bamboo plants

Question
I have a 40 gallon fresh water aquarium with filtration system, heater and decorations and of course fish from tetras to 1 betta.Can I put a bamboo plant inside without harming anything? There is no other "live" plants in the tank. The pH is about 6.8.  thank you :)

Answer
Hi Alysia
Those bamboo plants that are commonly being sold now, especially with bettas in a vase, are not aquatic plants.  They will die in your tank, and rot and cause your ammonia to rise.  Stick with plants that are fully aquatic.  Here's some links with info on plants:

http://naturalaquariums.com/

http://www.plantgeek.net/plantguide.php


Christy