1. Introduction
【Child】- Professor, I recently came across a beautiful underwater garden in an aquarium, and it looked like an enchanted forest from a fairytale. I was wondering, what kind of aquatic plants create such magical worlds?
【Professor】 – Ah, the fascinating world of aquatic plants! Indeed, they do create mesmerizing landscapes in the water, just like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon must have looked over the rivers. There are numerous types of aquatic plants, but today, let me tell you about Rotala Indica, a delightful and popular plant in the aquascaping world.
2. Characteristics
【Child】 – Rotala Indica you say? Sounds like an exotic plant from the lost city of Atlantis. What kind of appearance does this aquatic wonder have?
【Professor】 – Haha, well, not quite from Atlantis, but Rotala Indica does have an interesting origin from the regions of Southeast Asia. It has delicate, slender leaves that are green on the upper side, and a beautiful reddish tint on the underside. The stems grow in a creeping manner, giving it a unique cascading appearance in the water, much like Rapunzel’s flowing golden hair, if you will.
【Child】 – Wow! So, if I want to create my own underwater landscape masterpiece like Monet’s Water Lilies, where should I place this captivating plant in my aquarium, and how big would it grow?
【Professor】 – Excellent question, my inquisitive maestro! Rotala Indica is quite versatile in its use. It would be the star of your show if planted in the background of a small to medium-sized aquarium, while in a large one, it could shine as a mid-ground plant. As for size, Rotala Indica can grow up to 12-20 inches tall when submerged underwater, creating a lush green and red scenery on your canvas.
3. Cultivation
【Child】 – So now that we have an idea of where to plant Rotala Indica, would cultivating it be like nurturing the Mythological Phoenix, requiring expert care, or can beginners like me create our Utopia too?
【Professor】 – Indeed, you are lucky, because Rotala Indica is a very beginner-friendly aquatic plant! It is quite adaptable, making it easy to establish in a variety of aquarium environments. However, like any plant on Earth or in the aquatic realm, some care must be taken.
【Child】 – Enlighten me, Professor, about the arcane knowledge of caring for this mystical plant.
【Professor】 – Alright, my young sage! First and foremost, Rotala Indica needs a moderate to high amount of light, sort of like the sun shining upon the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Additionally, consider using CO2 injections to help the plant grow lush and vibrant.
For optimal growth, also maintain proper water parameters, with a pH of around 6.0-7.5, GH around 3-30, and kH around 1-10. Keep the water temperature at a comfortable 70-82°F (21-28°C). The use of a nutrient-rich substrate is also vital, acting as the fertile lands of ancient civilizations.
Finally, Rotala Indica can be propagated both underwater and above water. For underwater, just trim the stems, and replant the cuttings. Above water (’emersed’ cultivation), plant the cuttings in moist soil and provide ample light. It will grow and bloom small, orchid-like, purple flowers!
4. Precautions
【Child】 – Professor, we’ve come a long way, but tell me, do I need to beware of any caveats that may lurk in the waters while creating my own Atlantis?
【Professor】 – Indeed, young explorer. Be cautious with certain livestock, as some fish, like herbivorous species, might find Rotala Indica to be a delightful dining option. However, with proper planning and compatible species, Rotala Indica can coexist harmoniously with various aquatic inhabitants.
5. Summary
【Child】 – The journey has been amazing, and now I can create my own underwater Utopia with Rotala Indica. Summarize our adventure for me once more, Professor.
【Professor】 – I’m happy to, my young aquascaping poet! Rotala Indica is a beautiful and versatile aquatic plant, with slender leaves and a reddish tint. It is perfect for various aquarium layouts and easy to cultivate, provided you pay attention to the proper light conditions, nutrient-rich substrates, and appropriate water parameters. Be cautious about its coexistence with other organisms, and you’ll have a thriving magical underwater garden. Now, embark on your aquascaping journey, and create a marvel like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon!