More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 35°C / 95.00°F |
| Temperature | 28°C / 82.40°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 2-30 kh |
| pH Value | 4-8 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 0-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Spirodela polyrhiza, commonly known as greater duckweed, is a species of aquatic plant belonging to the Araceae family. It is one of the largest duckweeds, characterized by its approximately 1 cm round fronds with a reddish underside and tufts of 7-21 roots. This plant is distributed in temperate-tropical climates globally and is often found in eutrophic, shallow, stagnant, muddy waterbodies.
Aquarium Suitability
Greater duckweed, suitable for aquariums, grows well as a floating plant in tanks, especially in water rich in nitrate, phosphate, and potassium. It requires moderate light for growth and is comparatively easier to manage due to its size compared to other duckweed species.
Demands and Hardiness
With a fast growth rate, Spirodela polyrhiza is considered an easy plant to maintain. It can thrive in water temperatures ranging from 28-30°C and exhibits tolerance to colder temperatures, with a range of 4-35°C. The plant's requirements include a pH level of 4-8, medium to high light, and specific levels of nutrients such as CO2, iron, nitrate, phosphate, and potassium.
Aquascaping & Usage
As a free-floating plant primarily located at the water surface, greater duckweed is utilized for its aesthetic appeal and its ability to provide shade and shelter for aquatic organisms in the aquarium. Its simple maintenance and growth make it a valuable addition to aquascaping projects.
Propagation
Spirodela polyrhiza reproduces through fragmentation, making it relatively easy to propagate in aquariums. This method involves the separation of plant parts, promoting the growth of new individuals.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Spirodela polyrhiza is commonly found in Central Europe in combination with other duckweed species in nutrient-rich, shallow waters. While widely distributed globally, it has limited representation in South America, where Spirodela intermedia is the main species.