Description
Lemon Bacopa – Bacopa amplexicaulis
Introduction
Lemon Bacopa, also known as Bacopa caroliniana, is a popular aquatic plant known for its bright green leaves and subtle lemon scent when touched. Native to North America, this versatile plant is easy to care for, making it a favorite for beginners and experienced aquarists. Its adaptable growth and compact stems make it ideal for midground or background planting in freshwater aquariums.
1. Natural Habitat and Characteristics
Lemon Bacopa is native to slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes across North America. In its natural habitat, it grows both submerged and emersed. The plant features thick, succulent-like leaves and stems, and when grown emersed, it may produce small blue or white flowers.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: Suitable for tanks of 10 gallons or larger.
- Substrate: Can grow in various substrates but thrives in nutrient-rich soil.
- Lighting: Medium to high lighting is ideal for compact growth and vibrant coloration.
- CO₂ and Fertilization: While CO₂ is not mandatory, its addition can enhance growth and coloration. Regular liquid fertilization with macro and micronutrients is recommended.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (3–12 dGH)
- Placement: Best planted in the midground or background, with regular trimming to maintain shape.
3. Care and Maintenance
Lemon Bacopa is relatively slow-growing compared to other stem plants, which means it requires less frequent trimming. It propagates easily—cut stems and replant them in the substrate to expand your plant colony. Ensure adequate light and nutrients to avoid leggy growth.
4. Compatibility with Tank Inhabitants
This hardy plant is compatible with most freshwater community fish and invertebrates. Shrimp love to graze on its surface, and small, peaceful fish enjoy shelter among its leaves. Avoid herbivorous fish such as goldfish and large cichlids, which may damage the plant.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can cause stems to grow tall and spindly. Increase light intensity to promote bushier growth.
- Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves often signal a lack of nutrients. Use liquid fertilizers to maintain healthy foliage.
- Algae Growth: If algae begins to grow on the leaves, consider adding algae eaters like Amano shrimp or Otocinclus and reduce lighting duration.
Conclusion
Lemon Bacopa is a resilient and visually appealing plant that adds a fresh burst of green to any aquarium. Its adaptability and ease of propagation make it a fantastic choice for aquarists of all skill levels. With proper care, this aromatic plant can thrive, creating a vibrant and peaceful underwater environment.