Will CL's dig up plants?

[LisaH]

I'm getting ready to decorate my 135 discus tank. This tank will also home my clown loaches.

I have about 10 aquatic plants sitting in the quarantine tank in pots. I do not plan on making this tank a heavily planted tank.

My question is...Will my clown loaches dig up my plants if I place them directly in the sand? Or do I need to make a creative way to "disguise" the pots?

[WyldFya]

Pots are not a good idea, as they will restrict root growth. CLs can uproot plants, especially when larger.

[LisaH]

Thank you Wildfya. The loaches are 3-4 inches (not including the tail) I bought the "easy" plants. Most I can tie to driftwood. The sword plants may take a beating by the loaches when they get older. I guess I can give the swords away when they start pulling them up.

Will Java fern grow into lace rock? I have some beautiful pieces that are encrusted with small holes.

[WyldFya]

Yes on the lace rock. The swords (depending on what type) should be fine, as they can grow quite elaborate root systems.

[LisaH]

Thanks again!

[Andrewtfw]

I have never had a problem with CLs digging up swords though I have had problems with them shredding the leaves of swords.