Even experienced aquarium owners will tell you that there’s plenty of debate over whether to use living or artificial plants. While the majority of fish lovers agree that silk plants are superior to plastic plants (fewer sharp edges, a more realistic appearance, and better lifelike movement in the water), your decision of whether to use silk or living plants mostly comes down to preference. Silk plants don’t require extra light, can’t be eaten, and won’t die or pollute the water. However, they don’t add nutrients to the water or offer food to fish like living plants do.