Download - 51857 Tropica Katalog 2012 ENG Ny
Make your aquariuma success
The right aquarium Page 4
The right plants Page 6
The right fish Page 8
Tropica ABC: This is how you start Page 10
Layout inspiration Page 14
Product categories Page 18
Plants from A to Z Page 20
Product overview Page 65
Appendix (planting) Page 66
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TROPICA’S GUIDE WILL HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE IN 3 STEPS. THE INFORMATION IS FAR FROM EXHAUSTIVE, SO FOR MORE DETAILS,
PLEASE GO TO TROPICA.COM. YOU WILL HAVE A MUCH BETTER CHANCE TO MAKE YOUR AQUARIUM A SUCCESS IF YOU SPEND SOME TIME
STUDYING THE 3 STEPS IN THIS GUIDE:
1: The right aquarium. Large or small? Who will take care
of it and what has to be done every week? Are there any
equipment requirements for the aquarium to work? There are
many questions! Regardless of whether you are buying a new
aquarium or you already have one, it is very important to know
what your aquarium can offer your plants and fish.
2: The right plants. The choice of plants depends on the
amount of light in your aquarium in relation to its volume and
on whether you intend to give your plants CO2 and fertiliser.
To help you, Tropica has developed a brand new concept
with a symbol for each plant so that you can easily choose
the right plants for your aquarium. The symbols and their
meanings are detailed on page 7. We give example layouts
for aquariums with plants and here the only limit will be your
imagination! You can also see the videos and instructions at
tropica.com.
3: The right fish. There are many fish to choose from and
we cannot feasibly cover all of them in this guide. We have
created categories with the most general species based on
their characteristics and we offer you examples to help you to
choose what is right for your particular aquarium. Common
to all planted aquariums is that we always recommend algae-
eating fish, shrimps and snails.
Make your dreams come true in 3 steps
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Aquarium choice is first and foremost a matter of taste. What
will it look like and where will it be situated in your living space?
Next, you have to decide who is to take care of the aquarium
and how much time will be spent on it every week. Also, when
it comes to aquariums and equipment, you get what you pay
for. Cheap starter layouts include limited equipment whereas the
more expensive aquariums have better finish and better light.
Regardless of your decision, both solutions can work provided
that your plant and fish choice are appropriate.
Light is the most important energy source for plants. It is impor-
tant to ensure that the light source is spread evenly over the
surface of the aquarium so that the light can reach the plants
1: The right aquariumHERE YOU WILL FIND A DESCRIPTION OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CONDITIONS YOU HAVE TO BE FAMILIAR WITH BEFORE CHOOSING AN AQUARIUM.
in all corners. The light is always strongest in the middle of the
aquarium and less intensive in the corners. If you do not already
have reflectors behind the light source, it is a good idea to install
them. They will reflect the light sending it down to the aquarium
thus maximising the effect of your light source.
In general, we recommend T5 fluorescent lamps for planted
aquariums. Light that is close in spectrum to daylight is best
utilised by plants and provides accurate colour rendition. They
can also grow very well with LED lighting. As far as operation
is concerned, the LED option is cheapest to run and does not
generate heat like other light sources. Its initial price is quite high
and only a few types ensure optimal plant growth.
Apply fertiliser after 3-4 weeks when the plants have taken
hold. CO2 is supplied from the beginning in order to speed up
the growth of the plants and to enhance their colour. There are
many options to choose from when it comes to both fertilisers
and CO2 supply, but we recommend our own series ”Plant
Care” (information available at tropica.com).
An aquarium often needs heating. Most fish and plants require
the water temperature to be 22-25 degrees whereas special fish
such as Discus need 28-30 degrees. Remember to consult with
your dealer. The simplest solution is an internal heater. Some
external filter models have a built-in heating element.
The function of the filter is to circulate the aquarium water, to
clean the aquarium from particles that can make the water ap-
pear cloudy and to biologically purify the aquarium water via the
nitrogen cycle.
TIP: Please note that it is more difficult to achieve
stability when you have a small aquarium of 30 litres
compared to a larger aquarium of 100-200 litres.!
5
A specialist takes care of his/her aquariums every day.
The community aquarium is an adventure for the whole family. The playroom – a standard starter layout can work nicely here.
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2: The right plants
The concept in detail
To make your aquarium a success you need to choose
the right plants. Many discover that their plants do not do well
after planting. This is primarily due to purchasing a plant from
Medium or Advanced category, however, the aquarium does
not offer enough light or CO2 that can help these plants grow!
When a plant dies, it breaks down and a large amount of nutri-
ents are released into the water. Nutrients from dead or dying
plants accumulate in the aquarium and cause algae to grow,
creating major problems in your aquarium. People often give up
and lose their interest in this hobby! We would like to fix this!
Tropica would like to take co-responsibility for helping you to
make your aquarium a success. Follow the directions for
choosing plants on the opposite page. Then you will be on the
right path…
WE HAVE MADE IT EASIER FOR YOU TO BECOME AN AQUARIST! WITH TROPICA’S UNIQUE SYMBOLS – EASY, MEDIUM AND ADVANCED – YOU CAN BE CERTAIN THAT YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS SUITABLE FOR YOUR AQUARIUM IN PARTICULAR!
Examples:
1. The lighting levels supplied in many aquarium kits are often
relatively low. A 96-litre aquarium can be equipped with a fluore-
scent T8 18W lamp, so you should stock plants from the Easy
category.
2. A nano aquarium of 30 litres is equipped with an 18W Power
Compact lamp with good reflector. If you choose a CO2 solution
from Tropica’s Plant Care program, you can choose plants from
the Easy and Medium categories.
3. If you are up for a greater challenge, you will find excellent
quality aquariums in various sizes. Make sure that the light gives
at least 1 Watt per litre and that there is continuous CO2 supply.
If you follow these instructions, you can choose freely amongst
Easy, Medium and Advanced plants.
TIP: Remember
that the strongest light
is in the middle of the
aquarium. Therefore you
should place the most light-
demanding plants in the
middle of the aquarium!
!
7
The easy plants
• These plants can thrive and grow well in low-light aquariums.
• CO2 supply is recommended because the CO2 supply,
despite the low light, ensures the growth of the plants.
• The time expenditure per week is less than ½ hour
because the plants grow slowly.
• Bottom substrate at the beginning and liquid fertiliser for
weekly use.
Plants that require a little extra
• The plants require at least ½ watt per litre to thrive.
• CO2 supply is recommended to help plants grow with good
colour and density.
• Weekly maintenance times of ½-1 hour will be required de-
pending on the growth and development of the plants.
• Bottom substrate and liquid fertilisers are required. Special
fertiliser is recommended.
+ CO2+ extra light
The most demanding plants
• The plants require 1 Watt per litre or more to thrive fully.
• Continuous CO2 supply of 15-25 mg per litre is required.
• Maintenance time is 1-2 hours a week. The plant growth
can pose challenges.
• Bottom substrate and liquid fertiliser, including special
fertiliser, are required.
+ ekstra CO2+ high lighting
levels
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3: The right fish
Shoaling fish
ASK YOUR DEALER ABOUT WHAT WILL BE SUITABLE FOR YOU AND YOUR AQUARIUM. IN THE MEANTIME WE WILL GIVE YOU SOME GOOD TIPS.
Livebearing fish
Digging and
plant-eating fish
Territorial fish
The right balance between plants and fish in the aquarium are
important for ensuring a healthy environment, which promotes
natural fish behaviour. Most fish feel safest if they can hide
quickly and easily. People often prefer attractive colours and
want to look at their fish in a densely planted aquarium.
In general, you should follow the advices below:
• 1 cm fish per litre of aquarium water! This way you minimise
the algae growth!
• Always use algae-eating shrimps, snails or fish from the start.
Shoaling fish such as tetras, rasboras and barbs, seek refuge
in large groups known as shoals. Dense plants will give safety
to the relatively few individuals (however, no less than 8-10 fish)
you have room for. Plants with delicate leaves are often used for
laying eggs and therefore offer exciting breeding potential.
Livebearing fish, such as the guppy and platy are mostly
peaceful and brightly coloured. The female give birth to their
young, which use dense plants – especially close to the surface
– as a hiding place because the young get eaten. Some males
fight over the females and the ones that lose also hide in the
vegetation. Most livebearing fish eat algae and can potentially
damage soft plants and moss.
Digging and herbivorous fish including goldfish and some
cichlids, and most algae-eating fish, eat moss as well. With
plant-eating fish you can choose thick, tough leaves (such as
Anubias) or plants with strong flavour (such as Bacopa). Digging
fish tend to get frightened by strong roots which must be mature
before the fish are introduced! You can also cover the roots with
stones or wood, which should keep the fish away.
Territorial fish want to have their own space – either all the
time or only when they are young. Cichlids belong to this group.
You can observe very exciting behaviour patterns when several
pairs are put together in a planted aquarium so that the fish can
establish their territory.
TIP: We can recommend Tropica’s Aquadecor
range, which includes robust plants with their roots
firmly fixed onto a tree root or a lava rock. !
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Community fish are fish that can share the aquarium with
many other kinds of fish. Community fish comprise primarily of
livebearers and shoaling fish, but if you rearrange the aquarium
afterwards, it will be able to accommodate even more kinds
of fish. Cichlids thrive if there are holes and hiding places, and
gouramis and angelfish seek security amongst plants.
One out of many examples of fish that need higher tempera-
tures are Discus. People often refrain from plants in Discus
aquariums in order to facilitate the cleaning of the aquarium
and the changing of water. If you want plants for your Discus,
however, choose plants that grow naturally in places with high
temperature. Cryptocoryne, Microsorum and Echinodorus are
recommended.
Algae-eaters, shrimps and snails are very popular,
especially in the smaller nano aquariums. Shrimps in particular
do well with mosses. Many shrimp types are delicate, which
is why Tropica has developed a plant series called 1-2-Grow!
The plants are cultivated in a lab and are free from algae and
pesticides. Shrimps are very good at keeping delicate-leaved
plants such as Hemianthus, Marselia and Glossostigma free
from algae whereas snails are perfect for large leaves, windows,
stones and roots.
