Vallisneria – Hardy Background Aquarium Plant
Overview:The Vallisneria (commonly known as Val, Tape Grass, or Eel Grass) is a classic aquatic plant that’s ideal for creating lush, green backgrounds in freshwater aquariums. With its long, ribbon-like leaves, Vallisneria adds a natural and elegant look to any aquascape while improving water quality by absorbing excess nutrients.
Key Features & Benefits:
✅ Beginner-Friendly – Extremely hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water conditions.✅ Ideal for Background Planting – Creates depth and provides a natural habitat for fish.✅ Oxygenates & Cleans Water – Helps reduce algae growth and keeps water clear.✅ Fast-Growing & Low Maintenance – Thrives in most light conditions and spreads quickly by runners.✅ Safe for All Fish & Invertebrates – Perfect for community tanks and planted aquariums.
Ideal Tank Conditions:
Tank Size: 40L and above
Temperature: 20°C – 28°C
pH: 6.5 – 8.0
Lighting: Low to Medium (better growth under moderate light)
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate recommended for optimal growth
Care Level:
Easy – Great for beginners or anyone looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds beauty and improves water quality.
Why Choose Vallisneria?
Perfect for background planting and aquascaping, Vallisneria creates a lush, underwater jungle effect that fish love. Its ability to oxygenate water and consume excess nutrients makes it both decorative and functional.
Quantity Options:
Sold Per Plant (with healthy root system)
Bundles Available for larger aquascapes
Important Note:
We ship only healthy, pest-free plants. Rinse before adding to your aquarium to maintain tank hygiene.
Bring your aquarium to life with our Mixed Assorted Aquarium Plants, hand-selected to offer variety, beauty, and natural balance to any tank. Each pack contains a unique mix of healthy aquatic plants, ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists looking to create a lush underwater scape.
🪴 What’s Included:A carefully curated selection of fast-growing stem plants, background fillers, midground species, and sometimes even low-light epiphytes. Each order is different – no two bundles are the same!
🌿 Why Choose Our Mixed Plants?✔️ Great value for money✔️ Supports natural filtration✔️ Enhances fish health & reduces algae✔️ Adds movement, texture, and oxygenation to your tank✔️ Ideal for community tanks, shrimp tanks, or planted aquascapes
🔆 Tank Requirements:
Light: Low to medium
CO₂: Optional, but boosts growth
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate or plant-friendly gravel recommended
📦 Locally Grown in SA – Fresh, pest-free, and ready to root in your aquarium. Our plants are shipped with care to ensure they arrive in top condition.
Note: Plant selection will vary depending on availability, but we always include a balanced mix to create a stunning aquascape.
Floating Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)
Natural Filtration • Shade • Beautiful Floating Coverage - Picture for reference each
Bring balance and beauty to your pond or aquarium with Floating Water Lettuce, a popular aquatic plant loved for its soft rosette leaves, fast growth, and exceptional ability to improve water quality. Perfect for ponds, water features, and large aquariums, water lettuce adds a lush, natural surface cover while helping maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Key Features
Excellent Natural Filter: Absorbs excess nutrients, helping reduce algae growth.
Provides Shade & Shelter: Creates comfortable shaded areas for fish and shrimp.
Fast-Growing & Easy: Ideal for beginners — thrives with minimal care.
Beautiful Floating Rosettes: Adds a lush, tropical look to ponds and aquariums.
Safe for Fish & Shrimp: Great for breeding setups and fry protection.
Care Requirements
Lighting: Moderate to bright, indirect light
Temperature: 20–30°C
Flow: Prefers gentle water movement
Placement: Floating only — roots hang down into the water
Spacing: Allow room to grow, as plants multiply quickly
Ideal For
Koi ponds
Goldfish ponds
Outdoor water features
Tropical aquariums
Shrimp tanks
Fry raising tanks
Why Choose Floating Water Lettuce?
Easy, attractive, and highly beneficial, water lettuce is one of the best natural solutions for clearer water and a healthier aquatic environment.
Price: R39.90
Bring life and natural beauty to your aquarium with Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum), also known as Guppy Grass. This versatile aquatic plant is perfect for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
🌿 Key Features:
Easy to Grow: Thrives in a wide range of water conditions.
Low Maintenance: Requires no substrate – can float freely or be anchored.
Excellent Cover: Provides shelter for fry (baby fish) and shrimp.
Natural Filtration: Helps absorb excess nutrients, reducing algae growth.
