Dwarf Eleocharis Belem Tissue Culture

Introduction

Dwarf Eleocharis Belem (Eleocharis sp. ‘Belem’) is a beautiful, compact aquatic plant often used to create lush, carpet-like effects in aquariums. Its fine, grass-like blades form a dense, soft green mat that provides a natural look while also offering excellent cover for fish and shrimp. As a tissue culture plant, it comes disease-free and is a great choice for both beginner and advanced aquascapers looking for an easy-to-care-for carpet plant that thrives under varied conditions.

Origin

Native to Southeast Asia, Dwarf Eleocharis Belem is found in tropical freshwater environments, where it grows in shallow water with slow-moving currents.

Scientific Name

Eleocharis sp. ‘Belem’

Lighting Requirements

• Moderate to high lighting ensures dense and compact growth.
• Under low light, the plant may become stretched out and fail to form a thick carpet.
• 8-12 hours of light per day is ideal for vibrant, healthy growth.

Care Level

Moderate – While relatively easy to care for, Dwarf Eleocharis Belem requires good lighting, CO2 supplementation, and regular maintenance for the best appearance.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Hardness: 3-12 dGH
  Dwarf Eleocharis Belem thrives in soft to moderately hard freshwater conditions, making it perfect for most tropical setups.

Placement

• Foreground plant – Ideal for creating a dense carpet in the foreground of aquariums.
• Best planted in the substrate for proper root development, though it can also be used for tank accents.

Growth Rate

Moderate – It spreads slowly, forming a thick carpet over time. Regular trimming can help maintain its compact and neat appearance.

CO2 and Fertilizer

• CO2 injection is highly recommended for optimal growth and to promote a thicker carpet.
• Liquid fertilizers with iron and potassium help maintain strong growth.
• Root tabs are beneficial when planting in the substrate for healthier root systems.

Potential Problems

• Leggy growth: If lighting or CO2 levels are too low, the plant may stretch out and lose its compact form.
• Algae growth: As with most carpet plants, algae can accumulate if not properly maintained. Regular pruning and balanced nutrient levels are key.
• Slow establishment: Tissue culture plants may experience a short acclimation period before fully adapting to the tank’s environment.

Compatible Fishes

• Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies – Ideal for creating a lush carpet where these fish can swim and hide.
• Shrimp – Love grazing on the biofilm that forms on the blades.
• Corydoras – Enjoy foraging among the soft grass-like texture.

Other Suitable Plants

• Hemianthus callitrichoides (Cuba) – For a similar low-growing carpet effect.
• Glossostigma elatinoides – Another popular foreground plant for aquascaping.
• Lilaeopsis brasiliensis – Provides a similar fine-leaf look for the foreground.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Tropical. Best suited for tropical freshwater aquariums with stable temperatures between 20-28°C (68-82°F).

What Fish Can Eat It?

• Goldfish, Silver Dollars, and certain herbivorous Cichlids may nibble on it, but generally, most community fish do not disturb the plant.

A Fun Fact

Dwarf Eleocharis Belem is a popular choice in Dutch aquascaping for its ability to create a stunning, grass-like carpet that not only adds beauty but also helps with water oxygenation and nutrient absorption!