More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Plant Colors | light green |
| Temperature Tolerance | 12°C / 53.60°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 6-40mg/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
Eleocharis pusilla, commonly known as dwarf spikerush, is often mistakenly sold under the name Eleocharis parvula in the aquarium trade. It is a species native to Australia and New Zealand. The plant is a member of the Cyperaceae family and belongs to the genus Eleocharis. When cultivated submersed, it can be distinguished from Eleocharis acicularis by its shorter height, lighter shade of green, and sideways-curving stalks. The plant forms a grass-like lawn appearance in aquatic settings and is an excellent choice for nano tanks and as a foreground or ground cover plant.
Aquarium Suitability
Dwarf spikerush is considered suitable for aquariums, especially for beginners, as it has an easy difficulty level. It is frequently available commercially and has been in trade since 1997. This plant thrives in medium to high light conditions, with a temperature range of 20-25°C. It can tolerate a pH range of 5-7 and requires moderate to high carbon dioxide levels (6-40mg/l).
Demands and Hardiness
Eleocharis pusilla has moderate growth and can be propagated through runners, splitting, or cutting off daughter plants. It is adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, including a carbonate hardness of 0-14, nitrate levels of 10-50mg/l, phosphate levels of 0.1-3mg/l, and potassium levels of 5-30mg/l. The plant's winter hardiness is unknown.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, dwarf spikerush is commonly used to create a lush carpet effect in the foreground of aquariums. Its light green color adds vibrancy to the layout, and when planted densely, it can provide a natural and visually appealing habitat for aquatic species.
Propagation
Propagation of Eleocharis pusilla can be achieved through the development of runners that give rise to new daughter plants. Splitting existing clumps or cutting off daughter plants can also be effective methods for propagating this species.
Habitat and Distribution
This plant is native to Australia and New Zealand and was imported from Australia by the aquatic plant nursery Tropica. It is most frequently found in brackish habitats on the coast. While true Eleocharis parvula may not be readily available in trade, different variations of Eleocharis species, including Eleocharis sp. 'Belem,' are sometimes sold under the label "Eleocharis parvula" in the United States.