The right aquarium
Page
4
The right plants
Page
6
The right fsh
Page
8
Tropica Tr opica ABC: This is how you start
Page 10
Layout inspiration
Page 14
Product categories
Page 18
Plants rom A to Z
Page 20
Product overview
Page 65
Appendix (planting) (planting)
Page 66
The right aquarium
Page
4
The right plants
Page
6
The right fsh
Page
8
Tropica Tr opica ABC: This is how you start
Page 10
Layout inspiration
Page 14
Product categories
Page 18
Plants rom A to Z
Page 20
Product overview
Page 65
Appendix (planting) (planting)
Page 66
yo our dreams Make y come true in 3 steps TROPICA’S GUIDE WILL HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT RIGHT CHOICE IN 3 STEPS. THE INFORMATION IS FAR FAR FROM EXHAUSTIVE, SO FOR MORE DETAILS, DETAILS, PLEASE GO TO TROPICA.COM. YOU WILL HAVE A MUCH BETTER CHANCE TO MAKE YOUR AQUARIUM A SUCCESS IF YOU SPEND SOME TIME STUDYING THE 3 STEPS IN T HIS GUIDE: 1: The right aquarium. Large or small? Who will take care
2: The right plants. The choice o plants depends depends on the
3: The right fsh. There are many sh to choose rom and
o it and what has to be done every week? Are there any
amount o light in your aquarium in relation to its volume and
we cannot easibly cover all o them in this guide. We have
on whether you intend to give your plants CO2 and ertiliser. ertiliser.
created categories with the most general species based on
equipment requirements or the aquarium to work? There are many questions! Regardless o whether you are buying a new
To help you, Tropica Tropica has developed a brand new concept concept
aquarium or you already have one, it is very important to know
with a symbol or each plant so that you can easily choose
their characteristics and we oer you examples to help you to choose what is right or your particular aquarium. Common Common
what your aquarium can oer your plants and sh.
the right plants or your aquarium. The symbols and their
to all planted aquariums is that we always recommend algae-
meanings are detailed on page 7. We give example layouts
eating sh, shrimps and snails.
or aquariums with plants and here the only limit will be your imaginatio n! You can also see the videos and instructions at tropica.com.
3
1: The right aquarium HERE YOU WILL FIND A DESCRIPTION OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CONDITIONS YOU HAVE TO BE FAMILIAR WITH BEFORE CHOOSING AN AQUARIUM.
Aquarium choice is rst and oremost a matter o taste. What
in all corners. The light is always strongest in the middle o the
and CO2 supply, but we recommend our own series ”Plant
will it look like and where will it be situated in your living space?
aquarium and less intensive in the corners. I you do not already
Care” (inormation available at tropica.com).
Next, you have to decide who is to take care o the aquarium
have refectors behind the light source, it is a good idea to install
and how much time will be spent on it every week. Also, when
them. They will refect the light sending it down to the aquarium
An aquarium oten needs heating. Most sh and plants require
it comes to aquariums and equipment, you get what you pay
thus maximising the eect o your light source.
the water temperature to be 22-25 degrees whereas special sh
more expensive aquariums have better nish and better light.
In general, we recommend T5 fuorescent lamps or planted
your dealer. The simplest solution is an internal heater. Some
Regardless o your decision, both solutions can work provided
aquariums. Light that is close in spectrum to daylight is best
external lter models have a built-in heating element.
that your plant and sh choice are appropriate.
utilised by plants and provides accurate colour rendition. They
or. Cheap starter layouts include limited equipment whereas the
!
TIP: Please note that it is more dicult to achieve
stability when you have a small aquarium o 30 litres compared to a larger aquarium o 100-200 litres.
such as Discus need 28-30 degrees. Remember to consult with
can also grow very well with LED lighting. As ar as operation
The unction o the flter is to circulate the aquar ium water, to
is concerned, the LED option is cheapest to run and does not
clean the aquarium rom particles that can make the water ap-
generate heat like other light sources. Its initial price is quite high
pear cloudy and to biologically puriy the aquarium water via the
and only a ew types ensure optimal plant growth.
nitrogen cycle.
Apply ertiliser ater 3-4 weeks when the plants have taken
4
Light is the most important energy source or plants. It is impor-
hold. CO2 is supplied rom the beginning in order to speed up
tant to ensure that the light source is spread evenly over the
the growth o the plants and to enhance their colour. There are
surace o the aquarium so that the light can reach the plants
many options to choose rom when it comes to both ertilisers
A specialist takes care o his/her aquariums every day.
The community aquarium is an adventure or the whole amily.
The playroom – a standard starter layout can work nicely here. 5
2: The right plants WE HAVE MADE IT EASIER FOR YOU TO BECOME AN AQUARIST! WITH TROPICA’S UNIQUE SYMBOLS – EASY , MEDIUM AND ADVANCED – YOU CAN BE CERTAIN THAT YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS SUITABLE FOR YOUR AQUARIUM IN PARTICULAR! The concept in detail
Examples:
To make your aquarium a success you need to choose
1. The lighting levels supplied in many aquarium ki ts are oten
the right plants. Many discover that their plants do not do well
relatively low. A 96-litre aquarium can be equipped with a fuore-
ater planting. This is primarily due to purchasing a plant rom
scent T8 18W lamp, so you should stock plants rom the Easy
Medium or Advanced category, however, the aquarium does
category.
not oer enough light or CO2 that can help these plants grow! 2. A nano aquarium o 30 litres is equipped with an 18W Power
When a plant dies, it breaks down and a large am ount o nutri-
Compact lamp with good refector. I you choose a CO2 solution
ents are released into the water. Nutrients rom dead or dying
rom Tropica’s Plant Care program, you can choose plants rom
plants accumulate in the aquarium and cause algae to grow,
the Easy and Medium categories.
TIP: Remember
creating major problems in your aquarium. People oten give up 3. I you are up or a greater challenge, you will nd excellent
that the strongest light
quality aquariums in various sizes. Make sure that the light gives
is in the middle o the
Tropica would like to take co-responsibility or helping you to
at least 1 Watt per litre and that there is continuous CO2 supply.
aquarium. Thereore you
make your aquarium a success . Follow the directions or
I you ollow these instructions, you can choose reely amongst
should place the most light-
choosing plants on the opposite page. Then you will be on the
Easy , Medium and Advanced plants.
demanding plants in the
and lose their interest in this hobby! We would like to x this!
right path… 6
!
middle o the aquarium!
The easy plants
• These plants can thrive and grow well in low-light aquariums. • CO2 supply is recommended because the CO2 supply, despite the low light, ensures the growth o the plants. • The time expenditure per week is less than ½ hour because the plants grow slowly. • Bottom substrate at the beginning and liquid fertiliser for weekly use.
Plants that require a little extra
• The plants require at least ½ watt per litre to thrive. • CO2 supply is recommended to help plants grow with good colour and density. • Weekly maintenance times of ½-1 hour will be required depending on the growth and development o the plants.
+ CO2 + extra light
• Bottom substrate and liquid fertilisers are required. Special ertiliser is recommended.
The most demanding plants
• The plants require 1 Watt per litre or more to thrive fully. • Continuous CO2 supply of 15-25 mg per litre is required. • Maintenance time is 1-2 hours a week. The plant growth can pose challenges. • Bottom substrate and liquid fertiliser, including special ertiliser, are required.
+ ekstra CO2 + high lighting levels 7
Digging and plant-eating fsh Territorial fsh
3: The right fsh ASK YOUR DEALER ABOUT WHAT WILL BE SUITABLE FOR YOU AND YOUR AQUARIUM. IN THE MEANTIME WE WILL GIVE YOU SOME GOOD TIPS. Livebearing fsh
Shoaling fsh
The right balance between plants and sh in the aquarium are
Livebearing fsh, such as the guppy and platy are mostly
important or ensuring a healthy environment, which promotes
peaceul and brightly coloured. The emale give birth to their
natural sh behaviour. Most sh eel saest i they can hide
young, which use dense plants – especially close to the surace
quickly and easily. People oten preer attractive colours and
– as a hiding place because the young get eaten. Some males
want to look at their sh in a densely planted aquarium.
ght over the emales and the ones that lose also hide in the vegetation. Most livebearing sh eat algae and can potentially
In general, you should ollow the advices below:
damage sot plants and moss.
• 1 cm sh per litre of aquarium water! This way you minimise the algae growth!
time or only when they are young. Cichlids belong to this group.
cichlids, and most algae-eating sh, eat moss as well. With
You can observe very exciting behaviour patterns when several
plant-eating sh you can choose thick, tough leaves (such as
pairs are put together in a planted aquarium so that the sh can
Shoaling fsh such as tetras, rasboras and barbs, seek reuge
Anubias) or plants with strong favour (such as Bacopa). Digging
establish their territory.
in large groups known as shoals. Dense plants will give saety
sh tend to get rightened by strong roots which must be mature
to the relatively ew individuals (however, no less than 8-10 sh)
beore the sh are introduced! You can also cover the roots with
you have room or. Plants with delicate leaves are oten used or
stones or wood, which should keep the sh away.
• Always use algae-eating shrimps, snails or sh from the start.
laying eggs and thereore oer exciting breeding potential.
8
Territorial fsh want to have their own space – either all the Digging and herbivorous fsh including goldsh and some
!
TIP: We can recommend Tropica’s Aquadecor
range, which includes robust plants with their roots rmly xed onto a tree root or a lava rock.
Community fsh are sh that can share the aquarium with
many other kinds o sh. Community sh comprise primarily o livebearers and shoaling sh, but i you rearrange the aquarium aterwards, it will be able to accommodate even more kinds o sh. Cichlids thrive i there are holes and hiding places, and gouramis and angelsh seek security amongst plants.
One out o many examples o sh that need higher temperatures are Discus. People oten rerain rom plants in Discus
aquariums in order to acilitate the cleaning o the aquarium and the changing o water. I you want plants or your Discus, however, choose plants that grow naturally in places with high temperature. Cryptocoryne, Microsorum and Echinodorus are recommended.
Algae-eaters, shrimps and snails are very popular,
especially in the smaller nano aquariums. Shrimps in particular do well with mosses. Many shrimp types are delicate, which is why Tropica has developed a plant series called 1-2-Grow! The plants are cultivated in a lab and are ree rom algae and pesticides. Shrimps are very good at keeping delicate-leaved plants such as Hemianthus, Marselia and Glossostigma ree rom algae whereas snails are perect or large leaves, windows, stones and roots.
