🌿 Using Pothos in Your Aquarium – Full Guide

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✅ Benefits

• 🌱 Natural filter – absorbs nitrates, nitrites & ammonia.
• 💧 Improves clarity – competes with algae for nutrients.
• 🐟 Health boost – reduces fish stress & risk of disease.
• 🌿 Aesthetic roots – long, trailing white roots add a natural look.
• ⚡ Low effort – hardy plant, grows even in low light.

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⚠️ Things to Watch Out For

• 🚫 Leaves underwater = rot → only keep roots submerged.
• 🐾 Toxic to pets → keep out of reach of cats/dogs.
• 🔌 Roots in equipment → trim so they don’t clog filters.
• 💡 Light needs → room light or nearby lamp is enough.
• 🐟 Plant-eating fish → some goldfish/cichlids may nibble roots.

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🌱 Step-by-Step Setup

1️⃣ Get a Cutting

• ✂️ Cut 4–6" stem with 2–3 leaves.
• 🌊 Rinse to remove dirt/pesticides/fertilizer.

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2️⃣ Prepare for Water

• 🔍 Locate nodes (bumps where roots form).
• 💧 Submerge nodes only, keep leaves & stem above water.

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3️⃣ Placement Options

• 🔹 HOB Filter (best growth):
  • Place stem inside filter → roots dangle in water flow.
  • ⚡ Super effective at nitrate removal.
• 🔹 Tank Rim / Suction Clip:
  • Wedge between glass/lid or use suction cup.
  • ⚡ Easy, beginner-friendly method.
• 🔹 External Pot / Basket:
  • Place pothos in a pot above tank → roots hang inside.
  • ⚡ Clean look for display tanks.

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4️⃣ Maintenance

• ✂️ Trim roots – prevent tangling in filter/tubing.
• 🌿 Prune vines – keep growth under control.
• 🧹 Check equipment – roots can wrap around impellers.

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🐟 Best Tank Types

• ✔️ Community tanks (bettas, guppies, tetras, etc.)
• ✔️ Goldfish & cichlid tanks (heavy waste producers).
• ✔️ Planted tanks (extra nutrient removal).
• ❌ Not for saltwater – pothos won’t survive.

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🌟 Pro Tips

• 🌡️ Works best in 72–82°F (22–28°C) tanks.
• 🪴 Train vines outside → looks like a “green waterfall.”
• ⚡ Combine with floating plants for extra nitrate absorption.
• 👀 Roots change from bright white → golden brown with age.