---
{"type":"list","title":"Things you need for your Planted Aquarium","listId":99245,"canonicalUrl":"https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium","visibleItemTotal":17,"creator":{"id":"aquaexplorer","name":"Aqua Explorer","url":"https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer"},"stats":{"views":96,"likes":0,"followers":0},"category":"hobbies & interests","publishedAt":"2024-02-05T02:03:55.899Z","updatedAt":"2024-02-05T02:03:55.899Z","fields":[{"id":0,"name":"Item","type":"PrimaryText"},{"id":2,"name":"Image","type":"Image"},{"id":5,"name":"Category","type":"Selection","multi":false},{"id":4,"name":"Price","type":"Number","format":"currency"},{"id":1,"name":"Notes","type":"Text","format":"long"},{"id":3,"name":"Shop Here","type":"URL"}]}
---

# Things you need for your Planted Aquarium

By [Aqua Explorer (@aquaexplorer)](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer)

96 views · 0 likes · 0 followers  
Published 5 February 2024 · Updated 5 February 2024

Category: hobbies & interests

Starting a planted aquarium is a captivating journey into an aquatic world. It's not just gathering items; it's about creating a living, thriving ecosystem right in your home. Envision a tank, a canvas where life unfolds, filled with a substrate that nurtures, illuminated by life-giving light. Essential equipment works silently, maintaining the delicate balance of this underwater haven.

This is more than a hobby; it's a foray into an aquatic dance of nature and nurture. It's about creating a slice of an aquatic ecosystem that not only captivates the eye but also enriches the soul. Welcome to the world of planted aquariums, where every component tells a story, every moment is an opportunity for growth, and every day brings a new glimpse into the wonders of nature's underwater tapestry.

## Items

### 1. [Aquarium Tank](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/0/aquarium-tank)

Item ID: `0`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/a3noahdikbsjwihpcebi.jpg)
- Category: Essentials
- Price: $86.00
- Notes: The foundation of your setup. Choose a size based on available space, the types of plants and fish you want, and your budget. Common sizes for beginners range from 10 to 30 gallons.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Lifegard-Aquatics-Gallon-Rimless-Aquarium/dp/B09QY3MNXS](https://www.amazon.com/Lifegard-Aquatics-Gallon-Rimless-Aquarium/dp/B09QY3MNXS?tag=listium03-20)

### 2. [Substrate](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/1/substrate)

Item ID: `1`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/lgi5pnbjboz1qkrw3j1w.jpg)
- Category: Essentials
- Price: $13.93
- Notes: This is the material that will line the bottom of your aquarium. Options include specialized aquatic plant substrates, which contain nutrients for plant growth, or regular aquarium gravel. The choice depends on the types of plants you plan to grow.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Natural-Bio-Substrate-bio-Active-nitrifying/dp/B094QFZMML](https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Natural-Bio-Substrate-bio-Active-nitrifying/dp/B094QFZMML?tag=listium03-20)

### 3. [Lighting](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/2/lighting)

Item ID: `2`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/uhlrh6nxafpecwippgrv.jpg)
- Category: Essentials
- Price: $213.43
- Notes: Adequate lighting is crucial for plant health. LED lights designed for plant growth provide a full spectrum of light, encourage photosynthesis, and help plants maintain vibrant colors. The amount of light needed can vary depending on the types of plants you choose.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-OptiBright-Light-Fixture-48-54/dp/B07G6CBF7X](https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-OptiBright-Light-Fixture-48-54/dp/B07G6CBF7X?tag=listium03-20)

### 4. [Filter](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/3/filter)

Item ID: `3`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/szan6m6kmt5mdb1trvun.jpg)
- Category: Essentials
- Price: $19.99
- Notes: Filters keep the water clean and remove harmful waste products. Canister filters are great for larger tanks as they provide excellent filtration and are quiet. Hang-on-back filters are a more budget-friendly option for smaller tanks.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Hygger-Aquarium-Sponges-Submersible-Salt-Water/dp/B07RKT6QPV](https://www.amazon.com/Hygger-Aquarium-Sponges-Submersible-Salt-Water/dp/B07RKT6QPV?tag=listium03-20)

