Dwarf Baby tears (Hemianthus callitrichoides)

Introduction

Dwarf Baby Tears (Hemianthus callitrichoides), often simply referred to as HC or Dwarf Baby Tears, is a highly esteemed aquarium plant known for its tiny, delicate leaves and dense, carpet-like growth. It creates a beautiful and lush green carpet that adds a vibrant, natural look to aquascapes, making it a favorite among aquascaping enthusiasts.

Origin

Hemianthus callitrichoides is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. It typically grows in nutrient-rich, shallow freshwater environments such as riverbanks and wetlands.

Scientific Name

The scientific name of this plant is Hemianthus callitrichoides.

Lighting Requirements

Dwarf Baby Tears requires high lighting to thrive and achieve its full potential. It should receive 8 to 12 hours of light per day to promote dense, compact growth and vibrant green coloration. Low light conditions can cause it to grow leggy and lose its lush appearance.

Care Level

With a care level of 7 on a scale of 1 to 10, Dwarf Baby Tears is best suited for more experienced aquarists. It requires specific conditions, including high lighting, CO2 supplementation, and nutrient-rich water, to maintain its health and appearance.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
• pH Level: 5.5 to 7.5
• GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 8 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 6 dKH

Placement

Dwarf Baby Tears is best used as a foreground plant in your aquarium. Its ability to form a dense, green carpet makes it ideal for covering the substrate and creating a lush base for other plants and decorations.

Growth Rate

This plant has a moderate to fast growth rate under optimal conditions. It can quickly establish a carpet if provided with sufficient light, CO2, and nutrients. Regular trimming is necessary to maintain its appearance and prevent it from becoming too tall or tangled.

CO2 and Fertilizer

CO2 supplementation is highly recommended for Dwarf Baby Tears to support its growth and maintain its compact form. Regular dosing of liquid fertilizers is also beneficial to provide essential nutrients. A nutrient-rich substrate can further enhance its performance and overall health.

Potential Problems

Dwarf Baby Tears can experience issues such as algae growth if lighting is too high or water quality is poor. It may also suffer from slow growth or thinning if not provided with adequate CO2 and nutrients. Regular maintenance, including trimming and water quality monitoring, is essential to prevent these problems.

Compatible Fishes

Dwarf Baby Tears provides excellent cover and habitat for small fish and invertebrates. It is compatible with various peaceful species, including:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Guppies
• Corydoras Catfish
• Shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp)

Other Suitable Plants

To complement Dwarf Baby Tears and create a balanced aquascape, consider pairing it with other plants that enhance its appearance:

• Rotala species
• Bucephalandra species
• Java Fern
• Anubias Species
• Cryptocoryne species

Tropical or Cold Water?

Dwarf Baby Tears thrives in tropical water conditions, with an ideal temperature range of 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C).

What Fish Can Eat It?

Dwarf Baby Tears is generally not consumed by fish due to its fine, delicate leaves. It is a safe addition to community tanks, even with herbivorous fish.

A Fun Fact

Dwarf Baby Tears is known for its ability to create a carpet-like effect that mimics natural underwater meadows. It is often used in aquascaping contests and displays for its stunning visual impact and its capacity to provide a lush, green foreground in aquatic landscapes.