Which plants?

Hey everyone. I am not new to aquariums, but I have never had live plants. I was wondering what types of live plants I could use in a 55 gal with my angels, and also in my 55 gal with my blood parrots? I want to make sure that I don't stress my fish out too much. Also was wondering if anyone has had their fish tear up the plants?
Thanks. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.
Ann:fairy:

Angels do well in all planted aquariums, regardless of plant type. They feel more protected so they are less aggressive, and it imrpove water quality. That goes for all fish, unless they are big plant eaters <you know who you are...lol>
 
Hey Skeletonhead,
Love your tanks. I have been keeping cichlids for about 1 1/2 yrs now, and have tried my hand at plants. My lighting etc is not up to snuff so I am saving up for a better set up and bigger tank. Ok my question is...what substrate are you using in your tanks. My tank is very very bare in comparrison to yours, and I am trying to imagine how you would go about cleaning your tank. I use a gravel vaccuum...is this the only way? I can just imagine if I tried to clean your tank I would end up having to reset everything in your tank and the fishies would be in danger. Is a planted tank lower in maintenance? Ok I will stop now and give you a chance to answer!! LOL! Thank you for your help with all of this.
 
Beautiful Aquarium, Skeletonhand. As my own 55 gallon develops that will be an inspiration to me. I particularly like the way you layered and leveled the substrate. Very creative.

This is my first post. I've been lurking around reading/learning--but, I wanted to compliment you on your beautiful tank.
 
ahobbyis born: I actually just hover the gravel vac over the the gravel to suck the loose stuff off of the top, and work around the plants. I usually only do this when I can see a visible build up on the top, which very rarely happens. My 80+ Malaysian trumpet snails do most of the work.

danzig: The wall was easy. Here's how to do it. Go to your local landscape supply company and ask if you can have the scrapes from the flagstone pallets. Anything much smaller than 6x6 inches, they usually sweep up and throw away. Even if they charge you (depending on the type of flagstone) I shouldn't be much more than 20-30 cents per pound.
To make the pieces the correct size use a hammer (if you have a masonary chisel you can be more precise) and split as needed. Then just stack. To help it be a little more stable use a small amount of setback for every course and make sure you split the bonds.

meow: The plant that is flowering is dwarf sag. It's the grass looking plant thats in the stump.

Thanks everyone for the complements. Sorry Ann, I didn't mean to jack your thread.:)
 
Hey Skel, don't worry about it. Your aquarium is gorgeous and I am glad everyone else thinks so to. I also wanted to know what that plant was with the flower on it.
 
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