9
Tropica ABC: This is how you start
3. The bottom layer, which oten consists o gravel, is careully
distributed and it can slope upwards towards the rear wall o the aquarium. This way you achieve depth and perspective in your aquarium. 4. Finally, place the rocks, tree roots and any other decoration
you like. Move around individual components and chan ge their places, i necessary. It is now that you create room and perspective so that the aquarium layout design is just right or you.
FROM START TO CARE AND MAINTENANCE
! Planning your aquarium is a prerequisite or achiev ing good
1. Find the appropriate pieces o wood, rocks, stones and other
results. Gain inspiration at your local dealer or at tropica.com
decorative elements you want to use in your hardscape. I you
beore making your nal choice. Spend the necessary time on
choose heavy stones, we can recommend adding polystyrene
planning – and by all means on drawing – the layout with the
at the bottom in order to protect the glass.
location o both decoration materials and plants.
2. Add about 1 cm substrate in the places where plants with
strong roots will be planted. We recommend Tropica’s Plant Hardscape is an aquarium layout with gravel, rocks, tree roots
and other decorations – but no plants. Creating a hardscape is entirely up to your imagination. Some nd it extremely interesting, others do not like it so much. You can compare this activity to standing beore an easel and working with the paint brush. Most o us try to do their best, whereas diligent artists understand the colour setting, depth and perspective. Many competitions are arranged around the world to determine the aquascaper who can create the most impressive aquarium desi gn. We can recommend that you start with hardscapes, no matter whether you have the talent o an artist or not…!
10
Growth Substrate.
TIP! You can nd many hardscape examples
in step-by-step guides at tropica.com
The easiest way to plant in the aquarium is at a water
When introducing a new aquarium, the rst 90 days are
level o just a ew centimetres rom the bottom. Many aquarists
critical. To put it simply, the aquarium and the aquatic environ-
traditionally plant their plants when the aquarium is ull, but this
ment must be in balance with regards plant growth, sh popula-
way it can be dicult to orient yoursel in the water and to plant
tion and ltration. The plants have to adapt to the new conditions
properly in the gravel.
at a time where algae can thrive.
Careully pour the water down a saucer when relling in order to avoid stirring up the bottom until the water level is approx. 2 cm
We advise you to ollow the steps below:
above the gravel. Have a spray-mister ready in order to keep the
1. Set the lighting time to 6 hours a day in the rst 2-3 weeks.
plants damp while you are working. The plants can easily get by
Then you can increase to 8-10 hours a day.
when they are kept wet! See the Appendix on page 66-67 or
2. It is a good idea to provide CO2 rom day 1.
more inormation on handling specic plant types such as stem
3. Change the water 25-50% a couple o times a week in the
and rhizome plants.
rst 3-4 weeks. Ater that, change approx. 25% o the water
Day 1. The aquarium is planted and lled with water. Start with 6 hours o light a day.
once a week. 4. No ertiliser or a limited amount o ertiliser during the rst 3-4
weeks. The plants contain plenty o nutrients already rom the nursery, which is sucient to establish a root network. 5. Fast-growing plants such as Egeria and Limnophila, can
be planted permanently or removed at a later date once the aquarium is balanced. Fast-growing plants absorb the excess
Day 20. The plants have taken hold – but the aquarium is not balanced yet. Beware o possible algae growth.
nutrients and thereore minimise the growth o algae. 6. Introduce algae-eating snails and shrimps as soon as pos-
sible ater start-up. 7. We recommend that the introduction o sh is delayed or 3-4
weeks until the plants have established. In other respects, ollow the sh stocking guidelines or new aquariums. 8. Check the equipment – does the plug-in-timer operate the
lighting eectively, is the CO2 supply sucient, is the lter running, is the temperature OK?
!
Day 90. The desired result - good plant growth, great colour and transparent water - is achieved.
TIP! Download App with Tropica’s 90-day start-up
guide at tropica.com.
11
Maintenance Once you get going and the aquarium is developing properly, you have to start with more general maintenance: 1. Changing approx. 25% o the water every week prevents
the accumulation o hazardous substances in the aquarium and limits the algae growth. 2. Waste products in the orm o dead plant matter etc. should
be removed as soon as possible. Their breakdown uses oxygen and produces nutrients that destroys the balance and promotes algae growth. 3. Check the aquarium equipment regularly in order to make
sure that any aults and deects will be rectied and that a stable environment will be maintained. 4. The plant growth is now in ull swing and a liquid ertiliser has
to be added. Start careully and with a dose smaller than the recommended. Increase the dose gradually according to the plants’ reaction to the ertiliser. A good rule o thumb is that leaves or plants become lighter/transparent when they lack ertiliser. 5. Check or algae on a regular basis. The rst sign is unclear
water, accumulations on the glass, leaves or decorative materials, or possibly ne threads. I the algae become visible, it will be much more dicult to suppress them! Algae are reduced by changing the water, reducing the amount o ertiliser, introducing more ast-growing plants and algae-eaters. You can nd more inormation at tropica.com.
12
!
TIP: Overeeding your sh is the most common
cause o algae problems. Follow your dealer’s instructions.
Trimming The growth rate o the plants is very dierent and so is their trimming. Extensive trimming can disturb the balance in the aquarium, which is why little and oten trimming is preerable. This way the aquarium will look presentable all the time.
!
TIP! You can nd many examples o how to
trim your aquarium in step-by-step guides at tropica.com
Trim stem plants (1) by regularly clipping the longest shoots
leaving one o the bottom leaves and cutting the rest, then replant the shoots in the group. New shoots will emerge rom the
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
trimmed stem. The bottom layer and moss (2) are trimmed like a lawn,
in backward direction, in order to achieve ast new growth. Echinodorus, bulbs and tubers (3) are trimmed by
removing the outer leaves o the rosette and/or leaves that cast shadows over the surace. For Cryptocoryne (4), remove the yellow or damaged leaves.
When the group becomes too dense, remove whole plants. Stolons (5) are trimmed i they invade the surrounding plants.
The oldest plants can be replaced with stolons rom time to time. Rhizome plants (6) are slow-growing plants. The rhizome
stem itsel is trimmed between a bunch o leaves when the plant becomes too big. New shoots will orm rom the lea base.
13
Layout inspiration LET YOUR AQUARIUM DREAM COME TRUE. HERE WE OFFER YOUR FOUR INSPIRATIONAL LAYOUTS TO HELP INSPIRE YOU.
Scan the QR code with your smart-phone or click on the play icon (when you are online) to view a step-by-step guide rom start-up to the nal result. Each layout is presented with a brie description (more details
! TIP: The symbols Easy, Medium and Advanced indicate the plant selection we recommend or your specic aquarium.
are available at tropica.com), a list o plants and the associated layout drawing. The symbols on each aquarium reer to the description on page 7 and speciy the plants we recommend in relation to how much light the aquarium oers - how much light does your aquarium oer?
A. Taxiphyllum barbieri (x2) B. Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Tropica’ (x2) C. Staurogyne repens (x2) D. Echinodorus ‘Reni’ (x1)
LAYOUT 43 BY TONY SWINNEY (30L) Cubens 30 x 30 cm is perect or a simple hardscape with only one root placed in the middle o the aquarium. The root will look more natural over time because it will be covered with moss. The shape o the root is suitable or Anubias. Cryptocory ne wendtii ‘Tropica’ and Echinodorus ‘Reni’ contribute to the red shades o the root which emphasise the resh green Staurogyne in the oreground.
14
E. Echinodorus bleheri (x1) F. Vallisneria nana (x1) G. Anubias barteri var. nana (x2)
LAYOUT 44 BY MARK EVANS (200L) Mark has designed a dramatic rock landscape where the eye
A. Alternanthera reineckii ’Purple’ (x1)
H. Rotala rotundiolia (x1)
is caught in the light green, luxuriant oreground and guided to-
B. Aponogeton crispus ’Red’ (x2)
I. Pogostemon stellata (x2)
C. Echinodorus tenellus (x6)
J. Vesicularia erriei ‘Weeping’ (x2)
wards the centre o the aquarium. Here we meet an abundance o colours and shapes. Dark green moss and a dense tenellus
D. Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’ (x8) E. Hemianthus micranthemoides (x1)
orest rame the V-shaped edge. The colourul stem plants are
F. Ludwigia arcuata (x2)
challenging but i you succeed, they will be a nice contrast to
G. Pogostemon heleri (x2)
the peaceul green oreground.
15
LAYOUT 45 BY EDUARD GERCOG (180L) A natural layout with a ocus on dierent shapes and colours.
A. Anubias sp. ‘Petite’ (x4)
H. Ludwigia repens ‘Rubin’ (x3)
B. Bolbitis heudelotii (x2)
I. Microsorum pteropus ‘Narrow’ (x2)
C. Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Green’ (x3)
J. Monosoleum tenerrum (x1)
D. Cryptocoryne willisii (x3)
K. Myriophyllum mattogrossense (x4)
E. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x5)
L. Nymphaea lotus (x2)
composition o ast-growing plants at the back and ront, and
F. Eleocharis parvula (x10)
M. Vesicularia erriei ‘Weeping moss’ (x5)
stable, easy plants in the middle o the aquarium.
G. Hydrocotyle tripartita (x3)
Even though the aquarium is ull o colours, the plants used are relatively easy to care or. The aquarium is maintenance-riendly and will reach balance ast owing to many plants and a good
16
LAYOUT 46 BY DAN CRAWFORD (200L) The plants rom the Easy category are not only or starter aquariums – they are also used in large, luxuriant and lavish aquariums with minimum maintenance. Most plants have to be trimmed a ew times a year and the aquarium will look luxuriant and healthy or a long time when you supply liquid ertilisers and
A. Anubias barteri var. caladiiolia (YLX, x3)
G. Microsorum pteropus ‘Windeløv’ (ZWS, x2)
B. Echinodorus osiris (x3)
H. Pogostemon heleri (YLS, x5)
C. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x3) D. Echinodorus tenellus (x5) E. Microsorum pteropus (YLS, x2) F. Cryptocoryne becketii ’Petchii’ (YLS, x5)
CO2. It requires less than ½ hour of maintenance a week!