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Tropica ABC: This is how you startFROM START TO CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Planning your aquarium is a prerequisite for achieving good
results. Gain inspiration at your local dealer or at tropica.com
before making your final choice. Spend the necessary time on
planning – and by all means on drawing – the layout with the
location of both decoration materials and plants.
Hardscape is an aquarium layout with gravel, rocks, tree roots
and other decorations – but no plants. Creating a hardscape is
entirely up to your imagination. Some find it extremely interesting,
others do not like it so much. You can compare this activity to
standing before an easel and working with the paint brush. Most
of us try to do their best, whereas diligent artists understand
the colour setting, depth and perspective. Many competitions
are arranged around the world to determine the aquascaper
who can create the most impressive aquarium design. We can
recommend that you start with hardscapes, no matter whether
you have the talent of an artist or not…!
1. Find the appropriate pieces of wood, rocks, stones and other
decorative elements you want to use in your hardscape. If you
choose heavy stones, we can recommend adding polystyrene
at the bottom in order to protect the glass.
2. Add about 1 cm substrate in the places where plants with
strong roots will be planted. We recommend Tropica’s Plant
Growth Substrate.
TIP! You can find many hardscape examples
in step-by-step guides at tropica.com
3. The bottom layer, which often consists of gravel, is carefully
distributed and it can slope upwards towards the rear wall of the
aquarium. This way you achieve depth and perspective in your
aquarium.
4. Finally, place the rocks, tree roots and any other decoration
you like. Move around individual components and change their
places, if necessary. It is now that you create room and per-
spective so that the aquarium layout design is just right for you.
!
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Day 1. The aquarium is planted and filled with water. Start with 6 hours of light a day.
Day 20. The plants have taken hold – but the aquarium is not balanced yet. Beware of possible algae growth.
Day 90. The desired result - good plant growth, great colour and transparent water - is achieved.
The easiest way to plant in the aquarium is at a water
level of just a few centimetres from the bottom. Many aquarists
traditionally plant their plants when the aquarium is full, but this
way it can be difficult to orient yourself in the water and to plant
properly in the gravel.
Carefully pour the water down a saucer when refilling in order to
avoid stirring up the bottom until the water level is approx. 2 cm
above the gravel. Have a spray-mister ready in order to keep the
plants damp while you are working. The plants can easily get by
when they are kept wet! See the Appendix on page 66-67 for
more information on handling specific plant types such as stem
and rhizome plants.
When introducing a new aquarium, the first 90 days are
critical. To put it simply, the aquarium and the aquatic environ-
ment must be in balance with regards plant growth, fish popula-
tion and filtration. The plants have to adapt to the new conditions
at a time where algae can thrive.
We advise you to follow the steps below:
1. Set the lighting time to 6 hours a day in the first 2-3 weeks.
Then you can increase to 8-10 hours a day.
2. It is a good idea to provide CO2 from day 1.
3. Change the water 25-50% a couple of times a week in the
first 3-4 weeks. After that, change approx. 25% of the water
once a week.
4. No fertiliser or a limited amount of fertiliser during the first 3-4
weeks. The plants contain plenty of nutrients already from the
nursery, which is sufficient to establish a root network.
5. Fast-growing plants such as Egeria and Limnophila, can
be planted permanently or removed at a later date once the
aquarium is balanced. Fast-growing plants absorb the excess
nutrients and therefore minimise the growth of algae.
6. Introduce algae-eating snails and shrimps as soon as pos-
sible after start-up.
7. We recommend that the introduction of fish is delayed for 3-4
weeks until the plants have established. In other respects, follow
the fish stocking guidelines for new aquariums.
8. Check the equipment – does the plug-in-timer operate the
lighting effectively, is the CO2 supply sufficient, is the filter run-
ning, is the temperature OK?
TIP! Download App with Tropica’s 90-day start-up
guide at tropica.com.!
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MaintenanceOnce you get going and the aquarium is developing properly,
you have to start with more general maintenance:
1. Changing approx. 25% of the water every week prevents
the accumulation of hazardous substances in the aquarium and
limits the algae growth.
2. Waste products in the form of dead plant matter etc. should
be removed as soon as possible. Their breakdown uses oxygen
and produces nutrients that destroys the balance and promotes
algae growth.
3. Check the aquarium equipment regularly in order to make
sure that any faults and defects will be rectified and that a stable
environment will be maintained.
4. The plant growth is now in full swing and a liquid fertiliser has
to be added. Start carefully and with a dose smaller than the rec-
ommended. Increase the dose gradually according to the plants’
reaction to the fertiliser. A good rule of thumb is that leaves or
plants become lighter/transparent when they lack fertiliser.
5. Check for algae on a regular basis. The first sign is unclear
water, accumulations on the glass, leaves or decorative materi-
als, or possibly fine threads. If the algae become visible, it will
be much more difficult to suppress them! Algae are reduced by
changing the water, reducing the amount of fertiliser, introducing
more fast-growing plants and algae-eaters. You can find more
information at tropica.com.
TIP: Overfeeding your fish is the most common
cause of algae problems. Follow your dealer’s
instructions.!
1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6.
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TrimmingThe growth rate of the plants is very different and so is their
trimming. Extensive trimming can disturb the balance in the
aquarium, which is why little and often trimming is preferable.
This way the aquarium will look presentable all the time.
Trim stem plants (1) by regularly clipping the longest shoots
leaving one of the bottom leaves and cutting the rest, then re-
plant the shoots in the group. New shoots will emerge from the
trimmed stem.
The bottom layer and moss (2) are trimmed like a lawn,
in backward direction, in order to achieve fast new growth.
Echinodorus, bulbs and tubers (3) are trimmed by
removing the outer leaves of the rosette and/or leaves that cast
shadows over the surface.
For Cryptocoryne (4), remove the yellow or damaged leaves.
When the group becomes too dense, remove whole plants.
Stolons (5) are trimmed if they invade the surrounding plants.
The oldest plants can be replaced with stolons from time to time.
Rhizome plants (6) are slow-growing plants. The rhizome
stem itself is trimmed between a bunch of leaves when the plant
becomes too big. New shoots will form from the leaf base.
TIP! You can find many examples of how to
trim your aquarium in step-by-step guides at
tropica.com!
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A. Taxiphyllum barbieri (x2)
B. Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Tropica’ (x2)
C. Staurogyne repens (x2)
D. Echinodorus ‘Reni’ (x1)
E. Echinodorus bleheri (x1)
F. Vallisneria nana (x1)
G. Anubias barteri var. nana (x2)
Layout inspirationLET YOUR AQUARIUM DREAM COME TRUE. HERE WE OFFER YOUR FOUR INSPIRATIONAL LAYOUTS TO HELP INSPIRE YOU.
Scan the QR code with your smart-phone or click on the play
icon (when you are online) to view a step-by-step guide from
start-up to the final result.
Each layout is presented with a brief description (more details
are available at tropica.com), a list of plants and the associated
layout drawing. The symbols on each aquarium refer to the
description on page 7 and specify the plants we recommend in
relation to how much light the aquarium offers - how much light
does your aquarium offer?
LAYOUT 43 BY TONY SWINNEY (30L)Cubens 30 x 30 cm is perfect for a simple hardscape with only
one root placed in the middle of the aquarium. The root will look
more natural over time because it will be covered with moss.
The shape of the root is suitable for Anubias. Cryptocoryne
wendtii ‘Tropica’ and Echinodorus ‘Reni’ contribute to the red
shades of the root which emphasise the fresh green Staurogyne
in the foreground.
TIP: The symbols Easy, Medium and Advanced indicate the plant selection we recommend for your specific aquarium.
!
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A. Alternanthera reineckii ’Purple’ (x1)
B. Aponogeton crispus ’Red’ (x2)
C. Echinodorus tenellus (x6)
D. Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’ (x8)
E. Hemianthus micranthemoides (x1)
F. Ludwigia arcuata (x2)
G. Pogostemon helferi (x2)
H. Rotala rotundifolia (x1)
I. Pogostemon stellata (x2)
J. Vesicularia ferriei ‘Weeping’ (x2)
LAYOUT 44 BY MARK EVANS (200L)Mark has designed a dramatic rock landscape where the eye
is caught in the light green, luxuriant foreground and guided to-
wards the centre of the aquarium. Here we meet an abundance
of colours and shapes. Dark green moss and a dense tenellus
forest frame the V-shaped edge. The colourful stem plants are
challenging but if you succeed, they will be a nice contrast to
the peaceful green foreground.
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A. Anubias sp. ‘Petite’ (x4)
B. Bolbitis heudelotii (x2)
C. Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Green’ (x3)
D. Cryptocoryne willisii (x3)
E. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x5)
F. Eleocharis parvula (x10)
G. Hydrocotyle tripartita (x3)
H. Ludwigia repens ‘Rubin’ (x3)
I. Microsorum pteropus ‘Narrow’ (x2)
J. Monosoleum tenerrum (x1)
K. Myriophyllum mattogrossense (x4)
L. Nymphaea lotus (x2)
M. Vesicularia ferriei ‘Weeping moss’ (x5)
LAYOUT 45 BY EDUARD GERCOG (180L)A natural layout with a focus on different shapes and colours.
Even though the aquarium is full of colours, the plants used are
relatively easy to care for. The aquarium is maintenance-friendly
and will reach balance fast owing to many plants and a good
composition of fast-growing plants at the back and front, and
stable, easy plants in the middle of the aquarium.
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A. Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia (YLX, x3)
B. Echinodorus osiris (x3)
C. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x3)
D. Echinodorus tenellus (x5)
E. Microsorum pteropus (YLS, x2)
F. Cryptocoryne becketii ’Petchii’ (YLS, x5)
G. Microsorum pteropus ‘Windeløv’ (ZWS, x2)
H. Pogostemon helferi (YLS, x5)
LAYOUT 46 BY DAN CRAWFORD (200L)The plants from the Easy category are not only for starter
aquariums – they are also used in large, luxuriant and lavish
aquariums with minimum maintenance. Most plants have to be
trimmed a few times a year and the aquarium will look luxuriant
and healthy for a long time when you supply liquid fertilisers and
CO2. It requires less than ½ hour of maintenance a week!
