Is Money Plant Good For Guppy Fish – A Complete Guide To Creating

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Have you ever looked at your vibrant, bustling guppy tank and then at your lush, trailing Money Plant and thought, “Could these two worlds meet?” It’s a question many of us who love both our fish and our houseplants have pondered. You want to create a beautiful, natural environment for your fish, but safety is always the number one concern.

Well, you’ve come to the right place! I promise to give you a clear, confident answer to that question. This isn’t just a simple yes or no; it’s a complete guide from a fellow gardener and aquarium enthusiast.

In this article, we’ll explore the fantastic synergy between these two popular household favorites. We’ll cover the incredible benefits, a step-by-step setup process, how to troubleshoot common issues, and the best care practices. By the end, you’ll know exactly is money plant good for guppy fish and how to create a stunning, healthy aquascape that both you and your guppies will adore.

The Short Answer: A Resounding Yes, With One Crucial Rule!

Let’s get right to it: Yes, Money Plant (Epipremnum aureum), also known as Pothos, is incredibly good for guppy fish! It’s one of the easiest and most beneficial plants you can add to your aquarium setup. It acts as a powerhouse of natural filtration and creates a wonderful environment for your fish.

However, there is one golden rule you absolutely must follow: The leaves of the Money Plant must stay out of the water. While the roots are perfectly safe for your fish and the aquatic environment, the leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if ingested by your guppies.

Don’t worry—this is very easy to manage! By simply letting the roots grow down into the tank while the rest of the plant cascades beautifully down the side, you get all the benefits without any of the risk. It’s a win-win for everyone.

The Amazing Benefits of Money Plant for Your Guppy Tank

So, why go to the trouble? Because the rewards are huge. Integrating this hardy vine into your aquarium offers a host of benefits that go far beyond simple decoration. Here are some of the top benefits of is money plant good for guppy fish that you can look forward to.

  • Natural Water Filtration: This is the number one reason aquarists love Money Plant. It is a nitrate-absorbing machine! Fish waste produces ammonia, which beneficial bacteria convert to nitrites and then nitrates. While less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels stress fish and fuel ugly algae blooms. Your Money Plant’s roots will literally drink up these nitrates, acting as a constant, natural filter to keep your water cleaner and healthier.
  • A Safe Haven for Guppy Fry: Guppies are livebearers, meaning you’ll likely have tiny baby fish (fry) swimming around. The intricate, dangling root system of a Money Plant creates the perfect natural hiding place for these vulnerable fry, protecting them from being eaten by adult fish and giving them a much better chance at survival.
  • Reduces Algae Growth: Algae and your Money Plant compete for the same nutrients, especially nitrates. Because Money Plant is so efficient at consuming these nutrients, it effectively starves out algae, helping to keep your tank glass and decorations looking clean and pristine.
  • Adds Stunning Natural Beauty: Let’s be honest—it just looks amazing! The sight of lush green leaves trailing down the side of your aquarium with beautiful white roots creating an underwater forest is a breathtaking way to blend your indoor garden with your aquascape.
  • Low Maintenance and Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need a green thumb for this one. Money Plant is famously forgiving and thrives in the nutrient-rich water of a fish tank. It’s the perfect starting point for anyone new to planted aquariums.
READ MORE  How To Water Pilea Peperomioides: The Ultimate Guide To Preventing

A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Safely Introduce Money Plant to Your Guppy Tank

Ready to get started? Following these simple steps will ensure a safe and successful introduction. This is the core of our is money plant good for guppy fish guide, so take your time and enjoy the process!

  1. Step 1: Select a Healthy Cutting

    You don’t need a whole potted plant. Simply take a cutting from an existing, healthy Money Plant. Look for a piece of vine that is at least 6-8 inches long and has 3-4 leaves. Most importantly, ensure the cutting has a few nodes—those are the little brown bumps on the stem where leaves and new roots will sprout.

  2. Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Cutting

    This step is crucial for the safety of your fish. Gently rinse the cutting under lukewarm tap water. Make sure to wash away any dust, debris, or potential pesticide residue. Never use soap or any chemicals! A simple water rinse is all you need.

  3. Step 3: Root the Cutting (Optional but Recommended)

    While you can place the cutting directly into your tank, I’ve found it’s best to give it a head start. Place the end of the cutting in a glass of water on a windowsill. Within a week or two, you’ll see small white roots begin to emerge from the nodes. This ensures the plant is ready for its new home.

  4. Step 4: Position the Plant in Your Aquarium

    Now for the fun part! The goal is to submerge only the roots and the very bottom of the stem, keeping all leaves well above the waterline. There are a few great ways to do this:

    • Hang-on-Back (HOB) Filter: This is the easiest method. Simply tuck the stem into the outflow area of your HOB filter. The flowing water and rich nutrients make this a perfect spot.
    • Aquarium Rim: If you have an open-top tank, you can often just let the stem hang over the side.
    • Suction Cup Planter: You can buy small plastic holders with suction cups that attach to the inside of the glass, giving you a dedicated spot to place your cutting.