17
Our world o beautiul aquarium plants: EACH PRODUCT FROM TROPICA HAS BEEN TESTED AND ADAPTED SO THAT WE GIVE EACH PLANT THE BEST POSSIBLE START WHEN IT LEAVES THE NURSERY. OUR PRODUCT RANGE IS WIDE AND CAN COVER ALL YOUR NEEDS IN A PLANT AQUARIUM. BELOW IS AN OVERVIEW OF THE GROUPS OF PLANTS WE OFFER:
Pots are brimming with plants
AquaDecor are products
and have lots o mass and
where the plants grow on tree
healthy, well-developed roots.
roots or lava stones. The
Most pots can be divided
products are very lielike rom
into several portions
the beginning and create depth as soon as they are
or individual
18
plants which
Tuberous plants are Nymphaea or
introduced in the aquarium.
are planted separately.
Aponogeton. Each tuber with an incipient
Oten they can be used or sh that
Code: POT
shoot. The plants grow ast ater being
eat or dig up the plants such as goldsh and cichlids.
planted and become relatively big. A
Code W (wood) - M (mini) are 7-10 cm, S (small) are 12-
sticker with the level o diculty and inor-
25 cm and X (large) are 30-40 cm. Code L (lava stone) –
mation about the plant is included
S (small) are 7-15 cm and X (large) are 20-30 cm, Code
with each tuber. Code: KN
Z – suction disc at one end o the root.
Moss is sold in portions in sealed plas-
tic containers. There is a big dierence between mosses, but all o them make the aquarium more luxuriant and give it greater depth. Can be tied to stones or tree roots where they will orm hanging gardens. Perect or laying eggs or dierent sh. Code: POR
Floating plants are sold in portions in a sealed
plastic container. The plants give the aquarium another dimension thanks to their hanging roots
XL pots are extra large
and their ast growth limits the growth o algae.
plants which are more robust
Ideal as plants that indicate the ertiliser level in
and give immediate luxuri-
the aquarium and perect as a hiding place or
ance. Can be used together
young sh.
with AquaDecor products in
Code: POR
Cichlid aquariums. Code XL
Bunches are groups o young plants or stems brought
NEW! 1-2-Grow! Consists o small plants straight rom
together with the help o a small anchor. They have a ew or
the lab in sealed containers. The plants are ree rom snails,
no roots. Roots are ormed very soon ater planting. They
algae and pesticides. Nutrient-jelly remnants are rinsed
are relatively easy, ast-growing plants which are excellent
thoroughly beore planting and the small plants have to be
or the start-up phase.
ertilised rom the very beginning. Recommended or nano
Code: BDT
aquariums and tanks with shrimps. Code: TC 19
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’
Plants rom A-Z TO HELP YOU GET STARTED WITH THE PLANTS, WE WOULD LIKE TO BRIEFLY SHOW YOU HOW TO READ OUR PLANT DATA.
Each product sheet contains inormation about the plant, its requirements as ar as physical and water chemistry are concerned, as well as tips on how to handle the plant when you
The Latin name o the plant.
An Easy, Medium or Advanced symbol indicates the level o diculty o the plant and its requirements concerning light, CO2 and ertiliser, as well as care requirements – see page 7.
The layout pictures o the plant in the aquarium once it has adapted to the conditions in the aquarium.
introduce it to the aquarium and daily care. In short, all the inormation you must use to make your aquarium a success. All products are supplied with inormation about their degree o diculty and plant data on a sticker or on the package. At tropica.com you will nd more acts about plants, in-depth inormation about lighting intervals and growth rate, as well as
A description o the plant, including origin, type (stem, rosette…), height and width in the aquarium, eatures, use in the aquarium, as well as specic care requirements. Hand-painted watercolour that shows the orm and colour o the plant in the aquarium.
Hemianthus callitrichoides is one o the smallest aquarium plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with millimetre-sized round leaves. I planted in small clumps a ew centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an attractive oreground plant or small aquariums. Found on Cuba west o Havana.
general descriptions o the importance o pH, temperature and water chemistry. Furthermore, there are also layout pictures and reerences on how plants are used in layouts. The plants are presented in alphabetic order by name and on page 65 you can see the variants we oer in the respective
Pictures o the product as received rom Tropica.
Size o root or lava stone. Tropica’s order number.
product groups. The price group o the product. The bar code o the product.
20
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
048B POT
PG7
048B TC
PG7
048B YLS
PG10
Alternanthera reineckii ’Mini’
Alternanthera reineckii ’Pink’ (roseaolia)
Alternanthera reineckii ’Purple’ (lilacina)
This miniture version o the well-known Alternanthera is
The purple colour underneath leaves o Alternanthera
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Purple’ rom South America needs
characterized by compact growth and a slower gro wth rate.
reineckii ‘Pink’ rom South America provides an eective
plenty o light to grow and orm dark-red leaves. Stems
It is particularly suitable or small aquariums or as a ore-
contrast to the many green plants in an aquarium - par-
grow to 15-40 cm. In open aquariums it grows easily to
ground plant in larger aquascapes. By careul trimming can
ticularly when planted in groups. Stems becomes 25-50
the the water surace, and like other dicult plants gr owth
you create a dense, red-violet carpet approximately 5 to 10
cm tall. Good light encourages the leaves to turn red. Easy
improves considerably i CO2 is added. Shortage o
cm high. High light intensity and addition o CO2 improves
to propagate by nipping o the terminal bud and planting
micronutrients results in pale leaves. Like other stem plants
the plants growth and overall apperance.
it in the substrate. This also makes the mother plant more
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Purple’ looks best in groups.
bushy, because more side shoots are ormed.
023C TC
PG7
023 POT
PG5
023 BDT
PG3
023 XL
PG10
023B POT
PG6
21
Ammania sp. ’Bonsai’
Anubias barteri var. angustiolia
Anubias barteri var. barteri
Ammania sp. ‘Bonsai’ is best described as a compact,
Anubias barteri var. angustiolia rom West Arica is a beauti-
Anubias barteri var. barteri rom West Arica is an unde-
moderate growing version o Bacopa caroliniana. Plant in
ul plant with long, narrow leaves. 10-20 cm tall with the
manding plant. It grows somewhat larger than Anubias
small groups and trim oten. Cuttings may be re-planted
rhizome orming 10-15 cm or larger. Anubias barteri var.
barteri var. nana but is grown in the same conditions. From
in the group to achieve a more dense group or carpet.
angustiolia used to be sold as Anubias azelii, but the latter
25-45 cm tall, varies considerably in terms o size and lea
At high light may the tip o the stems become reddish, at
is actually a much larger species. It is grown in the same
shape. Like other Anubias-species, it is best planted in a
lower light will the leaves become larger and the plant less
conditions as Anubias barteri var. nana. It is not eaten by
shady spot to restrict algae gro wth on the leaves. Herbivo-
compact. Ammania sp. ‘Bonsai’ are particularly suitable or
herbivorous sh.
rous sh do not eat the very tough and robust leaves.
nano-aquariums.
033E TC
22
PG7
101C POT
PG8
101A POT
PG8
Anubias barteri var. caladiiolia
Anubias barteri var. coeeolia
Anubias barteri var. caladiiolia originates rom an Australian tissue propagation laboratory. It is a very beautiul variety
Anubias barteri var. coeeolia is a very beautiul, low
with heart-shaped leaves. The leaves live or several years, so Anubias barteri var. caladiiolia can easily orm large
cultivar o Anubias barteri. 15-25 cm tall and a creeping
groups despite its slow growth. A group o Anubias barteri var. caladiiolia growing more than 50 cm wide in a ew
rhizome rom 10-15 cm or more. It is characteristic that
years is not unusual.
the leaves arch considerably between the lea ribs, and the new leaves are red-brown. The colour combination and lea shape make it an attractive variety. It fowers requently under water but does not produce seeds there. It is not eaten by herbivorous sh.
101U POT
PG8
LAVA ROCK 20-30 CM
WOOD 30-40 CM
101 YLX
101 YWX
PG13
PG13
101U XL
PG12
101G POT
PG9
23
Anubias barteri var. nana
Anubias sp. ’Petite’
Anubias barteri va r. nana is a small, attractive plant whi ch thrives in all conditions. It originates r om Cameroon
Anubias sp. ‘Petite’ is a mutation which appeared in cultiva-
and will reach 5-10 cm height. The best result is achieved by planting on a stone or tree root. Fishing line can
tion at the Oriental aquarium plant nursery in Singapore.
be used to attach the plant until it gains a hold. I planted on the bottom the rhizome must not be covered
Stays less than 5 cm tall. It is most decorative when
because it tends to rot. It is not eaten by herbivorous sh.
attached to stones or roots, and l ike other Anubias should be attached with shing line until it gains a hold. A specialty plant which is ideal or miniature landscapes in small aquariums.
101 POT
24
PG7
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
WOOD 12-25 CM
WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM
101 YLS
101 YWS
101 ZWS
PG11
PG11
PG12
101H POT
PG8
Aponogeton boivinianus
Aponogeton crispus
Aponogeton crispus ’Red’
Aponogeton boivinianus is a large, strong plant which is only
Aponogeton crispus rom Sri Lanka look good in any
Aponogeton crispus ‘Red’ is an interesting, red bulb plant.
suitable or large aquariums. A bulb plant rom Madagascar.
aquarium with its light-green, transparent leaves. Leaves
A cultivar with red-violet, curly leaves which reaches 15-40
In avourable conditions it can orm very large leaves (up to
rom 25-50 cm and the plant grows to 15-25 cm wide. It
cm. With its moderate size, this graceul Aponogeton variety
80 cm long and 8 cm wide, and rom 30-50 cm wide). The
makes ew demands, although growth is alw ays best in
looks spectacular as ocal point contrasting against a light
oldest leaves are deep dark-green, while younger leaves
sot, slightly acidic water with a nutritious bottom. In such
green background. The plant is moderate to slow growing
are light-green and sometimes brownish until they are ully
conditions the plant produces a mass o leaves, and i t fow-
and develops ew or none foating leaves. Good light and
developed.
ers very requently in optimum conditions.
nutrient-rich conditions improves the plant characteristics.
