Pine Needle – Hydrotriche Hottoniiflora

Introduction

Pine Needle (Hydrotriche Hottoniiflora), also known as Pine Needle or simply Hydrotriche, is a unique and attractive aquatic plant characterized by its slender, needle-like leaves that resemble pine needles. This plant adds a distinctive texture and vertical element to aquariums, making it a popular choice for creating intricate and visually appealing aquascapes.

Origin

Pine Needle is native to regions of South America, where it grows in slow-moving or still waters such as ponds and shallow rivers. Its adaptability to different aquatic environments makes it suitable for various aquarium setups.

Scientific Name

The scientific name of this plant is Hydrotriche Hottoniiflora.

Lighting Requirements

Pine Needle thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions. Providing 8 to 10 hours of light per day will encourage healthy growth and maintain the plant’s vibrant green coloration. Adequate lighting helps the plant develop its characteristic needle-like appearance.

Care Level

With a care level of 4 on a scale of 1 to 10, Pine Needle is relatively easy to care for. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists, provided it receives proper lighting and water conditions.

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 12 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 8 dKH

Placement

Pine Needle is best used as a midground or background plant. Its vertical growth and fine texture make it ideal for adding height and depth to the aquarium. It can create a striking contrast with other plants due to its unique leaf structure.

Growth Rate

Pine Needle has a moderate growth rate. It grows steadily but does not require frequent trimming, making it low maintenance. It can reach heights of 20-30 cm (8-12 inches), depending on the conditions.

CO2 and Fertilizer

While CO2 supplementation is not mandatory, it can enhance the growth and overall health of Pine Needle. Regular liquid fertilization or nutrient-rich substrates will support its development, especially in terms of maintaining vibrant color and robust growth.

Potential Problems

Common issues with Pine Needle include:

• Slow Growth: If not provided with adequate light or nutrients, the plant may exhibit slower growth. Ensure proper lighting and regular fertilization to promote healthy development.
• Algae Growth: Due to its fine leaves, Pine Needle can attract algae if water conditions are unbalanced or lighting is too intense.

Compatible Fishes

Pine Needle is compatible with various peaceful fish species, making it a versatile addition to community tanks. Suitable tankmates include:

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

Other Suitable Plants

To create a diverse and attractive aquascape, consider pairing Pine Needle with:

• Java Fern for contrasting leaf shapes and textures.
• Anubias species for midground or background interest.
• Cryptocoryne species for additional foliage variation.
• Rotala species for background height and color.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Pine Needle thrives in tropical water conditions, with an ideal temperature range between 68°F and 82°F (20°C to 28°C).

What Fish Can Eat It?

Most fish do not consume Pine Needle, making it a safe plant for community tanks. However, some larger herbivorous fish might nibble on it occasionally.

A Fun Fact

Pine Needle’s distinctive needle-like leaves give it a unique appearance, adding a touch of elegance and texture to aquascapes. Its resemblance to pine needles makes it a popular choice for aquarists looking to create a natural, forest-like underwater environment.