very basic question...

[SteveInEssex]

I have never kept real plants in any of my tanks since I started fish keeping about 12 years ago. I have recently decided i would like to keep some plants, mainly for the benefits they can give to the water quality in the tank. I would also like a plant/s that will grow to the surface to give my Florida Gar something to swim amongst. The problem i have is the fish I keep. They are medium sized fish and I have been told by most people I can't keep plants with them, as they will just eat them. Is this the case or are there any plants I can keep.????

Any help would be greatly appreciated..

[oyashare]

What kind of fish do you have? Then we can tell you if they will eat your plants or not.

Omid

[SteveInEssex]

2 Melanochromis Lepidiaptes (4/5 inches)
2 Large banded leporinus (11 and 10 inches)
3 Smaller leporinus (about 3 inches each)
3 Clown Loaches (4 inches)
Florida Gar (10 inches)
Sailfin Plec (over a foot long)
Royal Plec (5 inches)
Some variation of a pekoltia
Banded Loach
Lima Shovelnose (6 inches)
Another unknown catfish

Some people will think thats a weird community of fish, but it works, and I actually have a very peaceful tank. Occasionally the ciclids fight amongst theirselves, but nothing too harsh!!!

[Richer]

You must have a pretty decent sized tank =)

I do see some problems with your fish. Particulary your plecos. I admit, the only pleco that I've kept (and still have) is a clown pleco. Clown plecos are gentle enough with their scrapping not to do any damage to plants, and they won't actively eat plants. But you might have a problem with your plecos... especially the sailfin. If you want plants, I would probably suggest floating plants. There are several types that can be found. Floating plants are rather easy to keep, most don't need intense lighting since they are at the surface and close to the light source, and they don't really need any special attention.

HTH
-Richer

[SteveInEssex]

would floating plants not just get sucked on to my filters?

[Mr.Jingles]

you could get several large tiger lotuses.

they are like lily pads when they grow to the top and root in the bottom.

[oyashare]

Definately go for plants that float. Your plecos will destroy all the rooted plants with one swing of their tail.

Omid