Hygrophila difformis from Asia is a beautiful and undemanding stem plant, growing 20-30 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. It's an excellent plant for beginners, helping to balance the aquarium from the start. Its rapid growth prevents algae by absorbing a large number of nutrients from the water. Pale leaves can indicate a micronutrient shortage, suggesting the need for fertilizer. In large aquariums, its lobed leaves create a distinctive group.
This unusually shaped aquarium plant thrives in bright light and looks best in well-spaced groups of four or five stems. Leaf shape is influenced by temperature: lower temperatures result in thicker, smaller leaves, while higher temperatures produce larger, more divided leaves. Leaves can grow up to 10cm long, requiring adequate space. Insufficient light can cause lower leaves to drop and increase spacing between leaves.
In India, this Hygrophila difformis/Aqua rose aquatic plant is available for online delivery to all states.
How to grow:
Remove the anchor from a bundle of stems or young plants and split them. For stem plants, remove leaves from the lowest 5 cm (2 inches) and any damaged leaves. Plant individual plants with some distance into the bottom substrate. Roots will develop, and the plant will begin to grow.
Basic Needs:
1. Light: They thrive with subdued fluorescent or incandescent lights.
2. Carbon Dioxide: If the aquarium has enough fish, they usually generate sufficient CO2, rarely requiring additional boosters.
3. Essential Nutrients.
Compatibility:
Hygrophila Difformis is compatible with most fish types, but it's best to keep them with smaller fish, as larger fish could damage their thin leaves. They do well with smaller non-cichlid fish and should not be kept with goldfish.
Supplements:
Although not essential, Hygrophila Difformis can benefit from CO2 injections and liquid water fertilizers, especially those containing Iron.
Why Hygrophila difformis?
- Provides a perfect hiding place for fish.
- Its leaves are nutritious for fish to eat.
- Extremely easy to breed by replanting stem cuttings.
- Aesthetically pleasing addition to any aquarium.
- Its floating motion is peaceful, reducing stress and blood pressure.