083 POT
083B POT
088 KN
PG7
PG8
PG9
25
Aponogeton longiplumulosus
Aponogeton madagascariensis
Aponogeton ulvaceus
Aponogeton longiplumulosus rom Madagascar has large,
Aponogeton madagascariensis is a bulb plant rom Mada-
Aponogeton ulvaceus is one o the most beautiul bulb
futed leaves (35-60 cm long), making it a wonderul plant
gascar and is a speciality in botanical gardens all over the
species in the Aponogeton-amily and originates rom Mada-
which can be recommended or large aquariums (the whole
world. Aponogeton madagascariensis makes such high
gascar. The leaves are delicate light-green and transparent
plant becomes 25-40 cm wide). It is relatively undemand-
demands on water quality and the bottom that it can only
with futed margin. A single root can produce more than 40
ing, and makes no special demands on water quality.
be recommended as a solitary plant in large, specialised
leaves, 30-60 cm long. This means that the plant is best as
aquariums in which the water is replaced requently.
a solitary plant in l arge aquariums (the plant becomes up to 50 cm wide).
089D KN
26
PG7
089 KN
PG7
086 KN
PG7
Azolla caroliniana
Bacopa australis
Bacopa caroliniana
Azolla caroliniana rom North America is a small (1-2 cm tall),
Bacopa australis was discovered in southern Brazil
Bacopa caroliniana originates rom US and has been used
foating ern housing blue-green algae in its leaves. These
(australis = southern), and it does not come rom Australia,
as an aquarium plant or many years. Stems become 10-30
algae are capable o absorbing nitrogen r om the air, which
as might otherwise be assumed rom its name. Stems
cm long and 3-4 cm wide. Apart rom relatively good light it
can then be used by the plant. Azolla caroliniana is used as
become 10-30 cm tall and 2-4 cm wi de. Like the other
makes ew demands. Its slow growth rate makes it one o
nitrogen ertiliser in rice paddies, and as animal eed. There
Bacopa species, Bacopa australis is also easy to grow in
the ew stem plants that do not need much attention. Like
are several related varieties on the market, wi th similar ap-
an aquarium. Under certain conditions it creeps across the
most stem plants, it is most decorative when planted in
pearance. A decorative plant or open aquariums.
bottom to orm an elegantly decorative light green cushion.
small groups.
013 POR
043A POT
043 POT
PG6
PG5
PG5
043 BDT
PG3
27
Bacopa monnieri
Bolbitis heudelotii
Cabomba caroliniana
Bacopa monnieri originating rom Tropical areas is an easy
Bolbitis comes rom West Arica, a ern with very beautiul
Cabomba is a very popular aquarium plant rom South
and highly recommended plant which thrives in almost all
transparent green leaves, 15-40 cm tall and wide. When
America owing to its beautiul oliage. It reaches 30-80
conditions. It is a plant which is suitable or the hard water
planting do not cover the rhizome because it will rot, and it is
cm and each stem can become 5-8 cm wide.The least
ound in many European aquariums. Propagate by cuttings;
best to plant Bolbitis heudelotii on a root or stone. Keep the
demanding o the Cabomba-species, but still causes
take a side shoot or terminal bud and plant it in the bottom.
plant in position with shing line until it has gained a hold.
problems in poorly lit aquariums. I there is not sucient
Most beautiul when a great number o stems are planted
Growth can be increased considerably by supplying CO2,
light, try Limnophila sessilifora, which requires less light.
in a group.
and is only optimal in so t, slightly acidic water.
Most decorative when planted in groups. Eaten locally as a vegetable.
WOOD 12-25 CM
044 POT
28
PG5
006 POT
PG8
006 XL
PG11
006 YWS
PG11
015 BDT
PG3
Cardamine lyrata
Ceratophyllum demersum ’Foxtail’
Cardamine lyrata is actually a marsh plant rom Japan. But
Ceratophyllum demersum ’Foxtail’ was ound in a smaller
Ceratopteris is a pan-tropical ern, 15-30 cm tall and 10-20
it is also a amiliar aquarium plant which thrives under water
tributary in Bolivia during an expedition to Rio Guapore, a
wide. This plant normally grows ast, but the addition o CO2
with 20-50 cm long stems. A characteristic trailing growth
boundary river between Brazil and Bolivia. C eratophyllum
may be necessary to promote growth. The nely branched
orm makes it highly decorative, and ‘aerial’ roots oten orm
has no roots as such, but it can still be planted in the bot-
leaves are very decorative and provide good contrast to
on the plant itsel. Plant in gr oups, and make sure the water
tom o an aquarium and stems can become up to 80 cm
other lea shapes. In good lig ht Ceratopteris thalictroides
temperature does not exceed 28 degrees C.
tall. ’Foxtail’ diers because its leaves are closer together
grows ast and helps prevent algae by consuming large
and it has lateral shoots, which gi ves it an attractive, com-
amounts o nutrients. This makes it a go od starter plant in
pact appearance.
small aquariums.
024 POT
PG5
021A POR
PG8
Ceratopteris thalictroides
005A POT
PG6
29
Cladophora aegagrophila
Crinum calamistratum
Crinum natans
Cladophora aegagrophila is not really a plant, but a ball
Crinum calamistratum rom West Arica is a very graceul
Crinum natans is a very beautiul and graceul bulbous plant
o algae rom 3-10 cm wide. It is a decorative exception
bulbous plant with dark-green, very narrow leaves. The curly
with dark green leaves rom West Arica. Leaves grow to
rom the rule about avoiding algae at all costs. It is normally
leaves becomes 40-120 cm long. It orms smaller bulbs
50-150 cm long. Plant so the top 2/3 o the bulb is visible.
ound in shallow lakes, where the movement o the waves
than the other Crinum-species, and demands more light. In
When the plant grows older (i it is thriving) it sometimes
orms it into a sphere. Cladophora aegagrophila can be
the aquarium plants that are thriving orm a number o small
orms small bulbs and sends a fower stem up to the water
divided into smaller pieces, which become spherical with
bulbs. It is not eaten by herbivorous sh. It can also be used
surace with a beautiul and aromatic lily fower. The plant
time, or which orm a carpet, i attached to roots and
in brackish aquariums with low salt concentrations.
varies considerably in lea width and the shape o the lea
stones.
000C ST
30
margin.
PG5
094A POT
PG9
094A XL
PG13
094 POT
PG9
094 XL
PG13
Crinum thaianum
Cryptocoryne beckettii ’Petchii’
Cryptocoryne crispatula
Crinum thaianum rom Thailand is a distinctive bulbous
Cryptocoryne beckettii ‘Petchii’ is a small variety o Cryp-
Cryptocoryne crispatula rom Southern Thailand where
plant belonging to the lily amily having 60-200 cm long
tocoryne beckettii rom Sri Lanka, which has beautiul,
there are limestone mountains, and the water can be very
leaves. It is undemanding apart rom the act that i t needs
slightly futed lea margins, 10-15 cm long. Leaves become
hard. Like many other Cryptocorynes it needs to acclimatise
plenty o space. Plant so the top 2/3 o the bulb is visible,
dark olive-brown with violet underside. Like many other
beore growth starts in earnest. Leaves becomes 20-60 cm
because otherwise the bulb tends to rot. When the plant
Cryptocorynes, the lea colour and shape depends largely
long and the single roset plant becomes 15-20 cm wide.
grows older it sometimes sends a fower stem up to the
on environmental conditions in the aquarium.
water surace with an aromatic, elegant lily fower.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
093 POT
PG9
093 XL
PG11
108A POT
PG7
108A YLS
PG10
125 POT
PG9
31
Cryptocoryne parva
Cryptocoryne undulata ’Broad Leaves’
Cryptocoryne parva rom Sri Lanka is the smallest o all
The triploid variety o Cryptocoryne undulata rom Sri Lanka
Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Brown’ is a beautiul brown variety o
Cryptocorynes (only 3-6 cm tall and a roset less than
has wider leaves and a beautiul, fecked lea pattern. I t also
Cryptocoryne wendtii rom Sri Lanka. It reaches 15-25 cm
5-8 cm wide). It is one o the ew species that does not
grows larger, rom 15-25 cm, and the single roset becomes
and each roset becomes 10-15 cm wide. It is a mistake to
signicantly change its lea shape and colour depending
10-20 cm wide. It is a hardy plant and do well under many
believe that Cryptocorynes require sot water. In large parts
on cultivation conditions. It needs more light than most
growing conditions.
o Sri Lanka the water is hard, so Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes
other Cryptocorynes because it almost loses its lea
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Brown’
are almost all suitable or hard European water.
blade under water.
106 POT
32
PG8
110A POT
PG7
109C POT
PG7
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Green’
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Mi Oya’
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Tropica’
Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’ is suitable or small aquariums
This beautiul variety o Cryptocoryne wendtii is only
This beautiul variety with the dark, hammered leaves is
with heights rom 5-15 cm and a roset rom 8-15 cm wide.
ound in the river Mi Oya at Sri Lanka. It has characteristic
named ater ’Tropica’. When grown in an open space the
When grown in an open space the leaves will virtually lie on
red-brown, slightly hammered leaves rom 20-35 cm, and
leaves will virtually lie on the bottom. It is suitable or small
the bottom. Like most other Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes, it also
15-30 cm wide rosettes. Many Cryptocorynes can grow at
aquariums with leaves rom 10-15 cm, and a rosette
grows well in hard water.
high temperatures. In the wild this plant is ound in streams
rom 10-20 cm wide. Like most other Sri Lanka Crypto-
with a temperature o more than 30 degrees C.
corynes, it also grows well in hard water.
109D POT
109E POT
109 POT
PG7
PG7
PG7
109E XL
PG11
33
Cryptocoryne x willisii
34
Cyperus heleri
Didiplis diandra
This Cryptocoryne rom Sri Lanka used (mistakenly) to
Cyperus-species are widespread all over the tropics, but
Didiplis diandra rom North America is a ne plant which
be called Cryptocoryne nevillii, but this is the name o a
only a ew o them are good underwater plants. Cyperus
should be planted in small groups with stems rom 10-15
species that has never been used in aquariums. Like many
heleri rom Thailand is the rst Cyperus-species used in
cm and 2-5 cm wide. In good light it develops red shoot
other Cryptocorynes, not much happens the rst month a-
aquariums, 20-35 cm tall and a roset rom 15-25 cm wide.
tips which orm a beautiul contrast w ith other green plants.
ter planting. But then it starts to grow, and willingly produces
It requires a relatively large amount o light, and CO2 addi-
A demanding plant which needs a lot o light and preers
plenty o runners which orm a compact group. The plant
tion is recommended to promote growth. In aquariums with
sot water. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably. Also
becomes 7-20 cm tall, and each roset 7-15 cm wide.
good water fow the plant sw ays beautiully in the current.
known as Peplis diandra.
