Rotala Fujian is a beautiful and relatively uncommon species of aquatic plant that is sought after by aquarium hobbyists for its striking appearance. This species, like others in the Rotala genus, is primarily used in aquascaping due to its delicate foliage and ability to create dense, lush underwater landscapes.
Key Features:
- Common Name: Rotala Fujian
- Scientific Classification: Likely a variant of Rotala species, but specific taxonomical details are still debated due to its recent emergence in the aquarium trade.
- Family: Lythraceae
- Origin: The name suggests it may originate from Fujian Province in China, but its exact geographic origin and natural habitat are not well-documented in scientific literature.
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Growth Form:
- It is a stem plant that grows vertically and has fine, needle-like leaves that grow in alternating pairs or clusters along the stem.
- The plant can be used as a mid-ground or background plant in aquascaping, depending on the tank size and the density of planting.
Appearance:
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Coloration:
- The leaves of Rotala Fujian can range from green to reddish-pink, with the more intense red hues typically appearing under higher light and nutrient conditions.
- In lower light, the plant tends to stay green, but with adequate light, CO2, and nutrients, it can develop vibrant reddish or orange hues.
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Leaves:
- The leaves are typically narrow and elongated, giving the plant a fine, delicate appearance.
- When grown in the right conditions, the plant grows dense, bushy clusters of foliage that provide a natural, soft texture to the aquascape.
Aquarium Care:
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Lighting:
- Rotala Fujian is considered a medium to high-light plant. Intense lighting helps it grow more compact and enhances its reddish coloration.
- Without sufficient light, the plant may become leggy and lose some of its vibrant color.
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CO2:
- While not strictly necessary, CO2 supplementation is highly recommended for optimal growth and coloration. CO2 helps promote denser growth and brings out the vibrant red hues.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
- pH: 5.5 to 7.5 – It prefers slightly acidic to neutral water conditions.
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is ideal.
- Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrates or supplementation with root tabs can support healthy root development and overall plant health.
- Growth Rate: Under ideal conditions, Rotala Fujian has a moderate to fast growth rate, meaning it may require regular trimming to maintain its shape and prevent it from overshadowing other plants in the tank.
