Frequently Asked Questions

Question

Answer

1. What are the key benefits of using live aquarium plants?

Live aquarium plants provide numerous benefits, including oxygen production, water filtration, habitat for fish, and aesthetic enhancement.They contribute to a healthier and more natural aquatic environment.

2. How do I choose the right plants for my aquarium?

Consider factors such as your aquarium size, lighting conditions, and the specific needs of your fish. Our website and app provides detailed information on each plant, helping you make informed choices based on your aquarium setup.

3. What is the recommended lighting for Tropica plants?

Tropica plants generally thrive in moderate to high lighting conditions. Refer to the individual plant descriptions on our website for specific lighting requirements. We also offer guidance on suitable lighting setups for various aquarium sizes.

4. How often should I fertilize my aquarium plants and what fertilizer should I use?

Fertilization frequency depends on your aquarium setup. We recommend our Tropica premium or specialized nutrition products. Follow the instructions on the product packaging or check our website for a comprehensive fertilization guide based on your plant selection.

5. Are Tropica plants suitable for beginners?

Yes, many Tropica plants are beginner friendly. Look for plants labeled as ‘Easy’ on our website. These varieties require minimal maintenance and are a great starting point if you are new to aquarium plant care.

6. Can Tropica plants coexist with other aquarium decorations?

Absolutely! Tropica plants can complement various aquarium decorations. Ensure that the plants have enough space to grow and consider their height and spread when arranging decorations. A well-balanced layout enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of your tank.

7. How do I control algae in my aquarium with Tropica plants?

Proper lighting, water changes, nutrient balance, and regular maintenance are crucial. Tropica offers healthy plants, which gives the best start. Our app and website provide tips on preventing and managing algae growth. Consider introducing algae-eating fish, helping plants or invertebrates to help maintain a clean tank.

8. Can I purchase Tropica plants online, and how are they shipped?

Tropica doesn’t ship directly to consumers. However, we provide an easy overview for consumers to see where they can get Tropica products. Learn more by going to here or download the Tropica app.

9. Do Tropica plants require quarantine before adding to my aquarium?

Tropica plants does not need to be quarantined before adding them to your aquarium. However, we always recommend rinsing your plants under tap water and if it’s a potted plant remove as much rockwool as possible.

10. Are Tropica fertilizers safe for shrimps?

It is safe for you to use the Tropica fertilizers in an aquarium with shrimp. We have been testing this and there is absolutely no problem.

11. Does Tropica fertilizer contain ammonium, nitrate or nitrite?

Premium fertilizer contains:

K: Potassium
Mg: Magnesium
S: Sulfur
B: Boron
Cu: Copper
Fe: Iron
Mn: Manganese
Mo: Molybdenum
Zn: Zinc

Tropica specialized nutrition has ammonium and nitrate as well as nitrogen and phosphorus in addition to the above-mentioned nutrients. The exact amount can be found on the bottle of the products.

Premium Fertilizer 
Specialized Fertilizer

12. Do the nutrition capsules dissolve in water?

Nutrition Capsules do not fully decompose and the small balls inside the capsules will remain in the substrate after all nutrients have been released. The balls are made of resin, which is biologically harmless. They do not alter the parameters of the aquarium. 

13. How to use nutrition capsules?

Nutrition Capsules is an extra nutrient supplement – use tweezers to place the capsule in the gravel, close to the roots of fast-growing plants.  

Nutrition Capsules contain both nitrogen, phosphor, iron and micronutrients. The nutrients are slowly released as the plants need them over a period of 1-2 months. Use Nutrition Capsules for stem plants, Cryptocoryne, Echinodorus, Vallisneria etc. – all plants with sturdy roots. 

14. What ppm do I dose to my tank if I add 2ml of tropica specialized nutrition to my 50l aquarium?

You can see the conversion will equal 2.000 ppm: ml/litre = 1 x (1000x0. 001) ml/litre =1000(0.001ml/litre) =1000ppm. Try Tropica’s APP for all the guides and help you need and receive 90 days help alert for free.

15. Does Tropica Aquarium Soil have an expire date?

There is no expiration date on Tropica aquarium Soil or Soil Powder. In the aquarium, the Soil can typically last a few years without losing effectiveness. However, individual experiences may vary depending on conditions.

16. I have done standard checks like light, nutrition, water quality, but my plants are still not growing well

If you've already checked the light, nutrition, and water quality in your aquarium but your plants are still not growing well, there could be a few other factors to consider:

1. CO2 Levels: Adequate carbon dioxide (CO2) is essential for plant growth. Insufficient CO2 can limit plant growth, causing them to appear stunted or discolored. Consider adding a CO2 system.
2. Substrate: The type and depth of substrate can impact plant growth. Some plants require nutrient-rich substrates. Ensure that your substrate provides the necessary nutrients and supports root development.
3. Water Circulation: Poor water circulation can lead to stagnant areas where nutrients may not reach the plants efficiently. Consider adjusting your filter setup or adding additional circulation pumps to improve water flow throughout the aquarium.
4. Pruning and Maintenance: Regular pruning and maintenance are essential for promoting healthy plant growth. Remove any dead or decaying plant matter, as they can contribute to nutrient imbalances and algae growth.
5. Plant Selection: Some plant species may not thrive in your aquarium conditions, such as lighting intensity or water parameters. Consider selecting plant species that are better suited to your specific setup.
6. Algae Competition: Algae can outcompete plants for nutrients and light, inhibiting their growth. Implement proper algae control measures, such as regular water changes, maintaining nutrient balance, and optimizing lighting duration and intensity.
7. Pests and Diseases: Check for signs of pests or diseases that may be affecting your plants, such as yellowing leaves, holes, or unusual growth patterns. Treat any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

17. Should I use tap water or reverse osmosis water?

Whether you should use tap water or reverse osmosis (RO) water in your aquarium depends on various factors, including the specific requirements of your aquarium inhabitants and the quality of your tap water.

1. Tap Water: Tap water often contains chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and other substances that may be harmful to aquarium fish and plants. However, in some cases, tap water might be suitable for certain hardy species or if it's treated properly with a water conditioner to remove harmful chemicals. Tap water also contains minerals that can be beneficial for aquarium plants.
2. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water: RO water is purified through a filtration process that removes most impurities, including chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and dissolved solids. It provides a blank canvas for aquarium keepers to control water parameters precisely, making it ideal for sensitive fish species, breeding projects, or planted tanks with specific requirements. However, RO water lacks essential minerals, so it may need to be remineralized before use in the aquarium.
   
   

Ultimately, the decision between tap water and RO water depends on your aquarium setup, the species you're keeping, and your willingness to adjust water parameters. You may also consider using a blend of both tap water and RO water to achieve desired water parameters while still benefiting from some of the minerals present in tap water. Testing your water parameters and understanding the needs of your aquarium inhabitants will help you determine the most suitable water source for your setup.