107 POT
133A POT
031 POT
PG7
PG7
PG7
Echinodorus ’Aquartica’
Echinodorus bleheri
Echinodorus cordiolius ssp. fuitans
Characteristics o the cultivar Echinodorus ’Aquartica’ are
Echinodorus bleheri rom South America is undemanding
A comparatively ast-growing Echinodorus rom Mexico,
its round, bright green leaves. Its compact (10-20 cm),
and beautiul, and becomes 20-50 cm tall. A nutritious
suitable or large aquariums reaching 20-50 cm long
low growth makes it suitable as a decorative solitary plant.
bottom promotes growth, but the plant needs pruning to
leaves and a 15-30 cm wide roset. Unlike other round-
Slow growing and easy to care or, Echinodorus ’Aquartica’
prevent it depriving plants underneath o light. Echinodorus
leaed varieties o the species, Echinodorus cordiolius
retains the rereshing green colour o its leaves in normal
bleheri does well even in poorly illuminated aquariums, as it
ssp. fuitans is less likely to grow up over the water
lighting and nutrient conditions in the aquarium. Echino-
grows towards the light. It is a hardy and easy solitary plant
surace. I it grows large enough, it orms large leaves just
dorus ’Aquartica’ was developed by Kristian Iversen rom
or both beginners and the more experienced with quite
under the surace instead.
the ”Aquartica’’ company.
large aquariums.
074F POT
071 POT
PG7
PG6
071 BDT
PG3
073D POT
PG7
35
Echinodorus osiris
Echinodorus ’Ozelot’
Echinodorus ’Ozelot Green’
In the 1970’s coloured aquarium plants were rare, which i s
Echinodorus ’Ozelot’ is a decorative hybrid between
A beautiul, dark-green variety o Echinodorus ’Ozelot’,
why Echinodorus osiris with its red colour quickly became
Echinodorus schluteri ’Leopard’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’.
20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. The dark spots
popular. It originates rom Brazil and becomes 25-50 cm tall
20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. Naturally, it is
orm a bigger contrast on the light leaves. The lea margin
with a 20-30 cm wide roset. It is generally an undemanding
the elliptical black spots on the red-brow n leaves that have
is futed. A nutritious bottom promotes growth. It is an easy
plant which is suitable or both sot and hard water. It is not
given this plant the name ’Ozelot’. The spots are darkest on
and highly recommended plant, which thrives in almost all
eaten by herbivorous sh.
the youngest leaves, and unlike many other spotted Echi-
conditions.
nodorus, ’Ozelot’ retains its spots even at l ow light intensity.
072 POT
36
PG8
073F POT
PG8
073F XL
PG12
073G POT
PG8
073G XL
PG12
Echinodorus palaeolius var. latiolius
Echinodorus quadricostatus
Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’
In marshy conditions Echinodorus palaeolius var. latiolius
Echinodorus ‘Quadricostatus’ rom South America has
Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’ appeared as a culture in the
rom Brazil has round leaves with a horizontal lea base.
characteristic light-green leaves 10-15 cm long which orm
Ukraine, and is probably a cross between Echinodorus
Under water the leaves are narrower and l onger (rom 20-
a good contrast to the darker aquarium plants. It is most
horemanni ’Red’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’. The resultant
40 cm). In the aquarium it tends to grow out o the w ater.
beautiul when planted in groups, each roset becoming
hybrid is an attractive plant with ruby-red swo rd-shaped
This can be prevented by removing the long leaves just
15-20 cm wide. In good conditions it produces runners
leaves, 15-25 cm long. Unlike many o the other Echinodor-
beore they reach the water surace. The next leaves will
which spread over the bottom. Very light leaves are a sign
us-species, Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’ remains moderate
then become shorter and the plant will remain under water.
o a shortage o micro-nutrients.
in size (20-30 cm wide roset).
076 POT
068 POT
074D POT
PG7
076 XL
PG12
PG7
PG8
37
Echinodorus ’Red Special’
Echinodorus ’Reni’
Echinodorus ’Rosé’
Echinodorus ‘Red Special’ is a hybrid o several dierent
‘Reni’ is a well-known cultivar characterised by being
This beautiul plant is a hybrid between Echinodorus
cultivated plants, characterised by copper-coloured,
amongst the smallest o the red Echinodorus, 15-40 cm
horemanii ‘Red’ and Echinodorus horizontalis. It was rst
spatula-shaped leaves. In some cases these have darker
tall and a roset rom 15-25 wide. The new leaves o the
produced in 1986 by Hans Barth in Dessau and becomes
red patches. The plant grows abundantly in a compact
plant are reddish-brown to deep beetroot in colo ur. It can
25-40 cm tall and a rosette rom 15-25 cm wide. New
shape (approximately 20-30 cm tall and wide), and is very
be used in small aquariums and is unpretentious. The plant
underwater leaves are a beautiul pink, and initially the
decorative as a solitary plant.
requires a lot o light and nourishment or optimal colour
leaves have red-brown spots. A nutritious bottom promotes
development.
growth, but otherwise Echinodorus ’Rosé’ is undemanding and thus an excellent plant or beginners.
073J POT
38
PG8
072D POT
PG8
072B POT
PG8
072B XL
PG12
Echinodorus ’Rubin’
Echinodorus tenellus
Echinodorus uruguayensis
Echinodorus ’Rubin’ is a decorative hybrid between Echi-
Small oreground plants or aquariums ar e in short supply,
Echinodorus uruguayensis rom South America has long,
nodorus horemanii ‘Red’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’ with up
but Echinodorus tenellus rom North America is one o
narrow, transparent, dark-green leaves 20-55 cm long,
to 60 cm long leaves and a roset rom 20-40 cm wide. The
the best. The runners spread round the aquarium. A true
making it a very beautiul solitary plant or large aquariums.
transparent, ruby-red leaves with light lea ribs provide a
”lawn’’ eect appr. 5-10 cm tall is only achieved at high
The lea length and width vary considerably. In good growing
particularly intensive sheen. An undemanding plant whose
light intensities, so you must make sure larger plants do not
conditions it orms an unusual number o leaves (10-30 cm
growth is stimulated by CO2 addition and a nutritious bot-
overshadow the plant. Plant individual plants a couple o
wide roset), and a nutritious bottom and CO2 addition and
tom. A good solitary plant or large aquariums.
centimetres apart (easiest with tweezers).
slightly acidic water promote growth.
067 POT
070A POT
074B POT
PG8
074B XL
PG13
PG8
PG8
39
Echinodorus ’Vesuvius’
Echinodorus ’Barthii’
Egeria densa
Echinodorus ’Vesuvius’ is a cultured species based on
The cultivar Echinodorus ‘Barthii’ is a decorative and beauti-
The cosmopolitan Egeria densa is a good plant or begin-
Echinodorus angustiolia rom Oriental Aquarium Plants.
ul solitary plant or large aquariums. It becomes 25-50
ners, and its rapid gro wth helps create a balance in the
The narrow and twisted green leaves makes it an unusual
cm tall and the whole rosette 20-30 cm wide. The leaves
aquarium rom the start. Stems grows ast to 40-100 cm
addition to the Echinodorus amily. The rosette species
change colour rom dark-red in the youngest leaves to
and becomes 2-4 cm wide. Egeria helps preventing algae
grows vigorously with many medium length and narrow
dark-green in the oldest. The colour develops well when the
because it absorbs a great number o nutrients rom the
leaves (10-20 cm tall), and is highly decorative as a solitary
light intensity is high and there are sucient micro-nutrients
water. The plant secretes antibiotic substances which can
plant (rosette 10-15 cm wide). ’Vesuvius’ spreads readily
in the aquarium.
help prevent blue-green algae (a type o bacteria).
with runners.
067C POT
40
PG9
072A POT
PG8
072A XL
PG12
058 BDT
PG3
Eleocharis parvula
Eleocharis sp. ’Mini’
Fissidens ontanus
The cosmopolitan Eleocharis parvula has short leaves and
Eleocharis sp. ’mini’ has even lower growth than the
This eatherlike Fissidens-moss with tight deep green down
ast growth making it one o the most impressive carpet-
common Eleocharis parvula and was given to Tropica by
comes rom North America. It grows relatively slow and
orming oreground plants, 3-10 cm tall depending on light
Thomas Barr rom US. Plant the mini-version in small por-
requires much more light than other mosses. Suitable or
conditions. It spreads rapidly by runners. It is a relatively
tions covering a larger area. In short time, a dense carpet
binding roots and stones both vertically and horizontally in
easy and undemanding plant that does best with good light
will be obtained. Needs light to perorm optimal, however,
the aquarium.
and a nutritious substrate.
it is one o the most secure species or creating a carpet – and a minimum o maintenance since leaves stays small (3-5 cm).
132C POT
PG7
132B TC
PG7
002F POR
PG9
41
Fontinalis sp. ’Willow’
Glossostigma elatinoides
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’
Fontinalis antipyretica looks best when it r eaches a bigger
Glossostigma elatinoides rom New Zealand is much in
Hemianthus callitrichoides is one o the smallest aquarium
size. Hence, the light green tips o each darker green stem
demand in Japanese-inspired aquariums. It is one o the
plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with
becomes visible. Fontinalis is an unassuming and easy
smallest aquarium plants (2-3 cm tall), and thus a good
millimetre-sized round leaves. I planted in small clumps a
moss, which do well also at lower temperatures, and does
oreground plant. A dicult plant demanding a lot o light.
ew centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the
well in many types o aquariums.
Grows upwards i light is poor. Make sure larger plants do
bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an attrac-
not overshadow it. CO2 addition and sot water promote
tive oreground plant or small aquariums. Found on Cuba
growth signicantly.
west o Havana.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
003F POR
42
PG9
045A POT
PG6
045A TC
PG7
048B POT
PG7
048B TC
PG7
048B YLS
PG10
Hemianthus micranthemoides
Heteranthera zosteriolia
Hydrocotyle tripartita
Hemianthus micranthemoides rom North America is a
Heteranthera zosteriolia rom South America is an extremely
Hydrocotyle tripartita is characterised by ast, compact
graceul plant whose small, arched leaves make it look like
beautiul plant which orms a lot o side shoots and thus
growth and small, intensive green leaves on vertical stems.
a miniature version o Egeria. It has a characteristic trailing
quickly orms a bushy plant group. Stems can become
The plant is carpet-orming (5-10 cm tall) and its compact
growth in intensive light, so i t can be used as a oreground
30-50 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. In strong light growth is
growth can be promoted by physically pressing the carpet
plant (stems rom 10-20 cm tall, 2-3 cm wide). A compact
intensive, and the plant must be pruned beore it becomes
with your hand when maintaining your aquarium (mechanical
group o Hemianthus micranthemoides is very beautiul with
so compact that no light reaches the lower leaves.
retardation). Carpet ormation and compact growth do best
its small, light-green leaves.
