Aquarium plants floating on the surface of the water

Floating aquarium plants are common inhabitants of artificial reservoirs. In addition to the decorative function, they play many other important roles: they serve as food for herbivorous aquatic organisms, as well as shelter for fry and a substrate for spawning. In addition, with the help of clusters of surface greenery, you can regulate the illumination of the reservoir: create diffused light and shaded areas. Among the representatives of floating aquarium flora there are many unpretentious species suitable for beginners.

Lesser duckweed (Lemna minor)

Duckweed Temperature : unpretentious, from 12 to 30°C Size: 2-5 mm, rounded plates, thin thread-like roots up to 6-8 cm in length
Description. The roots hanging down form a dense network - a refuge for the fry . By covering the surface with a green covering, duckweed serves as a natural light filter , protecting the water from “blooming”. In aquariums, duckweed is usually kept only in cases where there are no more interesting plants floating on the surface of the water. If growing duckweed does not present any particular problems, it to rid the aquarium of it . Usually, to do this, you need to collect duckweed from the surface of the water with a net and turn off the top lighting in the aquarium for about a week, providing temporary side lighting. Usually during this period of time the duckweed dies. To use as a feed additive , duckweed is collected, dried on a baking sheet, ground into powder and added to complex feeds.

How and what to feed the fish (read...)

Functions of Riccia in the aquarium

Despite its uncontrolled growth, keeping water moss has many advantages. Aquarists often argue about whether Riccia in the aquarium is beneficial or harmful, and completely in vain. Of the plant's shortcomings, only one can be noted - rapid growth, but with proper care no problems should arise with a lush green carpet. But there are many benefits from Riccia in an artificial reservoir:

• Saturates the aquatic environment with oxygen.
• Actively processes organic residues excreted by the inhabitants of the aquarium.
• Improves mineral metabolism.
• Serves as a shelter and place for laying eggs of certain phenotypes.
• Shades areas in the tank, creating a refuge for shade-loving species.

In addition, the Riccia plant is a tasty morsel for many residents of water bodies, especially turtles and ampularia who are not averse to snacking on the moss. And of course, what gives the plant a special value in the eyes of aquarists is the ability to beautifully decorate the aquarium space with green mosses.

Application in aquarium

Not all aquarists consider floating moss as a desirable plant. Some are frightened by its rapid growth and clogging of the reservoir. However, Riccia has several beneficial properties:

• saturation of water with oxygen;
• participation in metabolic processes of organic and mineral substances;
• is a nutritious food for some aquarium inhabitants;
• promotes the rapid development of simple organisms that are food for fry;
• creating shaded areas necessary for fry and some types of fish;
• is a good protection for eggs and fry.

In addition, using aquatic moss, you can diversify and decorate your aquarium. “Floating” species are used to create “islands,” the area of ​​which is limited by transparent plastic or silicone rings and twines. The “sinking” one is fixed manually, creating rounded shapes. The composition is complemented with beautiful stones, driftwood, coconut shells, and ceramic cups.

Floating moss will be a wonderful decoration for an aquarium . It can be grown together with many aquarium species, the conditions of which are close to those of Riccia. Other types of moss, hybrid species of Echindorus, lileopsis, hemianthus micranthemoides, and dwarf eleocharis are well suited for keeping together with it.

It is not advisable to keep Riccia and duckweed together. They strongly shade and drown out each other.

Also, you should not try to grow moss in an aquarium where Goldfish live, since nimble fish very quickly eat this plant, preventing it from growing.

Wolffia arrhiza

Size: green elliptical formations with a diameter of about 1 mm

Description. The smallest flowering plant on Earth. Used as a natural shade and as an excellent addition to the diet of many fish . It can be grown in an aquarium throughout the year. It is not demanding on temperature, acidity and hardness . In soft, slightly acidic water, the plant feels somewhat better. Regular water changes are necessary. It is very important that the surface of the water is in motion . In stagnant water, on the surface of which a bacterial film easily forms, Wolffia quickly dies. Needs bright lighting . It grows very well in natural light. It is better to shade it somewhat from direct sunlight. For artificial lighting, fluorescent lamps of the LB type with a power of at least 2-2.5 W per 1 dm2 (1 liter) of water surface area are suitable. The duration of daylight should be at least 12 hours. Under favorable conditions, Wolffia reproduces very quickly by division. If the aquarium contains fish that eat Wolffia , it should be raised in a separate aquarium.

Vallisneria

Vallisneria is a fairly popular plant. There are many types of Vallisneria. Only three species are used for aquariums - spiral, giant and dwarf Vallisneria.

Conditions for growing Vallisneria:

• temperature in the range of 22-28 degrees;
• water should have a hardness of up to 8 mg-eq/l;
• Water pH - from 6 to 7.5;
• every week it is necessary to change 1/4 of the water from the volume of the aquarium;
• plant in slightly silted soil, which contains small pebbles, or in river sand;
• When growing spiral and/or dwarf Vallisneria, the soil should be 3-4 cm thick. When growing giant vallisneria, the soil should be 7-8 cm thick;
• lighting - 0.5 W per liter.

This plant looks good in the corners of an aquarium or in the background.
It grows very quickly. Vallisneria reaches 70 cm in length, and giant Vallisneria - up to 2 meters. If the plant reaches the top of the aquarium, it spreads along the surface of the aquarium. But you can’t shorten Vallisneria , because the tips of the leaves will begin to rot! If the plant has grown too much, it is recommended to thin it out. In this case, you need to remove the daughter plants.

Important! If you are planning to treat fish with preparations containing copper, Vallisneria must be removed from the aquarium, otherwise the plant will die. Vallisneria also dies if rust or the antibiotic Bicillin-5 is present in the aquarium.