    No matter which method you choose, double-check that no leaves can fall into the water.

  5. Step 5: Monitor and Enjoy

    For the first week, keep a close eye on both the plant and your fish. The plant may look a little sad for a day or two as it adjusts, but it will quickly perk up. Watch your guppies to ensure they are behaving normally. Soon, you’ll see new root growth and a thriving plant that has become part of your aquarium’s ecosystem.

Common Problems with Money Plant and Guppy Fish (And How to Solve Them)

Even with a plant this easy, you might run into a few small bumps. Don’t worry! Here are some common problems with is money plant good for guppy fish and their simple solutions.

Problem: My Plant’s Leaves are Turning Yellow

Yellow leaves are usually a sign of a nutrient deficiency. While fish waste is a great fertilizer, your tap water might be lacking certain micronutrients. A simple fix is to add a half-dose of a comprehensive, fish-safe liquid aquarium fertilizer once every few weeks. It can also be caused by too much direct sunlight, so ensure the plant is getting bright, but indirect, light.

Problem: The Roots Look Brown and Mushy

This is likely root rot. It can happen if the roots are damaged or if there’s very poor water circulation around them. Simply lift the plant out and carefully trim away any soft, brown, or smelly roots with clean scissors. Then, place it back in an area with better water flow, like near your filter.

Problem: A Leaf Fell Into the Tank!

Stay calm! One leaf is unlikely to cause serious harm, but you should remove it immediately. This is a good reminder to check how secure your plant is. Make sure it’s positioned in a way that prevents leaves from accidentally dropping into the water as it grows.

The Ultimate Money Plant Care Guide for a Thriving Fish Tank

Following a few is money plant good for guppy fish best practices will ensure your plant not only survives but truly thrives. This plant’s care is wonderfully simple.

Lighting

Money Plant is incredibly adaptable. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight but will tolerate lower light conditions just fine. Avoid placing your tank in direct, harsh sunlight, as this will scorch the leaves and encourage algae growth in the tank.

READ MORE  How Do I Keep My Money Plant Happy - Your Ultimate 7-Step Care Guide

Nutrients

Your guppies are the primary fertilizer factory! Their waste provides a steady stream of nitrogen that the plant loves. As mentioned above, if you notice slow growth or pale leaves, a liquid aquarium fertilizer will give it a boost. Just be sure to follow the instructions to avoid overdosing.

Pruning

To encourage a fuller, bushier plant, don’t be afraid to prune it! Simply snip the vine a little bit past a leaf node. This will encourage the plant to send out new shoots from that point. And the best part? You can root the piece you just pruned to create a whole new plant for free!

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices for Your Aquarium Garden

One of the most rewarding aspects of this project is how it promotes a balanced mini-ecosystem. Adopting a sustainable is money plant good for guppy fish approach is both easy and beneficial.

By using a living plant as a natural filter, you are reducing your reliance on chemical filtration media and potentially extending the time between water changes, which conserves water. This creates a more stable and eco-friendly is money plant good for guppy fish environment.

Furthermore, propagating your own cuttings to expand your collection or share with friends is a wonderfully sustainable practice. You’re creating more beauty in the world without any additional packaging, shipping, or waste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Money Plant and Guppy Fish

Is the Money Plant (Pothos) toxic to guppies?

The leaves and stems are toxic if eaten due to calcium oxalate crystals. However, guppies have no interest in eating them. The danger only arises if leaves fall into the water and decay or are nibbled on. By keeping the leaves out of the water, you eliminate this risk entirely. The roots are 100% safe.

Can I fully submerge my Money Plant in the aquarium?

No. Money Plant is a terrestrial (land) plant, not a true aquatic plant. If you fully submerge it, the leaves and stem will quickly rot, fouling your water and potentially harming your fish.

Will the Money Plant replace my aquarium filter?

No, it should be seen as a powerful supplement to your existing filter, not a replacement. Your mechanical filter is still essential for removing debris and housing beneficial bacteria. The Money Plant excels at the final stage of the nitrogen cycle: nitrate removal.

My guppies are nibbling on the roots. Is this okay?

Yes, this is perfectly normal and harmless. Guppies are curious and will often peck at new things in their environment. The roots are tough and the fish are simply grazing on tiny bits of biofilm or algae that may grow on them. It’s a sign of a healthy, interactive environment!

Your Thriving Aquascape Awaits

So, is money plant good for guppy fish? The answer is a clear and enthusiastic yes! It is one of the simplest, most effective, and most beautiful ways to enhance the health and appearance of your guppy aquarium.

By following the one crucial rule—keep the leaves out of the water—you unlock a world of benefits. You’ll enjoy cleaner water, less algae, and a safe, natural jungle gym for your guppy fry to explore. It’s a project that rewards you with a dynamic, living piece of art.

So go ahead, grab a cutting, and give it a try. You’re not just adding a plant; you’re taking the next step in creating a vibrant, balanced, and beautiful ecosystem. Happy gardening and happy fish-keeping!

Rimon Chowdhury
Latest posts by Rimon Chowdhury (see all)

Similar Posts