048A POT
PG7
in good light.
096 TC
PG7
039B POT
PG7
43
Hydrocotyle verticillata
44
Hygrophila corymbosa
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Angustiolia’
Unlike other Hydrocotyle species, this plant retains i ts
Hygrophila corymbosa is an undemanding starter plant that
This plant originates rom South-East Asia and stems be-
trailing growth orm. Verticillata originates rom America and
originates rom Asia. In the aquarium it will spread ast and
come 25-60 cm long with 10 cm long leaves. Under water
becomes 3-7 cm tall. Optimum growth is only achieved in
create bright green, long and wide leaves. It is a ast grow-
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Angustiolia’ has relatively narrow
strong light and sot, sli ghtly acidic water. It does not need to
ing plant that must be pruned requently. New shoots will
leaves which are grouped close together. Plants sold in
be rooted, but can be used as a foating plant. Hydrocotyle
spread rom the stem and make the plant loo k bushier. The
the shops are normally cultivated above water, and have
verticillata is denitely a oreground plant which can also be
cuttings can be re-planted in the bottom o the aquarium
rounder leaves with larger gaps between them.
used in garden ponds.
where new roots orm quickly.
039 POT
053 BDT
PG6
PG3
052A POT
PG5
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis’
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis 53B’
Hygrophila diormis
‘Siamensis’ originates rom Thailand and have stems rom
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis 53B’ is a variety o
Hygrophila diormis rom Asia is beautiul and undemand-
15-40 cm and 10-15 cm wide. Leaves are light-green
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis’. This Hygrophila ’Sia-
ing. Stems becomes 20-30 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. A
and dense. In open aquariums Hygrophila corymbosa
mensis 53B’ orms an incredible amount o side shoots and
plant or beginners which can help create a balance in the
’Siamensis’ grows easily above the water surace, where i t
becomes bushy relatively rapidly. Stems becomes 15-40
aquarium rom the start. Its rapid growth helps prevent algae
orms blue-green leaves and small blue fowers. It grows ast
cm tall and 7-12 cm wi de. Its beautiul bright green leaves
because the plant absorbs a great number o nutrients
and the shoots must be pinched out regularly i you want
are narrower than the regular ’Siamensis’ and it can achieve
rom the water. The shortage o micronutrients leads to pale
to keep the plant under water. An extremely hardy plant,
red-brown leaves in good light conditions.
leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium needs
suitable or beginners.
053A POT
PG5
ertiliser.
053A XL
PG10
053B POT
PG5
051 BDT
PG3
45
Hygrophila pinnatida
Hygrophila polysperma
Hygrophila polysperma ’Rosanervig’
Hygrophila pinnatida originates rom India. It obtains brown,
Hygrophila polysperma rom South-East Asia is one o the
Hygrophila polysperma ’Rosanervig’ is normally an unde-
patched leaves on the surace with a distinctive burgundy
hardiest aquarium plants available. Stems becomes 25-40
manding plant. But i you want deep-pink l eaves you must
colour underneath. It creates horizontal side shoots and
cm. It is particularly good or beginners because it grows
provide intensive light. Stems becomes 20-40 cm tall and
the top shoots should be pinched out in or der to maintain
in almost all conditions. It normally grows so ast that it is
5-8 cm wide. The distinctive colouring o the light lea ribs
compact and attractive growth. The horizontal side shoots
important to prevent it crowding out other plants. Hygrophila
is probably caused by a virus which prevents chlorophyll
easily attach to both wood and ro cks. Stems 15-40 cm tall,
polysperma varies considerably in lea shape and colour,
rom being produced in the cells around the lea ribs, mak-
and the colour is attractive when planted in small groups
depending to some extent on the light supplied.
ing them white.
050 POT
050B POT
with a plain background.
WOOD 12-25 CM
051A POT
46
PG8
051A YWS
PG10
PG6
PG6
Hygrophila sp. ’Araguaia’
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis
Lilaeopsis mauritiana
“Araguaia” is a river system in Brazil and it is under this name
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis rom South America can grow very
This Lilaeopsis species demands less light than Lilaeopsis
that the plant has become known. There are many signs,
compact, but a ”lawn eect’’ (4-7 cm tall) is only achieved
brasiliensis, and stays also low (5-10 cm “lawn”). Tropica’s
however, that the plant is a Hygrophila lancea rom Japan
at high light intensity. When planting in the aquarium small
ounder, Holger Windeløv, ound it on Mauritius in 1992.
and Hong Kong. The stem becomes 10-20 cm tall. It has
clumps (approx. 1/8 pot) should be pl aced a ew centime-
The plants height and distance between its leaves depend
compact, tight-sitting leaves and grows branches easily.
tres apart to help the plants grow together more quickly.
on the light intensity. The more light it gets, the lower the
Pinching o the stems maintains a bushy look. The plant is
Place in an open position without shading r om other plants
plant and the denser the leaves. The runners spread round
reddish brown to purple in colour and is promoted by good
to ensure good light.
the aquarium. Should be planted like Lilaeopsis brasili ensis.
growth conditions.
051B POT
PG7
040 POT
PG6
040 TC
PG7
040B POT
PG7
47
Limnobium laevigatum
Limnophila aquatica
Limnophila sessilifora
Limnobium laevigatum rom South America is a decorative
An extremely beautiul aquarium plant circled by light-green
Limnophila sessilifora is a good and undemanding plant
foating plant that is particularly suitable or open aquariums.
and nely branched leaves rom South-East Asia. In the right
rom South-East Asia which is a good alternative to
1-5 cm tall and leaves rom 5-15 cm wide. It is also good in
growing conditions with added CO2 and a nutritious bottom
Cabomba, which demands a lot o light. Stems grows ast
traditional aquariums, because the ne, long and decorative
this plant grows ast and can become 25-50 cm long and
up to 40 cm long and becomes 3-4 cm wide. The plant
roots provide protection to gouramies and other surace sh
each stem up to 15 cm wide. In good light it orms horizon-
oten grows leggy in poor light, but this can be counteracted
that like the roots o foating plants.
tal side shoots and becomes attractive and bushy. Most
to some extent by stimulating growth by CO2 addition. Most
decorative when several stems are planted in a small group.
beautiul when planted in groups.
046 POT
047 POT
063 POR
48
PG7
PG7
PG6
Lindernia rotundiolia
Lobelia cardinalis
Ludwigia arcuata
Lindernia rotundiolia grows on sandy banks along streams
Lobelia cardinalis grows wild in Northern America. In the
This is a narrow-leaed Ludwigia species rom US, a plant
in Asia. The plant is undemanding and the stems with
nursery this plant is cultivated in marshy conditions, orming
with 25-50 long and 3-5 wide stems. It is oten mistaken or
marbled leaves quickly orm compact groups. Lindernia
dark-green leaves which are purple underneath. In aquari-
Didiplis diandra. It requires a relatively large amount o light
rotundiolia is suitable both or background and as a solitary
ums the leaves turn a beautiul shade o light-green, w ith
beore orming a red stem and red leaves, and thrives best
mid-ground plant with leaves growing tightly rom top to bot-
stems 10-30 cm tall and 5-10 cm wide. It needs intensive
in slightly acidic, sot/medium hard water. The most decora-
tom. A good starter plant that thrives under most conditions.
light to thrive. Widely used in Dutch aquariums in so-called
tive eect can be achieved by planting it in groups.
”plant streets’’.
045 POT
PG6
053C POT
PG5
035 POT
PG7
49
Ludwigia glandulosa
Ludwigia repens ’Rubin’
Marsilea hirsuta
Marsilea hirsuta is a carpet-plant rom Australia. A ascinat-
Ludwigia glandulosa rom North America is a very beautiul
Variety o Ludwigia repens rom North America with strik-
water plant. It is slow growing and requires CO2 addition
ing dark red leaves and stalk. Stems rom 20-50 cm and
ing plant, usually delivered with leaves lik e a our-lea clover.
to grow well. Stems becomes 15-40 cm tall and 5-12 cm
4-6 cm wide. It makes a ne colour contrast to the green
Ater a transitional period it develops dierent types o
wide. The leaves turn greener i sucient light is provided.
shades in the aquarium. Plant in large g roups to enhance
leaves, possibly a low orm with single leaves like a large
Used to be sold as Ludwigia perennis.
the decorative eect, and prune regularly to encourage
Glossostigma, or alternatively develop two, three or our-
bushy growth. The plant makes ew demands, but i light is
lobed leaves varying in height (rom 2-10 cm), depending on
insucient the lower leaves tend to all o.
the growth conditions.
033D POT
010 POT
035A POT
50
PG5
PG7
PG5
010 TC
PG7
Microsorum pteropus
Microsorum pteropus is a water ern rom Asia, 15-30 cm tall, which should be grown on a root or stone, attached with shing line until it has gained a hold. I it is planted in the bottom, do not cover the rhizome because it will r ot. Easy to propagate by splitting the horizontal rhizome. A hardy plant which grows in all conditions. The black spots under the leaves are sporangia (reproductive organs), not signs o disease as many believe.
008 POT
PG8
008 XL
PG12
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
LAVA ROCK 20-30 CM
WOOD 12-25 CM
WOOD 30-40 CM
WOOD 30-40 CM
WOOD WITH SUCTION, 30-40 CM
008 YLS
008 YLX
008 YWS
008 YWX
008N YWX
500 OWX
PG11
PG13
PG11
PG13
PG13
PG13
51
Micranthemum umbrosum
Microsorum pteropus ’Narrow’
Micranthemum umbrosum is a beautiul plant rom US with
Microsorum pteropus is a highly variable species, and new varieties are easily bred. Microsorum pteropus
small round leaves. It is suitable or small or large aquariums
’Narrow’ has narrower leaves, which grow at a less acute angle rom the stem than the normal Microsorum
with stems becoming 10-25 cm long and 1-2 cm wide.
pteropus. Leaves becomes 10-20 cm and a rhizome rom 10-15 cm or more. The plant attaches readily to
Relatively demanding in terms o light. CO2 addition is
roots and stones. A decorative plant, which is also suitable or smaller aquariums.
recommended to promote growth. Once the plant starts growing it grows ast, and the shoots have to be pinched out oten (can be planted as cuttings in the bottom).