Pistia or Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)

Temperature: optimal 22-26°C, minimum 18°C ​​Size: bush up to 10 cm

Description. The leaves are bluish-green, covered with hairs , and collected in a rosette . The root system is highly developed, the roots are dirty white. This is one of the largest floating aquarium plants. Pistia requires bright light. A well-developed root system serves as a substrate for the reproduction of many fish. Under optimal conditions, water lettuce quickly reproduces vegetatively by producing daughter plants on lateral tendrils, which can be cut from the mother plant after 2-3 small leaves and a tuft of roots have formed. Lamps located close to the surface of the water can cause leaf burn . In winter there is a period of rest. Since there are other plants and fish in the aquarium, it is not possible to lower the temperature to 18-20°C or more rarely. Therefore it grows all year round. However, the result of such abuse of the plant will be its degeneration. It is no coincidence that instead of large decorative rosettes of water lettuce, one increasingly comes across scanty, stunted bushes with a rosette diameter of only 3-5 centimeters, bearing 4-5 leaves.

Decorative purpose

Consider the needs of aquatic inhabitants and the interior of the room. Think about the composition in advance. There are several rules to help create a spectacular pond:

1. Place dense and large plants in the background, so they will not block other representatives of flora and fauna.
2. Plant medium-sized greens in the middle or along the sides of the tank.
3. Place short grass in the foreground.
4. For a better view, leave a small distance from the front wall of the aquarium unoccupied.

The background

Unpretentious plants, most suitable for decorating the background:

1. Indian and Thai ferns;
2. lemongrass;
3. hydrocotyla;
4. cabomba.

Center

Place in the center:

1. a small bush of ferns;
2. Echinodorus;
3. Vallisneria;
4. blue.

Foreground

Place a small and bright flora in front:

1. Marsilea hisruta;
2. Anubias;
3. Cryptocoryne dwarf;
4. Staurogyne repens.

Plants of other colors

Dilute the greens with scarlet and purple shades:

1. rotals;
2. ludwigia;
3. bacopa carolina;
4. naiads;
5. limnophiles.

To ensure rich colors, you will need fertilizer. Sufficient illumination remains the decisive factor.

Limnobium stoloniferum or Salvinia laevigata

Temperature : 20-30°C Size: leaves 2-3 cm

Description. Round glossy leaves sitting on short stalks. It is used not only as an ornamental plant, but also as a natural shade in the aquarium. Under favorable conditions, Limnobium quickly grows and covers the entire surface of the aquarium. In this case, excess plants should be removed periodically. The fibrous roots of Limnobium perfectly purify water from turbidity . Due to its unpretentiousness, the plant is very widespread among aquarists. At home, you can achieve its uniform growth throughout the year. In colder water, plant growth slows down noticeably. Limnobium grows slightly better in soft water than in hard water. The preferred water hardness is no more than 10-12°, the active reaction does not matter. Regular water changes are advisable, but the plant does well in old water. The use of incandescent lamps is undesirable, as it can burn the leaves. Limnobium reproduces very quickly by forming daughter plants at the ends of lateral shoots. They can be separated after the formation of 3 leaves and roots.

Basics of aquarium keeping Riccia

The most suitable temperature in the aquatic environment for this plant is +22…+30 °C. If it falls below the designated minimum, then growth will first slow down, and then the organism will die.

Riccia prefers water with low hardness. If this indicator exceeds the 8 dH level, this will negatively affect the development and immunity of the plant. Acidity should be maintained at around 5-6 pH.

When kept in a home aquarium, the liquid should be regularly updated, adding up to 30% of the total volume.

For growth to be balanced and harmonious, the body must receive intense light. In this case, direct sunlight should be avoided - in bright rooms it is better to place the aquarium in a shaded area. Lamps with an incandescent spiral are also not suitable - the heat emanating from them can negatively affect the temperature regime of the plant. The soil does not require additives for the growth of Riccia - it only needs a basic set of minerals, which are contained in fish feed mixtures.

Thanks to the complex structure that the thallus forms, small fish can use Riccia as a shelter, and labyrinth fish will find a permanent shelter inside and build nests there. Also, a dense mass is often used by owners of home aquariums to create shade under water and retain oxygen coming from outside. Such an environment promotes the development of ciliates. These organisms are eaten by young animals, which are formed from eggs.

To limit the growth of Riccia, it can be placed inside a stocking or net attached to the aquarium. Some experts simply tie an island of moss to a stone or other decorative elements.

The plant does not tolerate shaking and frequent movements.

Riccia goes well with mosses, echinodorus, lileopsis, hemianthus, and dwarf eleocharis. You should not plant it in the same tank with duckweed; the species have similar characteristics and they will interfere with each other.

Salvinia auriculata

Temperature: 20-25°C Size: up to 2 cm Water hardness: 2-15° Water acidity: 6.0-8.0 pH

Description. Salvinia eared is a fern that floats on the surface of the water. It has a branching and short stem . The leaves are arranged in whorls of 3 leaflets each. In this case, two leaves are floating, round or oblong, covered with hairs , located opposite each other, have two convexities, and as a result, the edges of the leaf and the midrib touch the water. The third leaf is lowered down, filiformly dissected, like a root . The color of the leaves ranges from light green to bluish-green. The underwater leaves of Salvinia eared protect the inhabitants of the aquarium from bright light, serve as a refuge for fry and a spawning site for a number of fish. The plant does not like falling drops of water , so the cover glass must be placed at an angle so that the drops flow to its edge. In an aquarium, in favorable conditions, Salvinia eared grows all year round. Filtration and weekly changes of 25% of the water volume are required. Salvinia eared prefers bright light. It is recommended to use fluorescent lamps or special phytolamps as sources of artificial light, the power of which must be at least 3 W per 1 dm2 of area. high-power incandescent lamps , as they dry out the air greatly . The duration of daylight is at least 12 hours. Salvinia eared propagates by separating side shoots.

