Bettzick's Alternanthera

Alternanthera bettzickiana

Family : Amaranthaceae

PlantFreshwaterstem plant

Popular stem plant with reddish leaves, ideal for the background of a planted aquarium.

Bettzick's Alternanthera — photo 1 sur 4 — Raffi Kojian · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 4

Popularity

Stem plant

fast growing, needs trimming

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Biotope

South America

Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Alternanthera bettzickiana is an erect stem plant with opposite, lanceolate to ovate leaves, colored green to red depending on lighting. It can reach 30 cm in height. Growth is fast under moderate to high light. It develops adventitious roots along the stem. In aquariums, it forms a dense bush if pruned regularly. Lower leaves may drop if light is insufficient.

Habitat

Region :

Marshes, wetlands

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature22–28 °C

pH6–7.5

GH2–12 °dGH

KH1–5 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 2 mg/L

CO₂

≤ 30 mg/L

Light

High

Care

Difficulty

3/5

Diet

Photosynthetic

Min. tank

20 L

Min. group

Adult size

30 cm

Lifespan

3 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

Cuttings

Care notes

Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 injection recommended for optimal growth. Liquid fertilizer and iron-rich substrate enhance red coloration. Regular pruning to prevent legginess. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Minimum tank volume 20 L, but prefers 40 L+.

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