### 5. [Heater](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/4/heater)

Item ID: `4`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/axyu3dpe7pe6plg4bor7.jpg)
- Category: Essentials
- Price: $37.59
- Notes: If you are keeping tropical plants or fish, a heater will be necessary to maintain a stable temperature. The heater should be appropriately sized for your tank's volume.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/HiTauing-Aquarium-Digital-Protection-Submersible/dp/B0BCHXFDG3/ref=sr\_1\_8?crid=3MRNL2VX0G3SU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EPpxE\_zSsAVPg\_y5sKYRL30jFDoJ1TrVxFxwni1zlVUFYW3RnKhBTLg1P\_5T1HqVjw9VumAEsWkNqgEOEenbHINGiaehpEKVlXOVLqqyHLu\_SJ5cINfJ24uTxQsk2s1cBdkXBMTsiAMtexj6mSQz2hp5o5al6zn8UZ-Cy5CvmStURf8Fhsn0arsI95Hx8hs3Ub2uWlYrP390RBVVWYGBsuCRCITDn-josna3X0STAls.mwIrPadF7PSu52MWMgBn97J0FLT65cg4kwvdf1pGyuY&dib\_tag=se&keywords=planted%2Baquarium%2Bheater&qid=1705380842&sprefix=planted%2Baquarium%2Bheater%2Caps%2C301&sr=8-8&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/HiTauing-Aquarium-Digital-Protection-Submersible/dp/B0BCHXFDG3/ref=sr_1_8?crid=3MRNL2VX0G3SU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EPpxE_zSsAVPg_y5sKYRL30jFDoJ1TrVxFxwni1zlVUFYW3RnKhBTLg1P_5T1HqVjw9VumAEsWkNqgEOEenbHINGiaehpEKVlXOVLqqyHLu_SJ5cINfJ24uTxQsk2s1cBdkXBMTsiAMtexj6mSQz2hp5o5al6zn8UZ-Cy5CvmStURf8Fhsn0arsI95Hx8hs3Ub2uWlYrP390RBVVWYGBsuCRCITDn-josna3X0STAls.mwIrPadF7PSu52MWMgBn97J0FLT65cg4kwvdf1pGyuY&dib_tag=se&keywords=planted%2Baquarium%2Bheater&qid=1705380842&sprefix=planted%2Baquarium%2Bheater%2Caps%2C301&sr=8-8&th=1&tag=listium03-20)

### 6. [Plants](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/5/plants)

Item ID: `5`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/zp76llq2y3364yup43lf.jpg)
- Category: Essentials
- Price: $5.95
- Notes: Choose beginner-friendly aquatic plants that are hardy and easy to care for. Examples include Anubias, which can grow in low light, Java Fern, and Cryptocoryne. These plants are less demanding and can adapt to various conditions.
- Shop Here: [https://www.modernaquarium.com/live-aquarium-plants/](https://www.modernaquarium.com/live-aquarium-plants/)

### 7. [Water Conditioner](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/7/water-conditioner)

Item ID: `7`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/fp7rujzmp0yqr6ofuau9.jpg)
- Category: Essentials
- Price: $45.27
- Notes: This is used to treat tap water before adding it to your aquarium. It removes chlorine and chloramine, which are harmful to fish and beneficial bacteria.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Brightwell-Aquatics-Blackwater-Provides-substances/dp/B07HL614HN/](https://www.amazon.com/Brightwell-Aquatics-Blackwater-Provides-substances/dp/B07HL614HN/?tag=listium03-20)

### 8. [CO2 System](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/6/co2-system)

Item ID: `6`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/zusfzwwhki3zqajgpiyk.jpg)
- Category: Optional
- Price: $129.99
- Notes: While not mandatory for all setups, a CO2 system can significantly boost plant growth and health. For beginners, it's usually recommended to start without CO2 and upgrade later if needed.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Clscea-Cylinder-Generator-Solenoid-Stainless/dp/B08YJ8T2F4](https://www.amazon.com/Clscea-Cylinder-Generator-Solenoid-Stainless/dp/B08YJ8T2F4?tag=listium03-20)

### 9. [Decorations](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/12/decorations)

Item ID: `12`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/hfbqn8tb5fwuq3u1dcah.jpg)
- Category: Optional
- Price: $18.99
- Notes: Items like driftwood or rocks not only add to the aesthetic appeal but can also provide surfaces for plants to attach to or for fish to hide.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Driftwood-Aquarium-Decorations-Assorted/dp/B09J5HF4DK](https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Driftwood-Aquarium-Decorations-Assorted/dp/B09J5HF4DK?tag=listium03-20)

