leaves in the water. I am going to put some in, but not the leaves - I will take a cutting & strip the lower leaves and put the stems in with the leaves hanging out.
I know from experience that roots will develop where the leaves are stripped.
its 1.75 gallons when filled to the brim. Right now it contains around 1.5 gallons of water. I will be upgrading next time I go to the LPS or walmart. I remember my local walmart used to sell empty 10 gallon tanks (no hood, light, or filter - just the actual tank) and If they still sell those I may get one. OR I mat get a 2-5 gallon kit. Haven't decided yet. OR i will check out the store if they have any larger containers. Im not sure if I want a filter as the tank is in my room and the water gurgling noise may annoy me when I want to go to bed. Lately ive been interested in the "Natural Planted Tank" style.
Thanks for the info. If I see the 10 gallon for $10 I'm definately going to get that. That's a pretty good deal. Plus I already have a 50w heater lying around (the tank it came with houses goldfish) so I can put good use to that.
UPDATE on the plant:
I tried to pull the leaves out of the water and just leave in the stemm. The plant freaked out on me. The leaves started curling and the plant went limp. I put the whole plant in the water again and it's back to normal. thought that was pretty weird...
I have pothos in some of my tanks. The leaves are submerged. They have been like this for over a month and so far they have been fine. I have them stuck to the tank side with suction cups that are used for airlines. I like to keep the leaves just under the surface so my guys can sit on them.
Okay cool :lol: I have toooonnns of pothos starts that'll look great in my tanks..my betta Otus has taken a liking to building bubble nests around the leaves that are on the surface, partially in the water. My Snails like them too :roll:
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