Aquarium plants floating in the water column

This biological group includes the most important plants for the aquarium, which intensively work to absorb organic and inorganic substances dissolved in water (Fig. 34). These plants absorb the substances they use mainly through the surface of their leaves; underdeveloped thin delicate threads of roots serve only for attachment. Many plants in this group can propagate from a small piece. The leaves are thin, delicate, often finely pinnate. Finely dissected leaves have a very large surface area, which increases their ability to assimilate.

It should be noted that various types of cirrus, cabomba, ludwigia, as well as hygrophila and ambulia are better cultivated in the presence of soil rich in humus.

The thickets of many of the plants floating in the water column serve as spawning grounds for fish. Some of the plants are used to cover the bottom of the spawning ground in order to save the eggs from being devoured by their parents. Their decorative role is also very great. In their presence, biological “equilibrium” in the aquarium is established very quickly and is especially well maintained. In bright upper sunlight, they serve as a natural light filter, reducing the possibility of water blooming, which is facilitated by the intensive assimilation of organic and inorganic substances necessary for the massive development of algae.

Najas ( Najas microdon

A. Brown) is common in tropical areas of America.

This higher flowering plant quickly forms dense thickets in the aquarium, consisting of thin, highly branched stems (up to 1 m long), with leaves arranged in pairs or triplets.

The plant can be cultivated without soil; it prefers bright, diffused light. The optimal water temperature is 25°. Nayas is sensitive to its decrease (minimum 20°).

Sparkleweed ( Nitella flexilis

L.). Luster (Nitella) is common in Europe, Asia and North America. This algae often forms dense thickets in the water column of small reservoirs with a muddy bottom in the middle and southern parts of the USSR.

The plant is usually a thicket of tangled dark green glassy filaments; the latter are formed by long cylindrical cells. Nitella is unpretentious; she prefers strong, diffused light and medium-hard water. The best results when cultivating glitterweed can be achieved if it is not replanted. There is information that when the stems are damaged, substances are released that have a detrimental effect on eggs and fry, so it is better not to tear up the nitella bush.

Particles suspended in the water settle on the glitter, so in aquariums where it is contained in large quantities, the water turns out to be more transparent than in its absence.

Nitella is especially convenient as a substrate for spawning, as well as in preparing water for the reproduction of nanostomus, neons and some rasboras.

Rice. 34. Plants floating in the water column: a - splendor, b - trampweed, c - fontinalis, d - water fern, c - Canadian elodea, f - toothed elodea, g - lagarosiphon, h - Brazilian pinnate (leaves of pinnates: 1 - myriophilum vorticulatatum, 2 - m. spicatum, 3 - m. elatinoides, 4 - m. quinuroides), i - cabomba carolina (and, - leaf of K. aquatina), k - ambulia, l - marsilia, m - ludwigia, n - - hygrophila

Stomper ( Chara fragilis

Desvaux). Stomach grass (hara) is common in fresh water bodies all over the globe, and is also found in brackish waters; widespread in the USSR.

In appearance it resembles a glitter; individual strands of this algae reach 30 cm in length. Topnyak tolerates increases in water temperature up to 30°. It received its Russian name because it is often found in marshy swamps. The turbidity particles suspended in the water settle on the twigs of the topnyak, as well as the nitella, due to which the water in the aquarium is well purified.

Haru, along with the shiner, is often used as a substrate for the spawning of many fish.

Fontinalis ( Fontinalis antipyretica

L.). The water moss fontinalis is found in both still and flowing waters of Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America.

Fontinalis has many forms; All forms have small pointed leaves of bright green color on long thin stems reaching 40-50 cm in length. The plant prefers clean, clear water, intense light and a temperature of 18-20°, but it grows quite well in higher water temperatures. It is better to press a bunch of plants with a stone or sprinkle with sand and then not disturb them for a long time; in such conditions the plant forms dense, beautiful thickets.

Fontinalis is an excellent refuge for fry, a spawning substrate for many fish; they can be used to cover the bottom of the spawning area to save eggs from being devoured by their parents. In demonstration aquariums it serves as a good decoration and source of oxygen. Fontinalis takes an active part in the assimilation of organic and inorganic substances dissolved in water.

Java moss ( Vesicularia dubyana

Brotherus). This moss is native to the Philippine Islands. Java moss got its name because it was first brought from a botanical garden located in Java.

The small dark green leaves of this plant are located on beautifully branching stems. The plant is undemanding with regard to the composition of water, soil and lighting. Its interesting feature is that it is attached to the ground and to the surface of stones. Java moss is an excellent ornamental plant; it is especially good to cultivate in demonstration aquariums, where it is little disturbed.

This moss can be successfully used as a substrate for fish spawning.

Thailand fern ( Leptochilus decurrens

Blume). The underwater form of the Thai fern is common in India, South China, and Java.

The bright green lanceolate leaves of this plant reach 30 cm in length, they are located one at a time on a dense green rhizome, dark brown roots covered with small fibers grow down from the latter. The Thailand fern reproduces by growing rhizomes; in addition, young daughter individuals grow on the leaves, especially at break points. The plant is unpretentious in terms of water composition, but develops much better in soft acidic water. The quality of the soil does not matter during cultivation. There is no need to root this fern when planting; It is enough to press the roots with a pebble or soil, otherwise the plant floats under the surface of the water. The Thai fern is a beautiful ornamental plant; some fish readily spawn in its roots.

