Live plants necessary?

I wouldn’t specifically say that they are necessary, but they are highly beneficial. Plants can soak up some ammonia, nitrite, and more specifically nitrate which is the last bioproduct from the nitrogen cycle and normally is only removed using water changes.

Plus it adds in some hiding spots for smaller fish, those that are aggressive can get spots to rest in, and it really adds to their natural behavior compared to fake plants that don’t sway or feel the same for fish.

100% not required but it really is helpful depending on the fish you have. Plus who doesn’t like not having to do water changes a lot since nitrate will be partially removed automatically while adding a cool plant that flows on the water naturally?

The largest advantage that living plants have for your tank by far is that they provide oxygen, consume the carbon dioxide ( CO2) and ammonia ( NH3) released by your fish. They are 100% necessary.

No they’re not however they are beautiful, its definitely another pet to maintain. They do die really quick if not taken care of.

Keeping the plants in your tank can help with its upkeep. I also think my fish prefer a habitat that is as natural as possible, so I give them plants.

I really don't like the look of fake plants; I feel like it makes the entire aquarium look cheesy. Plus, the plants to me can be as interesting as the fish and invertebrates sometimes.

I think it makes it easier to maintain the whole ecology of the tank, plus the fish like them.

it’s not 100% needed but helpful in keeping the water crystal clean and clear!