Introduction: Baby Tears is a charming and versatile aquarium plant known for its tiny, round leaves that create a lush, carpet-like effect. Its delicate appearance and dense growth make it a favorite for creating a vibrant, natural look in aquascapes.
Origin: Baby Tears, scientifically known as Hemianthus callitrichoides, is native to Central and South America. It is typically found in shallow, slow-moving waters and marshes, where it forms dense mats on the substrate.
Scientific Name: The scientific name of Baby Tears is Hemianthus callitrichoides.
Lighting Requirements: Baby Tears thrives under high lighting conditions. Providing 10 to 12 hours of light each day will help it maintain its compact, vibrant growth. In lower light conditions, the plant may become leggy and less dense.
Care Level: With a care level of 6 on a scale of 1 to 10, Baby Tears is moderately challenging to care for. It requires precise conditions, including strong lighting and stable water parameters, making it best suited for experienced aquarists.
Preferred Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C)
- pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
- GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 8 dGH
- KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 6 dKH
Placement: Baby Tears is ideal for the foreground of your aquarium. Its small, dense leaves create a beautiful carpet effect that adds depth and texture to the substrate. Plant it in small clusters or as a mat to achieve a uniform, lush appearance.
Growth Rate: This plant has a fast growth rate, especially under optimal conditions. Regular trimming is necessary to maintain its shape and prevent it from overshadowing other plants. It spreads quickly through runners, so keep an eye on its growth to ensure it doesn’t overtake the tank.
CO2 and Fertiliser: Supplemental CO2 is highly beneficial for Baby Tears, as it enhances growth and helps maintain its compact form. Regular fertilization with liquid or substrate fertilizers, particularly those containing iron and other trace elements, will support healthy growth and vibrant coloration.
Potential Problems: Baby Tears can be sensitive to changes in water conditions, lighting, and CO2 levels. Issues like algae growth, melting leaves, or slow growth can occur if conditions are not stable. Ensure proper care and maintenance to keep it thriving.
Compatible Fishes: Baby Tears pairs well with a variety of peaceful fish species. Suitable tankmates include:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Guppies
- Corydoras Catfish
- Shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp)
Other Suitable Plants: To create a balanced and visually appealing aquascape, consider pairing Baby Tears with these complementary plants:
- Anubias species
- Java Fern
- Cryptocoryne species
- Ludwigia species
- Rotala species
Tropical or Cold Water? Baby Tears thrives in tropical water conditions, with a stable temperature range between 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C) being ideal for its growth.
What Fish Can Eat It? Most fish do not typically consume Baby Tears. However, larger herbivorous or nibbling fish might occasionally disturb it. In a well-maintained community tank, it generally remains safe from being eaten.
A Fun Fact: Baby Tears is renowned for its ability to create a stunning carpet effect in aquariums, often used to replicate natural aquatic environments. Its popularity in aquascaping has earned it the nickname “the best carpeting plant,” due to its dense growth and aesthetic appeal.
