Eleocharis acicularis (L.) Roemer & J.A. Schultes var. submersa (Hj. Nilss.) Svens.
Eleocharis acicularis (L.) Roemer & J.A. Schultes var. submersa (Hj. Nilss.) Svens., also known as dwarf hairgrass or needle spikerush, is a water plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and grows in freshwater habitats, such as rivers, ponds, and lakes.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including dwarf hairgrass, needle spikerush, and hair grass.
Uses
Eleocharis acicularis is commonly used in aquariums and aquascapes for its aesthetic appeal. Its thin and needle-like leaves form dense mats that can provide a natural look and an ideal habitat for small fish and invertebrates. The plant is also known to help maintain water quality and reduce algae growth.
General Appearance
The plant has thin, wire-like stems that can grow up to 10 centimeters long. Its leaves are hair-like and form dense clumps that resemble grass. The plant's color can range from light to dark green, depending on the lighting and nutrient conditions. Eleocharis acicularis grows best in bright, direct light and nutrient-rich substrate. In its submerged form, it can grow submerged in water up to 15 centimeters deep.
Light Requirements
Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa thrives in bright to moderate light conditions. The plant requires at least 2 watts of light per gallon of water. An intensity of 50 to 100 PAR (photosynthetically active radiation) is ideal for its growth. Insufficient light will cause the plant to grow taller and spindly in search of light, which will diminish its overall health and vitality.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa is between 18 and 28 degrees Celsius. Temperatures outside this range can have adverse effects on the plant's growth and may even cause damage to the leaves. The plant requires a stable temperature environment, and abrupt changes can shock the plant and lead to its decline. It is best to maintain a consistent water temperature to promote steady growth.
Soil Requirements
Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa prefers nutrient-rich, fine-grained sand as a substrate. The sandbed should have a depth of at least one inch, and the substrate should be kept loose to allow the plant's roots to spread easily. The plant benefits greatly from the addition of fertilizers or root tabs to encourage healthy growth. Additionally, CO2 injection is recommended to help the plant absorb nutrients and maintain optimum health.
Cultivation Methods
Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa, also known as Dwarf Hairgrass, is a popular aquarium plant that requires moderate care. It thrives in sand or fine gravel substrate and prefers medium to high lighting conditions. It can grow both emersed and submersed in water, and it is recommended to plant it in small groupings to create a lush carpet-like effect.
Watering Needs
The ideal water temperature for Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa ranges from 68 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. It grows well in moderately hard water with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. Regular water changes of 25% to 50% every week are recommended to maintain good water quality and help stimulate growth.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, it is best to add liquid or substrate fertilizers to the aquarium water. The recommended dosage is 1 ml of liquid fertilizer per 10 gallons and 1 oz of substrate fertilizer per square foot of aquarium substrate. However, over-fertilization can lead to algae growth, so it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe the plant's response.
Pruning
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's carpet-like effect and prevent it from crowding other plants in the aquarium. With a pair of sharp scissors, trim the tips of the leaves to any desired length, but avoid cutting it too short, as it can cause stress to the plant and stunt growth. Also, remove any brown or yellow leaves to keep the plant healthy.
Propagation of Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa
Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa can be propagated through several methods:
Division
One way to propagate this plant is through division. The plant can be carefully pulled apart at the roots and replanted into the substrate. The new plants should have some roots and a few leaves to ensure their survival.
Runners
Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa also produces runners, which are horizontal stems that grow out from the base of the plant. These runners will produce new plants at their nodes, so the new plants can be cut away from the parent plant once they have developed roots.
Seeds
This plant can also be propagated from seeds. The seeds can be sown on the substrate and kept moist until they have germinated. Once the seeds have germinated, the new plants can be thinned out and replanted into the substrate.
Disease and Pest Management for Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa
Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa, also known as needle spikerush, is a popular freshwater aquatic plant commonly found in aquariums. Proper disease and pest management are crucial for maintaining healthy and vibrant plants. Here are some common issues that may affect Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa and ways to manage them.
Diseases of Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa
Brown algae: Brown algae, also known as diatoms, are a common problem in aquariums. They appear as a brownish film on plant leaves and aquarium walls. To prevent this, it is important to reduce light exposure and maintain the appropriate nutrient balance in the water. Additionally, manually removing the algae with a scrubber or toothbrush can help minimize the issue.
Black brush algae: Black brush algae appear as black or dark green tufts on plant leaves. This type of algae is difficult to remove and can quickly spread. To prevent black brush algae, maintain the proper nutrient balance in the water by avoiding overfeeding and limiting light exposure. Additionally, manually removing the tufts and conducting frequent water changes can help minimize the issue.
Fungal infections: Fungal infections can cause rotting in the base or crown of the plant. This can be prevented by maintaining proper water circulation, avoiding overcrowding and ensuring the plant isn't uprooted during water changes. Additionally, using a fungicide can help treat existing infections.
Pests of Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa
Tank snails: Tank snails feed on plant material and can cause significant damage if left unchecked. To prevent snail infestations, avoid overfeeding and regularly remove any dead plant material. Additionally, introducing snail-eating fish or manually removing the snails can help control the issue.
Aphids: Aphids feed on plant sap and can cause wilting and stunting. To prevent aphid infestations, maintain proper water quality and regularly check for pests. Additionally, introducing ladybugs or other natural predators can help control the issue. In severe cases, using an insecticide may be necessary.
Overall, preventing disease and pest outbreaks in Eleocharis acicularis var. submersa requires consistent maintenance and proper care. By following these guidelines, aquarists can enjoy healthy and vibrant plants, enhancing the beauty of their aquariums.
