6 great plants for algae control

WATER SPRITE OR INDIAN FERN, CERATOPTERIS THALICTROIDES:

This fast-growing bushy plant is a good pick for algae control, and can be grown either planted in the substrate, or as a floating plant. The rooted form has slender, feathery leaves that, if snapped off, give rise to the floating form eventually. Reaches over 30cm in height when grown rooted.

AMAZON FROGBIT, LIMNOBIUM LAEVIGATUM:

The leaves of this attractive floating plant help to prevent algae by shading areas of the tank and by using up the nutrients in the water that algae feed on. The roots also trail down into the water and provide cover for fish.

VALLISNERIA SPIRALIS:

Vallis is able to use bicarbonate ions as a carbon source, so provided your water is at least moderately hard, you will likely find these species do rather well. Only bury the bottom 90% of the roots and ensure the white crown part of the plant at the top of the roots is well above the substrate. Grows to 50cm or more.

HYGROPHILA POLYSPERMA:

An undemanding plant that does well in most aquariums. Reaches up to 40cm in height.

LIMNOPHILA SESSIFLORA:

This attractive, fastgrowing bushy plant grows to 40cm and is easier than the more light-demanding Cabomba.

RED LUDWIGIA, LUDWIGIA PALUSTRIS:

A beautiful plant that turns red under good lighting. Much easier to grow than many other red plants, it reaches 30cm or more in height.