Rotala Blood Red – Live Aquarium Plant

Introduction

Rotala Blood Red is a stunning aquarium plant known for its vibrant red coloration, which adds a striking contrast to any aquascape. This plant is highly popular among aquarists for its bright, dramatic appearance and its ability to stand out in midground and background areas of the tank.

Origin

Rotala Blood Red is native to Southeast Asia, where it thrives in tropical, slow-moving waters like ponds, rivers, and wetlands. It is an aquatic variant of the Rotala genus and has been cultivated for its brilliant red hues.

Scientific Name

The scientific name of this plant is Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red.’

Lighting Requirements

To achieve and maintain its deep red coloration, Rotala Blood Red requires high lighting. It thrives best under 8 to 12 hours of bright light per day. Insufficient lighting can result in a loss of its vivid red hues, causing it to revert to a more greenish color.

Care Level

With a care level of 5 on a scale of 1 to 10, Rotala Blood Red is moderately easy to care for. It’s well-suited for intermediate aquarists who are comfortable managing its high light and nutrient requirements.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
• pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
• GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 8 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 5 dKH

Placement

Rotala Blood Red works best as a midground or background plant. Its bold red leaves create a striking visual contrast against other green plants in the tank, making it perfect for creating focal points in aquascapes or adding depth to a planted tank.

Growth Rate

This plant has a fast growth rate when provided with the proper lighting and nutrients. Regular trimming is recommended to maintain its bushy appearance and prevent it from becoming too tall or leggy.

CO2 and Fertilizer

For optimal growth and to maintain its intense red color, Rotala Blood Red benefits from CO2 supplementation and regular dosing with liquid fertilizers. Providing balanced nutrients, including iron and micronutrients, is key to keeping this plant healthy and maintaining its vibrant coloration.

Potential Problems

Rotala Blood Red may lose its red coloration if not provided with sufficient light or nutrients. It can also become leggy if the light is too weak or placed too far from the source. Regular pruning and stable water parameters are essential to prevent this and to keep the plant compact and vibrant.

Compatible Fishes

Rotala Blood Red is compatible with a wide variety of peaceful fish species. Its dense growth offers cover for small fish and invertebrates. Suitable tankmates include:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Guppies
• Dwarf Gouramis
• Shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp)

Other Suitable Plants

To enhance the beauty of Rotala Blood Red, consider pairing it with complementary plants like:

• Rotala species (e.g., Rotala Green, Rotala H’ra)
• Ludwigia species
• Cryptocoryne species
• Java Fern
• Anubias species

Tropical or Cold Water?

Rotala Blood Red thrives in tropical water conditions, with an ideal temperature range of 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C).

What Fish Can Eat It?

Rotala Blood Red is generally not consumed by most herbivorous fish. Its leaves are not a preferred food source, making it a safe addition to most community tanks without worrying about damage.

A Fun Fact

Rotala Blood Red’s vibrant color is not only influenced by light but also by the level of nutrients, particularly iron, in the water. When grown under optimal conditions, its red coloration becomes more intense, transforming aquascapes into vivid, dynamic underwater landscapes. Its beauty and adaptability make it a popular choice for creating stunning visual contrasts in planted aquariums.