Water fern ( Ceratopteris thalictroides

L.). 0 floating form of water fern - water cabbage - was discussed above. The form living in the water column needs the same conditions. To strengthen the plant in the ground, it is enough to sprinkle the roots with sand, press them with a pebble, or even press a lead bracket to the roots. Water fern is one of the light-loving plants, so it must be located closer to the light source.

Water fern is not picky about the chemical composition of water, but it develops somewhat better in soft water and reaches 45 cm in height. In bright light, it should be used as a natural light filter, protecting other plants from algae fouling, and water from “blooming”. If the aquarium is heated and simultaneously illuminated by an electric lamp from the glass side, then for this purpose a fern should be placed directly next to the lamp. Planted on the side of the window it will also bring great benefits.

Due to its rapid growth, it serves as an excellent assimilator of organic and inorganic substances. For the same reason, when cultivating, it is necessary to periodically replace overgrown bushes with younger ones. It reproduces in the same way as water cabbage.

Elodea canadensis _

Michaux). The homeland of Canadian elodea (water plague) is Canada and the USA. In 1836, water plague was accidentally introduced into Europe, and the plant has now spread throughout the globe. It also grows in many ponds and rivers in the Moscow region.

This plant is dioecious, that is, there are male and female individuals, the female flowers are small and inconspicuous.

Elodea reproduces vegetatively so quickly that it fills all bodies of water, making fishing and sometimes navigation difficult, which is why it got its name. The stems of Canadian elodea are long, thin, and very fragile. Slightly curly leaves are located in whorls along the entire stem. On branches thrown into water, long (up to 35 cm) thin white roots grow, reaching the bottom, with which the plants take root. In the summer, the Canadian elodea grows rapidly in the aquarium, and dies off in the fall. Plants grown in jars or aquariums can serve as a good spawning substrate for many species of fish.

Elodea densa _

Plancon) is distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of South America.

In structure it is very similar to the previous species. On its whorls there are from 3 to 5 larger and succulent leaves 1.5-2 cm long. The length of the leaflets and the distance between whorls in serrated elodea are very different, which depends on living conditions (in the subspecies Elodea densa longifolia the leaves are especially long). Its reproduction and growth are the same as those of the previous species, but it grows and develops throughout the year and easily tolerates higher temperatures, so it is a desirable plant in the aquarium.

Lagarosiphon ( Lagarosiphon muscoides

Harvey has been known among aquarists for many years under the incorrect name “curly-haired elodea”. It is similar to serrated elodea, but does not differ in its darker color and curled leaves. Homeland - South Africa.

The maintenance conditions are the same as for jagged elodea, but more bright natural light is required (in winter with the addition of artificial light). Lagarosiphon is usually kept at a temperature of 20°, although it tolerates a decrease in temperature to 10° and an increase to 25°.

Cirrus ( Myriophyllum spicatum

L.). Cirrus (urut) is distributed almost throughout the globe. It grows in lakes and slow-flowing rivers with clean water.

Deeply dissected bright green leaves are arranged four in each whorl. Depending on the conditions of detention and especially lighting, the shape of the plant varies greatly. The stem is relatively thick and quite brittle. Urut is easily propagated by stem cuttings thrown onto the surface, which quickly produce long white roots, which take root several at a time in one hole dug in the sand. This plant requires strong diffused light and does not tolerate high temperatures. In winter, urut usually dies off in an aquarium.

Brazilian pinnate ( Myriophyllum brasiliense

Cambesses). The homeland of the Brazilian pinnate is South America and the southern states of the USA.

The plant has 5 leaves in a whorl. It tolerates temperature fluctuations from 18 to 25°, so it is well suited for keeping in aquariums.

There are many other species of cirrus, all of which are a decoration for the aquarium, an excellent refuge for fry and a substrate for spawning.

Hornwort ( Ceratophylum demersum

L.) is a cosmopolitan plant. It is also widespread in stagnant waters of the USSR.

Hornwort forms abundantly branching stems (up to 130 cm in length), the tops of which grow out of the water. The leaves are arranged in whorls. The fork-shaped, bright green leaves resemble a horn in shape and hardness. It is a higher flowering plant with male and female flowers located in the axils of the leaves. Any soil is suitable for hornworts. You can plant the whole plant or small branches. Hornwort can be kept at any water temperature in the aquarium, but the light must be bright. It is better to strengthen plants taken from natural reservoirs in the spring. In winter, the plant, like most plants in the middle zone, dies, leaving overwintering buds, which give rise to new plants in the spring, especially when kept in a cool place. Hornwort leaves intensively purify water, collecting tiny particles that form turbidity, so it should be periodically washed with fresh water.

Submarine hornwort ( Ceratophylum submersum

L.), like the previous species, is widespread throughout the globe.

It is very similar to the previous species, but its leaves are somewhat thinner and more beautiful. Their color is darker. Branches of this type, in contrast to the previous one, when thrown into water, sink rather than float. The conditions for keeping the two types of hornwort are similar.

In the upper light, the plant grows beyond the water. It can be cultivated with abundant watering and out of water, in which case the leaves become finely dissected.

Heleocharis ( Heleocharis acicularis

L.) is widespread in the coastal zone of small water bodies in temperate and warm zones of Europe, Asia, Australia, North and South America; It is also found here in the USSR.

This is a higher flowering plant that looks like a bush of bright green grass. Heleocharis reproduces by underground shoots. Young bushes are located at a distance of 1-1.5 cm from the previous one. Thus, soon after planting, the bottom of the aquarium is quickly covered with dense thickets of this beautiful plant. Poorly washed or silted sand can be used as soil for heleocharis. It does not need bright lighting. It grows well at room temperature water, but tolerates an increase to 25-30°C.