Each purchase includes a healthy 200mm strand ready to add to your aquarium. Simply place it in your tank and watch it flourish!
✨ Perfect for guppy breeders, shrimp tanks, and any freshwater setup.
🌿 Duckweed (Lemna minor) – Natural Water Purifier & Fish Food Supplement
Duckweed, scientifically known as Lemna minor, is a tiny, free-floating aquatic plant that offers significant benefits to freshwater aquariums. Its rapid growth and nutrient absorption capabilities make it an excellent choice for maintaining a balanced aquatic environment.
🌟 Key Features
Natural Water Filtration: Duckweed absorbs excess nutrients like nitrates and phosphates, helping to reduce algae growth and maintain water clarity.
Fish Food Supplement: Rich in protein, duckweed serves as a nutritious food source for various fish species.
Provides Shelter: Its floating mat offers cover for shy fish and fry, promoting a stress-free environment.
Easy to Grow: Requires minimal care and can thrive in a variety of water conditions.
🪴 Care Guidelines
Lighting: Prefers moderate to high lighting; however, it can tolerate lower light conditions.
Water Parameters: Thrives in temperatures between 15–32°C, with a pH range of 6.0–8.0.
Water Flow: Best suited for calm or slow-moving water; strong currents can displace the floating mats.
Maintenance: Regularly remove excess duckweed to prevent overgrowth and ensure proper light penetration for other plants.
⚠️ Considerations
Rapid Growth: Duckweed can double its biomass in just 48 hours under optimal conditions. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent it from covering the entire water surface.
Potential Invasiveness: If left unchecked, duckweed can become invasive and may require controlled management.
Create a lush, natural underwater world with Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) – one of the most popular and versatile live plants in the aquarium hobby.
Java Moss is loved for its dense, vibrant green growth, easy care requirements, and endless aquascaping potential. Whether you’re carpeting the substrate, covering driftwood, or creating a moss wall, this hardy moss is a go-to plant for aquarists of all skill levels.
Key Features:
🌿 Super Easy to Grow – Ideal for beginners; thrives in low light and doesn’t require CO₂.
🐠 Fish & Shrimp Favorite – Provides excellent cover and breeding areas for fry and shrimp.
🌱 Aquascaping Essential – Use it to carpet, drape, or create lush moss walls and bonsai trees.
🌡️ Highly Adaptable – Tolerates a wide range of water parameters and tank conditions.
🔗 Attach Anywhere – Can be tied or glued to wood, rocks, mesh, or left free-floating.
Plant Specifications:
Scientific Name: Taxiphyllum barbieri
Type: Moss
Light Needs: Low to moderate
CO₂ Requirement: Not needed
Growth Rate: Fast
Placement: Foreground, midground, or attached to hardscape
Size: Can spread 1–4 inches thick, depending on trimming
Available As: Loose portion, on mesh, or pre-attached to driftwood/rock
Care Tips:
Trim regularly to maintain shape and prevent overgrowth.
Use fine thread, mesh, or aquarium-safe glue for attachment.
Grows faster with liquid fertilizers but still thrives in low-tech setups.
Rinse thoroughly before adding to your tank to remove any loose debris.
Perfect For:✔ Shrimp Tanks✔ Betta Tanks✔ Breeding Setups✔ Aquascaping Projects✔ Nano & Community Tanks
Why Choose Our Java Moss?
✅ Live Arrival Guarantee✅ Pest-Free & Aquarium Safe✅ Fast Shipping – Carefully Hand-Packaged✅ Excellent Quality Moss, Always Fresh & Green
Bring your aquascape to life with the lush, vibrant texture of Java Moss – a must-have for any freshwater aquarium. Order now and transform your tank the easy way!
Combo 5 Pack – Red Aquarium Plants
Transform your aquarium into a vibrant underwater jungle with our Combo 5 Pack of Red Plants. This hand-selected assortment includes five different species of stunning red aquatic plants, perfect for adding bold colour, contrast, and depth to your aquascape. Ideal for both beginner and advanced aquarists, this pack makes it easy to achieve that professional planted tank look.
✅ Key Features
5 Varieties Included – A curated selection of striking red plants.
Enhances Aquascapes – Creates contrast against green plants and driftwood.
Healthy, Farm-Grown Stock – Strong root systems and vibrant colours.
Great for Background & Midground – Provides structure and depth to your layout.
Beginner Friendly – Most species adapt well to a range of aquarium conditions.
