🌿 Using Pothos in Your Aquarium – Full Guide
✅ 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.
⚠️ 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.
🌱 Step-by-Step Setup
1️⃣ Get a Cutting
- ✂️ Cut 4–6" stem with 2–3 leaves.
- 🌊 Rinse to remove dirt/pesticides/fertilizer.
2️⃣ Prepare for Water
- 🔍 Locate nodes (bumps where roots form).
- 💧 Submerge nodes only, keep leaves & stem above water.
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.
4️⃣ Maintenance
- ✂️ Trim roots – prevent tangling in filter/tubing.
- 🌿 Prune vines – keep growth under control.
- 🧹 Check equipment – roots can wrap around impellers.
🐟 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.
🌟 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.