Heterantera zosteraefolia _

Mart.) is common in the swamps of Brazil and Bolivia.

Belongs to the group of higher flowering plants. Heteranthera is a beautiful plant that forms dense thickets. On a strongly branching stem, alternately narrow lanceolate leaves grow, dark green in bright light and light green with yellowness in low light. Thin thread-like roots covered with hairs grow from the axils of the leaves. Sometimes the plant blooms, with each stem producing one floating leaf on the surface and two purple flowers rising from the water. The plant is propagated by small branches planted directly into the ground. Coarse gray river sand can be used as soil. The plant is not picky about temperature; it can be kept at a water temperature of 18 to 30°.

Hygrophila polysperma _

Anders) is common in shallow areas of standing or slow-moving waters in Southeast Asia.

Depending on the cultivation conditions, the size and shape of hygrophila leaves vary quite greatly; under favorable conditions, the leaves are elongated, have a light green color and are arranged in pairs opposite each other, each subsequent pair is perpendicular to the previous one.

Hygrophila is a very unpretentious plant that can withstand a decrease in water temperature to 18° and an increase to 30°. It can grow and develop in low light and without soil, but best results are observed in bright light and humus-rich soil.

Hygrophila serves as an aquarium decoration and a substrate for fish spawning. It is especially convenient for the spawning of fish, the eggs and fry of which are kept for a long time in the dark (in contrast to many other hygrophila plants, they do not die in such conditions).

Cabomba aquatica _

Aublet) is common in small reservoirs and river bays of America (from southern Mexico to central Brazil.).

This is a very beautiful plant, growing as a bush with fleshy stems and fan-shaped finely dissected bright green leaves. Individual shoots, even in small aquariums, reach 2 m in length. Cabomba grows well in coarse sand without additional fertilizer; needs good lighting, develops well in artificial light. Prefers soft water (not higher than 6°). The optimal water temperature for it is 25°, the minimum is 18°.

To obtain lateral branches from the shoot, you need to pinch off the top. To propagate cabomba, a long shoot can be cut into pieces with thin white roots usually present on it. The plant must be buried in such a way that there are 2-3 leaves under the sand. This plant does not tolerate frequent transplantation. Sometimes cabomba blooms in April - May; small yellowish leaves, one at a time on a long peduncle, bloom above the water at a height of 4-5 cm.

Cabomba is an ornamental plant; serves as a refuge for the fry. It can be used as a spawning substrate in containers without soil, but when transferred to a spawning area it usually dies quite quickly.

Cabomba caroliana _

A. Gray) grows in America much further north and south than the previous species.

Its leaves are slightly less indented, their color is dark green above, light green below, the stems reach one and a half meters. The flowers are inconspicuous, yellowish. The housing conditions are the same as for the previous species, but it prefers a temperature of 18-22°. The plant is somewhat less whimsical.

Ambulia ( Limnophila gratioloides

Brown) is found in standing and slow-moving waters of Southeast Asia, Africa and Australia.

The plant looks like cabomba. Like cabomba, its roots play a more important role in development than those of the plants described above. On the long stem of ambulia there are light green leaves collected in a whorl. Grows quickly, especially in fresh water. Propagated by cuttings, the stem is very brittle, Ambulia blooms with small flowers. Within 3-6 weeks. The optimal water temperature for it is 20-25°.

Ambulia is a beautiful ornamental plant; its thickets serve as an excellent refuge for fry. It can be used as a substrate for spawning.

The tops of the ambulia are eaten by some fish (etroplus, tilapia, etc.).

Marsilia ( Marsilea quadrifolia

L.). This beautiful fern is found in shallow waters of Europe, Central and South Asia. In the southern regions of the USSR it grows along the banks of rivers and lakes.

Marsilia is mainly an ornamental plant; its participation in the cycle of substances in the aquarium is very insignificant. Thin leaves, each consisting of four lobes, are located one at a time on a stem extending from the rhizome, spreading along the surface of the soil. Poorly developed roots do not hold the plant well, so it is recommended to press the rhizome to the ground with pebbles. In good light, a slender row of stems with leaves rises above the surface of the water. Marsilia develops most well in unheated aquariums with natural light, but can also be cultivated at fairly high temperatures under artificial lighting. The quality of the soil does not play a big role.

Ludwigia ( Ludwigia palustris

L.) is distributed in Europe, Western Asia, North Africa and southern North America.

The size and shape of the leaves, depending on living conditions, are very different; the leaves are usually lanceolate, their color varies from light green to olive green.

Ludwigia is one of the most common aquarium plants. It usually grows under any conditions, but prefers strong diffused light and a temperature of 20-25°. The best results during cultivation can be achieved by planting ludwigia in pots with sand. Stems and leaves sometimes grow above the surface of the water and small flowers appear on them.

Ludwigia alternifolia _

L.) found in North America

In terms of maintenance conditions and appearance, it is very similar to the previous plant, but under good maintenance conditions and an abundance of light, the underside of its leaves acquires a reddish color.

Scirpus ( Scirpus acicularis

L.) grows in Australia.

At the upper end of each thin stem of this higher flowering plant, even thinner thread-like leaves develop like an umbrella, each of them in turn can form an umbrella of leaves. Developing in this way, the plant grows quickly, forming dense, delicate thickets of stems and leaves in the aquarium. In terms of soil quality, scirpus is not demanding; it does not require a large amount of light. The plant in the aquarium gives the impression of delicate miniature palm trees, and having grown in large numbers, it serves as a substrate for the spawning of spawning fish and a refuge for fry.

Coin box ( Lysimachia nummularia

L.) is distributed in Europe, eastern North America and East Asia.