📦 Pack Includes
A mix of 5 red species (depending on availability), such as:
Alternanthera reineckii
Ludwigia repens
Rotala rotundifolia (red variety)
Hygrophila polysperma ‘Rosanervig’
Ammania gracilis
(Exact species may vary based on stock, but all will be high-quality red plants suitable for aquascaping.)
🌱 Care Guidelines
Light: Medium to High for best colouration
CO₂: Recommended for intense reds, but not always required
Substrate: Nutrient-rich soil for healthy growth
Placement: Midground to background depending on species
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
❓ FAQs
Do I need CO₂ for these plants?Not always. They’ll grow in low-tech tanks but will show richer red tones with CO₂ and stronger lighting.
Are these plants suitable for beginners?Yes! This pack is selected to be versatile, easy to grow, and rewarding.
Can I combine them with green plants?Absolutely – the red plants will make your greens pop with contrast.
🔥 Elevate your aquascape with the Combo 5 Pack of Red Plants – the perfect mix for bold colour and natural beauty. Available now at Aquatic Pets SA.
Ceratopteris Cornuta, commonly known as Water Sprite, is a beautiful and fast-growing aquatic fern loved by aquarists for its lacy, bright green foliage and flexible use. Whether planted in substrate or floating at the surface, Water Sprite adds texture, depth, and natural shelter to any freshwater aquarium.
✅ Quick Specs:
Scientific Name: Ceratopteris cornuta
Common Name: Water Sprite
Growth Height: 20–50 cm
Lighting: Low to High
CO₂: Not required
Temperature: 22–28°C
Placement: Midground, Background, or Floating
Growth Rate: Fast
Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
🌱 Why You'll Love It:
Grows fast and adapts easily
Can be planted or floated—ideal for all setups
Excellent for fry and shrimp hiding spots
Helps absorb excess nutrients and reduce algae
Adds lush, feathery texture to aquascapes
💡 Care Tips:
Works in both low-tech and high-tech tanks
Trim regularly to manage size and encourage bushy growth
Float it for a natural canopy or plant in nutrient-rich substrate
Easy to propagate from side shoots or floating plantlets
📦 Sold Individually – Healthy and Ready for Planting or Floating!Perfect for planted tanks, community aquariums, breeding setups, and beginners.
Driftwood Small (10–20cm)
Please note sizes and shapes may differ piece to piece.
Enhance your aquarium’s natural beauty with small driftwood pieces measuring 10–20cm — perfect for aquascaping, shrimp tanks, and smaller fish setups. Each piece is unique in shape and texture, adding character and a natural touch to your underwater environment.
Product Features
Natural Aquarium Wood: 100% genuine driftwood, safe for all freshwater aquariums.
Perfect Size: Ideal for nano tanks, small aquariums, or accent pieces in larger setups.
Unique Shapes: Each piece is one-of-a-kind, providing a natural and realistic aesthetic.
Fish & Shrimp Friendly: Creates hiding spots and surfaces for beneficial bacteria and moss to grow.
Easy to Decorate: Use alone or combine with rocks, plants, or substrate for creative aquascaping designs.
Specifications
Size: 10–20 cm (approximate, varies per piece)
Type: Natural aquarium driftwood
Quantity: Sold per piece
Suitable for: Freshwater aquariums, terrariums, paludariums
Usage Tips
Rinse thoroughly before placing in the aquarium.
Soak in hot water for a few hours or days to help it sink and reduce tannins.
Combine multiple pieces for a stunning natural layout.
Bring a touch of nature into your aquarium — each piece of driftwood tells its own story beneath the water.
Nerite Snail – Algae Eating Aquarium Helper
Description:The Nerite Snail is one of the most popular aquarium snails thanks to its incredible ability to clean algae without harming plants. Peaceful and easy to care for, Nerite snails make the perfect addition to both beginner and advanced aquariums. They stay small, have beautiful shell patterns, and do not reproduce uncontrollably in freshwater, making them a safe and hassle-free choice.
Key Features:
Excellent natural algae cleaner – keeps glass, plants, and décor spotless
Completely peaceful – safe with fish, shrimp, and live plants
Small and attractive with unique shell patterns
Cannot breed excessively in freshwater aquariums
Low maintenance and hardy
Care Requirements:
Tank size: Minimum 10L
Water parameters: pH 6.5 – 8.0 | Temperature 22 – 28°C
Diet: Primarily algae, but will also eat algae wafers or blanched veggies if food is scarce
Compatibility: Perfect for community tanks, planted tanks, and nano aquariums
Why Choose Nerite Snails?If you’re struggling with algae growth, the Nerite snail is one of the most effective natural solutions. They add beauty and balance to any aquarium while keeping maintenance low.
