There are no true saltwater aquarium plants. Unlike freshwater plants, there are no plant species specifically adapted to live and thrive in a saltwater environment.

In marine aquariums, live rock, corals, and macroalgae are commonly used to create a natural and visually appealing environment. These macroalgae, often referred to as “marine plants,” are not true plants but rather algae that resemble plants. They serve important ecological functions and can contribute to the overall health of a saltwater aquarium.

Saltwater live rock is not a specific species but rather a term used to describe rocks that have been colonized by beneficial microorganisms, bacteria, and other marine life.

These rocks serve as a foundation for biodiversity in saltwater aquariums, providing natural filtration, hiding places, and nutrient cycling.

Live rock is established through a process called “curing” or “seasoning.” The rock must be suitable architecturally and biochemically in order to host other organisms.

The following steps will assist in making rock biochemically inert and ready for  hosts.

Rinse the Rock: Before adding the live rock to your aquarium, rinse it with saltwater to remove any loose debris or sediments. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain chlorine or other harmful chemicals.

Arrange the rock: Place the live rock in your aquarium, creating a structure that provides caves, ledges, and hiding places for marine life. Consider the aesthetics as well as the functionality of the rock arrangement.

Arrange the rock:: Fill the aquarium with saltwater that has been properly mixed and prepared. Follow the instructions provided with your salt mix to achieve the correct salinity and parameters for your specific marine setup.

Arrange the rock:: As the live rock begins to establish, it will release organic matter and undergo a natural process called “cycling.” This cycling process involves the growth of beneficial bacteria that convert toxic ammonia into less harmful nitrite and eventually nitrate. Monitor the levels of ammonia and nitrite using a test kit during this initial period.

Test Water Parameters: Regularly test the water parameters, including temperature, salinity, pH, and nitrate levels, to ensure they are within the appropriate range for your desired marine inhabitants. Adjust as necessary to maintain stable and optimal conditions.

Allow Time for Curing: Curing live rock can take several weeks to a few months. During this time, the beneficial bacteria, microorganisms, and other organisms on the rock will establish and create a balanced and stable marine ecosystem. Be patient and monitor water parameters regularly.

Introduce Livestock Gradually: Once the live rock has fully cured and the water parameters are stable, you can gradually introduce marine livestock, such as fish, corals, and invertebrates, to the aquarium. Take care not to overload the system too quickly, as it can disrupt the balance and stress the organisms.

Macroalgae provide the same biochemical function in the saltwater biome as do freshwater plants in the freshwater biome.  They are uniquely designed for the saltwater biochemical environment with the ability to withstand high sodium concentrations and thrive.

Many of the species listed below appear as thought they might be plants.  They are not.  All the species below present as complex organisms of macroalgae.

Here is a table of Macroalgae that might be considered for saltwater aquariums.