This plant is terrestrial, usually found in damp places, but it is successfully cultivated in aquariums. When planted in water, the coin plant becomes smaller and grows well in bright light both in summer and winter. The round, coin-shaped leaves are a pleasant light green color.

Floating Riccia (Riccia fluitans)

Riccia
Temperature: 10-28°C

Description. Riccia - water moss . This beautiful plant has no stems , leaves or roots . Consists of small, branching flat plates ( thalli ) up to 1 mm thick. They form bright green islands floating at the surface of the water. Floating tufts provide good natural shade. Riccia can be fixed to the bottom of the aquarium. Riccia requires bright overhead light . It multiplies very quickly, covering the entire surface of the water with a continuous green carpet of balls with plates slightly protruding above the water. In winter, in the absence of additional lighting, Riccia breaks up into small brown plates, which give rise to new growth in the spring. To propagate Riccia, just tear off the smallest piece and place it on the surface of the water in a well-lit aquarium. Riccia serves as an excellent refuge for fry (viviparous), a substrate for the spawning of fish of some species, and material for building nests (labyrinthine).

Aquarium ferns and moss of the bottom and water column (read more...)

Water cabbage

Java moss

Java moss is native to Southeast Asia. This is an interweaving of thin dark green threads that are tightly attached to uneven stones and snags. If moss is left undisturbed for a long time, it forms attractive thickets on objects in the aquarium. It is used as a place for fish spawning. Java moss is an unpretentious plant that grows slowly throughout the year.

The ideal temperature for moss should be 24-28 °C. If the temperature is lower, the moss stops growing. The hardness and reaction of the water do not matter to him, since moss grows in any water. It should be remembered that the water must be clear, since in cloudy water a plaque builds up on the algae, which disrupts the nutrition of the plant and worsens its appearance. Water changes are very often not required.

The type and intensity of lighting in the aquarium also do not play a role. Moss can grow for a long time even in minimal light, but in bright light it grows faster, acquires a rich green color and begins to branch in threads.

Moss grows well if placed on the bottom of an aquarium without soil. Reproduction takes place vegetatively; to do this, simply put a small piece of moss in the water. It can also be grown in a greenhouse with high humidity. Sometimes moss peels off from the stones and snags on which it grows, rises in the water and at the same time grows both in the water and in the open air.

Floating fern, Ceratopteris pteridoides

Fern Water cabbage
Floating leaves are wide, deeply cut at the edges. The cuttings and veins of the leaves are spongy and very fragile . The color is light green. Richly branched roots look like a “beard”. The true ceratopteris pterygoid (not Ceratopteris cornuta) is quite fastidious and therefore is rarely grown in aquariums. It is best kept as a floating plant in an aquarium with muddy soil, intense lighting, and low-moving water. Keep in a semi-covered aquarium, since condensation has a negative effect on the leaves. It is a good natural light filter. T 22-30°C. Prefers not very hard water.

Azolla (lat. Azolla)

Azolla is a tiny fern that floats on the surface of the water and forms a dense carpet. It looks like lacy moss. Annual. In the natural environment, Azolla leaves rot in the fall, the spores fall to the bottom and overwinter, and in the spring new plants develop from them. Azolla stems are horizontal, branched, scaly, floating. Can reach 25 cm in length. Azolla has bundle-shaped adventitious roots. The leaves are arranged along the length of the stem according to the principle of feathers - one after the other. The leaf is divided into two lobes. The upper part, located above the water, is responsible for the development of the stem, and is very massive in appearance. The second part is “underwater”, thin, without a pronounced color. A leaf that is immersed in water looks more like a root system. It is just as feathery, does not develop and grow all the time, and the plant “sleeps” in winter. The upper lobe of the azolla leaf has a downward-facing cavity, where the blue algae Anabaena azollae lives in symbiosis with it, which promotes the absorption of nitrogen and oxygen. Color depends on the species. Azolla reproduces by division, its side shoots easily break off. Division is best done in the summer. It grows extremely quickly. The genus belongs to the Salviniaceae family and is represented by seven species.

Description

Outwardly, salvinia most resembles a rowan branch that has fallen into the water .

The length of the branch can reach 15 cm, three leaf plates emerge from each internode: two of them are located on the surface, and the third is under water. It is the third leaf that is endowed with special functions:

• absorbs mineral elements from water;
• accumulates nutrients;
• creates disputes;
• keeps the plant afloat.

The leaves located on the surface have water-repellent properties and do not sink due to the small fibers on their surface.

The fern is widespread in warm regions:

• South and Central America in areas with tropical climates;
• East Asia;
• southern part of Europe.

Interesting! In Russia, salvinia is found in the floodplain part of the Volga, Don and Kuban.

The fern prefers closed fresh water bodies with weak or no current . Heat- and light-loving.

It has a high growth rate and can cover the entire surface of a reservoir with a thick carpet. Under natural conditions, salvinia has a one-year development cycle.

Sometimes salvinia is mistakenly called unicellular. To resolve the dispute - “Salvinia is unicellular or multicellular” - just remember biology.

Unicellular organisms include plants and organisms consisting of one cell. The fern is certainly multicellular; Moreover, salvinia belongs to higher plants.