048 POT
52
PG7
008A POT
PG8
WOOD 12-25 CM
WOOD 30-40 CM
WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM
008A YWS
008A YWX
008A ZWS
PG11
PG13
PG12
Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’
Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’ is a patented variety o Microsorum pteropus, named ater Tropica’s ounder Holger Windeløv. Its nely branched lea tips make it one o the most beautiul aquarium plants. The Microsorum variety becomes 15-20 cm tall and wide. A hardy and easy plant or both beginners and the more experienced. Best results are obtained by planting it on a stone or tree root.
WOOD 7-10 CM
008B POT
PG8
008B YWM
PG9
WOOD 12-25 CM
WOOD 30-40 CM
WOOD WITH SUCTION, 7-10 CM
WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM
HALF COCONUT
008B YWS
008B YWX
008B ZWM
008B ZWS
510 YCS
PG11
PG13
PG10
PG12
PG12
53
Monosolenium tenerum
Myriophyllum mattogrossense
Myriophyllum mattogrossense ’Red’
The Asian Monosolenium tenerum is an attractive liverwort,
Myriophyllum matogrossense originates rom Matto
The orange-red variety o Myriophyllum mattogrossense
2-5 cm high, which looks most like a giant Riccia that
Grosso in the Rio Amazonas, Brazil. It has decorative and
rom South America demands high light and nutrient levels
simply stays at the bottom, where it orms cushions. It is
eather-like, reddish stems (30-60 cm long) and nely
to develop optimally. It becomes 20-60 cm tall and each
a brittle plant, and pieces break o easily, so it is best to
divided bright green leaves (5 cm wide). In good light con-
stem 3-4 cm wide. Myri ophyllum should be planted in the
place it in the aquarium attached to stones with shing line
ditions the leaves spread out in a an shape. Myriophyllum
center or background o the aquarium, and as a contrast
or in small clumps among other plants such as Eleocharis.
is relatively easy and is suitable or the background.
to green plants. The variety is ast growing and must be
Once Monosolenium has established itsel, it is very
A good starter plant.
trimmed oten to keep a dense, compact growth. Cutted
undemanding.
stems can be planted next to the group to obtain an ever denser group.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
002C POR
54
PG7
002C YLS
PG10 PG
037 POT
PG7
037D POT
PG7
Nesaea crassicaulis
Nymphaea lotus
Nymphoides sp. ’Taiwan’
Nesaea crassicaulis rom Arica is a beautiul and highly rec-
A beautiul and very varied species rom West Arica with
Nymphoides sp. grows in Asia and Arica - and this variant
ommended aquarium plant, although it has high demands
leaves o green to red-brown and varying numbers o
o the species originates rom southern Taiwan. The rosette
or light. It has red-brown, cognac-coloured leaves. Stems
purple spots. Can grow rom 20-80 cm tall. Beore orm-
plant can become 15-25 cm tall and 10-15 cm wide. This
becomes 30-50 cm and 8-15 cm wide. Grows best in sot
ing foating leaves Nymphaea lotus (zenkeri) orms many
variant is characterised by many underwater leaves and and
and slightly acidic water. Make sure the lower l eaves get
underwater leaves. I you don’t want foating leaves, prune
the intense, light-green, transparent colour o the plant.
sucient light, otherwise they will die o.
the roots and leaves. The beautiul, aromatic fowers can
The plant is ast-growing and it is necessary to thin out the
be ully appreciated in open aquariums. Recommended as
leaves (remove oldest leaves and surace leaves).
a solitary plant or large aquariums.
033B POT
PG5
019 POT
PG9
019 KN
PG7
041B POT
PG8
041B TC
PG7
55
Pogostemon erectus
Pogostemon heleri
Pogostemon stellata
The Indian Pogostemon erectus orms compact groups o
This plant was discovered by aquarists in Thailand, close
Pogostemon stellata rom Asia and Australia is distin-
bright green, conier-like stems, 10-20 cm tall and 1-3 cm
to the border with Burma. It is called ’Downoi’ (little star) in
guished by its beautiul shape and colour. Stems rom
wide. Pogostemon erectus is suitable as a background
Thailand, and it is easy to see why (5-10 cm tall and wide).
20-60 cm and up to 10 cm wide. It is dicult to grow in
plant and creates a wonderul ocal point in both smaller
Pogostemon heleri is an unusual and distinctive aquatic
aquariums. It requires intensive light and the addition o
and larger groups. Intense light helps the plant to stay
plant with a compact habit, curly leaves and a strikingly
CO2 to grow well. The shortage o micronutrients leads to
compact or a longer period. Moderate growth and vigorous
beautiul green colour.
pale leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium
roots.
needs ertiliser.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
053F POT
56
PG8
053F TC
PG7
053H POT
PG8
053H YLS
PG10
053G POT
PG7
Proserpinaca palustris ’Cuba’
Ranunculus inundatus
Riccardia chamedryolia
Proserpinaca is a stem plant, 10-40 cm tall and 5-10
This species comes rom Australia and becomes 5-10 cm
Coral moss - thick and compact moss species with an in-
cm wide. Cultivated above water and delivered with
tall. There are many species and variants o Ranunculus,
tense, deep green colour rom Asia, 1-3 cm tall. Riccardia
saw-toothed leaves, which ater a transitional period i n the
which grow coarse and leggy in aquariums. Ranunculus
is specially suited or attaching to branches and stones.
aquarium develop into long, nely denticulated, needle-like
inundatus is characterised by its compact orm and
The moss grows slowly and is easily overgrown by algae
leaves. In good light conditions it turns a beautiul copper
distinguished, deep-lying umbrellas. The plant orms many
or other mosses. Riccardia requires more light than other
colour. The Tropica cultivar is ound on the Isla de la Juven-
vertical runners with new plants and over time thick bottom
moss species.
tud o Cuba. In the USA the plant is commonly known as
coverage is ormed. Good lighting pr oduces compact
”mermaid weed’’.
growth. Long leaves can be pruned.
037C POT
PG8
022C POT
PG7
003D POR
PG9
57
Riccia fuitans
Rotala macrandra
Rotala rotundiolia
Japanese Takashi Amano has inspired many aquarium owners
Rotala macrandra is an unusually beautiul aquarium plant,
The Latin name means ”the plant with the round leaves’’.
to keep the 1-5 cm tall cosmopolitic moss, Riccia fuitans,
but unortunately it is very demanding. It needs very good
But this only applies to the marsh variety, which has circular
submerged. It can be kept down by tying it to a stone wi th a
light to develop its beautiul red colour, and CO2 addition
leaves. Rotala rotundiolia rom South-East Asia has long,
piece o shing line, but new shoots always grow towards the
and sot water are vital to ensure reasonable growth. It is
thin leaves (2-3 cm wide) and 15-30 long stems. Unlike
surace, so it may be necessary to prune it with scissors. Ric-
most beautiul in groups, but do not plant individual shoots
other Rotala species it is relatively undemanding, although
cia fuitans thrives best with added CO2 and in good growing
too close because this will prevent light reaching the lower
it needs good light to produce red leaves. It orms side
conditions small oxygen bubbles orm on the lea tips.
leaves.
shoots willingly, becoming compact and bushy.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
001 POR
58
PG7
001 TC
PG7
001 YLS
PG10
032 TC
PG7
033 POT
PG5
Rotala sp. ’Green’
Rotala wallichii
Sagittaria subulata
The asiatic Rotala sp. ‘Green’ is very similar to Rotala rotun-
Rotala wallichii is a demanding, South-asiatic stem plant that
Sagittaria subulata rom South America is an i deal, un-
diolia, but its leaves remain resh and bright green, even
develops red shoot tips in good light conditions. Stems rom
demanding oreground plant whose short runners orm a
with intensive light. Stems becomes 40-50 cm long and 2-3
10-30 cm and approximately 5 cm wide. The most decora-
compact group. Place individual plants 2-4 cm apart. This
cm wide. The plant orms many side shoots willingly and
tive eect can be achieved by planting a large number o
plant may cause problems because in certain conditions it
obtains a beautiul, bushy and ”hanging” growth. It should
stems in a group. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably.
suddenly grows to a height o 50 cm when it grows older.
be pruned requently to maintain healthy growth. An ideal
It also preers sot, slightly acidic water.
But i it is then moved into the background it may become
starter plant that looks best when planted in l arge groups.
033A POT
PG6
low again.
032A POT
PG7
079 POT
PG7
59
Salvinia natans
Shinnersia rivularis ’Weiss-Grün’
Staurogyne repens
Salvinia natans is a cosmopolitic foating ern, 1-3 cm, that
Variety o Shinnersia rivularis, distinguished by the white
Staurogyne repens is a resh green, compact and hardy
grows quickly i there is sucient nutrition and light. Light
veins on the leaves, 30-60 cm long and up to 10 cm wide
plant or the oreground o the aquarium and it was ound in
leaves are a sign o a shortage o micronutrients. It tends to
stems. This colour mutation was discovered at the Den-
River Rio Cristalino in the southern Amazonas. Staurogyne
shade light rom the plants at the bottom. Salvinia varieties
nerle aquarium plant nursery. The plant grows rapidly and
has a compact, low and bushy stature (5-10 cm). During
have small hairs on their leaves, making them water resistant.
soon reaches the water surace, but shoots can simply be
planting in the aquarium, the longest upright shoots should
Helps prevent algae by shading parts o the aquarium and
pinched o and planted back on the bottom.
be cut o and new horizontally creeping shoots will soon
using nutrients in the water.
011 POR
60
PG6
orm rom the plant basis and gradually colonize the gravel.
