Can Pothos Be Submerged In An Aquarium

Pothos can be submerged in an aquarium, but only partially.
 
The roots of a pothos plant can be fully submerged in the aquarium water.
 
The leaves and stems, however, should stay above the waterline to prevent rot.
 
Many aquarists use pothos as a natural filter because the roots absorb nitrates and other waste.
 
So if you’ve been wondering can pothos be submerged in an aquarium, the answer is yes with a few conditions.
 
In this post, we’ll explore how to submerge pothos in an aquarium safely, why it works, and what to avoid.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

Why Pothos Can Be Submerged in an Aquarium

Pothos can be submerged in an aquarium because the plant adapts well to wet environments.
 
Here are the main reasons why this works.
 

1. Roots Naturally Tolerate Full Submersion

Pothos roots are designed to absorb moisture and nutrients from water.
 
When you submerge pothos in an aquarium, the roots continue to grow and function underwater.
 
They don’t rot like leaves would because they’re adapted to a wet environment.
 
This makes pothos an excellent choice for aquaponics or planted tanks.
 
Submerging pothos roots is actually healthier for the plant than keeping them in dry soil.
 

2. Leaves Need Air to Survive

The leaves of pothos cannot be fully submerged for long periods.
 
If you completely submerge pothos leaves, they will start to yellow and decay.
 
That’s because leaves need to exchange gases with the air through tiny pores.
 
When you submerge pothos in an aquarium, always keep the leaves above the water surface.
 
This simple rule ensures the plant thrives while still cleaning your tank.
 

3. Natural Filtration Benefits

Pothos roots are excellent at absorbing nitrates, ammonia, and other fish waste.
 
Submerging pothos in an aquarium helps reduce algae by removing excess nutrients.
 
Many aquarists call pothos a “natural filter” because of this ability.
 
The roots also provide a safe surface for beneficial bacteria to colonize.
 
Using pothos submerged in an aquarium improves water quality without expensive equipment.
 

How to Submerge Pothos in an Aquarium Safely

To successfully submerge pothos in an aquarium, follow these steps.
 

1. Use a Plant Holder or Suction Cup

Attach the pothos to the side of the tank using a suction cup clip.
 
Place the roots in the water and let the stem hang down.
 
The leaves should rest above the waterline on the outside of the tank.
 
You can also use a floating plant ring or a mesh basket.
 
This setup allows you to submerge pothos roots without submerging the leaves.
 

2. Rinse Roots Before Introducing to Aquarium

If your pothos was grown in soil, rinse all the dirt off the roots.
 
Soil can cloud the aquarium water and introduce unwanted chemicals.
 
After rinsing, you can submerge pothos in the aquarium immediately.
 
Some people keep the plant in a separate container of water for a few days first.
 
That helps the roots adjust to being fully submerged.
 

3. Provide Adequate Lighting

Pothos needs light to grow, even when only the roots are in water.
 
Place the aquarium near a window or use a grow light.
 
The leaves above the water need bright, indirect light.
 
If the leaves become pale or leggy, increase the light exposure.
 
Submerging pothos in an aquarium doesn’t change its light requirements.
 

4. Monitor Water Parameters

Check the water temperature and pH regularly.
 
Pothos roots prefer warm water between 70–80°F (21–27°C).
 
The plant is very forgiving, but extreme changes can stress it.
 
Change some aquarium water weekly to keep nutrients balanced.
 
When you submerge pothos in an aquarium, the plant will consume nitrates quickly.
 

Common Mistakes When Submerging Pothos in an Aquarium

Avoid these errors to keep your pothos and fish healthy.
 

1. Submerging the Entire Plant

Some beginners submerge pothos leaves completely, thinking it will grow like an aquatic plant.
 
Pothos is not a true aquatic plant and cannot survive fully underwater.
 
If you submerge pothos leaves, they will die and foul the water.
 
Always keep the stem and leaves above the waterline.
 
The roots are the only part that should be submerged in an aquarium.
 

2. Poor Water Circulation

Stagnant water around the roots can lead to oxygen depletion.
 
Make sure your aquarium has a filter or air stone to move water.
 
Good circulation helps the roots absorb nutrients and prevents decay.
 
When you submerge pothos in an aquarium, place the roots near the filter outlet.
 
This keeps fresh water flowing over them.
 

3. Using Pothos That Has Pesticides

Nursery-grown pothos may have chemical residues on the leaves.
 
These chemicals can leach into the aquarium water and harm fish.
 
Always rinse the entire plant thoroughly before using it.
 
Better yet, grow your own pothos in water for a few weeks first.
 
Then it’s safe to submerge pothos in an aquarium.
 

So, Can Pothos Be Submerged in an Aquarium?

Pothos can be submerged in an aquarium, but only the roots should go underwater.
 
The leaves must stay above the waterline to prevent rot and keep the plant healthy.
 
Submerging pothos in an aquarium offers natural filtration, reduces nitrates, and adds greenery.
 
With a simple suction cup holder and proper care, your pothos will thrive alongside your fish.
 
Just remember to avoid fully submerging the leaves and provide good light and circulation.
 
Now you know the answer to can pothos be submerged in an aquarium, and how to do it right.
 
Enjoy your cleaner tank and your happy pothos.