Anacharis can be kept in many different aquatic environments making this plant an excellent choice for anybody selecting aquatic plants for an outdoor pond, indoor pond, or aquarium. When keeping Anacharis in an aquarium you should avoid excessive apple snails or plant eating fish such as koi or cichlids. Floating Anacharis in an aquarium works wonderfully for all live-bearing fish.
Where is Anacharis From?
Anacharis can be found across North America all the way from Canada down through Central America and into South America. This widespread distribution makes Anacharis an excellent plant for any New World aquatic biotope aquarium.
What Water Parameters and Lighting are Appropriate for Anacharis?
When keeping Anacharis the only suggestion is fairly neutral water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Anacharis will do best in cooler water between 50 F and 78 F and in my experience will begin to fall apart in warmer temperatures. Anacharis will grow well with a moderate amount of light.
Where Should Anacharis Be Placed in a Pond or Aquarium?
Since Anacharis can grow up to three feet in length I prefer to plant the stems across the back of my aquarium and allowing the tops to grow along the water surface towards the front of the aquarium. Another preferred method I use when keeping Anacharis is floating it on top of the water. When keeping Anacharis in a pond it will grow best as a floating plant as long as the koi or other pond fish do not eat too much of it.
How Fast Will Anacharis Grow?
Very Fast. Anacharis grows so fast you can see a noticeable amount of growth in just one day. Anacharis can grow to lengths of up to three feet and will need to be pruned regularly in your home aquarium. When keeping Anacharis in my aquariums during pruning time I usually will remove the Anacharis completely cutting from the top and allowing the stem to re-root preventing a stumpy look. I then float the “stump” on the top of the aquarium where it will usually begin to sprout roots and small branches creating “baby” Anacharis.
How Does Anacharis Propagate?
Anacharis can be propagated by breaking the stem and floating it resulting in smaller Anacharis stems branching off which can be later planted in sand or gravel to be grown. New Anacharis will grow very quickly and begin rooting within a few days. Anacharis will begin branching and getting bushier the more often you trim it and will grow very full when properly pruned and maintained.
Evan Eloe - When learning about what he loves Evan leaves no rock unturned giving his readers a clear and well rounded source of knowledge.
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