Bacopa caroliniana Lemon, also known as Lemon Bacopa, is a popular aquatic plant in the aquarium hobby. It is a species of submerged or emersed plant that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. Here's some information about Bacopa caroliniana Lemon:
Appearance: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon has vibrant green leaves that are often tinged with yellow or lime green, giving it a lemony appearance. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and arranged oppositely along the stem. Under optimal conditions, it can develop a dense growth of numerous stems.
Care Requirements: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon is considered a relatively undemanding plant, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Here are some care guidelines:
Lighting: Moderate to high lighting is recommended for Bacopa caroliniana Lemon. Provide around 2 to 4 watts per gallon of light to ensure proper growth.
Water Parameters: It prefers a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C) and a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. The water hardness can be moderate to soft.
Nutrients and Substrate: Adding a nutrient-rich substrate, such as aquasoil or a nutrient layer, can benefit the growth of Bacopa caroliniana Lemon. Additionally, supplementing with liquid fertilizers or root tabs containing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can promote healthy growth.
CO2 Injection: While Bacopa caroliniana Lemon can grow without CO2 injection, providing a CO2 supplement can enhance its growth and coloration. If you decide to inject CO2, ensure that you maintain proper levels and avoid causing CO2 fluctuations, which can stress the plant and harm other tank inhabitants.
Pruning and Propagation: Regular pruning can help maintain the desired shape and prevent excessive growth. Bacopa caroliniana Lemon can propagate through cuttings, where you can trim healthy stems and replant them in the substrate.
Compatibility: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon is a versatile plant that can be used in various aquarium setups, such as planted tanks, aquascapes, or even in paludariums. It is generally compatible with a wide range of freshwater fish and invertebrates.
Growth Rate: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon has a relatively fast growth rate under optimal conditions. With proper care and favorable parameters, it can quickly fill out and create a dense bushy appearance in the aquarium.
Height: It can grow to a height of 12-20 inches (30-50 cm) when fully submerged. However, the height may vary depending on factors like lighting, nutrient availability, and pruning.
Emersed Growth: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon can also be grown emersed, meaning partially or fully out of the water. When grown emersed, the leaves may have a slightly different shape and coloration compared to the submerged form. It can produce small white or light blue flowers when allowed to grow emersed.
Water Flow: Moderate water flow is ideal for Bacopa caroliniana Lemon. Providing gentle water movement helps distribute nutrients and prevent stagnant areas, promoting better overall plant health.
Tank Placement: This plant is versatile and can be placed in various locations within the aquarium. It can be used as a background plant when placed in the rear corners or as a midground plant when planted in groups. It can also be used as a foreground accent when trimmed to a shorter height.
Benefits: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon offers several benefits in the aquarium. It helps absorb excess nutrients, thereby reducing the chances of algae overgrowth. It also provides shelter and hiding places for small fish and invertebrates. Additionally, it contributes to oxygenation and overall water quality.
Tankmates: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon is compatible with most freshwater fish and invertebrates. It can be a suitable choice for community tanks, as it does not pose any harm to tankmates.
Disease and Pest Resistance: Bacopa caroliniana Lemon is generally resistant to common aquarium pests and diseases. However, it is always important to maintain good water quality and hygiene to prevent any potential issues.
By providing the appropriate care, Bacopa caroliniana Lemon can create a beautiful backdrop or a foreground accent in your aquarium, adding color and vibrancy to your aquatic landscape. Overall, Bacopa caroliniana Lemon is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to its vibrant color, ease of care, and ability to add a refreshing touch to aquatic setups.