🌿 Micranthemum umbrosum – Lush Baby Tears for Foreground & Carpeting
Micranthemum umbrosum, commonly called Baby Tears, is a delicate, fast-growing carpeting plant ideal for foreground use in aquascaping. With its tiny, round, bright green leaves and bushy growth, it creates a lush, natural-looking carpet or soft midground mound when trimmed regularly.
This versatile plant can grow submerged or emersed, making it perfect for planted aquariums, nano tanks, and even paludariums.
✅ Quick Specs:
Scientific Name: Micranthemum umbrosum
Common Name: Baby Tears
Height: 3–10 cm (carpeted); taller when grown emersed
Lighting: Medium to High
CO₂: Recommended for compact, lush growth
Temperature: 20–28°C
Placement: Foreground or Midground
Growth Rate: Fast
Skill Level: Intermediate
🌱 Why You'll Love It:
Bright green, round leaves add softness and vibrance
Excellent for carpets, low mounds, or nano aquascapes
Can be grown submerged or emersed
Fast growth makes it great for filling in bare areas
Perfect for high-tech or CO₂-enriched tanks
💡 Care Tips:
Regular trimming helps maintain compact, carpet-like form
CO₂ injection and good lighting encourage tighter growth
Can be planted in bunches or allowed to spread naturally
Anchor well when planting to prevent floating
📦 Sold Individually – Fresh, Bunched, and Ready to Plant!Ideal for aquascaping, nano tanks, foreground coverage, and lush green contrast.
Light up your aquarium with the Mixed Fluorescent Zebra Danio Collection, featuring a vibrant assortment of glowing colour morphs from the popular Danio rerio species. These genetically enhanced fish, often referred to as GloFish Zebra Danios, come in a dazzling array of neon colours—ranging from electric green, sunburst orange, cosmic blue, starfire red, and more!
Perfect for beginners and experienced aquarists alike, these energetic schooling fish are hardy, peaceful, and guaranteed to turn your tank into a living light show.
🌈 What’s Included:
Each purchase includes a variety of fluorescent colour morphs, selected at random. This means you'll receive a beautiful mix of colours such as:
Electric Green
Sunburst Orange
Starfire Red
Galactic Purple
Cosmic Blue
(Colours may vary based on availability, but all are fluorescent and high-quality.)
✨ Key Features:
Fluorescent Colouration: Each fish glows vividly under standard aquarium lighting—and shines even brighter under blue LED or actinic lighting.
Highly Active: These danios are fast swimmers and love to school together, creating a constant display of motion and light.
Peaceful & Social: Ideal for community aquariums; gets along well with other non-aggressive fish.
Incredibly Hardy: Suitable for both beginner setups and well-established aquariums.
🐟 Species Overview:
Scientific Name: Danio rerio (Fluorescent Morphs)
Common Name: GloFish / Fluorescent Zebra Danios
Adult Size: Up to 5 cm
Minimum Group Size: 5 or more for natural schooling behavior
Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
💧 Water Parameters & Care:
Temperature Range: 22°C – 26°C
pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5
Minimum Tank Size: 40L
Tank Setup: Open swimming space with soft lighting, plants, and gentle flow
Lighting Tip: Use blue or actinic LED lights to enhance the glowing effect
🍽 Diet:
Fluorescent Zebra Danios are omnivorous and thrive on a balanced diet of:
High-quality tropical flakes or micro pellets
Frozen/live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
Spirulina or veggie-based supplements for colour enhancement
🤝 Ideal Tank Mates:
These peaceful, fast-moving fish do well with:
Guppies
Tetras
Corydoras
Platies
Other GloFish or small community fish
Avoid aggressive or slow-moving tank mates, as Danios can be active feeders and outcompete less active species.
🛍️ Why Buy from Aquatic Pets SA?
✔️ Vibrant, healthy stock – locally acclimated✔️ Carefully selected colour mix with every order✔️ Safe live arrival packaging✔️ Fast nationwide delivery across South Africa✔️ Expert support before and after purchase
Add a colourful glow to your aquarium with our Mixed Fluorescent Zebra Danios. These hardy, beautiful fish bring non-stop movement and radiant colour to any freshwater setup. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned aquarist, they’re a glowing addition to your underwater world.
