Description
Care & Maintenance:
- Lighting: This plant requires medium to high lighting for optimal growth. Inadequate lighting can result in vertical, thin stalks and a slower growth rate. Ensure your tank has the proper lighting to encourage healthy, compact growth.
- CO2: CO2 injection is required to keep Staurogyne Repens compact and thriving. Without sufficient CO2, the plant may display thin leaves and stunted growth.
- Temperature & pH: Staurogyne Repens thrives in temperatures between 72° – 82° F (22° – 28° C) and a pH of 6.0 – 7.5. Keep the water parameters stable to avoid plant stress and poor growth.
- Growth Rate: This plant has a moderate to fast growth rate, especially when provided with the right care. Regular trimming may be required to maintain its shape and prevent it from growing too tall.
Propagation & Maintenance:
- Propagation: Staurogyne Repens can be propagated easily by cutting the stems and replanting them. This will encourage new growth and allow you to create a dense carpet of green foliage.
- Trimming: Regular pruning is essential to maintain a healthy appearance. If left unchecked, the plant may grow tall or lose its bushy compact look.
- Tissue Culture Form: This plant is often available in tissue culture form, which is grown in a sterile laboratory setting. Tissue culture plants are free of pests and algae, ensuring that your aquarium remains clean and pest-free. Be sure to wash off the nutrient gel before planting the tissue culture into your tank.
Tank Placement & Ideal Conditions:
- Height: Staurogyne Repens grows to a maximum height of 1-3 inches (2.5 – 7.5 cm), making it ideal for the foreground or midground of your aquarium layout.
- Tank Placement: Its compact nature makes it a great choice for filling in gaps or creating a lush carpet in the foreground. It also works well as a midground plant in larger aquariums.
- Water Changes: Be careful not to make drastic changes to the aquarium’s water parameters, as unstable conditions can lead to plant stress, melting, and rotting. Ensure gradual changes in temperature, pH, and other water parameters.
