Rotala mexican

Rotala mexican, scientific name Rotala mexicana. It first appeared in the aquarium trade under the name Rotala sp. “Araguaia”, presented by the Japanese company Rayon Vert. Researchers from this company during their expedition to South America discovered a new plant species for themselves, identifying it as Rotala, but they had doubts about the species. Therefore, they named after the area where the first samples were first collected – the Araguaia River, one of the largest tributaries of the Amazon.

Further research has shown that this plant is actually Rotala mexicana – growing on almost every continent and having numerous geographical variations. Despite the abundance of forms within one species, in aquariums there are mainly varieties from the Rayon Vert company, which develop tall reddish stems and narrow short leaves of yellowish or green color.

The form Rotala mexicana “Araguaia” is quite difficult to maintain. It either grows rapidly in dense thickets, or dies. The plant needs a high degree of illumination, nutrient soil, the introduction of carbon dioxide and a large number of macro- and microelements. The absence of even one component inevitably affects growth and appearance.

Due to its rapid growth (if the conditions are right) and the active formation of shoots, Mexican Rotala must be planted in open spaces so as not to interfere with other plants. A good location would be the central part (in large tanks) or in the background. Regular pruning and thinning is required to prevent Rotala from shading itself.