Aquatic Emerald

Stem plants grow upward and require regular trimming to maintain shape. Plant bundles 1–2 cm apart in nutrient-rich substrate. Most benefit from CO₂ injection and fertiliser dosing. Trim the tops and replant for bushier, denser growth. Perform 30% water changes weekly for best results.

Never bury the rhizome in substrate — attach to driftwood or rock using thread or aquarium-safe gel glue. These plants grow slowly but are extremely hardy. They adapt well to low light and thrive without CO₂. Brown or translucent patches indicate too much direct light on the rhizome.

No planting required — simply float on the surface. Provide ample overhead light for vivid red colouring. Remove excess growth regularly to prevent blocking light to plants below. Redroot Floaters are sensitive to surface agitation from strong filters — a calm surface is ideal.

Attach to hardscape using dark thread or fishing line, or leave free-floating. Thrives in a wide range of water conditions from low to high tech. Trim periodically to maintain shape and encourage dense new growth. Excellent natural refuge for shrimp, fry, and breeding fish.

Plant in nutrient-rich substrate with the crown just above the surface. May experience 'Crypt melt' — leaves die back when first introduced — do not remove the plant. New leaves adapted to your tank parameters will emerge within 2–4 weeks. Extremely rewarding once established.

Maintain water temperature 20–26°C, pH 6.8–7.4, TDS 150–250 ppm. Avoid all copper-based medications — fatal to shrimp. Drip-acclimate slowly over 1–2 hours before introduction. Feed algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and specialised shrimp food. Change no more than 20% water at a time to avoid shocking parameters.

No special care required — MTS thrive in virtually all freshwater aquariums. They reproduce according to food availability, so avoid overfeeding to keep populations in check. Beneficial in planted tanks for substrate aeration. Will not harm healthy plants. Excellent indicator species for tank health.