Myriophyllum tuberculatum 'Red' Care Guide
Myriophyllum tuberculatum 'Red' is a feathery Asian watermilfoil (Haloragaceae) that develops red-to-rust tones under bright light; a demanding high-tech plant.
Overview
Myriophyllum tuberculatum 'Red' is a feathery watermilfoil of the family Haloragaceae, also known as red watermilfoil. The genus Myriophyllum comprises submersed aquatic plants with whorled, finely pinnately divided leaves and elongate air-canalled stems. Under bright light this species develops red to rust tones, providing a soft, frilly background in CO2-supplemented tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Haloragaceae
- Genus: Myriophyllum
- Scientific name: Myriophyllum tuberculatum 'Red'
- Common name: Red Myrio
Habitat
The species inhabits slow-flowing and stagnant freshwaters of tropical Asia, with reported occurrences in India, Pakistan, China, Malaysia and Indonesia, extending to Australia. It is a submersed plant that grows toward the surface and forms bushy lateral shoots.
Aquarium requirements
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-8 °dGH
- Lighting: high (at least about 0.8 W/l)
- CO2: required (about 20-40 mg/l)
- Maximum height: up to about 40 cm
- Placement: background
Growth and care
This is a difficult, high-tech plant with high nutrient demand. It requires intense light, CO2 injection and plenty of iron and micronutrients to reach full size and colour; under poor conditions it remains dark and small. Reported target nutrient levels are around 5-15 mg/l nitrate and 1-2 mg/l phosphate. Under favourable conditions it grows quickly to the surface and forms a bushy stand.
Propagation
Propagation is by cuttings; a lateral shoot is cut and replanted into the substrate where it roots and continues to grow.