👉 Order now and create your very own living light show with Aquatic Pets SA!
Bring life, color, and natural beauty to your aquarium with our Assorted Freshwater Shrimp! These active little creatures are not only fascinating to watch but also help maintain a cleaner, healthier tank by feeding on algae and leftover food.
Our assorted selection may include a mix of popular shrimp species such as Cherry Shrimp, Blue Velvet Shrimp, and other vibrant varieties—perfect for adding diversity to your aquatic setup. Each shrimp boasts its own unique color pattern, making your tank a lively underwater display.
✅ Benefits:
Natural algae control and tank cleaning
Peaceful and community-friendly
Easy to care for – perfect for beginners and experts alike
Adds a splash of color to any aquarium
Care Requirements:
Temperature: 20–26°C
pH: 6.5–7.5
Diet: Algae, biofilm, and high-quality shrimp food
Tank Size: Minimum 10L with plants and hiding spots
💧 Price: Only R55 each – stock up and create a thriving shrimp colony!
Enhance your aquarium with the soft, elegant tones of Reineckii Rosaefolia – a captivating stem plant with vibrant rose-pink to red leaves. Known for its dense, bushy growth and vivid coloration, this plant is a favorite among aquascaping enthusiasts and ideal for creating stunning midground or background highlights.
Key Features:
🌿 Scientific Name: Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosaefolia'
📏 Growth Height: 20–40 cm (up to 15 inches)
💡 Lighting Requirements: Medium to High
💧 CO₂ Requirement: Beneficial for best growth and color
🌡️ Temperature Range: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
⚙️ Placement: Midground to Background
🐠 Best Suited For: Planted and aquascaped tanks, community setups
Care Notes:
Reineckii Rosaefolia grows best in nutrient-rich substrate and with consistent lighting. Adding CO₂ will intensify the plant’s pinkish-red tones and encourage denser, healthier growth. Regular pruning maintains its lush, compact shape.
Why Choose Reineckii Rosaefolia?
Adds a soft pink-to-red hue to complement green plants
Excellent for visual layering and aquascape depth
Provides shelter and structure for fish and shrimp
Alternanthera Versicolor is a rare and highly decorative aquarium plant prized for its striking mix of colors—ranging from vibrant greens to shades of pink, red, and cream. With its uniquely variegated leaves and upright growth habit, this plant becomes a true focal point in any aquascape. Ideal for experienced aquarists seeking a showpiece plant for midground or background placement.
Key Features:
🌿 Scientific Name: Alternanthera versicolor
📏 Growth Height: 20–35 cm (8–14 inches)
💡 Lighting Requirements: Medium to High
💧 CO₂ Requirement: Highly recommended
🌡️ Temperature Range: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
⚙️ Placement: Midground to Background
🐠 Best For: Dutch-style tanks, highlight planting, advanced aquascaping
Care Notes:
Alternanthera Versicolor demands stable water conditions, nutrient-rich substrate, and consistent lighting to maintain its vivid multicolored foliage. Supplementing with CO₂ and micronutrients enhances leaf coloration and encourages compact, healthy growth. Regular trimming will prevent legginess and promote a fuller appearance.
Why Choose Alternanthera Versicolor?
Unusual multicolor foliage for a standout look
Perfect contrast to green and red plants
Adds sophistication and depth to aquascapes
Suitable for artistic layouts and color layering
⚠️ Note: This plant is considered moderately demanding and is best suited for established, well-maintained tanks.
Khuli Loach - Picture and example of adult , you might receive juvenile fish
Active, Peaceful Bottom-Dwelling Fish for Freshwater Aquariums
The Khuli Loach is a slender, eel-like freshwater fish that is highly valued for its active behavior and ability to clean the substrate. Known for its peaceful temperament, it is ideal for community tanks and planted aquariums.
Key features
Bottom-dweller: Helps keep the substrate clean by scavenging leftover food
Peaceful community fish: Safe with most small to medium tank mates
Active and entertaining: Exhibits fascinating burrowing and swimming behavior
Hardy species: Adaptable to a range of water parameters with proper care
Unique appearance: Long, slender, dark-striped body adds visual interest
Care requirements
Tank type: Freshwater community tank
Temperature: 22–28°C
pH range: 6.5–7.5
Diet: Omnivorous – eats sinking pellets, frozen foods, and live foods
Size: Up to 10 cm
Behavior: Peaceful, prefers to be kept in groups of 3 or more
Why choose Khuli Loaches?
