More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | unknown |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 32°C / 89.60°F |
| Temperature | 24°C / 75.20°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 2-14 kh |
| pH Value | 6.5-8 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 10-40mg/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
The Tri-coloured lotus, scientifically known as Nymphaea micrantha Guill. & Perr., is a small-flowered water lily that is native to West African waters, specifically from Senegal to Cameroon. This aquatic plant thrives in stagnant water and full sun, often deeply rooted in the sludge at the bottom of its habitat. It is recognized for its submersed leaves that can reach a diameter of 7-11 cm, featuring a remarkable pattern of reddish-brown and dark brown spots on a light green background.
Aquarium Suitability
This plant is rarely available commercially but can occasionally be sourced from other aquarists. With an aquarium compatibility of "yes," the Tri-coloured lotus adds a vibrant splash to aquarium setups, particularly as a midground plant. It requires specific water conditions to thrive, as outlined in the table provided.
Demands and Hardiness
Nymphaea micrantha has an easy difficulty level for care, making it suitable for hobbyists, especially those looking to add a visually striking plant to their tanks. It is essential to maintain adequate carbon dioxide levels, iron content, and medium to high light for optimal growth. The Tri-coloured lotus prefers a temperature range of 24-28°C with a tolerance span from 18-32°C.
Aquascaping & Usage
This water lily is an excellent choice for aquascaping due to its very colorful appearance, making it ideal for accentuating different areas of the aquarium. Its rosette growth habit and rooting nature with floating leaves allow for creative placement within the tank.
Propagation
N. micrantha is known for proliferating through its leaves, making it a relatively easy plant to propagate. The formation of adventitious plants at the base of the leaf blade facilitates its reproduction, although it remains a rare find in the hobbyist market.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, the Tri-coloured lotus is typically found in West African waters, spanning from Senegal to Cameroon. The specific locality of the popular spotted form "Gefleckt" is currently unknown. It thrives in environments with stagnant water and abundant sunlight, often deeply rooted in the substrate.