### 10. [Aquarium Tools](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/8/aquarium-tools)

Item ID: `8`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/mvrraa48wxlbal1yxr2z.jpg)
- Category: Maintenance
- Price: $7.59
- Notes: Long scissors and tweezers are very helpful for planting and pruning. They allow for more precise planting, especially in deeper tanks.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Aquascaping-Kit-Jeimier-Aquascape-Stainless/dp/B0C8G65ZCF](https://www.amazon.com/Aquascaping-Kit-Jeimier-Aquascape-Stainless/dp/B0C8G65ZCF?tag=listium03-20)

### 11. [Test Kits](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/9/test-kits)

Item ID: `9`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/swuxfhob4y3ucxj4ppqu.jpg)
- Category: Maintenance
- Price: $34.25
- Notes: Essential for monitoring water parameters like pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Keeping these parameters stable is key to a healthy aquarium.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/API-FRESHWATER-800-Test-Freshwater-Aquarium/dp/B000255NCI](https://www.amazon.com/API-FRESHWATER-800-Test-Freshwater-Aquarium/dp/B000255NCI?tag=listium03-20)

### 12. [Thermometer](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/13/thermometer)

Item ID: `13`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/cb980qgi3kem36nmidfe.jpg)
- Category: Maintenance
- Price: $11.99
- Notes: A reliable thermometer is necessary to monitor the water temperature. Maintaining a consistent and appropriate temperature is crucial for the health of both plants and fish. There are various types, including traditional glass thermometers and digital ones that stick to the outside of the tank.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Aquarium-Thermometer-PAIZOO-Temperature-Measurement/dp/B0BFVST4XX](https://www.amazon.com/Aquarium-Thermometer-PAIZOO-Temperature-Measurement/dp/B0BFVST4XX?tag=listium03-20)

### 13. [Algae Scraper](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/14/algae-scraper)

Item ID: `14`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/zdna6vszworosb9trovv.jpg)
- Category: Maintenance
- Price: $7.58
- Notes: Algae growth on the tank walls is a common issue. An algae scraper or magnetic algae cleaner helps keep your tank walls clear for unobstructed viewing and photosynthesis for plants.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-Aquarium-Algae-Cleaning-Magnet/dp/B004BFE4EI/](https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-Aquarium-Algae-Cleaning-Magnet/dp/B004BFE4EI/?tag=listium03-20)

### 14. [Fish Net](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/16/fish-net)

Item ID: `16`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/zlyllr2btqhi1uqqjym1.jpg)
- Category: Maintenance
- Price: $9.99
- Notes: A soft, fine-meshed fish net is useful for various purposes, such as safely moving fish, removing debris, or even helping to place or retrieve decorations and plants without disturbing the setup too much.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-Betta-Telescopic-Extenable-Aquariums/dp/B09VQMPP3L](https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-Betta-Telescopic-Extenable-Aquariums/dp/B09VQMPP3L?tag=listium03-20)

### 15. [Liquid Fertilizer](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/10/liquid-fertilizer)

Item ID: `10`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/f6uyyza1o2lojurdhpxs.jpg)
- Category: Plant Care
- Price: $28.99
- Notes: To supplement nutrients in the water, especially if your substrate is inert. Fertilizers come in liquid or tablet form and should be used as per instructions, depending on plant needs.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/NilocG-Aquatics-Aquarium-Fertilizer-Specific/dp/B06XK816RT](https://www.amazon.com/NilocG-Aquatics-Aquarium-Fertilizer-Specific/dp/B06XK816RT?tag=listium03-20)

### 16. [Fish and Invertebrates](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/11/fish-and-invertebrates)

Item ID: `11`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/wry5uwyzitluhx38nkca.jpg)
- Category: Aquatic Life
- Price: $79.99
- Notes: Choose species that are known to be plant-friendly and suitable for the size of your tank. Ensure they have compatible temperature and pH requirements with your plants.
- Shop Here: [https://dansfish.com/catalog.category/9](https://dansfish.com/catalog.category/9)

### 17. [Books/Guides](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99245/things-you-need-for-your-planted-aquarium/17/booksguides)

Item ID: `17`

- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/xwg6lpjcc2rzcuhllaql.jpg)
- Category: Resource
- Price: $24.99
- Notes: A comprehensive guidebook or reliable online resources on planted aquariums are invaluable. They provide detailed information on plant care, fish compatibility, troubleshooting, and tips for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Shop Here: [https://www.amazon.com/Aquascaping-Step-Step-Maintaining-Beautiful/dp/1510753389](https://www.amazon.com/Aquascaping-Step-Step-Maintaining-Beautiful/dp/1510753389?tag=listium03-20)