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Our world of beautiful aquarium plants:
AquaDecor are products
where the plants grow on tree
roots or lava stones. The
products are very lifelike from
the beginning and create
depth as soon as they are
introduced in the aquarium.
Often they can be used for fish that
eat or dig up the plants such as goldfish and cichlids.
Code W (wood) - M (mini) are 7-10 cm, S (small) are 12-
25 cm and X (large) are 30-40 cm. Code L (lava stone) –
S (small) are 7-15 cm and X (large) are 20-30 cm, Code
Z – suction disc at one end of the root.
EACH PRODUCT FROM TROPICA HAS BEEN TESTED AND ADAPTED SO THAT WE GIVE EACH PLANT THE BEST POSSIBLE START WHEN IT LEAVES THE NURSERY. OUR PRODUCT RANGE IS WIDE AND CAN COVER ALL YOUR NEEDS IN A PLANT AQUARIUM. BELOW IS AN OVERVIEW OF THE GROUPS OF PLANTS WE OFFER:
Pots are brimming with plants
and have lots of mass and
healthy, well-developed roots.
Most pots can be divided
into several portions
or individual
plants which
are planted separately.
Code: POT
Tuberous plants are Nymphaea or
Aponogeton. Each tuber with an incipient
shoot. The plants grow fast after being
planted and become relatively big. A
sticker with the level of difficulty and infor-
mation about the plant is included
with each tuber. Code: KN
19
Bunches are groups of young plants or stems brought
together with the help of a small anchor. They have a few or
no roots. Roots are formed very soon after planting. They
are relatively easy, fast-growing plants which are excellent
for the start-up phase.
Code: BDT
Floating plants are sold in portions in a sealed
plastic container. The plants give the aquarium
another dimension thanks to their hanging roots
and their fast growth limits the growth of algae.
Ideal as plants that indicate the fertiliser level in
the aquarium and perfect as a hiding place for
young fish.
Code: POR
Moss is sold in portions in sealed plas-
tic containers. There is a big difference
between mosses, but all of them make
the aquarium more luxuriant and give it
greater depth. Can be tied to stones or
tree roots where they will form hanging
gardens. Perfect for laying eggs for dif-
ferent fish.
Code: POR
NEW! 1-2-Grow! Consists of small plants straight from
the lab in sealed containers. The plants are free from snails,
algae and pesticides. Nutrient-jelly remnants are rinsed
thoroughly before planting and the small plants have to be
fertilised from the very beginning. Recommended for nano
aquariums and tanks with shrimps.
Code: TC
XL pots are extra large
plants which are more robust
and give immediate luxuri-
ance. Can be used together
with AquaDecor products in
Cichlid aquariums.
Code XL
20
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’
Plants from A-ZTO HELP YOU GET STARTED WITH THE PLANTS, WE WOULD LIKE TO BRIEFLY SHOW YOU HOW TO READ OUR PLANT DATA.
Each product sheet contains information about the plant, its
requirements as far as physical and water chemistry are con-
cerned, as well as tips on how to handle the plant when you
introduce it to the aquarium and daily care. In short, all the infor-
mation you must use to make your aquarium a success.
All products are supplied with information about their degree of
difficulty and plant data on a sticker or on the package.
At tropica.com you will find more facts about plants, in-depth
information about lighting intervals and growth rate, as well as
general descriptions of the importance of pH, temperature and
water chemistry. Furthermore, there are also layout pictures and
references on how plants are used in layouts.
The plants are presented in alphabetic order by name and on
page 65 you can see the variants we offer in the respective
product groups.
An Easy, Medium or Advanced symbol indicates the level of dif-ficulty of the plant and its requirements concerning light, CO2 and fertiliser, as well as care requirements – see page 7.
The Latin name of the plant.
The layout pictures of the plant in the aquarium once it has adapted to the conditions in the aquarium.
A description of the plant, including origin, type (stem, rosette…), height and width in the aquarium, features, use in the aquarium, as well as specific care requirements.
Hand-painted watercolour that shows the form and colour of the plant in the aquarium.
Pictures of the product as received from Tropica.
Size of root or lava stone.
Tropica’s order number.
The price group of the product.
The bar code of the product.
Hemianthus callitrichoides is one of the smallest aquarium
plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with
millimetre-sized round leaves. If planted in small clumps a
few centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the
bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an
attractive foreground plant for small aquariums. Found on
Cuba west of Havana.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
048B YLS PG10048B POT PG7 048B TC PG7
21
Alternanthera reineckii ’Pink’ (roseafolia)
Alternanthera reineckii ’Mini’
Alternanthera reineckii ’Purple’ (lilacina)
The purple colour underneath leaves of Alternanthera
reineckii ‘Pink’ from South America provides an effective
contrast to the many green plants in an aquarium - par-
ticularly when planted in groups. Stems becomes 25-50
cm tall. Good light encourages the leaves to turn red. Easy
to propagate by nipping off the terminal bud and planting
it in the substrate. This also makes the mother plant more
bushy, because more side shoots are formed.
This miniture version of the well-known Alternanthera is
characterized by compact growth and a slower growth rate.
It is particularly suitable for small aquariums or as a fore-
ground plant in larger aquascapes. By careful trimming can
you create a dense, red-violet carpet approximately 5 to 10
cm high. High light intensity and addition of CO2 improves
the plants growth and overall apperance.
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Purple’ from South America needs
plenty of light to grow and form dark-red leaves. Stems
grow to 15-40 cm. In open aquariums it grows easily to
the the water surface, and like other difficult plants growth
improves considerably if CO2 is added. Shortage of
micronutrients results in pale leaves. Like other stem plants
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Purple’ looks best in groups.
023 POT PG5023C TC PG7 023B POT PG6023 BDT PG3 023 XL PG10
22
Anubias barteri var. angustifolia
Ammania sp. ’Bonsai’
Anubias barteri var. barteri
Anubias barteri var. angustifolia from West Africa is a beauti-
ful plant with long, narrow leaves. 10-20 cm tall with the
rhizome forming 10-15 cm or larger. Anubias barteri var.
angustifolia used to be sold as Anubias afzelii, but the latter
is actually a much larger species. It is grown in the same
conditions as Anubias barteri var. nana. It is not eaten by
herbivorous fish.
Ammania sp. ‘Bonsai’ is best described as a compact,
moderate growing version of Bacopa caroliniana. Plant in
small groups and trim often. Cuttings may be re-planted
in the group to achieve a more dense group or carpet.
At high light may the tip of the stems become reddish, at
lower light will the leaves become larger and the plant less
compact. Ammania sp. ‘Bonsai’ are particularly suitable for
nano-aquariums.
Anubias barteri var. barteri from West Africa is an unde-
manding plant. It grows somewhat larger than Anubias
barteri var. nana but is grown in the same conditions. From
25-45 cm tall, varies considerably in terms of size and leaf
shape. Like other Anubias-species, it is best planted in a
shady spot to restrict algae growth on the leaves. Herbivo-
rous fish do not eat the very tough and robust leaves.
101C POT PG8033E TC PG7 101A POT PG8
23
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia
Anubias barteri var. coffeefolia
Anubias barteri var. coffeefolia is a very beautiful, low
cultivar of Anubias barteri. 15-25 cm tall and a creeping
rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. It is characteristic that
the leaves arch considerably between the leaf ribs, and
the new leaves are red-brown. The colour combination
and leaf shape make it an attractive variety. It flowers
frequently under water but does not produce seeds
there. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish.
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia originates from an Australian tissue propagation laboratory. It is a very beautiful variety
with heart-shaped leaves. The leaves live for several years, so Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia can easily form large
groups despite its slow growth. A group of Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia growing more than 50 cm wide in a few
years is not unusual.
LAVA ROCK 20-30 CM
101 YLX PG13WOOD 30-40 CM
101 YWX PG13101U POT PG8 101G POT PG9101U XL PG12
24
Anubias barteri var. nana
Anubias sp. ’Petite’
Anubias barteri var. nana is a small, attractive plant which thrives in all conditions. It originates from Cameroon
and will reach 5-10 cm height. The best result is achieved by planting on a stone or tree root. Fishing line can
be used to attach the plant until it gains a hold. If planted on the bottom the rhizome must not be covered
because it tends to rot. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish.
Anubias sp. ‘Petite’ is a mutation which appeared in cultiva-
tion at the Oriental aquarium plant nursery in Singapore.
Stays less than 5 cm tall. It is most decorative when
attached to stones or roots, and like other Anubias should
be attached with fishing line until it gains a hold. A specialty
plant which is ideal for miniature landscapes in small
aquariums.
WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM
101 ZWS PG12LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
101 YLS PG11WOOD 12-25 CM
101 YWS PG11101 POT PG7 101H POT PG8
25
Aponogeton crispus
Aponogeton boivinianus
Aponogeton crispus ’Red’
Aponogeton crispus from Sri Lanka look good in any
aquarium with its light-green, transparent leaves. Leaves
from 25-50 cm and the plant grows to 15-25 cm wide. It
makes few demands, although growth is always best in
soft, slightly acidic water with a nutritious bottom. In such
conditions the plant produces a mass of leaves, and it flow-
ers very frequently in optimum conditions.
Aponogeton boivinianus is a large, strong plant which is only
suitable for large aquariums. A bulb plant from Madagascar.
In favourable conditions it can form very large leaves (up to
80 cm long and 8 cm wide, and from 30-50 cm wide). The
oldest leaves are deep dark-green, while younger leaves
are light-green and sometimes brownish until they are fully
developed.
Aponogeton crispus ‘Red’ is an interesting, red bulb plant.
A cultivar with red-violet, curly leaves which reaches 15-40
cm. With its moderate size, this graceful Aponogeton variety
looks spectacular as focal point contrasting against a light
green background. The plant is moderate to slow growing
and develops few or none floating leaves. Good light and
nutrient-rich conditions improves the plant characteristics.
083 POT PG8088 KN PG7 083B POT PG9
26
Aponogeton madagascariensis
Aponogeton longiplumulosus
Aponogeton ulvaceus
Aponogeton madagascariensis is a bulb plant from Mada-
gascar and is a speciality in botanical gardens all over the
world. Aponogeton madagascariensis makes such high
demands on water quality and the bottom that it can only
be recommended as a solitary plant in large, specialised
aquariums in which the water is replaced frequently.
