A Guide To The Different Emersed Aquatic Plants in The Philippines emersed aquatic plants philip
What are the different emersed aquatic plants in the Philippines?
- Ludwigia Atlantis
- Hygrophila Polysperma Green
- Hygrophila Difformis
Depending on the habitat of aquatic plants, they can grow emersed and submerged. This is because they are originally found in areas that have fluctuating water levels and adapt to the habitat. If you plan to pursue aquascape in the Philippines, you might have come across these two types of plants. Emersed plants can be grown partially above the waterline. They grow faster, are easier to propagate, and are often more sturdy. These are ideal reasons for beginners to consider growing emersed aquatic plants as well. If you’re interested in emersed aquatic plants in the Philippines, here are the three easy-to-care types worth checking out. Continue reading to learn more.
Ludwigia Atlantis
The Ludwigia Atlantis, also known as Ludwigia Dark Orange, is native to North America. If you are looking to instantly increase the aesthetic appeal of your aquarium through vivid colors, then you should definitely consider this emersed aquatic plant.
Depending on the lighting level provided, it can display striking coloration ranging from light yellow to dark orange. As a beautiful stem plant from the Onagraceae family, it should be planted with more stems to increase its beautiful pop of color in aquariums.
The Ludwigia Atlantis is not a demanding emersed plant. However, its medium growth rate may need regular pruning to maintain its bushy appearance. Nonetheless, it does not require CO2 and thrives in water pH levels of 6.5 to 7.5. It can also grow up to 10 inches.
If you want to propagate the Ludwigia Atlantis, simply cut its side shoots. To ensure it produces a more intense color, the lighting levels should be kept at medium to high. Such a striking hue is the reason why it is used by aquascapists as a standout background or midground plant in tanks.
Hygrophila Polysperma Green
Commonly found in tropical Southeast Asian countries, the Hygrophila Polysperma Green is one of the best emersed aquarium plant choices for beginners. It is popularly known among aquascapists for being one of the few plants that are hardy and undemanding to grow as well.
As a plant highly recommended for those who are new to aquascaping, it quickly removes excess nutrients from the water and competes with algae. And aside from its fast growth rate, it is also capable of thriving in difficult water conditions.
Coming from the Acanthaceae family, the Hygrophilia Polysperma Green requires only low lighting levels. Water hardness does not influence its growth rate as it tolerates pH levels from 5.0 to 8.0. It does not require CO2 as well and can grow up to 24 inches.
This plant forms numerous lateral shoots, which makes propagation easy. Simply cut some shoots and replant these into the substrate. In fact, even its detached leaves lying on the surface can form small new plants. Its leaves develop light green to brownish colors. A bundle of emersed Hygrophila Polysperma Green stems can be a great eye-catching element in aquariums, especially if these are planted in the midground.
Hygrophila Difformis
The Hygrophila Difformis is a relatively undemanding emersed aquatic plant. Despite its easy care level, however, it does not disappoint when it comes to aesthetics. Also known as the water wisteria, it is a famous plant used for traditional medicine in tropical Asia.
When submerged, it has lobed foliage and boasts a bright green coloration. It should be noted that the emersed and submerged form of the Hygrophila Difformis differs strongly. The shoots of its emersed form creep on the ground with leaves unparted, has a strong scent, and blue-violet flowers develop on its axils.
The stems and leaves of the Hygrophila Difformis can reach up to 20 to 30 cm tall and 6 to 12 cm wide. Such a sprawling effect makes it a great midground or background plant in large aquariums where it can create a focal group.
Low lighting and non-injection of CO2 are sufficient to support its growth. However, the fast growth rate absorbs a great number of nutrients from the water. The shortage of micronutrients can lead to pale leaves, which may be an indicator that the tank needs fertilizer.
To propagate the Hygrophila Difformis, cut its shoots and split them into separate plants. Remember to plant each stem with some distance into the substrate.
Key Takeaway
Here are three of the emersed aquatic plants in the Philippines. With a distinct capability to grow above the waterline, these can improve your aquarium.
At Aquascape Philippines, we have a wide array of emersed plants ready for your choosing. Check out our product page by clicking here. We also offer other aquascaping materials such as fish food, filters, substrates, lights, tanks, and more.
Click here if you have inquiries or contact us via email at inquire@aquascape.ph!
Share on
