Guppy Grass Plant Guppy Grass Plant Guppy Grass (Guppy Grass) is one of the most popular plants in the shrimp and small fish keeping hobby due to its extreme ease and multiple benefits: * Scientific Name: Najas guadalupensis. * Growth Method: It can grow as a floating plant on the surface or planted in the substrate (where it grows upwards like a bush). * Benefits for Shrimp: * Provides ideal hiding places for fry to increase their survival rate. * Acts as a natural filter; it rapidly absorbs nitrates, ammonia, and toxins from the water. * "Periphyton" (microorganisms) grow on it, which is the preferred food for young shrimp. * Reason for its dark color: The dark green or sometimes brown color is due to intense lighting (a form of self-shading), iron deficiency, or the presence of fine brown algae on its surface, which is often a temporary condition until the plant adapts. * Care: A plant that is not easily "killed," it tolerates a wide range of temperatures and light intensities, but requires regular pruning as it can quickly overgrow the tank. ///// Second Plant ///// Water Fox Tail Plant (scientifically known as Ceratophyllum demersum Basic Characteristics: * Roots: The plant does not have true roots; it absorbs nutrients directly from the water through its leaves and stems. * Growth: It can be left floating on the water surface or anchored to the bottom using rocks or sand, where it grows very rapidly. * Appearance: It features dense, needle-like leaves arranged in whorls around the stem, making it resemble a fox's tail or deer antler. Features for Aquariums: * Oxygen Production: It is considered one of the best oxygenating plants for water, improving the fish environment. * Algae Control: It rapidly consumes excess nutrients in the water, helping to prevent the growth of harmful algae. * Shelter for Fish: Its dense leaves provide an ideal hiding place for young fish "fry" for protection. ///// Third Plant ///// Rotala It is widely used in the background or sides of aquariums to add vibrant pink and red colors. It features small, dense leaves and requires strong lighting and good fertilization (iron) to bring out its colors, with medium to fast growth potential, making it ideal for water purification. Key Information about Rotala Aquatic Plant: * Popular Species: Rotala rotundifolia is the most common, with other species like Rotala "Vietnam" and Rotala "Macrandra Green" also available. * Growth Conditions: * Lighting: Medium to strong (to achieve red/pink color). * Temperature: 20 - 28 °C. * CO2: Not strictly necessary but improves growth density and plant color. * Planting Location: Preferably planted in groups (bunches) in the background or mid-ground of the tank. * Care: Requires regular pruning (trimming) to maintain its density and prevent shading of the lower parts. * Propagation: Very easy by cutting stems and replanting them in the substrate. * Benefit: Contributes to cleaning the aquarium water by absorbing nitrates, which helps combat algae. * Rotala prefers nutrient-rich substrate and clean water to grow densely. ////// Fourth Plant ////// Ludwigia "Rubin" super red It is a member of the Ludwigia family, Rubin variety, characterized by its broad, round red leaves. It is considered an easy plant for medium-tech and high-tech tanks. It is planted in the background and is a staple of the Dutch style. All macro and micro nutrients must be provided, along with CO2 supply.