Ludwigia arcuate

Ludwigia arcuate (narrow-leaved) or Ludwigia arcuata, scientific name Ludwigia arcuata. This popular aquarium plant is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in moist soils or submerged along rivers and lakes.

Under favorable conditions, it forms low-growing bushes from stems up to 3-4 cm high with numerous leaves, located two per whorl. In bright light conditions, the active formation of lateral branches occurs. The leaf blade is long (up to 11 mm) and narrow (up to 7 mm wide). The color range varies from red to pale yellow. In the surface position, it turns green.

There is confusion with another closely related species, Ludwigia brevipes, which looks almost identical but is smaller. The differences are most obvious during flowering.

Usually, plants with red leaves are considered demanding, but in this case, Ludwigia arcuata will not cause difficulties even for a novice aquarist. The key is the level of lighting and the availability of nutrient soil. The latter becomes such in aquariums with fish, where food remains and excrement serve as a source of essential trace elements. Additional introduction of fertilizers (potassium, phosphate, nitrates) is admissible only during operation of the carbon dioxide generator.

Due to its compactness, it can be used in small aquariums. Plant several sprouts together to create volume, as a single plant looks lonely.