Khuli Loaches are excellent for substrate cleaning and add an active, engaging presence to freshwater aquariums. Their peaceful nature and unique appearance make them perfect for community and planted tanks alike.
Keep your fish healthy and comfortable with the Dophin Aquarium Heater, designed to maintain a stable and precise water temperature for both tropical and freshwater aquariums. Available in 7 sizes (25W to 500W), this heater range ensures that you’ll find the perfect fit for any tank, from small nano aquariums to large display setups.
With an easy-to-read temperature gauge and adjustable control, the Dophin heater makes it simple to set and maintain the ideal environment for your fish. Built with safety and durability in mind, it offers reliable heating performance, giving you peace of mind.
Available Sizes:
25W – Ideal for small tanks up to 25L
50W – Suitable for aquariums up to 50L
100W – Great for aquariums up to 100L
150W – For tanks up to 150L
200W – Perfect for aquariums up to 200L
300W – Suitable for large aquariums up to 300L
500W – Heavy-duty heater for large display or marine tanks
Features:
Reliable and precise temperature control
Adjustable thermostat with clear gauge
Durable and long-lasting design
Available in multiple wattages to suit different tank sizes
Essential for tropical fish health and stability
Why choose it?The Dophin Aquarium Heater is trusted by aquarists worldwide for its reliability and ease of use. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fishkeeper, this heater range ensures your aquarium stays at the perfect temperature all year round.
Looking to add lush greenery to your aquascape without the hassle? Anubias Nana is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly aquarium plants available. Known for its deep green, broad leaves and compact size, this hardy species adds a natural, elegant look to any freshwater setup—while helping to maintain water quality.
Whether you’re building a planted aquascape, decorating a betta tank, or simply adding greenery to a community tank, Anubias Nana is the perfect choice.
🌿 Plant Highlights:
Vibrant Dark Green Leaves: Broad, sturdy leaves add contrast and texture to your aquascape
Slow-Growing & Compact: Ideal for foreground or midground placement in nano and large tanks alike
Extremely Hardy: Tolerates a wide range of water conditions and lighting levels
Versatile Placement: Can be attached to driftwood, rocks, or decor—no need for nutrient-rich substrate
🪴 Plant Information:
Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana
Type: Rhizome plant
Growth Rate: Slow
Max Height: 5 – 15 cm
Placement: Foreground or midground
Light Requirement: Low to moderate
CO₂ Requirement: Not required (optional for faster growth)
💧 Water Parameters:
Temperature Range: 20°C – 28°C
pH Range: 6.0 – 7.8
Water Hardness: Soft to hard water compatible
Tank Type: Suitable for freshwater tanks of all sizes
✅ Care Tips:
Do not bury the rhizome—attach it to wood, rock, or decor using thread or glue until it anchors itself
Ideal for low-tech planted tanks or aquariums without CO₂ injection
Prune damaged leaves to encourage healthy new growth
🐠 Compatible With:
Anubias Nana is perfect for all peaceful community tanks and works well with:
Shrimp
Snails
Tetras, Guppies, and other small fish
Betta tanks
Goldfish tanks (plant may need protection from nibbling)
It’s also an excellent choice for aquascaping, breeding setups, or tanks where hardy, low-light plants are preferred.
🛍️ Why Buy Plants from Aquatic Pets SA?
✔️ Healthy, pest-free plants✔️ Carefully packed to preserve freshness and shape✔️ Grown and acclimated for aquarium life✔️ Fast, safe shipping across South Africa✔️ Support for aquascaping, plant care & tank setup
Add natural beauty and balance to your aquarium with Anubias Nana—one of the most trusted, low-maintenance plants in the hobby. Whether you're just starting out or designing a full aquascape, this hardy plant will thrive with minimal effort.
👉 Order now from Aquatic Pets SA and give your fish the lush environment they deserve!
Seachem Prime – Complete Water Conditioner
seachem prime is a concentrated water conditioner that removes chlorine, chloramine and detoxifies ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. it makes tap water safe for both freshwater and marine aquariums while supporting a healthy environment for fish and invertebrates.
prime also helps neutralise heavy metals and improves water clarity without affecting pH. it is highly concentrated, meaning you use less per dose compared to many other conditioners. ideal for new tanks, water changes or emergency situations.
what it does
removes chlorine and chloramine
detoxifies ammonia, nitrite and nitrate
neutralises heavy metals
safe for freshwater and marine systems
highly concentrated for long-term value
available sizes (select your size above)
prime 50 ml
prime 100 ml
prime 250 ml
prime bonus 325 ml
prime 500 ml
prime 1 l
prime 2 l
prime 4 l
Enhance your aquascape with the timeless beauty and resilience of Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) – a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts for its graceful leaves, hardiness, and low maintenance needs.