Aponogeton longiplumulosus from Madagascar has large,
fluted leaves (35-60 cm long), making it a wonderful plant
which can be recommended for large aquariums (the whole
plant becomes 25-40 cm wide). It is relatively undemand-
ing, and makes no special demands on water quality.
Aponogeton ulvaceus is one of the most beautiful bulb
species in the Aponogeton-family and originates from Mada-
gascar. The leaves are delicate light-green and transparent
with fluted margin. A single root can produce more than 40
leaves, 30-60 cm long. This means that the plant is best as
a solitary plant in large aquariums (the plant becomes up to
50 cm wide).
089 KN PG7089D KN PG7 086 KN PG7
27
Bacopa australis
Azolla caroliniana
Bacopa caroliniana
Bacopa australis was discovered in southern Brazil
(australis = southern), and it does not come from Australia,
as might otherwise be assumed from its name. Stems
become 10-30 cm tall and 2-4 cm wide. Like the other
Bacopa species, Bacopa australis is also easy to grow in
an aquarium. Under certain conditions it creeps across the
bottom to form an elegantly decorative light green cushion.
Azolla caroliniana from North America is a small (1-2 cm tall),
floating fern housing blue-green algae in its leaves. These
algae are capable of absorbing nitrogen from the air, which
can then be used by the plant. Azolla caroliniana is used as
nitrogen fertiliser in rice paddies, and as animal feed. There
are several related varieties on the market, with similar ap-
pearance. A decorative plant for open aquariums.
Bacopa caroliniana originates from US and has been used
as an aquarium plant for many years. Stems become 10-30
cm long and 3-4 cm wide. Apart from relatively good light it
makes few demands. Its slow growth rate makes it one of
the few stem plants that do not need much attention. Like
most stem plants, it is most decorative when planted in
small groups.
043A POT PG5013 POR PG6 043 POT PG5 043 BDT PG3
28
Bolbitis heudelotii
Bacopa monnieri
Cabomba caroliniana
Bolbitis comes from West Africa, a fern with very beautiful
transparent green leaves, 15-40 cm tall and wide. When
planting do not cover the rhizome because it will rot, and it is
best to plant Bolbitis heudelotii on a root or stone. Keep the
plant in position with fishing line until it has gained a hold.
Growth can be increased considerably by supplying CO2,
and is only optimal in soft, slightly acidic water.
Bacopa monnieri originating from Tropical areas is an easy
and highly recommended plant which thrives in almost all
conditions. It is a plant which is suitable for the hard water
found in many European aquariums. Propagate by cuttings;
take a side shoot or terminal bud and plant it in the bottom.
Most beautiful when a great number of stems are planted
in a group.
Cabomba is a very popular aquarium plant from South
America owing to its beautiful foliage. It reaches 30-80
cm and each stem can become 5-8 cm wide.The least
demanding of the Cabomba-species, but still causes
problems in poorly lit aquariums. If there is not sufficient
light, try Limnophila sessiliflora, which requires less light.
Most decorative when planted in groups. Eaten locally as a
vegetable.
WOOD 12-25 CM
006 YWS PG11044 POT PG5 015 BDT PG3006 POT PG8 006 XL PG11
29
Ceratophyllum demersum ’Foxtail’
Cardamine lyrata
Ceratopteris thalictroides
Ceratophyllum demersum ’Foxtail’ was found in a smaller
tributary in Bolivia during an expedition to Rio Guapore, a
boundary river between Brazil and Bolivia. Ceratophyllum
has no roots as such, but it can still be planted in the bot-
tom of an aquarium and stems can become up to 80 cm
tall. ’Foxtail’ differs because its leaves are closer together
and it has lateral shoots, which gives it an attractive, com-
pact appearance.
Cardamine lyrata is actually a marsh plant from Japan. But
it is also a familiar aquarium plant which thrives under water
with 20-50 cm long stems. A characteristic trailing growth
form makes it highly decorative, and ‘aerial’ roots often form
on the plant itself. Plant in groups, and make sure the water
temperature does not exceed 28 degrees C.
Ceratopteris is a pan-tropical fern, 15-30 cm tall and 10-20
wide. This plant normally grows fast, but the addition of CO2
may be necessary to promote growth. The finely branched
leaves are very decorative and provide good contrast to
other leaf shapes. In good light Ceratopteris thalictroides
grows fast and helps prevent algae by consuming large
amounts of nutrients. This makes it a good starter plant in
small aquariums.
021A POR PG8024 POT PG5 005A POT PG6
30
Crinum calamistratum
Cladophora aegagrophila
Crinum natans
Crinum calamistratum from West Africa is a very graceful
bulbous plant with dark-green, very narrow leaves. The curly
leaves becomes 40-120 cm long. It forms smaller bulbs
than the other Crinum-species, and demands more light. In
the aquarium plants that are thriving form a number of small
bulbs. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish. It can also be used
in brackish aquariums with low salt concentrations.
Cladophora aegagrophila is not really a plant, but a ball
of algae from 3-10 cm wide. It is a decorative exception
from the rule about avoiding algae at all costs. It is normally
found in shallow lakes, where the movement of the waves
forms it into a sphere. Cladophora aegagrophila can be
divided into smaller pieces, which become spherical with
time, or which form a carpet, if attached to roots and
stones.
Crinum natans is a very beautiful and graceful bulbous plant
with dark green leaves from West Africa. Leaves grow to
50-150 cm long. Plant so the top 2/3 of the bulb is visible.
When the plant grows older (if it is thriving) it sometimes
forms small bulbs and sends a flower stem up to the water
surface with a beautiful and aromatic lily flower. The plant
varies considerably in leaf width and the shape of the leaf
margin.
094A POT PG9 094A XL PG13000C ST PG5 094 POT PG9 094 XL PG13
31
Cryptocoryne beckettii ’Petchii’
Crinum thaianum
Cryptocoryne crispatula
Cryptocoryne beckettii ‘Petchii’ is a small variety of Cryp-
tocoryne beckettii from Sri Lanka, which has beautiful,
slightly fluted leaf margins, 10-15 cm long. Leaves become
dark olive-brown with violet underside. Like many other
Cryptocorynes, the leaf colour and shape depends largely
on environmental conditions in the aquarium.
Crinum thaianum from Thailand is a distinctive bulbous
plant belonging to the lily family having 60-200 cm long
leaves. It is undemanding apart from the fact that it needs
plenty of space. Plant so the top 2/3 of the bulb is visible,
because otherwise the bulb tends to rot. When the plant
grows older it sometimes sends a flower stem up to the
water surface with an aromatic, elegant lily flower.
Cryptocoryne crispatula from Southern Thailand where
there are limestone mountains, and the water can be very
hard. Like many other Cryptocorynes it needs to acclimatise
before growth starts in earnest. Leaves becomes 20-60 cm
long and the single roset plant becomes 15-20 cm wide.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
108A YLS PG10108A POT PG7093 POT PG9 093 XL PG11 125 POT PG9
32
Cryptocoryne undulata ’Broad Leaves’
Cryptocoryne parva
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Brown’
The triploid variety of Cryptocoryne undulata from Sri Lanka
has wider leaves and a beautiful, flecked leaf pattern. It also
grows larger, from 15-25 cm, and the single roset becomes
10-20 cm wide. It is a hardy plant and do well under many
growing conditions.
Cryptocoryne parva from Sri Lanka is the smallest of all
Cryptocorynes (only 3-6 cm tall and a roset less than
5-8 cm wide). It is one of the few species that does not
significantly change its leaf shape and colour depending
on cultivation conditions. It needs more light than most
other Cryptocorynes because it almost loses its leaf
blade under water.
Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Brown’ is a beautiful brown variety of
Cryptocoryne wendtii from Sri Lanka. It reaches 15-25 cm
and each roset becomes 10-15 cm wide. It is a mistake to
believe that Cryptocorynes require soft water. In large parts
of Sri Lanka the water is hard, so Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes
are almost all suitable for hard European water.
110A POT PG7106 POT PG8 109C POT PG7
33
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Mi Oya’
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Green’
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Tropica’
This beautiful variety of Cryptocoryne wendtii is only
found in the river Mi Oya at Sri Lanka. It has characteristic
red-brown, slightly hammered leaves from 20-35 cm, and
15-30 cm wide rosettes. Many Cryptocorynes can grow at
high temperatures. In the wild this plant is found in streams
with a temperature of more than 30 degrees C.
Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’ is suitable for small aquariums
with heights from 5-15 cm and a roset from 8-15 cm wide.
When grown in an open space the leaves will virtually lie on
the bottom. Like most other Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes, it also
grows well in hard water.
This beautiful variety with the dark, hammered leaves is
named after ’Tropica’. When grown in an open space the
leaves will virtually lie on the bottom. It is suitable for small
aquariums with leaves from 10-15 cm, and a rosette
from 10-20 cm wide. Like most other Sri Lanka Crypto-
corynes, it also grows well in hard water.
109D POT PG7109 POT PG7 109E POT PG7 109E XL PG11
34
Cyperus helferi
Cryptocoryne x willisii
Didiplis diandra
Cyperus-species are widespread all over the tropics, but
only a few of them are good underwater plants. Cyperus
helferi from Thailand is the first Cyperus-species used in
aquariums, 20-35 cm tall and a roset from 15-25 cm wide.
It requires a relatively large amount of light, and CO2 addi-
tion is recommended to promote growth. In aquariums with
good water flow the plant sways beautifully in the current.
This Cryptocoryne from Sri Lanka used (mistakenly) to
be called Cryptocoryne nevillii, but this is the name of a
species that has never been used in aquariums. Like many
other Cryptocorynes, not much happens the first month af-
ter planting. But then it starts to grow, and willingly produces
plenty of runners which form a compact group. The plant
becomes 7-20 cm tall, and each roset 7-15 cm wide.
Didiplis diandra from North America is a fine plant which
should be planted in small groups with stems from 10-15
cm and 2-5 cm wide. In good light it develops red shoot
tips which form a beautiful contrast with other green plants.
