Ludwigia Inclinata – Live Aquarium Plant

Introduction

Ludwigia inclinata is a striking aquatic plant known for its vibrant colors and unique growth habits. This plant is highly appreciated in aquariums for its easy maintenance and ability to thrive in a variety of water conditions, making it a great addition for both beginners and seasoned aquarists. With its elongated stems and bright green to reddish leaves, it adds a visually appealing touch to any tank.

Origin

Ludwigia inclinata is native to the waters of South America, particularly found in countries like Brazil. It thrives in slow-moving streams and rivers, often growing in shallow water or wetlands.

Scientific Name

Ludwigia inclinata

Lighting Requirements

This plant thrives under medium to high light conditions. A lighting intensity of around 2 to 3 watts per gallon is ideal for promoting healthy growth and vibrant coloration. Low light conditions may result in slower growth and less intense colors.

Care Level

Moderate. While Ludwigia inclinata is not difficult to care for, it does require stable water conditions and regular pruning to maintain its appearance. It’s a good plant for those with some experience in freshwater aquariums.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Hardness: 4-12 dGH
  Ludwigia inclinata prefers slightly acidic to neutral water conditions but is fairly adaptable to a range of water hardness levels.

Placement

This plant can be placed in the middle to background of the aquarium due to its vertical growth habit. It requires plenty of space to expand and should be spaced out from other plants to avoid overcrowding.

Growth Rate

Moderate to fast. Under ideal conditions, it can grow relatively quickly, sending out new shoots and leaves that fill out the tank beautifully.

CO2 and Fertilizer

Ludwigia inclinata benefits from the addition of CO2 for optimal growth, especially in high-light environments. Regular dosing of liquid fertilizers or substrate fertilizers will help maintain its health and vibrant coloration.

Potential Problems

Common issues with Ludwigia inclinata include yellowing leaves, which may indicate a nutrient deficiency or low light levels. Overcrowding can also occur if the plant is not regularly trimmed, leading to reduced air circulation and growth. Algae growth can be a problem in high-light tanks if water quality is not properly maintained.

Compatible Fishes

This plant is generally compatible with most peaceful community fish like tetras, guppies, and small cichlids. Larger, more aggressive fish may uproot or damage the plant, so it’s best to avoid placing it in tanks with highly territorial species.

Other Suitable Plants

Ludwigia inclinata pairs well with other fast-growing plants like Vallisneria, Cryptocoryne , and Anubias. These plants complement its growth while creating a beautiful, balanced aquascape.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Tropical water. Ludwigia inclinata thrives in warmer water temperatures, typical of tropical aquariums.

What Fish Can Eat It?

While most fish avoid eating Ludwigia inclinata, certain herbivorous species like goldfish or large snails might nibble on the leaves. However, it is not a preferred food source for most aquarium fish.

A Fun Fact

Ludwigia inclinata can develop a reddish tint under high light conditions, which adds a splash of color to the tank. This color transformation is a result of the plant’s natural pigmentation reacting to light and nutrient levels.