Proserpinaca palustris (Mermaid Weed)

Introduction

Proserpinaca palustris, commonly known as Mermaid Weed, is an eye-catching aquatic plant that changes its leaf structure and color depending on its environment. It starts with green serrated leaves when grown emersed and transforms into delicate, feathery reddish-orange leaves when submerged. This unique adaptation makes it a favorite among aquascapers.

Origin

Mermaid Weed is native to North and Central America, thriving in slow-moving freshwater habitats such as ponds, marshes, and swamps.

Scientific Name

Proserpinaca palustris

Lighting Requirements

• Requires moderate to high lighting to develop its characteristic reddish hues.
• At least 8 to 10 hours of light per day is recommended for optimal growth and color intensity.

Care Level

Moderate (4/10) – Mermaid Weed requires stable water conditions and good lighting to thrive, making it better suited for aquarists with some experience.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
• pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
• GH (General Hardness): 2 to 12 dGH
• KH (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 8 dKH

Placement

• Best used in the midground or background due to its vertical growth.
• It creates stunning color contrast in planted tanks, especially when paired with green plants.

Growth Rate

• Moderate to fast, depending on lighting, CO2, and nutrients.
• Regular trimming encourages bushy growth and prevents excessive height.

CO2 and Fertilizer

• CO2 Supplementation: Strongly recommended for vibrant coloration and healthy growth.
• Fertilizer: Requires iron-rich fertilizers to maintain its red/orange hues and micronutrient supplements for overall health.

Potential Problems

• Green, non-feathery leaves: Indicates insufficient light or CO2. Increase lighting intensity and consider CO2 injection.
• Melting or slow growth: Can occur when transitioning from emersed to submerged growth. Gradual adaptation helps minimize stress.

Compatible Fishes

Mermaid Weed is compatible with peaceful fish species such as:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Gouramis
• Dwarf Cichlids
• Shrimp (Amano, Cherry, and Crystal Red Shrimp)

Other Suitable Plants

To create a well-balanced aquascape, consider pairing Mermaid Weed with:

• Ludwigia species for additional red tones.
• Bacopa Monnierii for a vertical contrast.
• Anubias and
• Java Fern for low-light greenery.
• Rotala species for a dense, bushy look.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Thrives in tropical water conditions between 68°F and 82°F.

What Fish Can Eat It?

Generally, most fish avoid eating Mermaid Weed, but some herbivorous fish, such as goldfish or large cichlids, may nibble on its delicate leaves.

A Fun Fact

Mermaid Weed is a morphological plant, meaning it can completely change its leaf shape and color when transitioning between emersed and submerged growth!