A demanding plant which needs a lot of light and prefers
soft water. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably. Also
known as Peplis diandra.
133A POT PG7107 POT PG7 031 POT PG7
35
Echinodorus bleheri
Echinodorus ’Aquartica’
Echinodorus cordifolius ssp. fluitans
Echinodorus bleheri from South America is undemanding
and beautiful, and becomes 20-50 cm tall. A nutritious
bottom promotes growth, but the plant needs pruning to
prevent it depriving plants underneath of light. Echinodorus
bleheri does well even in poorly illuminated aquariums, as it
grows towards the light. It is a hardy and easy solitary plant
for both beginners and the more experienced with quite
large aquariums.
Characteristics of the cultivar Echinodorus ’Aquartica’ are
its round, bright green leaves. Its compact (10-20 cm),
low growth makes it suitable as a decorative solitary plant.
Slow growing and easy to care for, Echinodorus ’Aquartica’
retains the refreshing green colour of its leaves in normal
lighting and nutrient conditions in the aquarium. Echino-
dorus ’Aquartica’ was developed by Kristian Iversen from
the ”Aquartica’’ company.
A comparatively fast-growing Echinodorus from Mexico,
suitable for large aquariums reaching 20-50 cm long
leaves and a 15-30 cm wide roset. Unlike other round-
leafed varieties of the species, Echinodorus cordifolius
ssp. fluitans is less likely to grow up over the water
surface. If it grows large enough, it forms large leaves just
under the surface instead.
071 POT PG6 071 BDT PG3074F POT PG7 073D POT PG7
36
Echinodorus ’Ozelot’
Echinodorus osiris
Echinodorus ’Ozelot Green’
Echinodorus ’Ozelot’ is a decorative hybrid between
Echinodorus schluteri ’Leopard’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’.
20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. Naturally, it is
the elliptical black spots on the red-brown leaves that have
given this plant the name ’Ozelot’. The spots are darkest on
the youngest leaves, and unlike many other spotted Echi-
nodorus, ’Ozelot’ retains its spots even at low light intensity.
In the 1970’s coloured aquarium plants were rare, which is
why Echinodorus osiris with its red colour quickly became
popular. It originates from Brazil and becomes 25-50 cm tall
with a 20-30 cm wide roset. It is generally an undemanding
plant which is suitable for both soft and hard water. It is not
eaten by herbivorous fish.
A beautiful, dark-green variety of Echinodorus ’Ozelot’,
20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. The dark spots
form a bigger contrast on the light leaves. The leaf margin
is fluted. A nutritious bottom promotes growth. It is an easy
and highly recommended plant, which thrives in almost all
conditions.
073F POT PG8072 POT PG8 073G POT PG8 073G XL PG12073F XL PG12
37
Echinodorus quadricostatus
Echinodorus palaefolius var. latifolius
Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’
Echinodorus ‘Quadricostatus’ from South America has
characteristic light-green leaves 10-15 cm long which form
a good contrast to the darker aquarium plants. It is most
beautiful when planted in groups, each roset becoming
15-20 cm wide. In good conditions it produces runners
which spread over the bottom. Very light leaves are a sign
of a shortage of micro-nutrients.
In marshy conditions Echinodorus palaefolius var. latifolius
from Brazil has round leaves with a horizontal leaf base.
Under water the leaves are narrower and longer (from 20-
40 cm). In the aquarium it tends to grow out of the water.
This can be prevented by removing the long leaves just
before they reach the water surface. The next leaves will
then become shorter and the plant will remain under water.
Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’ appeared as a culture in the
Ukraine, and is probably a cross between Echinodorus
horemanni ’Red’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’. The resultant
hybrid is an attractive plant with ruby-red sword-shaped
leaves, 15-25 cm long. Unlike many of the other Echinodor-
us-species, Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’ remains moderate
in size (20-30 cm wide roset).
068 POT PG7076 POT PG7 074D POT PG8076 XL PG12
38
Echinodorus ’Reni’
Echinodorus ’Rosé’
Echinodorus ’Red Special’
Echinodorus ‘Red Special’ is a hybrid of several different
cultivated plants, characterised by copper-coloured,
spatula-shaped leaves. In some cases these have darker
red patches. The plant grows abundantly in a compact
shape (approximately 20-30 cm tall and wide), and is very
decorative as a solitary plant.
‘Reni’ is a well-known cultivar characterised by being
amongst the smallest of the red Echinodorus, 15-40 cm
tall and a roset from 15-25 wide. The new leaves of the
plant are reddish-brown to deep beetroot in colour. It can
be used in small aquariums and is unpretentious. The plant
requires a lot of light and nourishment for optimal colour
development.
This beautiful plant is a hybrid between Echinodorus
horemanii ‘Red’ and Echinodorus horizontalis. It was first
produced in 1986 by Hans Barth in Dessau and becomes
25-40 cm tall and a rosette from 15-25 cm wide. New
underwater leaves are a beautiful pink, and initially the
leaves have red-brown spots. A nutritious bottom promotes
growth, but otherwise Echinodorus ’Rosé’ is undemanding
and thus an excellent plant for beginners.
072D POT PG8073J POT PG8 072B POT PG8 072B XL PG12
39
Echinodorus ’Rubin’
Echinodorus tenellus
Echinodorus uruguayensis
Echinodorus uruguayensis from South America has long,
narrow, transparent, dark-green leaves 20-55 cm long,
making it a very beautiful solitary plant for large aquariums.
The leaf length and width vary considerably. In good growing
conditions it forms an unusual number of leaves (10-30 cm
wide roset), and a nutritious bottom and CO2 addition and
slightly acidic water promote growth.
Echinodorus ’Rubin’ is a decorative hybrid between Echi-
nodorus horemanii ‘Red’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’ with up
to 60 cm long leaves and a roset from 20-40 cm wide. The
transparent, ruby-red leaves with light leaf ribs provide a
particularly intensive sheen. An undemanding plant whose
growth is stimulated by CO2 addition and a nutritious bot-
tom. A good solitary plant for large aquariums.
Small foreground plants for aquariums are in short supply,
but Echinodorus tenellus from North America is one of
the best. The runners spread round the aquarium. A true
”lawn’’ effect appr. 5-10 cm tall is only achieved at high
light intensities, so you must make sure larger plants do not
overshadow the plant. Plant individual plants a couple of
centimetres apart (easiest with tweezers).
067 POT PG8074B POT PG8 070A POT PG8074B XL PG13
40
Echinodorus ’Vesuvius’
Echinodorus ’Barthii’
Egeria densa
The cosmopolitan Egeria densa is a good plant for begin-
ners, and its rapid growth helps create a balance in the
aquarium from the start. Stems grows fast to 40-100 cm
and becomes 2-4 cm wide. Egeria helps preventing algae
because it absorbs a great number of nutrients from the
water. The plant secretes antibiotic substances which can
help prevent blue-green algae (a type of bacteria).
Echinodorus ’Vesuvius’ is a cultured species based on
Echinodorus angustifolia from Oriental Aquarium Plants.
The narrow and twisted green leaves makes it an unusual
addition to the Echinodorus family. The rosette species
grows vigorously with many medium length and narrow
leaves (10-20 cm tall), and is highly decorative as a solitary
plant (rosette 10-15 cm wide). ’Vesuvius’ spreads readily
with runners.
The cultivar Echinodorus ‘Barthii’ is a decorative and beauti-
ful solitary plant for large aquariums. It becomes 25-50
cm tall and the whole rosette 20-30 cm wide. The leaves
change colour from dark-red in the youngest leaves to
dark-green in the oldest. The colour develops well when the
light intensity is high and there are sufficient micro-nutrients
in the aquarium.
072A POT PG8 072A XL PG12067C POT PG9 058 BDT PG3
41
Eleocharis parvula
Eleocharis sp. ’Mini’
Fissidens fontanus
This featherlike Fissidens-moss with tight deep green down
comes from North America. It grows relatively slow and
requires much more light than other mosses. Suitable for
binding roots and stones both vertically and horizontally in
the aquarium.
The cosmopolitan Eleocharis parvula has short leaves and
fast growth making it one of the most impressive carpet-
forming foreground plants, 3-10 cm tall depending on light
conditions. It spreads rapidly by runners. It is a relatively
easy and undemanding plant that does best with good light
and a nutritious substrate.
Eleocharis sp. ’mini’ has even lower growth than the
common Eleocharis parvula and was given to Tropica by
Thomas Barr from US. Plant the mini-version in small por-
tions covering a larger area. In short time, a dense carpet
will be obtained. Needs light to perform optimal, however,
it is one of the most secure species for creating a carpet
– and a minimum of maintenance since leaves stays small
(3-5 cm).
132B TC PG7132C POT PG7 002F POR PG9
42
Fontinalis sp. ’Willow’
Glossostigma elatinoides
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’
Hemianthus callitrichoides is one of the smallest aquarium
plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with
millimetre-sized round leaves. If planted in small clumps a
few centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the
bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an attrac-
tive foreground plant for small aquariums. Found on Cuba
west of Havana.
Fontinalis antipyretica looks best when it reaches a bigger
size. Hence, the light green tips of each darker green stem
becomes visible. Fontinalis is an unassuming and easy
moss, which do well also at lower temperatures, and does
well in many types of aquariums.
Glossostigma elatinoides from New Zealand is much in
demand in Japanese-inspired aquariums. It is one of the
smallest aquarium plants (2-3 cm tall), and thus a good
foreground plant. A difficult plant demanding a lot of light.
Grows upwards if light is poor. Make sure larger plants do
not overshadow it. CO2 addition and soft water promote
growth significantly.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
048B YLS PG10045A POT PG6 045A TC PG7003F POR PG9 048B POT PG7 048B TC PG7
43
Hemianthus micranthemoides
Heteranthera zosterifolia
Hydrocotyle tripartita
Hydrocotyle tripartita is characterised by fast, compact
growth and small, intensive green leaves on vertical stems.
The plant is carpet-forming (5-10 cm tall) and its compact
growth can be promoted by physically pressing the carpet
with your hand when maintaining your aquarium (mechanical
retardation). Carpet formation and compact growth do best
in good light.
