🌿 Lagarosiphon major Care SheetCommon name: African Elodea / Curly Waterweed
Family: Hydrocharitaceae
Origin: Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho)
💧 General Description
Lagarosiphon major is a fast-growing submerged aquatic plant known for its bright green, spirally arranged leaves and robust stems. Native to clean, freshwater systems in Southern Africa, it is well adapted to a range of aquarium conditions. Its oxygenating properties and ability to absorb excess nutrients make it a popular choice for aquascapes, ponds, and breeding tanks.
✅ Ideal Aquarium Conditions
Parameter | Ideal Range |
---|---|
Lighting | Moderate to high (0.5–1 W/L or more) |
Temperature | 15–26°C (can tolerate short dips to 10°C) |
pH | 6.5–8.0 |
Hardness (GH) | 4–15 dGH |
CO₂ | Optional, but boosts growth |
Substrate | Not required – can float or anchor in gravel |
🌱 Growth & Maintenance
Growth Rate: Fast (especially with good light)
Placement: Background or midground; can be left floating
Propagation: Easy – by stem cuttings
Trimming: Regular pruning helps maintain shape and prevent overgrowth
Tank Use: Great for oxygenation, nutrient uptake, and algae control
🐠 Aquarium Usefulness
Fish Compatibility: Safe for most community fish, fry, and shrimp
Breeding Tanks: Excellent plant for egg scattering fish (e.g., Danios)
Coldwater Use: Performs well in unheated tanks
⚠️ Notes
Can become invasive in non-native regions; avoid release into natural waterways
Rapid growth may shade out slower plants
In soft, acidic water with low nutrients, growth may slow significantly
🇿🇦 Local Tip (Southern Africa)
Being native, Lagarosiphon major thrives in local tap water and natural pond setups. It’s also ideal for outdoor tubs, biofilters, or breeding projects in Gauteng and similar regions.
Lagarosiphen major
Aquatic special till 11-07-2025