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Rotala indica is an attractive aquatic plant native to Asia that is widely used in aquariums and aquascaping. It is a fast-growing species with delicate, needle-like leaves that are typically light green or reddish in color.
In an aquarium setting, Rotala indica can be kept in a variety of environments, including low-light and high-light setups, as well as in soft or hard water. It prefers a moderate water temperature between 68-82°F and a pH of 6.5-7.5. It is also sensitive to high levels of nitrates and phosphates, so regular water changes are necessary to keep it healthy.
Rotala indica can be propagated by cutting and replanting the stems, which will form new roots and grow into separate plants. It can also be grown as a floating plant, or it can be planted in the substrate.
This plant is an excellent choice for aquarium hobbyists who are looking for a versatile, fast-growing plant that is easy to care for and will add a pop of color to the aquascape. With proper care and maintenance, Rotala indica can thrive in an aquarium environment and make a beautiful addition to any aquatic landscape.
Appearance
Rotala indica is a delicate and graceful aquatic plant with needle-like leaves that are typically light green or reddish in color. The leaves grow in dense clusters along the stems, which can reach a height of 12-24 inches in an aquarium setting.
The leaves of Rotala indica are very thin and elongated, often growing up to 1 inch in length. They are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems, giving the plant a distinctive, feathery appearance.
In bright light conditions, the leaves will take on a reddish hue, while in lower light they will remain a pale green. The stems are often a light green color, although they can also develop a reddish tint under high light conditions.
In addition to its attractive foliage, Rotala indica can produce delicate, white or pinkish flowers that bloom above the water’s surface. These flowers are small and inconspicuous, but they add a touch of elegance to the plant’s appearance.
Water parameters for growing aquatic plants Rotala indica
Rotala indica is a relatively hardy aquatic plant that can thrive in a variety of water conditions. However, for optimal growth and health, the following water parameters are recommended:
- Water temperature: 68-82°F
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 4-15 dGH
- KH: 2-10 dKH
- CO2: 15-30 mg/L
It is important to note that Rotala indica is sensitive to high levels of nitrates and phosphates, so it is essential to maintain good water quality by performing regular water changes. The plant prefers a well-oxygenated environment, so it is recommended to provide good water circulation in the aquarium.
It’s also important to provide adequate lighting for Rotala indica. This plant can grow in a variety of light conditions, from low to high, but it will need a minimum of 2-3 watts per gallon of full-spectrum LED lighting or a similar equivalent to grow well. If you’re using high light, it is recommended to provide additional CO2 supplementation to support healthy growth.
By following these water parameters and providing the proper care, Rotala indica can thrive in an aquarium environment and make a beautiful addition to any aquatic landscape.
How to grow aquatic plants Rotala indica
Rotala indica is a fast-growing aquatic plant that is easy to care for, making it a popular choice for aquarium hobbyists. Here are some guidelines for growing Rotala indica in an aquarium:
- Lighting: Rotala indica can grow in a variety of light conditions, from low to high. However, for optimal growth, it needs a minimum of 2-3 watts per gallon of full-spectrum LED lighting or a similar equivalent. If you’re using high light, it is recommended to provide additional CO2 supplementation to support healthy growth.
- Substrate: Rotala indica can be planted in a variety of substrates, including gravel, sand, and nutrient-rich soil. A substrate that is rich in nutrients will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients for growth.
- Water parameters: Rotala indica prefers a moderate water temperature between 68-82°F and a pH of 6.5-7.5. It is also sensitive to high levels of nitrates and phosphates, so it is essential to maintain good water quality by performing regular water changes. The plant prefers a well-oxygenated environment, so it is recommended to provide good water circulation in the aquarium.
- Fertilization: Rotala indica will benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced aquarium plant fertilizer. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate amount of fertilizer to use, as over-fertilization can lead to algae growth.
- Pruning: Rotala indica can grow quickly and may need to be pruned to maintain its desired shape and size. Pruning can be done by cutting the stems back to the desired length and removing any yellow or dead leaves.
By following these guidelines, Rotala indica can grow well in an aquarium environment and provide a beautiful and lush addition to the aquascape.
How To Propagate It
Rotala indica can be propagated by cutting the stems and planting them in the substrate. Here are the steps to propagate Rotala indica:
- Select healthy stems: Choose healthy stems that have multiple branches and are free of yellow or dead leaves.
- Cut the stems: Using sharp scissors, cut the stems just below a node (the point where the leaves emerge from the stem). The cuttings should be 2-3 inches long.
- Plant the cuttings: Plant the cuttings into the substrate, making sure to bury the node in the substrate. The cuttings should be spaced a few inches apart to allow room for growth.
- Provide proper care: After planting the cuttings, provide them with proper lighting, water parameters, and fertilization to support healthy growth.
- Monitor growth: Regularly monitor the growth of the cuttings and adjust their care as needed. Within a few weeks, the cuttings should start to grow roots and new leaves.
By following these steps, you can easily propagate Rotala indica and create a lush and thriving aquascape in your aquarium.
