Dwarf Alternanthera

Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini'

Family : Amaranthaceae

PlantFreshwaterstem plant

Dwarf variety of Alternanthera reineckii, ideal for small aquariums and foregrounds.

Popularity
Stem plant
fast growing, needs trimming
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
NE
Not Evaluated
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini' is a compact form usually not exceeding 15 cm. Its leaves are smaller and denser than the type species, with a bright red color under intense lighting. It forms a dense bush through abundant branching. Growth is moderate. It is widely used in aquascaping to create carpets or color patches. Stems are fragile and must be handled with care. It rarely flowers underwater.

Habitat

Region :

Cultivar selected for its small size, originating from the same wetlands as the type species

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2228 °C
pH67
GH312 °dGH
KH28 °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
5
Adult size
15 cm
Lifespan
2 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
cuttings

Care notes

Strong lighting (0.8-1.2 W/L) is necessary to maintain red color. CO2 (15-30 mg/L) improves growth and compactness. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-12, KH 2-8. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <2 mg/L. An iron-rich substrate is beneficial. Regular pruning to prevent legginess. Suitable for nano tanks (from 20 L). Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Avoid strong currents.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References