New To Plants

[yashinfan]

I have never had any plants in my tank, and I was wondering if this was a good idea?? My tank currently has no fish in it because they go to my pond in the summer. However, I was looking for some plants for my 23 G tank which will house my Zebra Danios and maybe some guppies in the future. Are plants good for a tank? Must they be exposed to sunlight, or will artificial lighting do? What effects will plants have on ammonia levels, and other chemical effects??

 

[djlen]

Plants are very good for the tank and fish and many people become almost addicted to the challenge of developing a tank with both plants and fish.
Plants use many of the chemicals and nutrients that are detrimental to the well being of fish. In fact, some of the nutrients you'd never think you'd want to have in your tank are dosed to maintain a planted tank's well being.
They do very well in a tank that has 2 - 3 watts/gal. so for your 23 gal. you should look to have 50 - 60 watts at least.
Then there is the matter of fertilization. When first learning it sounds somewhat complicated, but it's really a matter of learning the needs of your tank and the plants you decide you want to put into it. After a bit it becomes easier to understand and many, like myself find it very rewarding to find the balance.
Len