Najas guadalupensis Care Guide
Najas guadalupensis, commonly known as Guadalupe Waternymph, is a fast-growing and hardy aquatic plant native to North and Central America. It is popular in freshwater aquariums and ponds due to its ease of care, attractive appearance, and ability to provide excellent cover for fish and invertebrates.
Appearance
This plant has slender, bright green stems with narrow, pointed leaves arranged in whorls around the stem. It can grow quickly and reach lengths of 12 to 24 inches, making it ideal for background planting or for creating dense foliage in aquariums.
Growth and Placement
Najas guadalupensis is a versatile plant that grows best in medium to high lighting. It can be planted directly in the substrate or left floating. Its fast growth makes it effective at controlling algae by competing for nutrients.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 68 to 82°F
pH: 6.0 to 7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
It tolerates a wide range of conditions, making it suitable for beginners.
Care and Maintenance
This plant grows quickly and may require regular trimming to prevent overgrowth. Cuttings can be replanted or left floating to propagate new plants. Fertilization with liquid nutrients or root tabs can enhance growth, but Najas guadalupensis can thrive even in low-nutrient tanks.
Benefits
Najas guadalupensis provides excellent hiding spots for fry and small fish, improves water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, and adds a natural look to the aquarium. Its dense growth helps reduce stress in fish and supports a healthy ecosystem.
Summary
Najas guadalupensis is an easy-to-care-for, fast-growing aquatic plant that adds beauty, shelter, and ecological benefits to freshwater aquariums. Its versatility and resilience make it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.