mangrove plant?

[Brian_G]

what if i planted a mangrove plant in my overflow? i feel this would reduce phosphates and nitrates in my water as well as look kinda cool.

the only problem i see is keeping the roots out of the pipework

 

[Rcpilot]

Why not get one of those little corner frag racks with suction cups and stick it up high in the corner? Maybe put a little clay pot up there with some sand or rocks? I don't know squat about them - but you can figure out how to plant it.

I was just thinking the corner frag rack might work to keep the plant in the tank and get the benefits without risking roots in the drain. I got a bad feeling that pouring Liquid Plumber down the drain in 6 months is gonna be BAD for the tank. ;-) :Cheers:

 

[Brian_G]

haha yeah i dont think liquid plumber would be good.

i dont think they require any substrate to grow in. i think they just grow in water. thats why i was thinking in the dt would be a a not so good idea because the roots would go everywhere.

I could put them in the fuge,,,but then I cant see them!

 

[BL1]

There's some good articles about them, they say you don't need substrate but, the roots will grow out till they reach your substrate.
Growing Mangroves for Aquarists: Mangroves Can Make an Excellent Addition to Your Saltwater System
Using Mangroves As A Filtration Method | Aquarists Online | Aquarium Fish Resources And Information

 

[Brian_G]

great articles BL1

 

[tankedchemist]

well, you can always trim the roots if they go where you don't want. Think of it like topiary but for the roots instead of the leaves. :)

 

[d2mini]

I finally tossed mine.
They grow too slow to do anything about nitrates or phosphates, unless you have a big bushel of them.
More trouble than they are worth, imho.
Now that they are gone there is more room for chaeto to grow.

 

[Brian_G]

well i think them look cool but i dont think i have time for one. wiping the leaves off every day and stuff.

yeah...i dont think its worth it. Im with you D2