Hemianthus micranthemoides from North America is a
graceful plant whose small, arched leaves make it look like
a miniature version of Egeria. It has a characteristic trailing
growth in intensive light, so it can be used as a foreground
plant (stems from 10-20 cm tall, 2-3 cm wide). A compact
group of Hemianthus micranthemoides is very beautiful with
its small, light-green leaves.
Heteranthera zosterifolia from South America is an extremely
beautiful plant which forms a lot of side shoots and thus
quickly forms a bushy plant group. Stems can become
30-50 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. In strong light growth is
intensive, and the plant must be pruned before it becomes
so compact that no light reaches the lower leaves.
096 TC PG7048A POT PG7 039B POT PG7
44
Hydrocotyle verticillata
Hygrophila corymbosa
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Angustifolia’
This plant originates from South-East Asia and stems be-
come 25-60 cm long with 10 cm long leaves. Under water
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Angustifolia’ has relatively narrow
leaves which are grouped close together. Plants sold in
the shops are normally cultivated above water, and have
rounder leaves with larger gaps between them.
Unlike other Hydrocotyle species, this plant retains its
trailing growth form. Verticillata originates from America and
becomes 3-7 cm tall. Optimum growth is only achieved in
strong light and soft, slightly acidic water. It does not need to
be rooted, but can be used as a floating plant. Hydrocotyle
verticillata is definitely a foreground plant which can also be
used in garden ponds.
Hygrophila corymbosa is an undemanding starter plant that
originates from Asia. In the aquarium it will spread fast and
create bright green, long and wide leaves. It is a fast grow-
ing plant that must be pruned frequently. New shoots will
spread from the stem and make the plant look bushier. The
cuttings can be re-planted in the bottom of the aquarium
where new roots form quickly.
053 BDT PG3039 POT PG6 052A POT PG5
45
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis’
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis 53B’
Hygrophila difformis
Hygrophila difformis from Asia is beautiful and undemand-
ing. Stems becomes 20-30 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. A
plant for beginners which can help create a balance in the
aquarium from the start. Its rapid growth helps prevent algae
because the plant absorbs a great number of nutrients
from the water. The shortage of micronutrients leads to pale
leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium needs
fertiliser.
‘Siamensis’ originates from Thailand and have stems from
15-40 cm and 10-15 cm wide. Leaves are light-green
and dense. In open aquariums Hygrophila corymbosa
’Siamensis’ grows easily above the water surface, where it
forms blue-green leaves and small blue flowers. It grows fast
and the shoots must be pinched out regularly if you want
to keep the plant under water. An extremely hardy plant,
suitable for beginners.
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis 53B’ is a variety of
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis’. This Hygrophila ’Sia-
mensis 53B’ forms an incredible amount of side shoots and
becomes bushy relatively rapidly. Stems becomes 15-40
cm tall and 7-12 cm wide. Its beautiful bright green leaves
are narrower than the regular ’Siamensis’ and it can achieve
red-brown leaves in good light conditions.
053B POT PG5053A POT PG5 053A XL PG10 051 BDT PG3
46
Hygrophila pinnatifida
Hygrophila polysperma
Hygrophila polysperma ’Rosanervig’
Hygrophila polysperma ’Rosanervig’ is normally an unde-
manding plant. But if you want deep-pink leaves you must
provide intensive light. Stems becomes 20-40 cm tall and
5-8 cm wide. The distinctive colouring of the light leaf ribs
is probably caused by a virus which prevents chlorophyll
from being produced in the cells around the leaf ribs, mak-
ing them white.
Hygrophila pinnatifida originates from India. It obtains brown,
patched leaves on the surface with a distinctive burgundy
colour underneath. It creates horizontal side shoots and
the top shoots should be pinched out in order to maintain
compact and attractive growth. The horizontal side shoots
easily attach to both wood and rocks. Stems 15-40 cm tall,
and the colour is attractive when planted in small groups
with a plain background.
Hygrophila polysperma from South-East Asia is one of the
hardiest aquarium plants available. Stems becomes 25-40
cm. It is particularly good for beginners because it grows
in almost all conditions. It normally grows so fast that it is
important to prevent it crowding out other plants. Hygrophila
polysperma varies considerably in leaf shape and colour,
depending to some extent on the light supplied.
WOOD 12-25 CM
051A YWS PG10 050 POT PG6051A POT PG8 050B POT PG6
47
Hygrophila sp. ’Araguaia’
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis
Lilaeopsis mauritiana
This Lilaeopsis species demands less light than Lilaeopsis
brasiliensis, and stays also low (5-10 cm “lawn”). Tropica’s
founder, Holger Windeløv, found it on Mauritius in 1992.
The plants height and distance between its leaves depend
on the light intensity. The more light it gets, the lower the
plant and the denser the leaves. The runners spread round
the aquarium. Should be planted like Lilaeopsis brasiliensis.
“Araguaia” is a river system in Brazil and it is under this name
that the plant has become known. There are many signs,
however, that the plant is a Hygrophila lancea from Japan
and Hong Kong. The stem becomes 10-20 cm tall. It has
compact, tight-sitting leaves and grows branches easily.
Pinching of the stems maintains a bushy look. The plant is
reddish brown to purple in colour and is promoted by good
growth conditions.
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis from South America can grow very
compact, but a ”lawn effect’’ (4-7 cm tall) is only achieved
at high light intensity. When planting in the aquarium small
clumps (approx. 1/8 pot) should be placed a few centime-
tres apart to help the plants grow together more quickly.
Place in an open position without shading from other plants
to ensure good light.
040 POT PG6051B POT PG7 040 TC PG7 040B POT PG7
48
Limnobium laevigatum
Limnophila aquatica
Limnophila sessiliflora
Limnophila sessiliflora is a good and undemanding plant
from South-East Asia which is a good alternative to
Cabomba, which demands a lot of light. Stems grows fast
up to 40 cm long and becomes 3-4 cm wide. The plant
often grows leggy in poor light, but this can be counteracted
to some extent by stimulating growth by CO2 addition. Most
beautiful when planted in groups.
Limnobium laevigatum from South America is a decorative
floating plant that is particularly suitable for open aquariums.
1-5 cm tall and leaves from 5-15 cm wide. It is also good in
traditional aquariums, because the fine, long and decorative
roots provide protection to gouramies and other surface fish
that like the roots of floating plants.
An extremely beautiful aquarium plant circled by light-green
and finely branched leaves from South-East Asia. In the right
growing conditions with added CO2 and a nutritious bottom
this plant grows fast and can become 25-50 cm long and
each stem up to 15 cm wide. In good light it forms horizon-
tal side shoots and becomes attractive and bushy. Most
decorative when several stems are planted in a small group.
046 POT PG7063 POR PG7 047 POT PG6
49
Lindernia rotundifolia
Lobelia cardinalis
Ludwigia arcuata
This is a narrow-leafed Ludwigia species from US, a plant
with 25-50 long and 3-5 wide stems. It is often mistaken for
Didiplis diandra. It requires a relatively large amount of light
before forming a red stem and red leaves, and thrives best
in slightly acidic, soft/medium hard water. The most decora-
tive effect can be achieved by planting it in groups.
Lindernia rotundifolia grows on sandy banks along streams
in Asia. The plant is undemanding and the stems with
marbled leaves quickly form compact groups. Lindernia
rotundifolia is suitable both for background and as a solitary
mid-ground plant with leaves growing tightly from top to bot-
tom. A good starter plant that thrives under most conditions.
Lobelia cardinalis grows wild in Northern America. In the
nursery this plant is cultivated in marshy conditions, forming
dark-green leaves which are purple underneath. In aquari-
ums the leaves turn a beautiful shade of light-green, with
stems 10-30 cm tall and 5-10 cm wide. It needs intensive
light to thrive. Widely used in Dutch aquariums in so-called
”plant streets’’.
053C POT PG5045 POT PG6 035 POT PG7
50
Ludwigia glandulosa
Ludwigia repens ’Rubin’
Marsilea hirsuta
Marsilea hirsuta is a carpet-plant from Australia. A fascinat-
ing plant, usually delivered with leaves like a four-leaf clover.
After a transitional period it develops different types of
leaves, possibly a low form with single leaves like a large
Glossostigma, or alternatively develop two, three or four-
lobed leaves varying in height (from 2-10 cm), depending on
the growth conditions.
Ludwigia glandulosa from North America is a very beautiful
water plant. It is slow growing and requires CO2 addition
to grow well. Stems becomes 15-40 cm tall and 5-12 cm
wide. The leaves turn greener if sufficient light is provided.
Used to be sold as Ludwigia perennis.
Variety of Ludwigia repens from North America with strik-
ing dark red leaves and stalk. Stems from 20-50 cm and
4-6 cm wide. It makes a fine colour contrast to the green
shades in the aquarium. Plant in large groups to enhance
the decorative effect, and prune regularly to encourage
bushy growth. The plant makes few demands, but if light is
insufficient the lower leaves tend to fall off.
033D POT PG7035A POT PG5 010 POT PG5 010 TC PG7
51
Microsorum pteropus
Microsorum pteropus is a water fern from Asia, 15-30 cm tall, which should be grown on a root or stone, attached with fishing line until it has
gained a hold. If it is planted in the bottom, do not cover the rhizome because it will rot. Easy to propagate by splitting the horizontal rhizome.
A hardy plant which grows in all conditions. The black spots under the leaves are sporangia (reproductive organs), not signs of disease as
many believe.
LAVA ROCK 20-30 CM
008 YLX PG13WOOD 30-40 CM
008N YWX PG13WOOD 12-25 CM
008 YWS PG11WOOD WITH SUCTION, 30-40 CM
500 OWX PG13WOOD 30-40 CM
008 YWX PG13LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
008 YLS PG11008 POT PG8 008 XL PG12
52
Microsorum pteropus ’Narrow’
Micranthemum umbrosum
Microsorum pteropus is a highly variable species, and new varieties are easily bred. Microsorum pteropus
’Narrow’ has narrower leaves, which grow at a less acute angle from the stem than the normal Microsorum
pteropus. Leaves becomes 10-20 cm and a rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. The plant attaches readily to
roots and stones. A decorative plant, which is also suitable for smaller aquariums.
