Are Any Aquatic Plants Suitable For The Aquarium?

[Marnee]

Specifically I am wondering if during my hike along the river, pond, etc, I can use any of the plants growing under water along these routes.  Would I be able to pull some out of the river and bring it home to my tank?  

 

[This Old Spouse]

I wouldn't suggest it. You could be bringing back who-knows-what that you don't even see on the plant. Also, the river plants are generally used to a certain amount of current, as well as low temperatures.

 

[Lateral Line]

You ask two questions...
 
>>> Are any aquatic plants suitable for the aquarium?
 
The basic answer is, of course, yes,
 
You then ask... 
 
>>> Would I be able to pull some out of the river and bring it home to my tank?
 
Thats where it gets more difficult. There are a host of biological and legal issues. If the plants are growing in water, lighting  and substrate conditions that are compatible with your tank, they, and any "passengers" they bring may well survive in a tank. Who owns the plants now, you? Somebody might, they may regard your action as vandalism or theft.

 

[DrRob]

Valid points. It's generally not a good idea unless you're really sure what you're doing.
 
It's also worth bearing in mind that you should check with whoever your areas environmental agency/river management authorities think about this, as there are often legal implications there as well.