Red Mangrove Trees in a Freshwater Aquarium
Red mangrove trees have the special ability to grow in both saltwater and freshwater. Their propensity to filter nitrates and other types of waste make them a useful addition to any aquarium. Growing red mangroves in an aquarium requires minimal weekly maintenance, in addition to achieving the optimum nutrient and temperature conditions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Planting Mangroves
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The propagules of red mangroves are very adaptable during planting. They can be planted in sand or gravel, or secured to the tops of rocks and other objects with a rubber band. The plant quickly takes root in a variety of substrates. The growth tip and all leaves must be above the water when planted. If the mangrove is being transplanted, keep an eye out for the loss of leaves, which would indicate stress. If this occurs, the plant should be placed in tap water under strong light.
Benefits of Mangroves in Aquariums
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Red mangroves offer more than an aesthetic purpose in an aquarium. The plants can help remove nitrates and phosphates from the water that may be produced by fish waste or other sources. In some cases, red mangroves are used as an actual filtering system for the aquarium. In these instances, mangroves are in a separate tank attached to the water's circulation system. One to two trees are generally needed for every gallon of water in the system.
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Wiping Excess Salt
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Although red mangroves are generally low maintenance, some care is required. Excess salt must be wiped away from the leaves with freshwater several times a week, although this may be less frequent in freshwater aquariums compared to saltwater varieties. The trees expel unneeded nutrients and minerals through their leaves. Red mangrove leaves should not be allowed to drop into the aquarium, as they are rich with tannins and other chemicals that will pollute the water.
Other Mangrove Maintenance
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Red mangrove trees naturally require adequate amounts of magnesium in the water to help them deal with salty conditions, although the required supplement will be much less in freshwater aquariums. Trace element supplements are also beneficial, particularly if there are a lot of mangroves. In environments with low humidity, mangroves should be misted daily to keep their leaves moist and simulate the tropical regions from which they come.
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