Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Contortion Vallisneria | Vallisneria asiatica
























Contortion Vallisneria or Asiatica Vals are one of the most common background plants for aquariums. Many confuse these types of Vals with jungle vals who look somewhat similar, but the difference is contortion vals are slimmer and grow very tall. The rotating blades are able to grow within a wide array of aquarium parameters; it can definitely add its grace to one of your aquariums. Like other Vallisneria species, Contortion Val reproduces primarily by sending out runners.

Common Name: Contortion Val
Proper Name: Vallisneria sp. contortionist
Category:  Stem Plants
Temperature:  72 - 80 C
PH:  6.0-7.5
Lighting: Medium,High
Growth Rate: Medium
Difficulty:  Easy
Origin:  Asia
Position in Aquascape: Background

Saturday, January 10, 2015

Hornwort | Coontail | Easy aquarium plant for beginners

























The hornwort or coontail is one of my favorite plants for fish tanks. It is easy to maintain, grows fast with little requirements and can be placed as background plants or floating. In addition, it provides excellent shelter to small fry so it's a wonderful plant for beginners and experts alike. This plant has layered hair like foliage that helps oxygenate and clarify the water and keep algae growth to a minimum. It is found around the world in both moving and still waters, somethings anchored to muddy bottoms. i

Basic Information

Care Level: Easy
Lighting: Moderate
Placement: Background
Water Conditions: 59-86° F, KH 5-15, pH 6.0-7.5
Propagation: Side Shoots
Color Form: Green
Family: Ceratophyllaceae