Perfect for beginners and low-tech setups, Java Fern thrives in low to moderate light and doesn’t require CO₂ injection. Its ability to grow attached to rocks, wood, and decorations makes it a versatile and stylish choice for any freshwater tank.
Key Features:
🌿 Extremely Hardy – Thrives in a wide range of water conditions; perfect for new hobbyists.
💧 Improves Tank Health – Absorbs excess nutrients, reducing algae buildup.
🐟 Safe for Fish & Inverts – Gentle foliage provides excellent shelter for shrimp, fry, and peaceful fish.
🔗 No Substrate Needed – Grows best when attached to driftwood, rocks, or decor; avoid burying the rhizome.
🌡️ Wide Range Compatibility – Tolerates temps from 68–82°F (20–28°C); pH 6.0–7.5.
Plant Specifications:
Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus
Type: Rhizome plant
Light Needs: Low to medium
CO₂: Not required
Growth Rate: Moderate
Placement: Midground to background
Leaf Size: 4–12 inches depending on conditions
Available As: Bare root, or pre-attached to driftwood/rock (choose variant)
Care Tips:
Attach with thread or aquarium-safe glue to hard surfaces.
Trim older leaves occasionally to encourage new growth.
Supplement with liquid fertilizers for best results in low-nutrient tanks.
Avoid strong water flow directly on the leaves to prevent damage.
Variants Available:
Standard Java Fern
Java Fern Windelov (Lace-Leaf)
Java Fern Narrow Leaf
Java Fern on Driftwood (Ready-to-Place)
Perfect For:✔ Freshwater Community Tanks✔ Low-Tech & Low-Light Aquariums✔ Betta & Shrimp Tanks✔ Natural Aquascapes
Why Buy From Us?
✅ Live Arrival Guarantee✅ Aquarium-Safe & Pesticide-Free✅ Expert Packaging & Fast Shipping✅ Healthy Plants – Always Hand-Selected
Add texture, depth, and natural balance to your tank with Java Fern – one of the easiest aquarium plants to grow. Order yours today and take your aquascape to the next level!
Golden Apple Snail – Bright & Functional Aquarium Snail
Overview:The Golden Apple Snail (Pomacea bridgesii) is a stunning freshwater snail known for its bright golden shell and effective tank-cleaning abilities. Not only do they add a unique and vibrant touch to your aquarium, but they also help keep your tank clean by consuming leftover food and algae.
Key Features & Benefits:
✅ Brilliant Golden Color – Striking shell that adds a pop of color to any aquarium.✅ Natural Tank Cleaner – Helps control algae and eats leftover food, reducing waste.✅ Peaceful & Non-Aggressive – Perfect for community aquariums with fish and plants.✅ Easy to Care For – Hardy and adaptable, great for beginner aquarists.✅ Interesting Behavior – Watch them explore, climb glass, and clean surfaces!
Ideal Tank Conditions:
Tank Size: 20L and above
Temperature: 18°C – 28°C
pH: 7.0 – 8.0 (requires harder water to maintain shell health)
Diet: Algae, leftover fish food, blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach)
Care Level:
Easy – Great for beginners or anyone looking for a functional and decorative aquarium addition.
Why Choose Golden Apple Snails?
They’re beautiful, low-maintenance, and practical. These snails help keep your aquarium clean while adding visual interest. They’re peaceful and won’t harm your fish or plants when fed properly.
Quantity Options:
Sold Per Snail
Multiple Snails recommended for larger tanks
Important Note:
Ensure your aquarium has a lid, as Apple Snails may crawl above the water line.
They do not control all algae types, so supplement with food as needed.
Avoid copper-based medications as they are toxic to snails.
🌾 Eleocharis acicularis (Hair Grass) – NEW! Fine Carpeting Grass for a Natural Look
★ NEW ARRIVAL ★Eleocharis acicularis, commonly known as Dwarf Hair Grass, is a popular and visually stunning carpeting plant in freshwater aquascaping. Its fine, grass-like blades sway gently in the current, mimicking the look of a natural meadow under water.
