General
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Care sheet for Alternanthera reineckii, a popular aquatic plant commonly known as "Red Temple" or "AR."
Scientific Name: Alternanthera reineckii
Common Names: Red Temple, AR
Plant Type: Aquatic plant
Native Range: South America
Difficulty Level: Moderate to High
Lighting Requirements: Moderate to high lighting (2-4 watts per gallon of water)
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH: 6.0-7.0
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2-10 dKH)
CO2 Requirements: Highly recommended. CO2 supplementation or injection can greatly enhance growth and coloration.
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate such as aquatic soil or fine gravel with root tabs.
Fertilization: Regular fertilization with a comprehensive aquatic plant fertilizer is necessary to promote healthy growth and coloration.
Placement: Midground to background plant in the aquarium. Can be used as a focal point or accent plant in aquascapes.
Propagation: Propagated through stem cuttings or lateral shoots. Can also propagate by separating clumps at the roots.
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast. With optimal conditions, it can grow up to several inches per week.
Pruning: Regular trimming is required to maintain its compact shape and promote bushy growth. Prune the top portion of the stems to encourage lateral growth and prevent shading of lower leaves.
Special Considerations:
Lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial for the growth and coloration of Alternanthera reineckii. Insufficient lighting may cause the plant to lose its vibrant red color and grow leggy.
CO2 Injection: Although not mandatory, providing CO2 supplementation or injection can greatly enhance the growth and coloration of Alternanthera reineckii. It can also help prevent algae growth by outcompeting them for nutrients.
Nutrient-Rich Substrate: Alternanthera reineckii is a heavy feeder and requires a nutrient-rich substrate to thrive. Use aquatic soil or fine gravel with root tabs to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.
Water Parameters: Provide stable water parameters with a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C), pH of 6.0-7.0, and soft to moderately hard water. Avoid sudden changes in water parameters, as it may cause stress to the plant.
Pruning: Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the compact shape and encourage lateral growth. Use sharp scissors or pruning tools to trim the top portion of the stems, and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
Algae Control: Alternanthera reineckii is susceptible to algae growth, especially if lighting and nutrient levels are excessive. Proper maintenance, including regular water changes, substrate vacuuming, and careful nutrient management, can help prevent algae issues.
Compatibility: Alternanthera reineckii is generally compatible with most aquarium fish and invertebrates. However, it may be eaten by some herbivorous fish, so caution should be exercised when selecting tankmates.
Alternanthera reineckii is a beautiful and vibrant aquatic plant that can add a stunning splash of red color to your aquarium. With proper care and attention to lighting, CO2, substrate, and nutrient requirements, it can thrive and make a striking addition to your aquascape. Happy planting!