More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Temperature | 16°C / 60.80°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 4-8 kh |
| pH Value | 6.4-7 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 20-40mg/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
Elatine hydropiper, also known as Eight-stamen waterwort, is a plant that was introduced into the aquarium trade by Anbias plant company in 2010. Originating from Europe and parts of Asia, particularly found in northern Scandinavia, Siberia, Northern China, and the north-west of Italy. This aquatic plant thrives in various aquatic environments such as ponds, rivers, and marshes. In the aquarium trade, it is often confused with similar-looking species like Elatine macropoda and E. gussonei.
Aquarium Suitability
Elatine hydropiper is deemed suitable for aquariums, especially for nano tanks due to its small size and carpet-like growth pattern. It is commonly used as a ground cover and is favored by aquascapers for its resemblance to Glossostigma elatinoides but with a slower growth rate. This plant is known to fare well in tropical tanks despite its natural habitat being in colder regions.
Demands and Hardiness
This plant is classified as difficult in terms of care level. It thrives best in medium to high light conditions with a preferred temperature range of 16-26°C. Elatine hydropiper requires a pH level between 6.4-7 and thrives in a carbonate hardness of 4-8. It is known to tolerate colder temperatures, with a tolerance range of 4-26°C.
Aquascaping & Usage
Elatine hydropiper is favored for aquascaping due to its ability to form a dense carpet of small leaves. It is commonly used in nano tanks and as a foreground or ground cover plant. Its fresh green color and tiny leaves make it an ideal choice for creating intricate aquascape designs, particularly in smaller aquarium setups.
Propagation
Propagation of Elatine hydropiper can be achieved through various methods such as runners, cuttings, splitting, and cutting off daughter plants. This plant's ability to propagate easily makes it a popular choice for aquarists looking to expand their carpeting plants within the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Elatine hydropiper is found in diverse aquatic environments such as ponds, rivers, and marshes across Europe and parts of Asia. It has a widespread distribution, reaching as far north as Scandinavia and as far east as Northern China. Despite originating from colder regions, this plant has adapted well to thriving in tropical aquarium conditions, showcasing its versatility in different settings.