Amazonian Frogbit

Introduction

Amazonian Frogbit is a popular floating plant known for its round, green leaves and fast growth. It provides excellent shade, nutrient absorption, and surface coverage, making it a great addition to low-tech and high-tech aquariums. Its long, trailing roots offer shelter for fish and shrimp while helping to reduce algae by competing for excess nutrients.

Origin

Native to Central and South America, Amazonian Frogbit thrives in slow-moving freshwater bodies, such as rivers, ponds, and lakes.

Scientific Name

Limnobium laevigatum

Lighting Requirements

• Moderate to high lighting (6-10 hours per day) ensures healthy growth.
• Too much direct light may cause leaf burn, especially if the plant is too close to the light source.

Care Level

Easy – Amazonian Frogbit is low-maintenance and adapts well to various aquarium setups, making it suitable for beginners.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 18-30°C (64-86°F)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Hardness: 2-12 dGH
  It prefers gentle water movement, as strong currents can cause damage to its delicate roots and leaves.

Placement

• Floating plant – It sits on the water’s surface, creating a natural-looking canopy in the aquarium.
• Can be used in tanks, ponds, or paludariums for a lush, green floating cover.

Growth Rate

Fast – Under optimal conditions, Amazonian Frogbit can quickly cover the water’s surface, requiring regular thinning to prevent excessive shading of submerged plants.

CO2 and Fertilizer

• CO₂ is not required, but it benefits from additional liquid fertilizers rich in nitrogen and potassium.
• Absorbs excess nutrients, making it a great natural algae deterrent.

Potential Problems

• Leaf burn – If placed too close to a strong light source, leaves may develop yellow or brown spots.
• Overgrowth – Needs regular trimming to prevent it from blocking light for submerged plants.
• Root entanglement – Its long, trailing roots can sometimes become tangled or interfere with filter outputs.

Compatible Fishes

• Tetras, Bettas, Gouramis, and Rasboras – Appreciate the shaded environment it provides.
• Shrimp and Snails – Use the roots for grazing and hiding.
• Avoid Goldfish and Silver Dollars, as they may eat or damage the plant.

Other Suitable Plants

• Water Lettuce – Another floating plant with similar growth habits.
• Salvinia – Provides smaller floating cover and helps with nutrient absorption.
• Duckweed – A tiny floating plant that can coexist with Frogbit for added surface coverage.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Tropical and Cold Water – Amazonian Frogbit can survive in a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for both tropical and temperate setups.

What Fish Can Eat It?

• Goldfish, Koi, and Silver Dollars will readily eat Frogbit.
• Some Cichlids and Plecos may also nibble on the roots and leaves.

A Fun Fact

Amazonian Frogbit can form dense floating mats in the wild, providing a natural habitat for small fish, insects, and amphibians. In home aquariums, it helps maintain water quality by absorbing excess nitrates and phosphates.