053E POT
PG7
049G POT
PG8
049G TC
PG7
Taxiphyllum barbieri
Taxiphyllum sp. ’Spiky’
Taxiphyllum barbieri rom South-East Asia is a hardy plant which makes ew demands on the water or light. The
Best described as Christmas moss’ big brother, but rom
moss becomes 3-10 cm thick and grows willingly on any surace, so it is ideal or decorating stones and tree
Asia, 2-10 cm tall, rougher and bigger with deep green,
roots or concealing installations in the aquarium. Attach the plant with a piece o shing line o r cotton thread until
branched shoots. Spiky moss does best on vertical
it has gained a hold on the décor. I its growth becomes too luxuriant, it can be pruned with scissors.
suraces where the branched shoots settle in. It grows ast and requires a lot o light to do well.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
0 03 P OR
P G7
0 03 S T
PG 8
0 03 T C
P G7
003 YLS
PG10
003G POR
PG8
61
Utricularia graminiolia
Vallisneria sp. ’Gigantea’
Vallisneria sp. ’Natans’
Utricularia graminiolia rom Asia belongs to the bladderwort
Vallisneria sp. Gigantea rom Asia is an easy plant that
amily. All the plants in this amily are insect eating, perennial
grows ast, suitable or large aquariums. In most aquariums
Vallisneria sp. ‘Natans’ rom Asia is a hardy plant or beginners. It has ne, narrow leaves (50-100 cm long, 1 cm
water and marsh plants. Bladder traps are a unique eature
the leaves grow so long that they foat on the surace (50-
wide) so it does not overshadow other plants much. Easy to
o this amily, which Utricularia graminiolia orms ater a short
150 cm, 2 cm wide). So the plant needs pruning to stop
propagate using its many runners.
period o time in the aquarium. The species name means
it taking too much light r om plants growing beneath. The
’with grass like leaves’ and the r esh green leaves ater a short
leaves are tough and strong, so they are not normally eaten
period o time orm a pretty mat which looks like a lawn (2-8
by herbivorous sh.
cm tall).
049B POT
62
PG8
054 POT
PG8
054 PL
PG6
055 BDT
PG3
Vallisneria sp. ’Mini Twister’
Vallisneria sp. ’Asiatica’
Vallisneria nana
Vallisneria sp. ‘Mini Twister’ is yet another graceul variety
Vallisneria sp. Asiatica has twisted, green leaves that make a
Vallisneria nana rom Australia is a solitary contrast plant
o Vallisneria americana. ‘Mini Twister’ develops short, at-
beautiul contrast when planted in groups. Its shorter leaves
with dark green, rosulate, narrow leaves (less than 1 cm).
tractively twisted leaves (10-15 cm and 1-2 cm wi de), and
(20-30 cm) dier rom most other Vallisneria species and do
It is extremely suitable as a mid-gr ound plant, but can also
can thus be placed between oreground and background
not overshadow other plants in the aquarium. An easy plant
be used as a background plant in small aquariums. The
plants. ‘Mini Twister’ is easy to grow and thrives even in less
that readily propagates via runners.
leaves are much narrower than with other species o Val-
intensive light and without addition o CO2 to the water.
lisneria, nor are they quite as long. In aquariums it typically grows to 30-50 cm, which no doubt refects the dierent light and nutrient conditions.
056B POT
PG7
056A BDT
PG3
056C POT
PG7
63
Vallisneria spiralis ’Tiger’
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’
Vesicularia erriei ’Weeping’
Vallisneria spiralis ’Tiger’ rom Asia is an excellent plant or
A moss speciality rom Brasil, 1-3 cm tall, called ”Christ-
Vesicularia erriei ’Weeping’, commonly known as Weeping
beginners, growing in virtually all light and water conditions.
mas tree moss’’, because o its side branch structure
Moss, is believed to originate rom China and has been
The name ’Tiger’ is due to its striped leaves (30-50 cm long,
which distinguishes it rom ordinary Vesicularia dubyana
distributed by Oriental Aquarium Plants. ’Weeping’ is a
1-2 cm wide). The relatively short leaves make it suitable or
and looks like r tree branches. It is more demanding than
feshy, 1-3 cm tall hanging moss with teardrop-like bright
small aquariums, and the leaves are also narrow so they do
ordinary Java moss and gro ws more slowly. It attaches
green shoots. It is best attached to dritwood or roots,
not overshadow smaller plants. Forms runners easily, and is
readily to roots and stones, and as it spreads in the water
as its drooping gro wth pattern helps to create depth and
thus easy to propagate.
it needs pruning to keep its shape attractive.
contrast in the aquarium.
055A POT
003A POR
WOOD 12-25 CM
64
PG7
PG8
003A TC
PG7
003A YWS
PG9
003B POR
PG8
003B TC
PG7
Product overview XL plants
Nr.
Symbol
Moss
Nr.
Alternanthera reineckii ’Pink’ (roseaolia)
023
Medium
21
Fissidens ontanus
002F
Symbol
Side
Nr.
Symbol
Advanced
41
Alternanthera reineckii ’Mini’
023C
Medium
Anubias barteri var. caladiiolia
101U
Easy
23
Fontinalis sp. ’Willow’
003F
21
Easy
42
Ammania sp. ’Bonsai’
033E
Medium
Bolbitis heudelotii
006
Medium
28
Monosolenium tenerum
002C
22
Easy
54
Eleocharis sp. ’Mini’
132B
Medium
Crinum calamistratum
094A
Easy
30
Riccardia chamedryolia
003D
41
57
Glossostigma elatinoides
045A Advanced
Crinum natans
094
Medium
30
Riccia fuitans
001
42
Medium
58
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’
048B
Crinum thaianum
093
Easy
31
Taxiphyllum barbieri
42
003
Easy
61
Heteranthera zosteriolia
096
Easy
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Tropica’
109E
Easy
33
43
Taxiphyllum sp. ’Spiky’
003G
Easy
61
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis
040
Medium
Echinodorus ’Barthii’
072A
Easy
47
40
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’
003A
Medium
64
Marsilea hirsuta
010
Medium
Echinodorus ’Ozelot’
073F
50
Easy
36
Vesicularia erriei ’Weeping’
003B
Medium
64
Nymphoides sp. ’Taiwan’
041B
Easy
Echinodorus ’Ozelot Green’
55
073G
Easy
36
Pogostemon erectus
053F
Medium
56
E ch in od or us pa la e ol iu s v ar. l at i ol iu s
0 76
Medium
37
Riccia fuitans
001
Medium
58
Echinodorus ’Rosé’
072B
Easy
38
Echinodorus ’Rubin’
074B
Easy
39
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis’
053A
Easy
Microsorum pteropus
008
Easy
AquaDecor
Side
Floating plants
Advanced
Advanced
Symbol
013
Easy
27
Rotala macrandra
032
Ceratophyllum demersum ’Foxtail’
021A
Easy
29
Staurogyne repens
049G
Easy
60
45
Limnobium laevigatum
063
Easy
48
Taxiphyllum barbieri
003
Easy
61
51
Riccia fuitans
001
Medium
58
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’
003A
Medium
64
Salvinia natans
011
Easy
60
Vesicularia erriei ’Weeping’
003B
Medium
64
Tuberous plants
Nr.
Symbol
Anubias barteri var. caladiiolia
101
Easy
23
Nr.
Symbol
Anubias barteri var. nana
101
Easy
24
Aponogeton boivinianus
088
Medium
25
Bolbitis heudelotii
006
Medium
28
Aponogeton longiplumulosus
089D
Medium
26
Cryptocoryne beckettii ’Petchii’
108A
Easy
31
Aponogeton madagascariensis
089
Medium
26
Hemianthus callit richoides ’Cuba’
048B
42
Aponogeton ulvaceus
086
Medium
26
Hygrophila pinnatida
051A
Medium
46
Nymphaea lotus
019
Medium
55
Microsorum pteropus
008
Easy
51
Microsorum pteropus ’Narrow’
008A
Easy
52
Bunches
Nr.
Symbol
Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’
008B
Easy
53
023
Medium
21
Monosolenium tenerum
002C
Easy
54
Bacopa caroliniana
043
Easy
27
Pogostemon heleri
053H
Medium
56
Cabomba caroliniana
015
Easy
28
Riccia fuitans
001
Medium
58
Echinodorus bleheri
071
Easy
35
Taxiphyllum barbieri
003
Easy
61
Egeria densa
058
Easy
40
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’
003A
Medium
64
Hygrophila corymbosa
053
Easy
44
Hygrophila diormis
051
Easy
45
Vallisneria sp. ’Natans’
055
Easy
62
Vallisneria sp. ’Asiatica’
056A
Easy
63
Advanced
Side
Nr.
Azolla caroliniana
Side
1-2-Grow!
Advanced
58
Side
Alternanthera reineckii ’Pink’ (roseaolia)
Side
Side
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65
Appendix Stem (Egeria, Hygrophila, Ludwigia…)
I necessary, cut o the overgrown roots so that the pot and stone wool can be removed and the roots trimmed to approx. 4 cm. In case o bundle stem plants with a ceramic ring, remove the ceramic ring and the bottom leaves. Plant the stems one by one in a group. Rosette (Echinodorus, Cryptocoryne…)
I necessary, cut o the overgrown roots so that you can remove the pot and mineral wool. Trim the roots at approx. 4 cm. Divide into single rosettes and remove the oldest/outermost leaves. Plant alone or in a group.
Rhizomes (Anubias, Microsorum…)
I necessary, cut o the overgrown roots so that you can remove the pot and mineral wool. When planting in bundles, do not cover the rhizome or the plant will rotten. The plant can be bound or squeezed between stones or roots.
Bulbs and tubers (Crinum, Aponogeton…)
Remove the pot and the mineral wool. Cut any strong roots at approx. 4 cm. I there are several plants in the pot, separate them from each other. Plant Crinum with approx. ½ of the bulb over the bottom layer. Tubers can be covered com pletely, but the shoot must be above the bottom layer. 66
Stolons (Vallisneria, Lilaeopsis…) Remove the pot and the mineral wool. I applicable, trim the roots at approx. 4 cm. Remove the ceramic ring rom the bundles. Plant the stems one by one in a group. Lilaeopsis, however, in small portions.
Floating plants (Limnobium, Ceratophyllum…) You can cut the very long roots and Ceratophyllum can be divided into small pieces. The plants are placed on the surace. Note the shading eect they have urther down in the aquarium.
Moss (Taxiphyllum, Monosolenium…) The portion can be divided into smaller portions. Used ”loosely foating” in the aquarium or bound to stones/roots. Very small moss tuts can be inserted into the bottom layer to cover the bottom.
Bottom layer (Eleocharis, Glossostigma…) Remove the pot and the excess mineral wool. Trim the mineral wool chunk at approx. 2 cm under plant level to use it as an “anchor” when planting. Divide into 4-10 portions and plant evenly over the area you wish to cover.
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