Perfect for nano tanks, nature-style scapes, and Iwagumi layouts, this plant creates a dense, bright green carpet when given the right conditions—ideal for creating that “underwater lawn” look!
✅ Quick Specs:
Scientific Name: Eleocharis acicularis
Common Name: Dwarf Hair Grass, Hairgrass
Height: 5–15 cm
Lighting: Medium to High
CO₂: Strongly recommended for compact growth
Temperature: 20–28°C
Placement: Foreground / Carpeting
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Skill Level: Intermediate
🌱 Why You'll Love It:
Creates a lush, soft, natural-looking carpet
Perfect for minimalist and nature-style aquascapes
Fine blades move beautifully with water flow
Great for small fish and shrimp to forage in
Spreads by runners to fill out foreground space
💡 Care Tips:
Plant in small clumps across the substrate for faster coverage
Use high light and CO₂ for dense, low carpets
Trim regularly to encourage horizontal spreading
Can be grown submerged or emersed
📦 Sold Fresh – NEW STOCK! Rooted & Aquascape-Ready!Ideal for Iwagumi scapes, planted nano tanks, and lush foregrounds.
Azolla Mosquito Fern
Azolla, commonly known as Mosquito Fern, is a small free floating aquatic fern found in freshwater environments around the world. Despite its delicate appearance, it is one of the fastest growing aquatic plants and is highly valued for its ability to naturally improve water quality.
Azolla forms dense mats of tiny overlapping leaves that range from bright green to deep red under intense lighting or cooler temperatures. It lives in a unique symbiotic relationship with nitrogen fixing cyanobacteria, allowing it to naturally enrich the water with essential nutrients.
Benefits of Azolla
Helps absorb excess nitrates and phosphates from the water.
Assists in reducing algae growth by providing surface shade.
Creates shelter and breeding cover for fish fry and shrimp.
Supports a healthy and balanced aquatic ecosystem.
Can be used as a natural food supplement for some pond fish and livestock.
Care Requirements
Lighting: Low to high light
Temperature: 15–30°C
pH: 5.5–7.5
Water Flow: Best suited to still or slow-moving water
Growth Rate: Fast
Placement: Floating on the water surface
Ideal For
Outdoor ponds
Shrimp tanks
Breeding aquariums
Natural and planted setups
Aquatic Pets SA Tip:Azolla grows rapidly and should be thinned regularly to prevent it from covering the entire water surface. Maintaining some open areas allows for proper oxygen exchange and ensures adequate light reaches submerged plants.
Hemianthus Micranthemum Monte Carlo
Description
The Hemianthus Micranthemum Monte Carlo, offered by Aquatic Pets SA, is one of the most popular carpeting plants for aquascaping. Known for its vibrant green leaves and dense, low-growing pattern, Monte Carlo creates a stunning natural carpet that enhances the depth and beauty of any freshwater aquarium.
This aquatic plant grows horizontally, forming a lush green mat that softens hardscape edges and provides a natural feel to aquascapes. It’s an excellent choice for planted aquariums, nano tanks, and aquascaping layouts such as Iwagumi and Nature-style aquariums.
Monte Carlo is beginner-friendly compared to other carpeting plants like Hemianthus callitrichoides (HC Cuba), as it adapts well to various conditions and grows steadily in medium light with or without CO₂.
Key features
bright green, compact carpeting plant
grows horizontally to create a dense underwater lawn
ideal for foreground use in planted aquariums
thrives in medium light and CO₂-enriched tanks
suitable for aquascaping styles such as Iwagumi or Nature setups
enhances oxygenation and provides shelter for shrimp and small fish
Specifications
plant type: carpeting plant
growth rate: medium
light requirement: medium to high
CO₂ requirement: beneficial but not essential
placement: foreground
suitable for: freshwater aquariums and planted tanks
Suitable for
planted and aquascaped aquariums
nano tanks and community setups
shrimp and betta aquariums
aquariums with natural substrates and good lighting
Care tips
plant small portions evenly across the substrate for even carpeting
trim regularly to maintain compact growth
provide steady lighting and occasional liquid fertilizer for vibrant color
add CO₂ for faster and denser growth
Why choose Aquatic Pets SA
At Aquatic Pets SA, we carefully select and supply only the healthiest, pest-free live aquatic plants. With over 15 years of experience in aquarium design and aquascaping, we ensure our plants arrive in excellent condition—ready to thrive and transform your aquarium into a living landscape.
We take pride in helping aquarists across South Africa create lush, natural, and sustainable aquariums.
