The aim of decorating an aquarium is to give the aquarium an individual touch and to create an exotic eye-catcher in the home. Not only creative aspects, but also the needs of the aquarium inhabitants need to be taken into account. Which types of bamboo are suitable for underwater?
Which types of bamboo are suitable for underwater?
Fresh bamboo is unsuitable for aquariums because it is sensitive to waterlogging. The Lucky Bamboo, a type of yucca palm that absorbs nitrate and phosphate from the water, is ideal. Dried bamboo canes provide visual effects and hiding places, but must be thoroughly cleaned before entering the aquarium.
The fish find food and protection between plants. They like to use hollow parts of plants as a cave to hide and rest. Especially in community aquariums, more dominant ornamental fish can lead to stressful situations. Then existing retreat options are welcome. Catfish, such as the blue catfish Ancistrus dolichopterus, also need bamboo canes or wood to grate on.
Bamboo in the aquarium – what do you have to pay attention to?
You cannot use fresh bamboo as a plant in the aquarium. All types of bamboo are sensitive to waterlogging. They only last for a short time because the roots rot and die. The Lucky Bamboo, a type of yucca palm, as a hydroponic plant, on the other hand, is suitable for an aquarium. It removes nitrate and phosphate from the water. To do this, it needs iron fertilizer (€20.00 on Amazon) in the root area, otherwise the leaves will turn yellow.
Dried bamboo is often offered hollowed out and, in addition to the visual effect, also provides good hiding places for various aquarium inhabitants. But be careful! Bamboo tubes are usually painted or impregnated. Therefore, wash thoroughly and pour hot, not boiling, water over it once to ensure that no poisons, contaminants or germs get into the aquarium.
Make sure that the nodes are pierced and that there are no spaces (internode) with air chambers in the bamboo cane. Or simply use halved bamboo tubes. The lightweight bamboo then sinks to the bottom without having to be screwed to a solid object such as wood or stone.
Is bamboo poisonous in the aquarium?
Good to know: As a plant, bamboo contains hydrogen cyanide and is poisonous. Bamboo charcoal, on the other hand, detoxifies, absorbs odors, regulates moisture, has an antioxidant effect and eliminates electrosmog. More and more aquarium owners and tea connoisseurs appreciate bamboo water - just try it.
Tips & Tricks
If you want to decorate your aquarium with a bamboo bridge or bamboo house, you can find bamboo decorations made from seawater-resistant polyester resin, which are guaranteed not to affect the water quality.
