Using Pothos in Your Aquarium – Full Guide

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🌿 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.


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