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I've recently put up a 5 gallon tank with about 7 java ferns in a nutrient enriched substrate. The javas grow very well even when there is no artificial lighting. The only lighting that exists is very minimal sunlight. The tank has no filter on it but I was wondering if there are any other plants that would do well in these low light conditions. Could I add a single fish? Other than a betta? Maybe if I add some more plants that thrive well the natural filtration would be enough for a single oto or something like that? Any ideas or suggestions? Has anyone tried anything like this?

Hi,
There are any number of low light demand plants that
will grow in the conditions you mention. However,
the problem is the size of your tank. Plants, such
as Crypts, would grow but could soon take over the
tank.
With the situation you mention, and the small size,
I would be tempted to stick with what you have and
perhaps add a few tetras for color. Ottos should
be kept in a small grouping such as three, and
with the lighting that you have in the tank, I very
much doubt that you will have enough naturally
occuring algae to even feed one. You will have to
put a small piece of blanched zuchini in the tank
for them to eat.

Frank


-->>> The Confidence of Amateurs, is the Envy of Professionals <<<--

Frank what is "Blanched" i know what zuchini is. What do you do to get it blanched. And what other vegis can you blanch?

Anubias Bateri var. nana will do good in that kind of light, i have some that just sit in a jar in the kitchen with almost no light and they are even growing, other than that i think java moss will also do fine.

Hi,
"Blanching" or "Parboiling" are cooking terms that
employ boiling water (blanching) or steam
(parboiling) to soften textures, loosen skins, or
remove strong flavors, saltiness or smokiness.

Slice or pare a piece of Zucchini so that it
resembles a pickle spear, then place it in
boiling water long enough to soften it, not cook it.
Let it cool, and then put a 2 -3 inch piece of the
spear in the tank with the skin side against a
small rock with a rubber band to hold it to the
rock and prevent it from floating.

The Ottos, and just about every other herbivore
will make a quick meal out of it.

Frank


-->>> The Confidence of Amateurs, is the Envy of Professionals <<<--