Yes, many aquarium plants can be successfully grown in a terrarium. Using aquatic plants in terrariums is a great way to add some visual interest and depth to your terrarium, as many popular aquarium plants are highly adaptable and can thrive out of water in an "emersed" state.
Understanding Emersed Growth
While typically submerged in water, many aquarium plants are actually amphibious, meaning they can grow both underwater (submersed) and above water (emersed). When grown emersed, these plants often display different foliage shapes, textures, and even produce flowers, showcasing their versatility. This adaptability allows them to transition from an aquatic environment to the humid, enclosed conditions of a terrarium, retaining much of their versatility out of the water.
Benefits of Using Aquarium Plants in Terrariums
Integrating aquatic plants into your terrarium design offers several advantages:
- Unique Aesthetics: They provide unique leaf shapes and growth patterns not commonly found in traditional terrarium plants, creating a distinctive look.
- Added Depth and Visual Interest: As highlighted by experts, they contribute significantly to the visual appeal and three-dimensional quality of your terrarium setup.
- Adaptability: Many species are hardy and can adjust well to the high humidity levels typical of a closed terrarium.
- Compact Growth: Many popular aquarium plants remain relatively small, making them ideal for space-constrained terrariums.
Ideal Aquarium Plants for Terrariums
When selecting aquarium plants for your terrarium, consider species known for their robust emersed growth. Here are some excellent choices:
Plant Family/Genus | Common Characteristics in Terrariums |
---|---|
Anubias | Very hardy, low light, thick leaves, slow growth. Ideal for attaching to hardscape. |
Bucephalandra | Similar to Anubias, varied leaf shapes and colors, thrives in high humidity. |
Cryptocoryne | Wide range of species with different leaf forms and colors; establish well in moist substrate. |
Java Fern | Low maintenance, attaches to wood/rock, tolerant of various conditions. |
Pothos | While not strictly an "aquarium plant," many aquarists grow its roots in water with foliage emersed; excellent for terrariums. |
Certain Stem Plants | Hygrophila, Alternanthera reineckii, and Ludwigia species can grow emersed, often developing different leaf forms and colors. |
Key Considerations for Success
To ensure your aquarium plants flourish in a terrarium environment, pay attention to these crucial factors:
- Humidity: High humidity is paramount. Closed terrariums naturally provide this, creating the moist air conditions these plants need to prevent desiccation.
- Substrate: A well-draining yet moisture-retentive substrate is essential. Options include a mix of coco coir, sphagnum moss, and perlite, often with a drainage layer at the bottom.
- Lighting: Provide adequate, indirect light. LED terrarium lights work well, mimicking diffuse sunlight. Avoid direct, intense sunlight which can scorch leaves.
- Acclimation: When moving plants from water to an emersed environment, a gradual transition can help. Initially, ensure very high humidity and monitor their adaptation.
- Watering: Maintain consistent moisture in the substrate, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Misting the foliage can also be beneficial.
By understanding their needs and selecting appropriate species, you can successfully transform your terrarium into a vibrant display using the versatility of aquarium plants.