Azolla caroliniana or water fern

The length of the stem is 0.7-2.5 cm. The stem is horizontal, branched, and spreads along the surface of the water. Leaves are opposite, scaly. Sheet width 1 cm. Height 1-2 cm. Total width 5-10 cm or more. The leaf color is green with a colorless edge, brown in autumn . The plant is very brittle and delicate, it is easy to damage. Quite unpretentious. T 20-28°C. It tolerates weather changes in the aquarium well. But at a critical temperature of 16°C, the plant freezes and its growth stops. If no action is taken, it will gradually begin to rot. The stem along with all the leaves falls to the bottom. Azolla carolina spores from them can produce another Azolla “offspring” after some time (mainly in the spring). It does not tolerate dirty, stagnant water, so weekly water changes in the aquarium are mandatory. The water environment should not be harsh. pH level up to 7.0 (preferably less than this norm). In order for the leaves and stem to develop and grow well, bright light is needed for 12 hours. If there is too much azolla, it can be removed and left as long as necessary. In winter, when the light changes, azolla plants may die, but if you maintain stability in its content, then this outcome does not threaten. To preserve azolla, you can also resort to another method: take a quantity of azolla and place it in a vessel with damp moss. It needs to be kept in fairly cool conditions (no more than 12°C), and when April comes, it can be returned to the aquarium again.

Cryptocoryne

It was brought by aquarists from Southeast Asia, where it lives in the coastal zones of numerous islands, small rivers and ponds with stagnant water. Essentially, these are marsh plants that grow underwater and bloom in the air.

Cryptocoryne , they can be identified solely by the spathe, which consists of a chamber for the inflorescence tube and petal.

Cryptocorynes are very unpretentious. The temperature should be 24-28 °C, the water should be neutral in hardness and acidity. Aquarists recommend changing up to 1/3 of the water in the aquarium weekly for normal growth.

Keep the light not very bright, diffused. We should not forget that the soil must contain nutrient substrates, which consist of complex fertilizers. Also, the soil should be approximately the same temperature as the water, since cool soil will slow down algae growth.

Cryptocorynes do not like replanting, since leaves will appear in a new place only after a few months, even if the care is correct. Cryptocorynes reproduce by shoots that may be located in the substrate. A small leaf formed at the end of the shoot eventually grows into a small bush. After 5-6 leaves are formed on it, and the age is several weeks, Cryptocoryne can be transplanted.

There are a number of species of this plant for the aquarium; below you will see their photos with names:

• Cryptocoryne undulata;

• Cryptocoryne Thwaiteza;

• Cryptocoryne cordate;

• Cryptocoryne spiralis;

• Cryptocoryne related;

• Cryptocoryne purpurea;

• Cryptocoryne ciliata;

• Cryptocoryne pontederifolia;

• Cryptocoryne parva;

• small cryptocoryne;

• Cryptocoryne reverse spiral;

• Cryptocoryne Neville;

• Griffith's Cryptocoryne;

• Beckett's cryptocoryne;

• Cryptocoryne aponoghetonolifolia;

• Cryptocoryne Wendt;

• Cryptocoryne Walker;

• Cryptocoryne Albida.

Azolla fern, or fern-like (Azolla filiculoides)

The stem length is 1-2.5 cm (in some cases up to 10 cm). The stem branches pinnately. The ends of the shoots extend above the surface of the water. In Azolla fern, the stem unfurls its leaves in feathers, one after the other. The leaves have an elongated shape and a sharp end. The top of the leaf is covered with hairs that have a protective function. The leaves lower down the stem are a pale shade of green and must be handled with care or they will be easily broken. Azolla has a lot of roots. As the plant grows, it loses its lower leaves. They die off. In order for the azolla to stay afloat, the stem becomes larger over time. Active growth is ensured by special external conditions - the water temperature should not be very low (on average 24°C), and good lighting must be installed in the aquarium. Azolla fern should be placed where there is the least movement and the most light. The leaf color is bright green with a pink tint . In good light the color becomes reddish-brown. The plant is especially sun-loving. When autumn arrives and temperatures may drop, the plant may change color to brown. It is difficult for Azolla to reproduce in an aquarium.

How to plant Riccia

With the help of liver moss you can create original aquarium landscapes. To do this, you can use the simple techniques described below.

On a stone, coconut or driftwood

How is riccia placed on a stone?

Using the same principle, you can decorate aquarium driftwood, stones, or create original decorations using coconut. Before you begin, you should treat the object to which the plant will be attached with a saline solution.

The moss must be placed on the object and secured with a net. As the plant grows, it will hide the mesh and create a bright green coating in the aquarium interior.

floating island

This design can be created by fastening already grown tufts of moss using thread or fishing line.

Vertical mat

To create such a decoration, you need to select a strong fishing line, lower one end of it into the aquarium and secure it with a weight. Bring the other end to the surface of the aquarium and also secure it. Bunches of riccia must be tied to the fishing line. As the moss grows, it will gradually hide the support and form a beautiful decor.

Aquarium volume and water parameters

Riccia in the aquarium.

An aquarium with a volume of at least 10 liters is suitable for Riccia. Moss is unpretentious to the water in which it is found. But the most comfortable temperature for it is +22…+26 ºС; lower temperatures can negatively affect its growth.

It is also recommended to use water with the following parameters: soft water with an indicator of 5-8 dH and an acidity level of no more than 5 pH.

You should avoid contaminating the water and change it every few weeks; the recommended water change rate is 20% of the aquarium volume. If these standards are not followed, a white coating may form on the riccia, which will prevent the release of oxygen.

Azolla pinnata

The length of the stem is 1.5-2.5 cm. The stem branches pinnately. The color of the leaves differs from that of ferns and has red, slightly dark shades . The leaves on the stem are pinnately arranged, triangular in shape and do not exceed two millimeters in size. The top of the leaf is covered with hairs and can be either simple green or dark brown. The plant is particularly thermophilic. Grows at water temperatures from +16 to +28, does not tolerate low temperatures. The temperature drop can be tolerated if the lighting is bright enough. Azolla pinnate prefers standing, non-freezing bodies of water, both well-lit and shaded. To promote the growth of this plant species, it requires phosphorus and an optimal pH level (4.5-7). But there will be no problems with reproduction if the installed lighting is of high quality and bright. A huge amount of oxygen is formed around the azolla, so ciliates develop well in its zone. Fish eat them with pleasure.

