Bacopa myriophylloides is an interesting and beautiful aquatic plant known for its feathery, needle-like leaves. It is native to South America and stands out for its delicate, soft-textured appearance, making it a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Leaves: The plant has very fine, needle-like leaves that grow in whorls around the stem. These leaves are typically bright green, but their color may vary slightly depending on the tank’s lighting conditions.
- Growth: It grows upright, with stems that can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) in height. This makes it a great background plant in aquascaping, providing a soft, lush backdrop in planted tanks.
Care Requirements:
- Lighting: Bacopa myriophylloides requires moderate to high light levels to thrive. Under lower lighting, it may grow slower and become leggy, while bright light helps it retain its compact, bushy form.
- Substrate: It doesn’t require a specific substrate, but a nutrient-rich one will help it grow more vigorously. While it primarily absorbs nutrients through its leaves, a good substrate or liquid fertilization can support its health.
- CO₂ & Fertilization: Supplemental CO₂ and regular fertilization are recommended to ensure vibrant, lush growth. This plant responds well to added CO₂ and nutrient dosing, particularly in high-light tanks.
- Water Flow: It prefers gentle water flow, as strong currents can cause the delicate leaves to break.
Ideal Conditions:
- Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