Micranthemum umbrosum is a beautiful plant from US with
small round leaves. It is suitable for small or large aquariums
with stems becoming 10-25 cm long and 1-2 cm wide.
Relatively demanding in terms of light. CO2 addition is
recommended to promote growth. Once the plant starts
growing it grows fast, and the shoots have to be pinched
out often (can be planted as cuttings in the bottom).
WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM
008A ZWS PG12WOOD 12-25 CM
008A YWS PG11WOOD 30-40 CM
008A YWX PG13008A POT PG8048 POT PG7
53
Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’
Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’ is a patented variety of Microsorum pteropus, named after Tropica’s founder Holger Windeløv. Its finely
branched leaf tips make it one of the most beautiful aquarium plants. The Microsorum variety becomes 15-20 cm tall and wide. A hardy and
easy plant for both beginners and the more experienced. Best results are obtained by planting it on a stone or tree root.
WOOD 30-40 CM
008B YWX PG13HALF COCONUT
510 YCS PG12WOOD WITH SUCTION, 7-10 CM
008B ZWM PG10WOOD 7-10 CM
008B YWM PG9WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM
008B ZWS PG12WOOD 12-25 CM
008B YWS PG11008B POT PG8
54
Myriophyllum mattogrossense
Monosolenium tenerum
Myriophyllum mattogrossense ’Red’
Myriophyllum matogrossense originates from Matto
Grosso in the Rio Amazonas, Brazil. It has decorative and
feather-like, reddish stems (30-60 cm long) and finely
divided bright green leaves (5 cm wide). In good light con-
ditions the leaves spread out in a fan shape. Myriophyllum
is relatively easy and is suitable for the background.
A good starter plant.
The Asian Monosolenium tenerum is an attractive liverwort,
2-5 cm high, which looks most like a giant Riccia that
simply stays at the bottom, where it forms cushions. It is
a brittle plant, and pieces break off easily, so it is best to
place it in the aquarium attached to stones with fishing line
or in small clumps among other plants such as Eleocharis.
Once Monosolenium has established itself, it is very
undemanding.
The orange-red variety of Myriophyllum mattogrossense
from South America demands high light and nutrient levels
to develop optimally. It becomes 20-60 cm tall and each
stem 3-4 cm wide. Myriophyllum should be planted in the
center or background of the aquarium, and as a contrast
to green plants. The variety is fast growing and must be
trimmed often to keep a dense, compact growth. Cutted
stems can be planted next to the group to obtain an ever
denser group.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
002C YLS PG10 037 POT PG7002C POR PG7 037D POT PG7
55
Nymphaea lotus
Nesaea crassicaulis
Nymphoides sp. ’Taiwan’
A beautiful and very varied species from West Africa with
leaves of green to red-brown and varying numbers of
purple spots. Can grow from 20-80 cm tall. Before form-
ing floating leaves Nymphaea lotus (zenkeri) forms many
underwater leaves. If you don’t want floating leaves, prune
the roots and leaves. The beautiful, aromatic flowers can
be fully appreciated in open aquariums. Recommended as
a solitary plant for large aquariums.
Nesaea crassicaulis from Africa is a beautiful and highly rec-
ommended aquarium plant, although it has high demands
for light. It has red-brown, cognac-coloured leaves. Stems
becomes 30-50 cm and 8-15 cm wide. Grows best in soft
and slightly acidic water. Make sure the lower leaves get
sufficient light, otherwise they will die off.
Nymphoides sp. grows in Asia and Africa - and this variant
of the species originates from southern Taiwan. The rosette
plant can become 15-25 cm tall and 10-15 cm wide. This
variant is characterised by many underwater leaves and
the intense, light-green, transparent colour of the plant.
The plant is fast-growing and it is necessary to thin out the
leaves (remove oldest leaves and surface leaves).
019 POT PG9033B POT PG5 041B POT PG8 041B TC PG7019 KN PG7
56
Pogostemon helferi
Pogostemon erectus
Pogostemon stellata
This plant was discovered by aquarists in Thailand, close
to the border with Burma. It is called ’Downoi’ (little star) in
Thailand, and it is easy to see why (5-10 cm tall and wide).
Pogostemon helferi is an unusual and distinctive aquatic
plant with a compact habit, curly leaves and a strikingly
beautiful green colour.
The Indian Pogostemon erectus forms compact groups of
bright green, conifer-like stems, 10-20 cm tall and 1-3 cm
wide. Pogostemon erectus is suitable as a background
plant and creates a wonderful focal point in both smaller
and larger groups. Intense light helps the plant to stay
compact for a longer period. Moderate growth and vigorous
roots.
Pogostemon stellata from Asia and Australia is distin-
guished by its beautiful shape and colour. Stems from
20-60 cm and up to 10 cm wide. It is difficult to grow in
aquariums. It requires intensive light and the addition of
CO2 to grow well. The shortage of micronutrients leads to
pale leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium
needs fertiliser.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
053H YLS PG10053H POT PG8053F POT PG8 053G POT PG7053F TC PG7
57
Ranunculus inundatus
Proserpinaca palustris ’Cuba’
Riccardia chamedryfolia
This species comes from Australia and becomes 5-10 cm
tall. There are many species and variants of Ranunculus,
which grow coarse and leggy in aquariums. Ranunculus
inundatus is characterised by its compact form and
distinguished, deep-lying umbrellas. The plant forms many
vertical runners with new plants and over time thick bottom
coverage is formed. Good lighting produces compact
growth. Long leaves can be pruned.
Proserpinaca is a stem plant, 10-40 cm tall and 5-10
cm wide. Cultivated above water and delivered with
saw-toothed leaves, which after a transitional period in the
aquarium develop into long, finely denticulated, needle-like
leaves. In good light conditions it turns a beautiful copper
colour. The Tropica cultivar is found on the Isla de la Juven-
tud off Cuba. In the USA the plant is commonly known as
”mermaid weed’’.
Coral moss - thick and compact moss species with an in-
tense, deep green colour from Asia, 1-3 cm tall. Riccardia
is specially suited for attaching to branches and stones.
The moss grows slowly and is easily overgrown by algae
or other mosses. Riccardia requires more light than other
moss species.
022C POT PG7037C POT PG8 003D POR PG9
58
Rotala macrandra
Riccia fluitans
Rotala rotundifolia
Rotala macrandra is an unusually beautiful aquarium plant,
but unfortunately it is very demanding. It needs very good
light to develop its beautiful red colour, and CO2 addition
and soft water are vital to ensure reasonable growth. It is
most beautiful in groups, but do not plant individual shoots
too close because this will prevent light reaching the lower
leaves.
Japanese Takashi Amano has inspired many aquarium owners
to keep the 1-5 cm tall cosmopolitic moss, Riccia fluitans,
submerged. It can be kept down by tying it to a stone with a
piece of fishing line, but new shoots always grow towards the
surface, so it may be necessary to prune it with scissors. Ric-
cia fluitans thrives best with added CO2 and in good growing
conditions small oxygen bubbles form on the leaf tips.
The Latin name means ”the plant with the round leaves’’.
But this only applies to the marsh variety, which has circular
leaves. Rotala rotundifolia from South-East Asia has long,
thin leaves (2-3 cm wide) and 15-30 long stems. Unlike
other Rotala species it is relatively undemanding, although
it needs good light to produce red leaves. It forms side
shoots willingly, becoming compact and bushy.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
001 YLS PG10 032 TC PG7001 POR PG7 033 POT PG5001 TC PG7
59
Rotala wallichii
Rotala sp. ’Green’
Sagittaria subulata
Rotala wallichii is a demanding, South-asiatic stem plant that
develops red shoot tips in good light conditions. Stems from
10-30 cm and approximately 5 cm wide. The most decora-
tive effect can be achieved by planting a large number of
stems in a group. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably.
It also prefers soft, slightly acidic water.
The asiatic Rotala sp. ‘Green’ is very similar to Rotala rotun-
difolia, but its leaves remain fresh and bright green, even
with intensive light. Stems becomes 40-50 cm long and 2-3
cm wide. The plant forms many side shoots willingly and
obtains a beautiful, bushy and ”hanging” growth. It should
be pruned frequently to maintain healthy growth. An ideal
starter plant that looks best when planted in large groups.
Sagittaria subulata from South America is an ideal, un-
demanding foreground plant whose short runners form a
compact group. Place individual plants 2-4 cm apart. This
plant may cause problems because in certain conditions it
suddenly grows to a height of 50 cm when it grows older.
But if it is then moved into the background it may become
low again.
032A POT PG7033A POT PG6 079 POT PG7
60
Shinnersia rivularis ’Weiss-Grün’
Salvinia natans
Staurogyne repens
Variety of Shinnersia rivularis, distinguished by the white
veins on the leaves, 30-60 cm long and up to 10 cm wide
stems. This colour mutation was discovered at the Den-
nerle aquarium plant nursery. The plant grows rapidly and
soon reaches the water surface, but shoots can simply be
pinched off and planted back on the bottom.
Salvinia natans is a cosmopolitic floating fern, 1-3 cm, that
grows quickly if there is sufficient nutrition and light. Light
leaves are a sign of a shortage of micronutrients. It tends to
shade light from the plants at the bottom. Salvinia varieties
have small hairs on their leaves, making them water resistant.
Helps prevent algae by shading parts of the aquarium and
using nutrients in the water.
Staurogyne repens is a fresh green, compact and hardy
plant for the foreground of the aquarium and it was found in
River Rio Cristalino in the southern Amazonas. Staurogyne
has a compact, low and bushy stature (5-10 cm). During
planting in the aquarium, the longest upright shoots should
be cut off and new horizontally creeping shoots will soon
form from the plant basis and gradually colonize the gravel.
053E POT PG7011 POR PG6 049G POT PG8 049G TC PG7
61
Taxiphyllum barbieri
Taxiphyllum sp. ’Spiky’
Taxiphyllum barbieri from South-East Asia is a hardy plant which makes few demands on the water or light. The
moss becomes 3-10 cm thick and grows willingly on any surface, so it is ideal for decorating stones and tree
roots or concealing installations in the aquarium. Attach the plant with a piece of fishing line or cotton thread until
it has gained a hold on the décor. If its growth becomes too luxuriant, it can be pruned with scissors.
