Potamogeton gayi
Rare Ribbon-Leaf Stem Plant with Natural Flow
Potamogeton gayi is a rare and distinctive aquatic plant valued for its long, narrow, ribbon-like leaves and graceful, flowing movement in water. Unlike typical stem or rosette plants, it grows with a loose, natural structure that adds a wild, riverine feel to aquascapes. Its unique leaf form and soft green coloration make it an excellent choice for aquarists seeking something truly different from standard aquarium plants.
🌱 Key Features
-
Long, slender, ribbon-shaped leaves
-
Soft green, semi-translucent appearance
-
Natural, flowing growth with gentle movement
-
Rarely offered aquatic species
-
Adds a biotope or river-style aesthetic
⚙️ Optimal Aquarium Parameters
Difficulty: Medium
Growth Rate: Moderate
Placement: Midground to Background
🌡️ Water Parameters
-
Temperature: 18–26 °C (64–79 °F)
-
pH: 6.0–7.5
-
GH: 3–10 dGH
-
KH: 2–6 dKH
-
TDS: ~120–250 ppm
💡 Lighting
-
Requirement: Medium
-
Medium light supports steady growth and healthy leaf development
-
Excessively strong light may encourage algae on leaves
💨 CO₂
-
Optional
-
CO₂ supplementation improves growth speed and leaf robustness but is not required
🌿 Nutrients
-
Feeds from both substrate and water column
-
Nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs recommended
-
Benefits from steady nitrate and potassium availability
✂️ Care & Maintenance
-
Handle gently—leaves are soft and can be damaged if bent sharply
-
Avoid frequent uprooting once established
-
Trim older or damaged leaves at the base
🐟 Compatibility
-
Safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful community fish
-
Flowing leaves provide natural cover for fish and fry
-
Ideal for biotope, river-style, and nature aquascapes