Yes, but with a crucial clarification: money plants release oxygen at night, a characteristic that distinguishes them from many other plants. However, this oxygen release is primarily a function of their metabolic processes and is not directly related to whether they are grown in soil or water. The amount of oxygen produced by a single money plant is not substantial enough to significantly oxygenate a body of water like an aquarium.
Understanding Money Plant Oxygen Production
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CAM Photosynthesis: Money plants utilize Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis. This process allows them to take in carbon dioxide at night and store it for use during the day. As a byproduct of this nighttime process, they release oxygen. This is in contrast to many other plants, which generally release oxygen during the day and carbon dioxide at night.
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Oxygen Release at Night: Multiple sources confirm that money plants release oxygen at night. [Numerous articles and blog posts](https://www.fnp.com/article/top-5-highest-oxygen-producing-indoor-plants, https://bloomboxclub.com/blogs/news/top-indoor-plants-that-release-oxygen-at-night, https://www.magicbricks.com/blog/plants-that-release-oxygen-at-night/132551.html, https://nicksgardencenter.com/gardening-blog/boost-your-bedrooms-oxygen-levels-at-night-with-the-following-houseplants/) highlight this unique characteristic, emphasizing their suitability for bedrooms due to improved sleep quality.
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Oxygen Production in Water: While money plants grown in water will still perform this nighttime oxygen release, the quantity will be limited, and the impact on the surrounding water's oxygen levels will be minimal. This is because the primary function of oxygen release is metabolic and not a dedicated process for oxygenating the environment.
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Not a Substitute for Aeration: It's important to understand that money plants grown in water do not provide a significant source of oxygen for aquatic life. Aquariums and other water-based environments typically require dedicated aeration systems to maintain adequate oxygen levels for fish and other organisms. A source confirming the need for aquatic plant oxygen supplementation emphasizes this.
Practical Implications
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Indoor Air Quality: The oxygen released by money plants at night can contribute positively to the indoor air quality of a bedroom, but it is not a replacement for proper ventilation.
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Aquarium Management: Do not rely on money plants to oxygenate an aquarium. Proper aeration remains crucial.
