Introduction: Lime Green Ambulia (Limnophila sessiliflora) is a striking aquatic plant known for its vibrant lime-green foliage and graceful growth pattern. Its bright, lush appearance adds a refreshing touch to any aquarium, making it a favorite among aquarists looking to enhance their aquatic landscapes with lively, colorful vegetation.
Origin: Lime Green Ambulia is native to Southeast Asia, where it thrives in the warm, shallow waters of rivers and swamps. Its adaptability to various aquatic environments makes it suitable for a wide range of aquarium setups.
Scientific Name: The scientific name of this plant is Limnophila sessiliflora.
Lighting Requirements: Lime Green Ambulia prefers moderate to high lighting. Providing 8 to 12 hours of light per day will encourage its vibrant green color and promote healthy growth. Under adequate lighting, the plant can develop a dense and bushy appearance.
Care Level: With a care level of 3 on a scale of 1 to 10, Lime Green Ambulia is relatively easy to care for. It is suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists, though it benefits from attention to its specific needs.
Preferred Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
- pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
- GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 10 dGH
- KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 8 dKH
Placement: Lime Green Ambulia is best used as a midground or background plant due to its ability to grow tall and bushy. Its vibrant green color makes it an excellent choice for adding contrast and depth to the aquarium. It can also be trimmed to maintain a desired height and shape.
Growth Rate: Lime Green Ambulia has a fast growth rate. It grows rapidly under optimal conditions, making it a good choice for quickly filling in space and creating a lush, green backdrop. Regular trimming helps maintain its shape and prevents it from overshadowing other plants.
CO2 and Fertiliser:
- CO2 Supplementation: While not strictly necessary, adding CO2 can enhance the growth and overall health of Lime Green Ambulia. It promotes faster and more vibrant growth.
- Fertilizer: Regular use of liquid fertilizers or nutrient-rich substrates will support its growth. The plant benefits from both root and water column nutrients to maintain its lush appearance.
Potential Problems:
- Algae Growth: Lime Green Ambulia can attract algae if the lighting is too intense or if water conditions are unbalanced. Regular maintenance and proper nutrient balance can help prevent algae problems.
- Overgrowth: Due to its fast growth rate, Lime Green Ambulia may require frequent trimming to prevent it from overshadowing other plants or becoming too dense.
Compatible Fishes: Lime Green Ambulia is compatible with a variety of peaceful fish species, including:
- Tetras
- Guppies
- Rasboras
- Corydoras Catfish
- Shrimp (e.g., Amano Shrimp, Cherry Shrimp)
Other Suitable Plants: To create a diverse and visually appealing aquascape, consider pairing Lime Green Ambulia with:
- Java Fern for contrasting leaf shapes and textures.
- Anubias species for midground interest.
- Cryptocoryne species for additional foliage variation.
- Rotala species for background color and height.
Tropical or Cold Water? Lime Green Ambulia thrives in tropical water conditions, with a preferred temperature range of 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C).
What Fish Can Eat It? Most fish do not consume Lime Green Ambulia due to its fine, delicate leaves. It is generally safe for community tanks with plant-eating fish, though very large herbivores might nibble on it.
A Fun Fact: Lime Green Ambulia is valued for its vibrant, lime-green coloration, which can add a refreshing burst of color to any aquarium. Its ability to grow quickly and densely makes it a popular choice for creating lush, green backdrops and filling in open spaces in aquascapes.