Best described as Christmas moss’ big brother, but from
Asia, 2-10 cm tall, rougher and bigger with deep green,
branched shoots. Spiky moss does best on vertical
surfaces where the branched shoots settle in. It grows fast
and requires a lot of light to do well.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
003 YLS PG10 003G POR PG8003 POR PG7 003 ST PG8 003 TC PG7
62
Vallisneria sp. ’Gigantea’
Utricularia graminifolia
Vallisneria sp. ’Natans’
Vallisneria sp. Gigantea from Asia is an easy plant that
grows fast, suitable for large aquariums. In most aquariums
the leaves grow so long that they float on the surface (50-
150 cm, 2 cm wide). So the plant needs pruning to stop
it taking too much light from plants growing beneath. The
leaves are tough and strong, so they are not normally eaten
by herbivorous fish.
Utricularia graminifolia from Asia belongs to the bladderwort
family. All the plants in this family are insect eating, perennial
water and marsh plants. Bladder traps are a unique feature
of this family, which Utricularia graminifolia forms after a short
period of time in the aquarium. The species name means
’with grass like leaves’ and the fresh green leaves after a short
period of time form a pretty mat which looks like a lawn (2-8
cm tall).
Vallisneria sp. ‘Natans’ from Asia is a hardy plant for begin-
ners. It has fine, narrow leaves (50-100 cm long, 1 cm
wide) so it does not overshadow other plants much. Easy to
propagate using its many runners.
054 POT PG8049B POT PG8 055 BDT PG3054 PL PG6
63
Vallisneria sp. ’Asiatica’
Vallisneria sp. ’Mini Twister’
Vallisneria nana
Vallisneria sp. Asiatica has twisted, green leaves that make a
beautiful contrast when planted in groups. Its shorter leaves
(20-30 cm) differ from most other Vallisneria species and do
not overshadow other plants in the aquarium. An easy plant
that readily propagates via runners.
Vallisneria sp. ‘Mini Twister’ is yet another graceful variety
of Vallisneria americana. ‘Mini Twister’ develops short, at-
tractively twisted leaves (10-15 cm and 1-2 cm wide), and
can thus be placed between foreground and background
plants. ‘Mini Twister’ is easy to grow and thrives even in less
intensive light and without addition of CO2 to the water.
Vallisneria nana from Australia is a solitary contrast plant
with dark green, rosulate, narrow leaves (less than 1 cm).
It is extremely suitable as a mid-ground plant, but can also
be used as a background plant in small aquariums. The
leaves are much narrower than with other species of Val-
lisneria, nor are they quite as long. In aquariums it typically
grows to 30-50 cm, which no doubt reflects the different
light and nutrient conditions.
056A BDT PG3056B POT PG7 056C POT PG7
64
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’
Vallisneria spiralis ’Tiger’
Vesicularia ferriei ’Weeping’
A moss speciality from Brasil, 1-3 cm tall, called ”Christ-
mas tree moss’’, because of its side branch structure
which distinguishes it from ordinary Vesicularia dubyana
and looks like fir tree branches. It is more demanding than
ordinary Java moss and grows more slowly. It attaches
readily to roots and stones, and as it spreads in the water
it needs pruning to keep its shape attractive.
Vallisneria spiralis ’Tiger’ from Asia is an excellent plant for
beginners, growing in virtually all light and water conditions.
The name ’Tiger’ is due to its striped leaves (30-50 cm long,
1-2 cm wide). The relatively short leaves make it suitable for
small aquariums, and the leaves are also narrow so they do
not overshadow smaller plants. Forms runners easily, and is
thus easy to propagate.
Vesicularia ferriei ’Weeping’, commonly known as Weeping
Moss, is believed to originate from China and has been
distributed by Oriental Aquarium Plants. ’Weeping’ is a
fleshy, 1-3 cm tall hanging moss with teardrop-like bright
green shoots. It is best attached to driftwood or roots,
as its drooping growth pattern helps to create depth and
contrast in the aquarium.
WOOD 12-25 CM
003A YWS PG9003A POR PG8055A POT PG7 003B POR PG8003A TC PG7 003B TC PG7
65
Alternanthera reineckii ’Pink’ (roseafolia) 023 Medium 21
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia 101U Easy 23
Bolbitis heudelotii 006 Medium 28
Crinum calamistratum 094A Easy 30
Crinum natans 094 Medium 30
Crinum thaianum 093 Easy 31
Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Tropica’ 109E Easy 33
Echinodorus ’Barthii’ 072A Easy 40
Echinodorus ’Ozelot’ 073F Easy 36
Echinodorus ’Ozelot Green’ 073G Easy 36
Echinodorus palaefolius var. latifolius 076 Medium 37
Echinodorus ’Rosé’ 072B Easy 38
Echinodorus ’Rubin’ 074B Easy 39
Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis’ 053A Easy 45
Microsorum pteropus 008 Easy 51
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia 101 Easy 23
Anubias barteri var. nana 101 Easy 24
Bolbitis heudelotii 006 Medium 28
Cryptocoryne beckettii ’Petchii’ 108A Easy 31
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’ 048B Advanced 42
Hygrophila pinnatifida 051A Medium 46
Microsorum pteropus 008 Easy 51
Microsorum pteropus ’Narrow’ 008A Easy 52
Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’ 008B Easy 53
Monosolenium tenerum 002C Easy 54
Pogostemon helferi 053H Medium 56
Riccia fluitans 001 Medium 58
Taxiphyllum barbieri 003 Easy 61
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’ 003A Medium 64
Fissidens fontanus 002F Advanced 41
Fontinalis sp. ’Willow’ 003F Easy 42
Monosolenium tenerum 002C Easy 54
Riccardia chamedryfolia 003D Advanced 57
Riccia fluitans 001 Medium 58
Taxiphyllum barbieri 003 Easy 61
Taxiphyllum sp. ’Spiky’ 003G Easy 61
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’ 003A Medium 64
Vesicularia ferriei ’Weeping’ 003B Medium 64
Azolla caroliniana 013 Easy 27
Ceratophyllum demersum ’Foxtail’ 021A Easy 29
Limnobium laevigatum 063 Easy 48
Riccia fluitans 001 Medium 58
Salvinia natans 011 Easy 60
Aponogeton boivinianus 088 Medium 25
Aponogeton longiplumulosus 089D Medium 26
Aponogeton madagascariensis 089 Medium 26
Aponogeton ulvaceus 086 Medium 26
Nymphaea lotus 019 Medium 55
Alternanthera reineckii ’Pink’ (roseafolia) 023 Medium 21
Bacopa caroliniana 043 Easy 27
Cabomba caroliniana 015 Easy 28
Echinodorus bleheri 071 Easy 35
Egeria densa 058 Easy 40
Hygrophila corymbosa 053 Easy 44
Hygrophila difformis 051 Easy 45
Vallisneria sp. ’Natans’ 055 Easy 62
Vallisneria sp. ’Asiatica’ 056A Easy 63
Alternanthera reineckii ’Mini’ 023C Medium 21
Ammania sp. ’Bonsai’ 033E Medium 22
Eleocharis sp. ’Mini’ 132B Medium 41
Glossostigma elatinoides 045A Advanced 42
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’ 048B Advanced 42
Heteranthera zosterifolia 096 Easy 43
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis 040 Medium 47
Marsilea hirsuta 010 Medium 50
Nymphoides sp. ’Taiwan’ 041B Easy 55
Pogostemon erectus 053F Medium 56
Riccia fluitans 001 Medium 58
Rotala macrandra 032 Advanced 58
Staurogyne repens 049G Easy 60
Taxiphyllum barbieri 003 Easy 61
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’ 003A Medium 64
Vesicularia ferriei ’Weeping’ 003B Medium 64
Product overview
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AppendixStem (Egeria, Hygrophila, Ludwigia…)
If necessary, cut off the overgrown roots so that the pot and
stone wool can be removed and the roots trimmed to approx. 4
cm. In case of bundle stem plants with a ceramic ring, remove
the ceramic ring and the bottom leaves. Plant the stems one by
one in a group.
Rhizomes (Anubias, Microsorum…)
If necessary, cut off the overgrown roots so that you can remove
the pot and mineral wool. When planting in bundles, do not
cover the rhizome or the plant will rotten. The plant can be
bound or squeezed between stones or roots.
Rosette (Echinodorus, Cryptocoryne…)
If necessary, cut off the overgrown roots so that you can remove
the pot and mineral wool. Trim the roots at approx. 4 cm. Divide
into single rosettes and remove the oldest/outermost leaves.
Plant alone or in a group.
Bulbs and tubers (Crinum, Aponogeton…)
Remove the pot and the mineral wool. Cut any strong roots at
approx. 4 cm. If there are several plants in the pot, separate
them from each other. Plant Crinum with approx. ½ of the bulb
over the bottom layer. Tubers can be covered completely, but
the shoot must be above the bottom layer.
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Floating plants (Limnobium, Ceratophyllum…)
You can cut the very long roots and Ceratophyllum can be
divided into small pieces. The plants are placed on the surface.
Note the shading effect they have further down in the aquarium.
Stolons (Vallisneria, Lilaeopsis…)
Remove the pot and the mineral wool. If applicable, trim the
roots at approx. 4 cm. Remove the ceramic ring from the
bundles. Plant the stems one by one in a group. Lilaeopsis,
however, in small portions.
Moss (Taxiphyllum, Monosolenium…)
The portion can be divided into smaller portions. Used ”loosely
floating” in the aquarium or bound to stones/roots. Very small
moss tufts can be inserted into the bottom layer to cover the
bottom.
Bottom layer (Eleocharis, Glossostigma…)
Remove the pot and the excess mineral wool. Trim the mineral
wool chunk at approx. 2 cm under plant level to use it as an
“anchor” when planting. Divide into 4-10 portions and plant
evenly over the area you wish to cover.
€ 5 | £ 4 | DKK 40
Tropica Aquarium Plants A/SMejlbyvej 2008250 EgaaDenmarkTel.+45 86 22 05 66Fax.+45 86 22 84 66e-mail: [email protected]