Lighting
Salvinia grows well under low to medium lighting. Consistent light supports healthy growth, while excessively strong lighting is generally unnecessary.
Salvinia
Floating aquarium plant
Salvinia
Salvinia minima
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Overview
A floating plant that provides natural cover.
Salvinia is a hardy freshwater floating plant valued for its adaptability, natural appearance and usefulness in shrimp and fish aquariums.
It floats freely on the water surface and spreads naturally under suitable conditions.
Its hanging roots provide shelter for fry and shrimp while reducing light and helping create a more natural environment.
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth rate
- Moderate to fast
- Placement
- Surface
- Lighting
- Low to medium
- CO₂
- Not required
- Temperature
- 20–30°C
- pH
- 5.0–8.0
Care
What it needs.
Placement
Salvinia should float freely on the water surface. Keep the upper leaves above water and avoid placing the plant beneath the substrate.
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 20–30°C
- pH: 5.0–8.0
- Stable freshwater conditions
- Gentle surface movement
- CO₂ supplementation is not required
Maintenance
Remove excess growth regularly so Salvinia does not completely cover the aquarium surface. This helps maintain light penetration and open areas for fish to access the surface.
Propagation
Salvinia reproduces naturally as healthy plants produce new growth. Under suitable conditions, colonies can spread across the aquarium surface relatively quickly.
Shrimp & Fish Benefits
The hanging roots provide cover and grazing areas for shrimp and fry. Floating growth can also create shaded areas that help some aquarium inhabitants feel more secure.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions.
Does Salvinia need CO₂?
No. Because Salvinia floats at the surface and has direct access to atmospheric carbon dioxide, injected CO₂ is not required for normal growth.
Can Salvinia be planted in substrate?
No. Salvinia is a floating plant and should remain on the water surface rather than being planted in aquarium substrate.
Why is my Salvinia turning brown?
Browning or declining growth can be associated with unsuitable lighting, nutrient deficiencies, changing water conditions or excessive surface agitation.
Is Salvinia good for shrimp?
Yes. Its submerged roots provide additional grazing surfaces and cover, while the floating leaves create shaded areas within the aquarium.
Can Salvinia cover the whole aquarium?
It can spread across a large part of the surface when conditions are favourable. Regular thinning helps prevent overcrowding and keeps areas of open water available.
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