Water lettuce
Pistia stratiotes
Familia : Araceae
Water lettuce is a floating plant with velvety rosette leaves. Very decorative and useful for shading the aquarium.
Descripción
Leaves are spoon-shaped, 5–15 cm, light green, covered with fine hairs making them hydrophobic. Roots are long and feathery, up to 30 cm. The plant reproduces via stolons, producing daughter rosettes. It absorbs nutrients effectively. Can become invasive in warm regions. In aquariums, it needs sufficient surface space.
Hábitat
Región :
This floating plant grows in calm waters of tropical lakes, rivers, and marshes. It forms dense rosettes on the surface.
Distribución :
Parámetros recomendados
Cuidado
Notas de cuidado
Temperature 22–30°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.5–0.8 W/L) is beneficial. No substrate. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess rosettes regularly. Roots provide shelter for fry. Beware of snails that may damage leaves. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer.