Vodokras frog

Frog watercress, scientific name Hydrocharis morsus-ranae. The plant is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It grows in stagnant bodies of water, such as lakes and swamps, as well as in calm backwaters of rivers. It was introduced to North America in the 1930s. Having quickly spread through the water bodies of the continent, it began to pose a threat to local biodiversity. It is used mainly in ponds, but is much less common in aquaristics, mainly in biotope aquariums.

Outwardly resembling small water lilies. Leaf blades are oval in shape, about 6 cm in diameter, dense to the touch, with a deep notch at the point of petiole attachment. The leaves are located in a surface position, collected in a rosette from the base of which a dense bunch of underwater roots grows, as a rule, they do not reach the bottom. In warm weather, it blooms with small white flowers with three petals.

The optimal growth conditions are considered to be warm, slightly acidic, soft (pH and dGH) water with a high level of illumination. The mineral composition of the soil does not matter. In a mature aquarium or pond with a well-established ecosystem, the introduction of top dressing is not required. It is worth remembering that in a small volume of water, the Frog Vodokras, when growing, will quickly flood the entire surface. In an aquarium, this can lead to disruption of gas exchange and the wilting of other plants, which will become insufficiently lit.