Yes, lava rock can be a good substrate or decoration choice for aquarium plants, offering several benefits.
Benefits of Using Lava Rock in Aquariums
Lava rock's porous nature provides several advantages:
- Surface Area for Beneficial Bacteria: The high porosity of lava rock creates a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize. These bacteria are crucial for the nitrogen cycle, converting harmful ammonia and nitrites into less toxic nitrates. The reference even highlights its ability to harbor denitrifying bacteria, further improving water quality by removing nitrates.
- Root Attachment: Plant roots can easily attach to the rough surface of lava rock, providing a stable anchor. This is especially helpful for epiphytic plants like Java Fern, Anubias, and Bucephalandra, which prefer to attach to surfaces rather than being planted in the substrate.
- Nutrient Reservoir: While lava rock itself doesn't contain a lot of nutrients, the pores can trap organic matter and debris, which will eventually decompose and release nutrients that plants can absorb.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Lava rock can add a natural and visually appealing element to your aquarium aquascape.
- Water Chemistry: Lava rock is generally inert and will not significantly alter your aquarium's pH or water hardness. However, be aware that some types of lava rock can slightly raise pH, especially initially. Test your water parameters regularly.
Considerations When Using Lava Rock
- Sharp Edges: Lava rock can have sharp edges that could potentially injure fish or damage delicate plants. You can smooth down sharp edges with a file or sandpaper.
- Cleaning: Before adding lava rock to your aquarium, thoroughly rinse it to remove any dust or debris.
- Plant Selection: While many plants thrive on lava rock, some plants require a nutrient-rich substrate and may not do as well when directly attached to or planted in only lava rock. Consider supplementing with liquid fertilizers or root tabs.
- Potential pH Increase: As mentioned earlier, some lava rock can slightly increase pH. Monitor your water parameters regularly, especially when initially adding the rock.
In conclusion, lava rock can be a valuable addition to a planted aquarium, providing biological filtration, root attachment sites, and aesthetic appeal. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and prepare the rock properly before introducing it to your tank.