Elodea

Elodea is a plant of the watercolor family. Homeland - North America. Grows in rivers, lakes, ponds, swamps. Used in an aquarium for decorative purposes.

Elodea grows quickly, shoots can reach 2 meters. The shoots can be trimmed to the length that the aquarium allows. Elodea roots are thin, brittle and long. The stem is branched. The leaves are linear-lanceolate, up to 1 cm long, bright green, without petioles.

Elodea is a dioecious plant. Both males and females need to be raised in an aquarium. The peduncle of elodea is long and reaches the surface of the water. Flowers are small.

Growing conditions:

• water hardness in the range from 2 to 14 mEq/l;
• water acidity - from 5.5 to 8 pH;
• temperature - from 16 to 24 degrees;
• the plant needs light, although shading is also possible;
• daylight hours - 12 hours;
• aquarium volume - any;
• any soil, but it is easier to keep the plant free-floating.

Elodea reproduces only vegetatively - by shoot cuttings. In order for elodea to take root well and quickly in a new place, the cuttings must be at least 20 cm long.

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Water hyacinth or Eichornia crassipes

It has dark green, waxy leaves and swollen stems filled with air. The roots of the water hyacinth hang into the water, providing excellent cover for small fish and other living creatures. In summer, water hyacinth produces spikes of flowers, on which beautiful lilac or white flowers bloom. Eichornia is a very whimsical and reacts strongly to changing living conditions, which makes it not hardy . When growing water hyacinth, it is necessary to avoid temperature changes. The plant should not be placed near heating appliances or in drafts. It will die in conditions with sudden temperature changes. Eichornia is an aquarium plant, but growing water hyacinth in an aquarium filled with fish is not recommended, since the plant also needs oxygen, which it will take from the water. The hyacinth will shrink in size and die after some time. Therefore, this plant is more suitable for open reservoirs or herbal aquariums. Hyacinth reproduces with the help of special tendrils, at the tips of which a new plant grows, i.e. shoots, which it produces abundantly throughout the summer. Eventually Eichornia (water hyacinth) grows and forms a vast carpet. Therefore, thinning or replanting may be necessary. It multiplies rapidly in slightly alkaline water. Water hyacinth also grows in shade, but if you want the plant to bloom, it needs bright sunlight. Light brightly for 12-14 hours. When the lighting interval decreases, hyacinth may lose leaves, but then restore them when the season changes. Water hyacinth can withstand temperatures not lower than 0°C.

• Barbus
• Catfish Changelings

Features of cultivation and care

How to plant?

Aquatic plants are planted in pockets, boxes, containers or planting containers to store soil.

Boxes or containers are used for planting aquatic garden plants. They are easily replaced when algae outgrows them. The subtlety is that boxes with open slats and plastic pots with holes in the bottom should be lined with landscape fabric or untreated burlap. You can also use plastic pots that do not have holes at the bottom.

In order to plant seedlings, fertilizers are used in three available forms:

• liquid - added directly to water for floating plants;
• tablets - added during the growing season;
• granular - added for potted plants.

Features of maintenance and care of plants

To grow algae you need the following:

• Clean, moderately soft water
• Light
• Nutrients
• Suitable soil (for rooted plants).

Water requirements for aquatic plants

Most aquarium plants prefer pH 6.5-7.8, hardness 50-100, alkalinity 3-8 ° dKH. Nitrates below 1*10-5 and phosphates below 5*10-7 to prevent pest growth on leaves. Pay attention to the temperature: it should be 20-26oC; a sharp drop will lead to the death of vegetation.

Light requirements for aquatic plants

Choosing the right lighting for your aquarium depends on what species you want to grow and the height of the aquarium. Some species require intense light to thrive, and since light does not penetrate the water very well, tall aquariums require a strong light source.

Substrate for aquatic plants

Choosing the right substrate ensures proper root development and establishment of rooted species. It is better to use medium gravel or coarse sand for planting, as well as a mixture of varieties for texture and aesthetics. Avoid ultra-fine sand and coarse gravel, as the former compacts and does not breathe, while coarse gravel prevents roots from establishing properly. Avoid dolomite, crushed coral, crushed oyster shells, or other calcium carbonate-based substrates as they are more likely to alkaline the water's pH. Rinse the gravel before adding the substrate to the aquarium.

Nutrients for aquatic plants

Some pond owners add fertilizer once during the spring, summer, fall and winter, while others add fertilizer every two weeks.

Algae use nitrogen and phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, manganese and other minerals to grow. Nitrogen and phosphorus come from fish waste, however, add minerals to the aquarium on a regular basis. Depending on the species, nutrients are supplied through the leaves, roots, or both.

CO2 for aquatic plants

Carbon is necessary in order to grow healthy individuals. They consume CO2 and produce oxygen during the day, and at night the process is reversed. Aquarists add extra CO2 to increase size, color and growth.

Carbon can be supplied using liquid supplements as well as tablets.

Selection of aquatic plants

Choosing the right algae for your aquarium will depend on the lighting, the height of the aquarium, the visual effect you want to create, and the type of fish you are keeping. Do your research or contact your local aquarium specialist for advice on selection. Aquarists have fallen in love with such species as hydrophylla polysperma, Thai fern, komba, ludwigia cuban and others.

When placing lush vegetation, grow tall or fast-growing species in the back, broad-leafed or beautiful species in the middle, and low-profile species in the front. Many foreground species grow laterally, so be sure to leave room for them to spread out. Be careful not to plant shorter plants next to tall, broad-leaved species, as the latter will block light.

Disease and pest control