Product Description:

Myriophyllum procerpinacoides, commonly known as "Water Milfoil," is a striking and versatile aquatic plant that brings a lush, natural aesthetic to any freshwater aquarium. Its finely feathered, bright green leaves grow in whorls along slender stems, creating a soft, flowing effect reminiscent of underwater forests. This plant not only enhances the visual appeal of your aquarium but also plays an important role in creating a healthy, balanced ecosystem.

Whether you're a beginner aquarist or a seasoned hobbyist, Myriophyllum procerpinacoides is a fantastic addition to your tank due to its adaptability and ease of care.

Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Myriophyllum procerpinacoides
• Common Name: Water Milfoil
• Origin: Native to regions of Asia and Europe, this plant thrives in slow-moving freshwater bodies.
• Type: Stem plant

Appearance:

• Leaf Structure: Myriophyllum procerpinacoides features delicate, pinnate leaves arranged in whorls around the stem, which gives it a soft, feathery look.
• Color: The plant’s vibrant green hue enhances the natural beauty of the aquarium and contrasts beautifully with darker backgrounds and substrates.
• Growth Height: Reaches up to 50 cm (20 inches), making it a perfect midground or background plant for most aquariums.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 20°C - 28°C (68°F - 82°F) – Myriophyllum procerpinacoides thrives in warmer water, making it suitable for tropical aquarium setups.
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5 – It prefers slightly acidic to neutral water conditions.
• Hardness: 3 - 10 dGH – The plant does well in soft to moderately hard water.
• Lighting: Moderate to high lighting is recommended. Under bright light, the plant will grow vigorously and produce more vibrant colors. It can also tolerate low light but may grow more slowly and become leggy.

Maintenance Level:

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate – Myriophyllum procerpinacoides is a relatively low-maintenance plant, suitable for aquarists with varying levels of experience.
• Growth Rate: Fast – This plant is a rapid grower, especially under optimal conditions, which means it will need regular trimming to prevent overgrowth.
• CO2 Requirements: While CO2 supplementation isn’t strictly necessary, adding CO2 can enhance growth and improve the overall health of the plant.
• Nutrient Requirements: Myriophyllum procerpinacoides benefits from regular fertilization with liquid or root-based fertilizers. It absorbs nutrients from the water column, so water fertilization is important to support its rapid growth.
• Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to maintain the plant’s shape and prevent it from taking over the aquarium. Trimming the tops will encourage bushier growth and prevent the lower sections from losing leaves.

Benefits for Your Aquarium:

• Oxygenation: This plant improves water quality by producing oxygen and helping to maintain a healthy aquatic environment.
• Nutrient Absorption: Myriophyllum procerpinacoides absorbs excess nutrients from the water, helping to prevent algae growth.
• Shelter for Fish: The dense, feathery leaves provide hiding spots and breeding grounds for small fish, fry, and invertebrates, making your aquarium more dynamic and natural.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The plant adds a rich, textured element to your aquascape, giving the aquarium a lush, forest-like feel.

Compatibility with Fish:

Many freshwater fish species enjoy Myriophyllum procerpinacoides, either as a shelter, a breeding site, or simply as part of their natural habitat. Fish that thrive with this plant include:

• Tetras: Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, and other small species find comfort in the dense growth, which mimics their natural environment.
• Guppies: This plant provides great hiding spaces for guppy fry, protecting them from larger fish.
• Betta Fish: Bettas enjoy the cover this plant offers and may use it to rest or hide when needed.
• Cichlids: Some species of dwarf cichlids use the plant for spawning, and its dense leaves help to reduce aggression between tankmates.
• Shrimps and Snails: Myriophyllum procerpinacoides is perfect for shrimp and snails to graze on biofilm and use as shelter.

Placement in the Aquarium:

• Ideal for: Midground or background placement in most aquariums, as its long, vertical stems grow tall and create a natural partition in the tank.
• Aquascaping: Myriophyllum procerpinacoides can be used to create depth and texture in an aquascape. Its feathery, flowing leaves create a sense of movement, which complements a wide variety of tank designs, from jungle-themed tanks to minimalistic layouts.

Additional Notes:

• Propagation: The plant propagates easily through stem cuttings. Simply trim a healthy stem and replant it in the substrate, where it will quickly develop roots and grow into a new plant.
• Potential Drawbacks: In high light and nutrient-rich conditions, the plant may grow too quickly, necessitating frequent pruning. Be mindful of its fast growth to avoid it overshadowing other plants in the aquarium.

Myriophyllum procerpinacoides is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a dynamic, visually stunning plant to their freshwater tank. Its fast growth, easy maintenance, and compatibility with a wide range of fish make it a versatile addition to any aquascape.