You don't need one if there is light in the room from a window or some other source unless you have live plants
The list would run a mile long. Almost all aquatic plants in the wild can inhabit a planted freshwater aquarium. If you are starting out you may want to try an easy growing plant that requires low light. Anubias or Crypts. Plants in an aquarium are not difficult to grow if you know what they like.
algae and any other live plants are the producers.
Live aquarium plants are sold by Heath Scientific, AquariumPlants, PETCO, Live Aquaria, Pet Smart, eBay, That Pet Place, Planted Aquariums Central, and Walmart.
Aquarium plants can typically survive in a bag for up to 1-2 days before they need to be planted in an aquarium to ensure their health and growth.
You can buy live aquarium plants from pet stores that specialize in aquatics, online retailers that sell aquarium plants, or directly from hobbyists through aquarium plant forums or social media groups. It's important to ensure that the plants are healthy and free from pests before adding them to your aquarium.
Plastic plants may look OK but they will not be helping the balance of things in your aquarium. Live plants will use up impurities like Nitrates and will also add Oxygen to the water. Live plants are definitely the way to go.
To care for live plants in an aquarium, provide adequate lighting, proper water conditions, and regular fertilization. Trim dead or decaying leaves, and ensure plants have enough space to grow. Monitor for pests and diseases, and maintain a consistent cleaning schedule to keep the aquarium environment healthy for plant growth.
The simple answer is yes. A balanced aquarium should contain water plants and these need light in order to live and grow. If your aquarium is a tropical one then the lights should be on for around 12 hours daily.
I would say yes it would be ok not to put anything at the bottom of the aquarium. Gravel, stone and plastics are usually used for appearance. If it is a freshwater aquarium and if you plan on using live plants then gravel is necessary.If it is a salt water aquarium then it is necessary to use live rock and live stone.
The most effective methods for clearing up green cloudy aquarium water are regular water changes, proper filtration, reducing light exposure, adding live plants, and using a UV sterilizer.
In one case yes. Only if you have live plants and fish in it. Because the fishes waste falls down to the bottom of the aquarium and the plants roots use it for nutrients. In result, you have a lively, green tank! Hope I helped. Cheers! -Sarah