Rotala Rotundifolia sp. Green
Overview
Rotala Rotundifolia sp. Green is a versatile and attractive aquatic plant, known for its slender, upright stems and vibrant green leaves. It thrives in both high light and CO2-enriched environments, making it a popular choice for aquarists looking to add a fresh, bright green touch to their tanks.
Position in Aquarium
- Location: To the far right of the aquarium, in a dense cluster.
- Grouping: Planting densely will help achieve a thick, bushy appearance, enhancing its bright green hue against the tank's other colors.
Care Requirements
Lighting
- Intensity: High
- Duration: 10-12 hours per day to promote strong growth and vibrant coloration.
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Substrate
- Type: Prefers a nutrient-rich substrate that can retain moisture and provide a steady supply of nutrients.
CO2
- Addition: Highly recommended
- Rate: 10-30 mg/L to ensure optimal growth and leaf density.
Fertilization
- Macro Nutrients: Regular dosing with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is crucial for healthy development.
- Micro Nutrients: Including iron and manganese helps maintain the intense green coloration of the leaves.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Pruning Frequency: Frequent trimming is required to maintain shape and promote denser growth.
- Trimming Technique: Trim the top and lateral shoots to encourage branching, resulting in a fuller plant.
Propagation
- Method: Stem cuttings can be replanted directly into the substrate to propagate new plants.
- Growth Rate: Fast, especially under optimal conditions with adequate lighting and CO2.
Common Issues
- Legginess: Occurs in lower light conditions, where the plant stretches towards the light, resulting in sparse lower leaves.
- Color Fading: Without sufficient light or nutrients, the vibrant green can fade to a pale color.
Additional Tips
- Placement Strategy: Use this plant to create a visual balance in the aquarium, contrasting with darker or redder plants.
- Environmental Impact: Consider the overall water chemistry and lighting to ensure it supports the growth of Rotala Rotundifolia sp. Green without causing stress to other species.