【Child】: Professor, do you remember the magical underwater world described by Jules Verne in his novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea? I was so fascinated by it, that I want to recreate a similar magical world in my aquarium. I’ve read that Myriophyllum aquaticum might be the perfect aquatic plant for it, can you tell me more about it?
【Professor】: Aah, the magic of the underwater world is indeed captivating. I can understand why you want to recreate it in your aquarium. Myriophyllum aquaticum is a fantastic choice for your project. It is an elegant aquatic plant with unique characteristics, and it is quite popular among aquarium enthusiasts. In this article, let’s go on a journey to explore the world of Myriophyllum aquaticum, discussing its characteristics, cultivation, and the precautions you need to take while growing it.
1. Introduction
【Child】: I am excited to learn more, Professor. So, what are the features that make Myriophyllum aquaticum stand out?
2. Characteristics
【Professor】: Myriophyllum aquaticum, also known as Parrot’s Feather, is native to South America. It has long, feather-like green leaves that grow in whorls around the stem, creating a captivating effect as if the plant is dancing underwater like the swaying seaweed in Verne’s novel.
【Child】: That sounds enchanting! Is it suitable for aquariums of all sizes?
【Professor】: Indeed, young one. Its versatile nature allows it to be used in various aquarium layouts, from nano tanks to larger setups. The maximum plant size can be achieved at the back, middle, or foreground planting positions, depending on the aquarium’s size and your creative vision.
【Child】: Like the magical beanstalk reaching up to the skies in “Jack and the Beanstalk,” can this plant grow above water as well?
【Professor】: You have quite the imagination! The answer is, yes, it can. It will grow emergent leaves above the water when given the opportunity, adding an impressive vertical dimension to your aquarium landscape.
3. Cultivation
【Child】: So, can any aspiring Captain Nemo easily maintain this fascinating plant, or is it just meant for the experienced aquarists?
【Professor】: Excellent question. Myriophyllum aquaticum is considered a beginner-friendly plant. It can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making it easier to grow compared to other more delicate species. It requires moderate lighting and CO2 levels to thrive, with a pH between 6.0-7.5, GH 2-23, kH 0-15, and temperatures ranging between 15-25°C (59-77°F).
【Child】: And what about the bottom sand? Does it need any special requirements, or it’s like the mythical Phoenix that can thrive in any environment?
【Professor】: Your metaphors never cease to amaze me! Myriophyllum aquaticum is not too demanding about the substrate. It can grow well in most common aquarium substrates, like sand, gravel, and nutrient-rich aqua soils. However, adding fertilizers can help ensure the plant gets adequate nutrients.
【Child】: How can fellow enthusiasts propagate this magical plant, both underwater and above water?
【Professor】: It’s straightforward, honestly. You can propagate Myriophyllum aquaticum from stem cuttings. Just snip off a healthy part of the stem, remove any leaves closest to the cut, and then plant the cutting in the substrate. Within no time, you’ll have a new plant!
4. Precautions
【Child】: Growing this plant sounds like a fairy tale, but are there any dragons to be aware of while cultivating it, Professor?
【Professor】: Wise of you to ask! While Myriophyllum aquaticum is relatively low-maintenance, be cautious about its fast growth rate that can sometimes overshadow other plants or block the essential light for other organisms. Make sure to trim and manage its growth regularly. Remember to consider the well-being of other aquarium inhabitants and make any adjustments required.
5. Summary
【Child】: This journey into the watery world of Myriophyllum aquaticum has made me even more excited to add it to my aquarium, Professor! Can you summarize what we have learned?
【Professor】: I’d be happy to! Myriophyllum aquaticum is a captivating and versatile aquatic plant with feather-like leaves growing in whorls around the stem. It’s an excellent choice for various aquatic layouts and is suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Remember to care for its basic requirements like light, CO2 levels, water parameters, and substrate while keeping an eye on its growth to maintain the harmony of your underwater realm.
【Child】: Thank you, Professor! I can’t wait to start my adventure with Myriophyllum aquaticum and create my own underwater wonderland inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne!
【Professor】: I’m sure you’ll do wonderfully well on this adventure, my young friend. Your imagination and creativity will bring that magical underwater world to life in your aquarium. Good luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!