Pink Baby Tears – Live Aquarium Plant

Introduction

Pink Baby Tears, scientifically known as Hemianthus callitrichoides, is a captivating aquarium plant celebrated for its vibrant, lush pink foliage. This petite plant adds a delicate touch to aquascapes, creating a lush carpet that enhances the aesthetic appeal of any aquarium.

Origin

Hemianthus callitrichoides is native to South America, particularly found in regions with moist, temperate climates. Its natural habitat includes marshy areas and shallow waters, where it grows close to the substrate, making it an ideal choice for aquarium environments.

Scientific Name

The scientific name of this stunning aquatic plant is Hemianthus callitrichoides.

Lighting Requirements

To thrive and maintain its vibrant color, Pink Baby Tears requires moderate to high lighting. Providing 8 to 10 hours of light daily will support optimal growth and help preserve its unique pink hue.

Care Level

With a care level of 4 on a scale of 1 to 10, Pink Baby Tears can be a bit more challenging than some other aquatic plants, making it more suitable for intermediate aquarists. However, with proper care and attention, it can flourish beautifully.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 70°F to 82°F (21°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 5 dKH

Placement

Pink Baby Tears excels as a foreground plant in your aquarium. Its small size and growth habit make it perfect for creating a lush carpet effect that enhances the overall aquascape.

Growth Rate

This plant has a moderate growth rate. Once established, it can spread quickly through runners, carpeting the substrate and adding a vibrant touch to your tank.

CO2 and Fertilizer

• CO2 Supplementation: Providing CO2 is highly beneficial and encourages faster growth and healthier plants.
• Fertilizer: Regular liquid fertilization, especially with micronutrients and root tabs, will enhance growth and color vibrancy.

Potential Problems

• Algae Growth: If light levels are too high or water quality is poor, algae may develop on the leaves. Maintaining proper water parameters and performing regular maintenance can help prevent this issue.
• Stunted Growth: Poor lighting or insufficient nutrients can cause slow growth or yellowing leaves. Ensuring adequate light and nutrients will keep it thriving.

Compatible Fishes

Pink Baby Tears is compatible with a variety of peaceful fish species, such as:

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

Other Suitable Plants

To create a harmonious aquascape, consider pairing Pink Baby Tears with:

• Dwarf Hair Grass
• Java Fern
• Cryptocoryne wendtii
• Bucephalandra

Tropical or Cold Water?

Pink Baby Tears thrives in tropical water conditions, preferring a stable temperature between 70°F to 82°F (21°C to 28°C).

What Fish Can Eat It?

While Pink Baby Tears is generally not favored by most fish, some herbivorous species might nibble at its leaves. However, its growth habit and resilience typically allow it to withstand minor disturbances.

A Fun Fact

Pink Baby Tears is often used in aquascaping to create the “lawn effect,” mimicking natural meadows and offering a stunning visual contrast against darker substrates or hardscape elements. Its unique coloration and dense growth make it a favorite among aquarists looking to enhance their underwater landscapes.