Overview of Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz
Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz is a species of aquatic plant that belongs to the family Lythraceae. The plant is popularly known as ‘Rotala tetra’ or ‘orange juice plant’. It is native to South America and can be found in the Amazon River Basin, including Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador.
Appearance
The plant has a unique appearance with the stem having a square shape, which is different from the cylindrical shape of most other aquatic plants. The leaves are small and narrow, measuring about 1.5 cm long and 2 mm wide, and they grow in pairs along the stem. The leaves are light green or yellowish in color and have a slightly curved shape. The plant can grow up to a height of 20-30 cm, and is considered a fast-growing species.
Uses
Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz is popular among aquarium enthusiasts as an ornamental plant. It is often used to create contrast and interest within aquariums due to its unique shape and bright color. The plant is also considered useful for environmental purposes, as it can help improve the water quality in aquariums and fish ponds by absorbing excess nutrients and pollutants.
In its native Amazon region, Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes as a fever reducer and to treat liver problems. The plant is rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which are known to have therapeutic benefits.
Overall, Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz is a fascinating aquatic plant that has both aesthetic and environmental benefits.
Light Requirements
Rotala tetragonocalyx requires moderate to high levels of light to thrive. It can tolerate some shade but will not grow as vigorously without adequate light. This plant does well under moderate to high lighting conditions provided by LED lights, Metal Halide lamps or other aquarium lighting systems that provide a spectrum of light that is similar to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Rotala tetragonocalyx is a tropical species that thrives in temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C. These plants will not survive in cold water environments, and prolonged exposure to temperatures outside of this range can stress and weaken the plant. Maintaining a consistent temperature range within this optimal range will ensure healthy growth and prevent diseases and algae infestations.
Soil Requirements
Rotala tetragonocalyx thrives in well-aerated, rich substrates that are high in nutrients. These plants absorb nutrients from the water as well as through their roots so using a high-quality substrate is critical for the growth and development of the plant. It is recommended to use a nutrient-rich plant substrate that is specialized in aquatic plants. The pH level of the substrate should be within the neutral range (pH 6.5-7.5) to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation methods for Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz
Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz is a beautiful aquatic plant that requires particular care to thrive in an aquarium. First, it is relatively adaptable to varied water conditions, though it favors soft, acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0 for its growth.
You should also provide moderate lighting, preferably between 2-4 watts per gallon and change up to 30% of the aquarium water weekly. To suit its growth habit, plant it in the substrate of your aquarium, either sand or gravel, taking care to spread it out evenly to avoid overgrowth and algae formation.
Watering needs
This plant has moderate watering needs and requires stable, consistent water conditions. It thrives in areas with high water circulation, so you should strive to keep a consistent flow of water in your aquarium. Additionally, Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz is beneficiated with weekly aquarium water changes to eliminate nitrates and other by-products that can cause algae and other undesirable growth.
Fertilization
Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz also requires fertilizer to sustain its growth and coloration. You can use a complete aquarium fertilizer or liquid fertilizer specifically formulated for aquatic plants, following the instructions on the product packaging for optimal results.
The fertilizer should contain macro and micro-nutrients that are typically absent in aquarium water, such as nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, and other essential elements. You should also ensure that the dosage is balanced to provide the right amount needed while avoiding over-fertilization, which can lead to nutrient spikes and other negative impacts.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential for Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz to maintain optimal growth and prevent overgrowth that can shade other aquarium plants. Trim the plant stems at regular intervals, taking care not to damage the base of the plant. You can also remove any dead or wilting leaves to keep the plant healthy and neat-looking.
Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz propagates easily by cuttings. You can take the cuttings and plant them into the substrate or use them to propagate entirely new plants.
Propagation of Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz
Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz can be propagated by the following methods:
1. Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings is the most common method of propagating Rotala tetragonocalyx. Take a healthy stem and cut it into smaller pieces with at least two nodes each. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in a substrate. Keep it moist and in bright light. Within a few weeks, the cutting will develop roots and new shoots. Once it has grown enough, it can be transplanted to a larger tank or sold.
2. Runners
Rotala tetragonocalyx can also propagate through runners. These are horizontal stems that grow along the substrate and eventually develop roots and new plants. Once the new plantlets have developed roots, they can be separated from the parent plant and replanted elsewhere.
3. Seed propagation
Propagating Rotala tetragonocalyx from seeds is possible but it is less common. Collect the seeds from a healthy plant and sow them in a substrate with enough light and moisture. Germination can take up to a month and once the seedlings have grown enough, they can be transplanted into a larger tank.
Disease and Pest Management for Rotala tetragonocalyx
Rotala tetragonocalyx A.Fern. & Diniz is a popular aquatic plant that is grown in home aquariums and water gardens. While it is generally a hardy plant, there are still a few diseases and pests that can affect it. It is important to know how to identify and manage these issues to keep your plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
Rotala tetragonocalyx can be susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. One of the most common diseases to affect this plant is black rot, which is caused by the fungus Pythium. This disease causes the roots to rot, leading to a decline in the plant's overall health. Another common disease is bacterial leaf spot, which causes small, water-soaked lesions on the leaves.
To manage fungal and bacterial diseases, it is important to promptly remove any affected leaves or stems. Keep the plant in a clean and well-maintained environment, and avoid overwatering. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide if the problem persists.
Common Pests
Rotala tetragonocalyx can also be susceptible to pests like snails, aphids, and spider mites. Snails and aphids can be easily seen on the leaves of the plant, while spider mites may require a closer inspection to detect.
To manage pest infestations, you can try manually removing the pests from the plant with a gentle stream of water or by picking them off by hand. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings into the environment to help control the pest population. Another option is to treat the plant with an insecticide if the infestation is severe.
Overall, by being vigilant and taking quick action to address any signs of disease or pest infestations, you can help keep your Rotala tetragonocalyx plant healthy and thriving.
