Bacopa salzmannii 'araguaia'

Bacopa salzmannii 'Araguaia' Care Guide

Common Name: Bacopa 'Araguaia'
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Family: Plantaginaceae

General Description:

Bacopa salzmannii 'Araguaia' is a unique stem plant known for its reddish to purple hues, especially under high lighting and CO2 supplementation. It is a relatively new addition to the aquarium hobby and provides excellent contrast in planted tanks. Its compact growth and vibrant coloration make it a great choice for midground or background placement in aquascapes.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• This plant can be grown in nano tanks but thrives best in medium to large aquariums.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Moderate to High
• Stronger lighting enhances its reddish-purple coloration. Under low light, it may remain more green.

3. CO2 Requirements:

• CO2: Recommended
• While it can survive without CO2, adding CO2 will significantly boost growth and intensify its coloration.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Nutrient-rich recommended
• Although Bacopa species can absorb nutrients from the water column, a nutrient-rich substrate will encourage healthier growth.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Moderate to High
• Regular dosing of iron and micronutrients helps maintain vibrant red and purple hues.

7. Maintenance:

• Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% per week) help prevent algae growth.
• Pruning: Frequent trimming is necessary to maintain a bushy appearance and prevent excessive vertical growth.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Stem cuttings
• Simply cut the top portion of a stem and replant it in the substrate.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Midground to Background
• Best placed in groups to create a dense, colorful effect in the aquarium.

Summary:

Bacopa salzmannii 'Araguaia' is a beautiful, moderately demanding aquarium plant that thrives under moderate to high light and benefits greatly from CO2 supplementation. Its striking reddish-purple coloration adds depth and contrast to any planted tank. With proper trimming and care, it can form dense clusters, making it a fantastic choice for aquascapers.