Biotope is an area of uniform environmental conditions providing a living place for a specific assemblage of plants and animals” - according to Wikipedia. Aquatic plants are the elementary biological requirements for a biotope aquarium. Above all,they create a beautiful atmosphere for the underwater world. Aquatic plants and nitrifying bacteria in the gravel work in synergy and function as a powerful filter. The bacteria decomposes the nitrogen that the plants need for sustenance. The plants assimilate the nitrogen and release oxygen with the help of light(photosynthesis). Itthus enriches the water quality which becomes beneficial for the fish. Also, plants provide an excellent natural place for the fish to withdraw and hide at times. PLANT NOURISHMENT Macro- andmicro- nutrients are essential for aquatic plants to thrive. Macro-nutrients are consumed in larger quantities than the micro- nutrients in the plant tissue. A lack of either, leadsto growth retardation and eventually causes die-off and decay in the aquarium. Proper Lighting conditions and the correct gravel and substrate type are crucial for the plants. Macro-nutrients are normally produced from decomposition of fish waste via the nitrogen cycle and manufactured feed. An over- abundance ofmacro-nutrients, and/or lack ofmicro-nutrients, often lead to unwanted algae in the aquarium